tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-70877886092724355872024-03-05T06:51:54.283+00:00a bit furtherMy occasional outdoor adventuresBenhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.comBlogger96125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-45036609837759438362014-04-04T21:29:00.001+01:002014-04-04T22:12:50.080+01:00Chagford Challenge LDWAMy first event for quite a while, there were two main reasons for signing up for this one. Firstly to start the build up to my main aim of the year and secondly to introduce my new training partner to LDWA events. I will get to the plans for the rest of the year later.<br>
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I know I have said it before but every time I take part in a LDWA event I am amazed at their friendly well organised events they put on, once again this was the case in the <a href="http://www.ldwa.org.uk/CornwallAndDevon/W/958/chagford-challenge-2014.html" target="_blank">Cornwall & Devon LDWA Chagford Challenge</a>. Great support, food and weather.<br>
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Now my new running partner has not done a long run like this before so we decided to enter the middle distance route (20 mile). We got on well together all day and kept a fairly even pace the only problem I had was when he said things like "Dad I think we can run this bit".<br>
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The route starts following a beautiful wooded track along the River Teign before turning up a steep hill to Cranbrook Castle. You then travel through field and country lanes to North Bovey. The second big climb on the route took us up onto open moorland. The day had started to warm up and it was nice to have a bit of a breeze on the tops. After a great checkpoint stop at Warren House Inn (peaches and rice pudding) we headed over to Fernworthy reservoir and the last section back to Chagford.<br>
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What is next then, well having said how great the LDWA events I have entered some different events this year.<br>
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<li><a href="http://www.xnrg.co.uk/chiltern2014.htm" target="_blank">Chiltern Ultra 50k</a></li>
<li><a href="http://www.mightcontainnuts.com/events/welsh_ultra_running_series/index_ultra_three.html" target="_blank">The Wye One Way 50</a></li>
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Better start getting the weekly mileage up.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-39318580903160497612012-09-18T11:30:00.001+01:002012-09-18T11:30:53.744+01:00Across Wales Walk 2012It was only our second attempt at the Across Wales Walk. but already there were people to catch up with since<a href="http://benwilderness.blogspot.co.uk/2010/09/across-wales-walk-sept-2010.html" target="_blank"> the first time</a>. I slept well on the village hall floor, it helps if you are the one who snores and keeps the others awake.<br />
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We set off on the short coach trip to the start at Anchor. It felt a little cold on the start line and I was nervous. As we knew we had not done enough training we started slow with a lot of walking. <br />
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The whole route across Wales covers some great landscapes, one of the most enjoyable things is seeing the changes from rural Shropshire to hills and forest to mountain. There were some great running sections, on one of the best we ran down the hill to Llandinam with Marcus. I was still felling good on the next road sections towards Hafren Forest. After consuming some very nice home-made malt loaf at Checkpoint 3 we set off along the Wye River Trail. Emerging from the forest we headed straight up the slope to Plynlimon. <br />
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This is where the difficulties began. The wind had picked up and as I reached the ridge I was starting to fell sick and starting to get cold. I put on an extra layer and we headed down towards Nant-y-moch. When we reached the reservoir I was very cold and put on all my spare kit. It was a slow shuffle to the fouth checkpoimt along the road which follows the southern edge of the reservoir. Along the road we decided I should call it a day.<br />
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After some soup and tea it was a relief to climb into the back of the mini bus and fall asleep. I tried and failed to persuade Simon that he should carry on as he was still full of beans.<br />
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You can say the first half of the course was beautiful, which it was, that the atmosphere was very friendly which it was, and it is a great event to be part of but I was still p'd off. Well next year maybe.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-61460071283960635372012-06-20T23:13:00.001+01:002012-06-20T23:16:07.929+01:00Mid Wales travelsOver the last few years we have been making our way up Offas Dyke. <a href="http://benwilderness.blogspot.co.uk/search/label/Offas%20Dyke">Our Offa's Dyke trips</a><br />
This year we decided to make a side trip to the Brecon Beacons.<br />
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On Friday night we stayed in the YHA hostel at Danywenallt. Next morning we drove along the side of the reservoir to a small car park at Taf Fechan Forest. It was a beautiful bright day but a bit cool in the wind. When we got to the main tracks at the top it was fairly busy, as always, but the high winds added some excitement. We reached the top via Cribyn and then followed the swooping ups and down to Pen-y-Fan and Corn Du. We left the southern ridge at a large cairn on the rocky path which drops back down to the valley.<br />
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That night we stayed at Llwyn-y-Celyn, known in our family as the Falklands Hostel. As my Dad and I stayed there the day in April 1982 when the conflict in the South Atlantic started. This is a proper hostel with big tables in the dining room, strange utensils in the kitchen and an ever present whiff of damp coats. Not a wine list in sight.<br />
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The next day we headed north to see what else mid Wales had to offer. Our next stop was the River Ifron near Abergwesyn. A beautiful spot where the river narrows and then opens out into a large pool before the ford at The Wash Pool<br />
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Our trip continued north towards my latest ebay purchase, more on this later. The last stop was at <a href="http://www.gigrin.co.uk/" target="_blank">Red Kite Centre</a> to watch the afternoon feeding. It may not be seeing them in the wilderness but it was inspiring to see them so close and in such numbers.<br />
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<br />Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-33435528226448833902012-06-08T22:13:00.000+01:002012-06-08T22:13:17.257+01:00Sport Relief - What a reliefI have got a bit of a blogging backlog going on. My sense of order means I have to write up one of our previous adventures first.<br />
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Will’s challenge for Sport Relief this year was to swim 400 metres, Bike 40 miles and run 4 miles from South Dorset to Somerset (where his grandparents live).<br />
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We had to delay this event due to illness a couple of times. Eventually the plan was set for a Sunday in May. The weather forecast was high winds and heavy rain. The weather forecast was right.<br />
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Well we decided to set off anyway and see how it went. The swim went well, Bridport leisure centre kindly let him swim during Adult only lanes session because it was a special event. The first bit of the bike leg to Axminster was hilly and wet and cold. We struggled and I thought this would be the end. But we were saved by our support vehicle (Mum and sister) with hot drinks, dry kit and cake.<br />
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As we got nearer to the Somerset border we were turned back twice by flooded roads.After meeting up with the support vehicle a couple of times we eventually made it to the start of the run.<br />
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What could go wrong, well nothing until we were a mile from the finish. The fields around the River Tone were flooded and we struggled to even wade through the water to get to the bridge. A great effort and a great day.<br />
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<br />Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-27598739576332528732012-04-19T13:26:00.001+01:002012-04-19T13:26:32.198+01:00Cerne Giant 30This new LDWA route starts in Cerne Abbas, heads east through villages like Plush and Cross Lanes before reaching Bingham's Melcombe. This is a beautiful 16th century manor with immaculate gardens. We tried not to make too much noise on the gravel paths. From here the route turned west to follow the Wessex Ridgeway north of Cerne Abbas to Sydling St Nicolas. The climb up Shearplace Hill, the final hill, returns to Cerne Abbas.<br />
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Walkers started at 8 and runners before 9. We set off just after 8 to allow the field to spread but to gives us enough time to get round and enjoy refuelling at the checkpoints. It was a beautiful day with great views over the Dorset hills.<br />
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At the half way point we were passed by a couple of runners who had obviously started long after us and were still full of running. I was pleased to find out afterwards that one of them was <a href="http://www.mudsweatandtears.co.uk/2012/04/17/bragg-returns-in-pursuit-of-a-fellsman-hat-trick/" target="_blank">Jez Bragg</a>, who went on to finish first.<br />
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As always the <a href="http://www.btinternet.com/~hardy.annual/cg30.html" target="_blank">Dorset LDWA</a> put on a wonderfully friendly and well organised event. At the main checkpoint in Buckland Newton, Simon and I were talking to another runner who said "you don't want to eat too much as it can sit heavily on your stomach". As we watched them leave the checkpoint we shock our heads sadly. They seemed to have missed the point. Now fruit cake or lemon drizzle or both, silly question - both. Our advise if you are concerned about eating too much is slow down, have another sandwich or sausage roll or cake and walk for a bit.<br />
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I have not run since and have been working too much, so plans for the next big run have been delayed. Luckily there are some great plans for canoe and biking trips on the horizon.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-5347071191715778342012-03-28T21:55:00.000+01:002012-03-28T21:55:29.169+01:00Sourton runAs a bit of a test run for an upcoming event Simon and I went down to Dartmoor for a run out. We had originally planned to do a some of the Chagford Challenge route but as the weather was clear I decided we should head for open moorland.<br />
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We set off from Sourton and followed the steep path up past the church to join the Dartmoor Way below Sourton Tor. Here we spotted our first Ten Tors group in their traditional spring plumage of massive rucksacks. From here we dropped down to one of my favourite spots, West Okement Valley, and then struggled up to Black Tor. The weather was cold and clear for most of the day but as we headed to High Willhays we entered mist which had settled on the summit.<br />
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From here to Amicombe Brook the going was hard with boggy, clumps of grass slowing us down. I did see a nice camp spot for a small tent SX 583861.<br />
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After crossing the top of Tavey Cleave we headed back to via Hare Tor and Great Links Tor to Sourton. This side is more popular than the central section, according to Simon this is because sensible people don't like running over trackless boggy ground. Apparently he is not that keen either.<br />
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Are we ready for the Cerne Giant 30? Probably not but we will find out on Sunday.<br />
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As you can see I have been using <a href="http://www.shareyouradventure.com/user/profile/benl56" target="_blank">Social Hiking</a> a bit. There is a nice feature where you can overlay a route (where you plan to walk) over the top of a track (where you actually walked). I have also found it useful when your phone battery dies halfway through your trip.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-3557512473423488482012-02-03T22:27:00.001+00:002012-02-03T22:27:19.099+00:00Of mice and drybagsThe Llanbder horseshoe is a great long day walk in the Black Mountains. As I was there for an overnighter I decided to add a bit and cover some other unclimbed hills.<br />
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I walked through the village of Llanbedr down a muddy track to the river and up to Crug Mawr. It was still relatively early despite the long drive from Dorset. I was passed by a couple of runners just before the top, the only people I would see all morning. After a short side trip to the nearest top I headed down to the valley through Mynydd Du Forest.<br />
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The path down to the valley cut straight through the pine trees directly across a couple of forestry roads. The top section of the path is either very overgrown or I missed it completely. If you get lost in the same place can you pick up my glove that I lost bashing through the trees. After crossing the first forestry road the path is much clearer. The reservoir road was bit of a plod but I was soon off the track climbing through the wood on the other side of the valley.<br />
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I had made a side trip to Pen Twyn Mawr and it turned out to be a dull mound of a hill. I also double back on myself to Chwarel y Fan and it was a very worthwhile trip. A classic Black Mountains grassy ridge topped with a summit path through the rocks.(Apologies for the fuzzy phone camera picture in this post, my camera is broken)
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I heading back north along the ridge before reaching the small bothy in the valley. It is a tiny one up one down structure with just enough room to refold a double sided OS map. I spent a cold night on the sleeping platform listening to a quiet scratching noise downstairs. As I was preparing breakfast I found something had been through my rubbish bag and one of my dry bags. Although my favourite dry bag had no food in it my new found enemy had nibbled a hole in it. My food bag was untouched. Not happy.<br />
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Bothy etiquette says you should leave enough fuel for the next visitor. I didn't really feel I had done this so I packed up some of the rubbish others had left instead. It was a sad sight as I left in the morning carrying a bag of rubbish and an empty whiskey bottle, sobbing gently. "It was my favourite dry bag as well".<br />
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<dawn></dawn><br />
I followed the path up the valley before turn back towards the south. This side of the valley the hills are quiet a bit higher and were covered in a thicker layer of snow. This ridge is what I love about the Black Mountains, open hills with great views.<br />
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<br />Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-2975599591545831082012-01-12T14:03:00.002+00:002012-01-12T14:05:30.762+00:00He has started again<table>
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<td valign="top">After a long period of very little running I am, at last, getting out a bit more regularly. Sunday was a great early morning run over North Hill. I am also getting out on the bike most weekends thanks to my son and his new road bike.<br />
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Why this new found enthusiasm? Well, if don't run for a long period of time it is very difficult to get started again, once started don't stop. Also the <a href="http://www.btinternet.com/~hardy.annual/cg30.html">Cerne Giant 30</a> is only 79 days away. This is a new event in familiar territory, the plan is to walk/run (how much of each, we shall see).</td>
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<br /></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-41462534095374073182011-12-01T10:28:00.000+00:002011-12-01T10:28:13.082+00:00Cheese rolls in the mistMost of my backpacking trips are short weekend trips. These normally comprise a circular route back to the car with a camp in the middle. The aim this time was to go from A to B.<br />
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I left my car in Talybont and took the early bus to Brecon. After a quick shop for some more food and a laminated map. This proved a vital purchase. I then caught the bus to Crai.
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Grey morning with small patches of blue over to the east, the last I would see all day. I followed a wide bulldozed track towards Fan Gyhirych and then climbed to the top of Fan Nedd. I sheltered from the wind behind the cairn before the summit where I had my lunch.
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As I dropped down the hill to the large car park at the rain started to come down hard. The rain dripped off my hood, sleeves and nose but seemed to sit happily on my glasses.<br />
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On the other side of the valley I joined the Beacons Way and immediately got misplaced as the cloud became thicker. With quite a bit of wandering about and standing in bogs I climbed the hill to Fan Llia. I followed the ridge north the wind and rain increasing all the time. A couple of times the wind knocked me over. About 3 o'clock I started to look for a sheltered spot to camp. The ground was wet and steep, I could not see the wind and rain stopping. I finally decided that, although I had brought my camping kit, I was going to head for the youth hostel.
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The next morning was brighter and cold. Today's route followed the Beacons Way back to Talybont. I slowly plodded up the hill to meet a crashing wind as it came over the ridge. A beautiful bright day ideal for walking along a ridge.<br />
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The central section of the National park is the most popular and there were a lot more people out today. I climbed the three main summits (Pen y Fan, Cribyn and Fan y Big) of the ridge before heading down to Talybont reservoir. This was the brightest part of the day and I enjoyed the quiet tramp through the woods and tracks.<br />
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I was a bit disappointed to miss out on a camp but next time. In case you were wondering the are no verbs in the title of this post.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-84029614699276887832011-11-21T21:50:00.001+00:002011-11-21T22:23:24.773+00:00John Muir Trust Big Give Christmas ChallengeIs there anything more exciting than a half packed rucksack nearly ready for the weekend? I think not. I am off to the Brecon Beacons on Saturday.<br />
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More importantly if you donate to the JMT between 5th and 9th of December your donation will be doubled. Ideal if you don't know what (else) to get me for Christmas.<br />
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<a href="http://www.jmt.org/biggive.asp">http://www.jmt.org/biggive.asp</a><br />
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Details of how it works and where the money comes from are <a href="http://content.thebiggive.org.uk/pledgers-page-2/">here.</a> </div>
</div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-40976007258367037042011-11-09T22:00:00.004+00:002011-11-09T22:00:57.883+00:00Tay Descent 2011<b>Phase 1 Training</b><br />
<a href="http://surfskidorset.blogspot.com/2011/10/paddling-over-to-dark-side.html" target="_blank">Louis</a> and I arrived at Loch Lomond for our training paddle
after a very early start from the South coast. We met up with <a href="http://k1marsport.wordpress.com/2011/10/31/the-tully-bar-the-tay-descent-the-tully-bar-and-the-tully-bar/" target="_blank">Michael</a>
and Graham who provided extra gear and most importantly the boat. Before undertaking an event like the Tay Descent (23 mile course) you should always put together a training plan. Half an hour later training complete and it was down to Corries for 4 full Scottish breakfasts. It was great to meet up with them again.<br />
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<b>Phase 2 Acclimatisation</b><br />
The
next phase on the way up to Perth was a stop at the fine <a href="http://www.glengoyne.com/" target="_blank">Glengoyne distillery</a> for a tour and tasting. After a bit of head scratching
souvenirs of the trip were purchased (we both went for the 12 year old
single malt). We met up with Michael again at registration and headed up
to Grantully. <br />
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<b>Phase 3 Base camp</b><br />
The SCA campsite in
Grantully proved to be a perfect base for us. Simple facilities,
sheltered pitches and friendly residents. As is traditional the orange
tents made a showing again. <br />
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<b>Phase 4 Race preparation</b><br />
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We made our first visit to the Tully Bar for Lamb Stovies in front of the fire and many discussions about ... well I cant really remember, except meeting Richard - Michaels partner in Lilo.</div>
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<b>Phase 5 The paddle</b><br />
After
dropping off a vehicle at Perth we returned to Dunkeld for the start of
the race. Nervous thoughts calmed by meeting a few friendly faces from the DW.<br />
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We dropped into the river above the bridge in Dunkeld.
Unfortunately Michael and Richard had been unable to wait for us at the
start line, possible because of the strong current or a strong
determination to win above all else. The first section if the river was a
nice easy start drifting down the river admiring the tress on the bank and the hills behind. Then we hit the rapids at Campsie Linn, well, we decided to take the "Chicken run" around the side. Next was Stanley Weir. This is where the fun starts, you drop down the weir into a mass of mixed up waves. Brilliant.<br />
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That is me in the front that is...<br />
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<b>Phase 6 Recovery</b><br />
We returned to the campsite all fairly shattered. It was only 3pm but we decided to shift our time clocks forward by 2 hours. This meant as it was 5 we could go to the pub and go to bed at 9. Graham had joined us again to review our efforts. This seemed to involve mainly shaking his head sadly at us.<br />
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A sign of a great trip is the enthusiasm to repeat it. The was no
shortage of this as we said goodbye. It was just a question of how and
with who. Without question The Tully Bar will be involved.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-23505088849218550272011-10-17T21:48:00.001+01:002011-10-17T21:48:37.155+01:00Not much activity but some plans<br />
Not been up to much lately but that is all about to change. Loius and I are leaving "Equatorial Dorset" and heading to the far flung north. Last year we meet <a href="http://k1marsport.wordpress.com/2011/10/17/final-preparations-for-team-lilo-and-the-tay-descent-2011/">Michael</a> during the Devizes to Westminster kayak race. Michael has recently put some very poor photos on his blog, which I urge you to ignore. We are heading up to Perth on Friday to take part in the <a href="http://www.canoescotland.org/events/TayDescent.aspx">Tay Descent</a> with him and some of his associates.
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/20596413?title=0&byline=0&portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe></div>
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<a href="http://vimeo.com/20596413">Tay Descent 2011 - 22 Oct 2011 - Perth</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/thesca">SCA</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.</div>
As basically a non-paddler, I am a little nervous about spending 3 days with <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waterworld">the wet ones</a>. A full weekend is planned with a trip to Loch Lomond, <a href="http://www.glengoyne.com/">Glengoyne</a>, Perth and then back home via Ben Vorlich.<br />
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Next month I am off to the Brecon Beacons for a trip following the middle section of the Breacons Way. Solid ground (with a bit of bog) on which to plant my feet.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-38211497709813196612011-08-11T21:43:00.000+01:002011-08-11T21:43:03.714+01:00The hills around Taw MarshAnother great trip around the Taw valley. We started from Sticklepath and after a quick stop for extra Quavers in the village shop we headed up through the woods.<br />
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When we left the woods the long pull up Colsden hill started. If you are thinking about doing this route I would probably do it in the opposite direction but we wanted to explore the hills on the eastern side.<br />
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We sat in a ring of stones near the summit of Colsden Hill to have our lunch before dropping down to Little Hound Tor and Hound Tor. Little Hound Tor is just a small rise in the ground with a couple of flat rocks breaking through.<br />
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As one of the things Will wanted to do was climb a few Tors we discussed whether Little Hound counts as a Tor. We decided as it had "Tor" in the name it must do. I might contact <a href="http://dartmoortors.blogspot.com/">Lucy</a> to check. By the end of the weekend we had climbed 7 Tors.<br />
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We continued south to Wild Tor for a scramble around the rocks before sitting out of the wind and finishing the remains of our lunch.<br />
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We crossed the stream to Steeperton Tor and then found a flat spot to camp near the head of the valley. From the top of Steeperton Tor you can see to the villages and roads on the northern edge of Dartmoor and south to bleak centre.<br />
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After a good night we set off with hot chocolate in hand towards Oke Tor and Winter Tor. We arrived in Belstone in perfect time for Sunday Roast at the <a href="http://www.thetors.co.uk/index.html">Tors Inn</a>. Slightly reluctantly we set off down Belstone Cleave following the river to Sticklepath.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGksqLaKuH2qlrnbsR-JYhyyF1tr2pTa3ospu7pzgUnNcrDYZ2vZ8G6CusLkvzBIMkY5Zwd4Gwjyfq2XQc8YWIEyhs-6pCASYkGWmEPKQH6fUZva3U2sTa4h9L-Nlr6szagnM3RAsolx0/s1600/image-034a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="215" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGksqLaKuH2qlrnbsR-JYhyyF1tr2pTa3ospu7pzgUnNcrDYZ2vZ8G6CusLkvzBIMkY5Zwd4Gwjyfq2XQc8YWIEyhs-6pCASYkGWmEPKQH6fUZva3U2sTa4h9L-Nlr6szagnM3RAsolx0/s320/image-034a.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-48875346321843061902011-06-22T23:40:00.000+01:002011-06-22T23:40:09.227+01:00Lyme Regis - Runners vs. Paddlers<div class="MsoNormal">We were planning a trip to North Wales, but unfortunately I had to cancel it. To replace it we came up with another epic adventure for middle age men who should know better. Just think Top Gear but without the budget, cars or sofa based racism.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The plan was to start at Lyme Regis and make our way back home. <a href="http://surfskidorset.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Grumpy Old surfskier</a> and his mate paddle while Simon and I run/walk along the Coastal Path. The weather beforehand had been pretty rough but we arrived in Lyme early on Sunday morning full of hope. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEPkur6I_Wz28Ro_9XN1xXMdOC3ZvC3qgz5TCv7KejM3AxSus7twaVoPPDdM2lGIHJgnAy82sDBn9XIwi7TVBhPUUP5vdJIfN__4D416kkBF5z8jLtC2L22fWDWvRY5GpzRuzVnF6EQI/s1600/image+009_photoshop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLEPkur6I_Wz28Ro_9XN1xXMdOC3ZvC3qgz5TCv7KejM3AxSus7twaVoPPDdM2lGIHJgnAy82sDBn9XIwi7TVBhPUUP5vdJIfN__4D416kkBF5z8jLtC2L22fWDWvRY5GpzRuzVnF6EQI/s320/image+009_photoshop.jpg" width="249" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The least enjoyable bit of the path is the first sectoin to Charmouth due to the diversions, landslips and sections of road. From Charmouth we followed the <a href="http://www.charmouthchallenge.co.uk/">Charmouth Challenge</a> route over Stonebarrow to Golden Cap</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The day had started fairly calm with some sun but as we moved east the wind picked up and it got cooler. Occasionally looking out to sea we could see no sign of the paddlers. They had planned to head out to sea and then follow a long downwind leg to the end. However because of the rough conditions they had to keep closer to the coast and follow a more zig-zag route.<br />
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</div><div class="MsoNormal">Seatown, this is where I began to struggle, the hills really starting to hurt. Through Eype, nearly home now.</div><div class="MsoNormal">We clattered down the hill to West Bay wondering when we would see the paddlers.<br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">Taking the sensible option, they had decided to come in at West Bay harbour rather than crash on the beach at Burton. We arrived almost an hour after them so they were pretty cold when we found them sunning themselves behind a wall in the harbour. To pick up the car, we carried on running to Burton Bradstock before returning to West Bay. </div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1r6NkehKkTPG3c-OksdjUL1pK2XZ9a3jeYGjBuxzfKfkRa93ujqan9C9uIAfjNNtXwPVjuOX_DhCw07aDoviqeQMYphB7hDqw9eQ6UAxnN1ZlQ64XcX5CK1KEAuJSXksG3L6L0nyGlw/s1600/image+015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1r6NkehKkTPG3c-OksdjUL1pK2XZ9a3jeYGjBuxzfKfkRa93ujqan9C9uIAfjNNtXwPVjuOX_DhCw07aDoviqeQMYphB7hDqw9eQ6UAxnN1ZlQ64XcX5CK1KEAuJSXksG3L6L0nyGlw/s320/image+015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Over breakfast with our families the tricky question of the win was discussed. Stopping part way through because you realise the win will be at the expense of a smashed boat does not feel like success. Getting to the end so you can rescue the opposition, that has the smell of victory. But maybe that is just me. There are rumours of a rematch Fathers day 2012.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-76267318207717686412011-05-08T18:50:00.000+01:002011-05-08T18:50:39.326+01:00Offa's Dyke - Monmouth to Hay on Way<b>29 April</b><br />
With the rest of my family stretched from the Isles of Scilly to Brighton, Will and I met up with my Dad for this years Offa's Dyke trip. The long drive to Hay on Wye started with the weather still looking hopeful. We got going a bit later than planned after time spent dropping off the car and eating breakfast in Crickhowell.<br />
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We left Monmouth through Kings Woods heading for Llangattock-lingoed just east of Abergavenny. Today's section of the Offa's Dyke path is mainly though fields and small sections of wood. One book describes it as "pleasant though unexciting farmland". I think this is a bit unfair the countryside is very gentle but it is a fine walk and certainly better than watching someone get married.<br />
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We stopped for a late lunch by the River Trothy. When we reached White Castle we left Offa's Dyke path briefly and joined the Three Castles Way.which follows a more direct route down the hill to Caggle Street.<br />
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We stayed at a wonderful <a href="http://www.oldrectorystayinwales.co.uk/">B&B in Llangattock</a>. After I had booked it my Dad pointed out it was the same B&B we had stayed in 30 years ago when he and I walked the path.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxGbFUeiOYUigu4Tf6_1CxiXad_ScETkccNwhR6aklgslQ1JUS6HHwV5o4V1jZLJQQFNCeNRMuMigpOrASf0uyyNe-sL4WqncccjwoT1ma3v8g3H8DfHL35qNoBIAoGsd5UWvL98TmrU0/s1600/image+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxGbFUeiOYUigu4Tf6_1CxiXad_ScETkccNwhR6aklgslQ1JUS6HHwV5o4V1jZLJQQFNCeNRMuMigpOrASf0uyyNe-sL4WqncccjwoT1ma3v8g3H8DfHL35qNoBIAoGsd5UWvL98TmrU0/s320/image+004.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><b>30 April</b><br />
The next day after a few more fields (including Kenny Dalglish field, keep reading to see why) we crossed the main road at Pandy and started the climb up Hatterrall Hill. When we reached the trig point the wind was blowing hard across the border. This wonderful section of the path with its great views enlivened us all. Someone really started to enjoy their surroundings, previous comments about "not another sheep field" were left in the past.<br />
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We joined the Beacons way to drop down to Llanthony. After a quick tour of the Priory and 2 small campsites we headed to the pub where we were to stay.<br />
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<b>1 May</b><br />
We climbed the steep hill back up to the ridge Will really enjoyed this and probably went faster up the hill than on some of the flat bits. It is a balance doing long walks with kids. Finding something that is the right distance, challenging enough but not too dangerous. Planning your escape routes if the weather, enthusiasm or kit fails you.<br />
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To a great extent it will depend on the child and their experience and motivation. One thing we did do was play a lot of word games. We played about 50 games of "guess who"; someone thinks of a person and the other have to guess who by asking questions that can only have a yes or no answer.<br />
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We continued along the ridge over Black Mountain. The weather was colder but still clear as we walked along the top before finally reaching Hay Bluff where we dropped down to pick up the car.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0Monmouth, Monmouthshire NP25, UK51.812064210572288 -2.715425866333021151.781703210572289 -2.7741338663330213 51.842425210572287 -2.6567178663330209tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-25583736305460472942011-04-28T21:54:00.000+01:002011-04-28T21:54:53.772+01:00The next bit to Hay on Wye<div class="MsoNormal">Following on from<a href="http://benwilderness.blogspot.com/2010/06/offas-dyke-to-monmouth.html"> last year’s trip</a> we are about to set off to walk the next section of Offa’s Dyke.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">The plan was to walk from Monmouth to Hay on Wye, starting in Hereford. Let me explain. It involved leaving a car at Hereford and getting a bus to Monmouth, walking to Hay on Wye then returned to Hereford by bus.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
</div><div class="MsoNormal">“The wedding” which has made this 3 day trip possible has also messed up the plan. The bus is not running on Friday as it is a Bank Holiday Monday.. Change of plan required and larger carbon footprint to offset. Excitement is building.</div><div class="MsoNormal"><br />
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</div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-28597209225473264002011-03-15T10:51:00.000+00:002011-03-15T10:51:30.669+00:00Backpacking in the AransI have not been to North Wales for over 15 years and choose the Arans for my first trip back. It is a quiet area to the west of Bala in southern Snowdonia. The route came from <a href="http://v-g.me.uk/Trips/T0892/T0892.htm">v-g backpacking in Britain</a>, an excellent site, if I only have 10 or 15 minutes to spare and want to go backpacking this is where I normally head.<br />
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We started the long drive from Dorset early on Saturday morning and eventually arrived at the southern end of Lake Bala. We left the car in Llanuwchllyn and slowly climbed the track up into the mist. The ridge to Aran Fawddwy is a series of smaller summit gradually increasing in height. As we reached each top the mist cleared enough to see the next top. Would we have started this if we had seen the full route to the top at the start? Probably not.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6dHKkUfwq3ZbVtr6qCYe1PZX8oIolJq2An164fPwnA1mbct-PKv6nTst-TJClhjYSnpqWerQk-hduBqjuFz_oyHE0CpMivG7_WTBXMzCA-oEM1wgTOZKY4MmAWTbr7MCwnLe9l4xGZg/s1600/Arrans+010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga6dHKkUfwq3ZbVtr6qCYe1PZX8oIolJq2An164fPwnA1mbct-PKv6nTst-TJClhjYSnpqWerQk-hduBqjuFz_oyHE0CpMivG7_WTBXMzCA-oEM1wgTOZKY4MmAWTbr7MCwnLe9l4xGZg/s320/Arrans+010.jpg" width="240" /></a></td> </tr>
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We passed the only other walkers we would see all weekend before we reach the summit of Aran Benllyn. Surrounded by cloud we moved along the ridge with glimpse of the valley on either side. As we came off the main ridge and down towards Drysgol we could finally see Creignlyn Dyfi, a small tarn sat high above the valley.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Camped on some relatively flat ground near the bottom of the valley, we were opposite the outflow from the lake digging a groove in the steep side of the valley.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_A8_CS3J_vMjDPTI6XnuCSUv1t7EoCA8Q_txotAKrKDfwkbdvGwpJmdhNPRZRRyaqQVGC5Lw_-sGc1iCJeAlJjbGjfUrHD6AbKzPCmhxMVS-GpEQmRnCOygI_1QI76eR3vOMxTvkH9M/s1600/Arrans+020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ_A8_CS3J_vMjDPTI6XnuCSUv1t7EoCA8Q_txotAKrKDfwkbdvGwpJmdhNPRZRRyaqQVGC5Lw_-sGc1iCJeAlJjbGjfUrHD6AbKzPCmhxMVS-GpEQmRnCOygI_1QI76eR3vOMxTvkH9M/s320/Arrans+020.jpg" width="240" /></a></td><td><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFN2z2rDchZ8y6t4Kf_-nLkTPpf9HLf84Pv65xPYZPhBWGxPbZBvnR_IdwK7JAxI0l3mWF9hM0UB-RAx6Na4QBSQaYWf2DNUxcNWZRgHVxmKN6PVT1bacvrpAe9p1zUX0bd1Bucns1x_U/s1600/Arrans+021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFN2z2rDchZ8y6t4Kf_-nLkTPpf9HLf84Pv65xPYZPhBWGxPbZBvnR_IdwK7JAxI0l3mWF9hM0UB-RAx6Na4QBSQaYWf2DNUxcNWZRgHVxmKN6PVT1bacvrpAe9p1zUX0bd1Bucns1x_U/s320/Arrans+021.jpg" width="240" /></a></td> </tr>
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After we had eaten the rain started and we were then subjected to 5 hours of rain followed by 5 hours of buffeting winds. In the early hours the wind would die down, then you could hear it rush over the ridge above us then five seconds later hit the side of the tents.<br />
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When we clambered out of the tents to see snow of the eastern slopes of Aran Fawddwy. As the clouds were still low and I didn't want to hang around so we started straight up the slope to Foel Hafod-fynydd. I struggled up the steep climb to the ridge and as we made our way along the fence line to east the sun began to push through the clouds.<br />
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We dropped down to Cwm Du contoured along the steep valley sides and past the old farm at Cwm-ffynnon. The views back to the main ridge were amazing even though the tops were still in mist. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LOVu9d_rv5rkdP1EKn8nofpLUjJ1vZk1wKQMCWEKnxn0JpfimJOu_twQkPqBMwHzmU391EecDEBNISw7w7TgdTHZCZLsejvygwVfsXUGXamLOhoPfg5WHz0igYMQ0F9LZKi6ezn2-Fs/s1600/Arrans+034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5LOVu9d_rv5rkdP1EKn8nofpLUjJ1vZk1wKQMCWEKnxn0JpfimJOu_twQkPqBMwHzmU391EecDEBNISw7w7TgdTHZCZLsejvygwVfsXUGXamLOhoPfg5WHz0igYMQ0F9LZKi6ezn2-Fs/s200/Arrans+034.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></td></tr>
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Before we started the back down the valley to the car we stopped for breakfast. Sitting in the green valley looking back at our route. The sun was on us but there was still a cold wind. After a bit of a trudge along the road we returned to the car. 15 years away from North Wales and it welcomed me back with rain, howling winds, snow and a beautiful ridge walk ... fantastic.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-55322520482467066782011-03-06T15:55:00.001+00:002011-03-06T21:48:47.130+00:00Around Shipton HillWith one away on a geography field trip and the other taking part in a mammoth game of football at the park, I escape for a run upto Shipton Hill. It was a wonderful afternoon.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMir1ycPkNdHv5FKm60O6lgRXt3xKtIgBIia3DEzE5aA7jCLTIOIE2j0gFbaE1SM7xe3arDiuHFMOZwnc0ZDP7itg77fXR6HcLwKp7mKcrZM8cTX-Nw2qotZDWjmpxGVZumpgvSKKk25s/s320/b06032011086.jpg" width="320" /></div><br />
Forget birdsong and daffodils, the first sign of spring is when you get too hot in your Helly.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="205" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjok_I1m_vYHdbi88SWSe2OCl4m0rB-6f8ypCSU2ttblefbPSVUmZR6hYGoKVNoDNPeFnuHZRrmtkOtSgXCyqmhjVGz7bwlg1TcPqYWZUWz0966gHtIYm4Mw8GPCbIRZjVgYtFt5GT5HvA/s320/b06032011092.jpg" width="320" /></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-18647132132028379372011-03-02T21:30:00.000+00:002011-03-02T21:30:28.434+00:00What nextFor the last few years I have run the <a href="http://www.axevalleyrunners.org.uk/races/grizzly.htm">Grizzly</a>, this year I have decided against it. I was lucky to get a place as they are taken very quickly once the entries open. I have managed to pass on my place to a friend who has the joy of the valley of bogs ahead of him.<br />
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I am not exactly sure why I am not keen to run it this year. It is always difficult to articulate to other people why you do these things but surprisingly easy to justify to yourself. This time I could not really talk myself round. The other thing is this year I want to do more backpacking trips. So on the weekend of the Grizzly (12/13 March) I am going to walk along the <a href="http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/700230">Aran ridge</a>. So I will be enjoying the clear blue skies of North Wales instead of running over beach and bog in South Devon.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-55673048818311283022011-02-02T22:33:00.001+00:002011-02-02T22:34:23.344+00:00Northern DartmoorSaturday morning the small carpark in Belstone seemed busy but the village was quiet as usual. I left the village past the church and joined the Tarka Trail for a short way.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbatmSGXFlZq14Fjiaxy1b2UdT-t20opQCStQ33XQCHDFKJbnNPa1NHCixWHVzcKPcZw2do5l23vR00pTM8CnfAg_KIt4yK34th97x73ePxjyTX23EMhGlJcgbDU6yZ4F5ikgzDopDGE/s1600/tavey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWbatmSGXFlZq14Fjiaxy1b2UdT-t20opQCStQ33XQCHDFKJbnNPa1NHCixWHVzcKPcZw2do5l23vR00pTM8CnfAg_KIt4yK34th97x73ePxjyTX23EMhGlJcgbDU6yZ4F5ikgzDopDGE/s320/tavey.jpg" width="219" /></a></div><br />
I dropped down to Cullever steps and then followed the tracks towards Yes Tor. It turned into a bit of a foggy flat day, the kind when it is difficult to tell what time of day it is. I always seem to be a bit apprehensive at the beggining of a trip, unsure what is ahead and if this is a good idea. As I got higher the wind and interest increased The grass was covered in a thick frost.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLEfXEoC8BeiFuc_ZwQLH6cHKb2XLhN_Iv-mbUG6G7A04EJw6dnqKsXE9ecKKtnG-61We-8H7remJk2isUDHwrBCG_nyumaRnfCcg97JbNFrAG4qUsD7NCHfLz5ya6wUY1SZei7Tmnso/s1600/IMG_2100.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZLEfXEoC8BeiFuc_ZwQLH6cHKb2XLhN_Iv-mbUG6G7A04EJw6dnqKsXE9ecKKtnG-61We-8H7remJk2isUDHwrBCG_nyumaRnfCcg97JbNFrAG4qUsD7NCHfLz5ya6wUY1SZei7Tmnso/s320/IMG_2100.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">High Willhays in an easterly wind</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The ground was frozen hard so when I reached Sandy Ford it was the first time I got my feet wet. From the ford I climbed the steep hill to Kitty Tor and across to Great Links Tor.<br />
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After Ger Tor I followed the sheep tracks down to Tavey Cleave. Be careful where you come down to the <a href="http://www.legendarydartmoor.co.uk/leats_moor.htm">leat.</a> As I found it is a bit of a scramble along the rocks before I get to a crossing point.<br />
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Tavey Cleave is a beautiful gorge with steep sides, towering rock piles and a crashing stream. I followed Amicombe Brook up stream until I found a suitable spot for the night.<br />
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A very cold night, my small thermometer read -5 deg C at some point. My old 3 season sleeping bag did not really cope despite wearing most of my clothes, so I was glad when it started to get light. After warming up the gas cannister in my jacket pocket I used the stove to defrost my boots and make porridge.<br />
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I think I agree with <a href="http://lightweightoutdoors.com/?p=1375">Phil</a> about the unsuitability of Sealskinz socks for backpacking. Once they do get wet they take ages to dry and in winter freeze over night if you are not careful (see foreground of picture below). I am going to stick to merino wool which dries quickly and keeps you warmer.<br />
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Sunday was a much brighter day with perfect views across the moor. I reached Fur Tor and had a second breakfast sitting in the sun, out of the wind.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXenfGI8yszJ0AsR_NX_UanrZrbdcIRe1dOjjsmVbEGivTV7W1ZDa33WdpUG1IF4dFS79u50iFM8kEMLtph1AUFyVqeI_GTHVqIxYvSceVdIq3Jod5dnZG7_1aOqaISVpnwKq8gE6JIZk/s1600/30012011082.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXenfGI8yszJ0AsR_NX_UanrZrbdcIRe1dOjjsmVbEGivTV7W1ZDa33WdpUG1IF4dFS79u50iFM8kEMLtph1AUFyVqeI_GTHVqIxYvSceVdIq3Jod5dnZG7_1aOqaISVpnwKq8gE6JIZk/s320/30012011082.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fur Tor</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The next top was Cut Hill, here I met <a href="http://einsteinontor.co.uk/">Joe and Einstein</a>. They have started (and made a great start at ) the great challenge of climbing 300 tors in 12 months for <a href="http://www.beatbloodcancers.org/" rel="homepage" title="Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research">Leukaemia & Lymphoma Research.</a><br />
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I headed north to Hangingstone Hill, Wild Tor and then up to Steeperton Tor. This is the best approach to Steeperton Tor, you get the views across Taw marsh and the surrounding tors but the climb is much more gradual.<br />
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I took the direct route down Steeperton Gorge and, after checking out the bottom of the gorge for possible camping spots headed down towards Belstone. Finishing off a great trip with egg and chips at the Whitehouse cafe.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-82104038775374027612011-01-27T21:17:00.000+00:002011-01-27T21:17:01.786+00:00Corfe Castle runMany were called but few are chosen, well few didn't think up excuses fast enough. I invited 6 people to come for a Tuesday night run in the Purbeck hills, but in the end it was just me and Simon.<br />
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Having parked in the dark shadow of the castle we started the run up towards Nine Barrows Down. We followed the excellent track on the way up with the guns of Lulworth range booming behind us. As we approached the top our enthusiasm to reach one of Dorset <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marilyn_%28hill%29">Marilyns</a> meant we left the track and on the way down struggled to rejoin it.<br />
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Crossing the road to Ballard Down we ran along the side of the hill before turning for the steep climb to the <a href="http://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/262320">Obelisk</a>. Luckily there was a plaque we could pretend to read as we caught our breath. <br />
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Once through Studland we ran through sandy heathland and woods back to Corfe Castle. This was a mix of small road and forest tracks, at that time of night only over looked by deer and rabbits.<br />
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We both agreed that we should come back in the daylight because it was a great route and the views over Poole Harbour and Swanage must be amazing. I have only included this photo of Swanage to prove it came out... sort of.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfI87ByJCXbPu95tzKze9wRl5mn8QLpt9_UDaZDYKJTBaKUibJ2SHohxWxiZKS3HvUkZIqbUpCvVRQ5CiMDj6717K5y90Ej4vZAZ8fTVEFat8S19FBBnJwxLjKb_gzSbtchPnYkbqu9g/s1600/swanage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzfI87ByJCXbPu95tzKze9wRl5mn8QLpt9_UDaZDYKJTBaKUibJ2SHohxWxiZKS3HvUkZIqbUpCvVRQ5CiMDj6717K5y90Ej4vZAZ8fTVEFat8S19FBBnJwxLjKb_gzSbtchPnYkbqu9g/s320/swanage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-84708513240043263242011-01-18T22:28:00.001+00:002012-06-20T22:53:45.619+01:00The search for hills continuesHaving started the new year with a new job I am struggling to get some miles in. <a href="http://www.axevalleyrunners.org.uk/races/grizzly.htm">The Grizzly</a> is fast approaching. <br />
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The new job is going well, thanks for asking, but there is a distinct lack of hills around Bournemouth Airport in the Stour Valley. Lunchtime runs are short and flat, not great training for a long hilly run. <br />
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Plans for 2011 are still a bit vague. On the horizon are a couple of days backpacking on Dartmoor, a Scotland trip, the next section of Offas Dyke, the Grizzly and a possible support run on <a href="http://www.votwo.co.uk/votwo2007/events-and-adventure/race_view.php?v=2&c=1&i=137">the Oner</a>. Actually when I think about it looks like a good year on the way.<br />
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If anyone knows how I can get from Hay on Wye to Monmouth by public transport, I would be grateful to hear.Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-23903066190576095282010-12-06T23:18:00.001+00:002010-12-06T23:39:13.963+00:00The Full Monty Cute<table border="0"><tbody>
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Crewkerne Running club organise a great cross country race. Apparently it is around the grounds of Montecute House but because of the thick freezing fog on Sunday I did not catch a glimpse of the house. I even managed to not spot one of the trees on Ham Hill and ran into it, but that is another story.<br />
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The 10 mile race consists of 10 hills, some of them requiring the use of hands and feet to get up, separated by muddy and icy paths.<br />
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My time was 1 hr 58 mins which considering how many hills I had to walk up I am pleased with. The winners time was 1 hr 11 mins which is amazing thinking about the hills. That's it no more running (till next year). <br />
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That is me on the far left trying not to fall down the first hill.<br />
Photo gratefully taken from <a href="http://picasaweb.google.com/jodyfoy/FullMontyCute2010#">gallery link on website</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.fullmontycute.btik.com/">Full Monty Cute Website</a></td> </tr>
</tbody></table>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-32274242049695411352010-11-25T20:07:00.000+00:002010-11-25T20:07:05.892+00:00Book review : The Natural NavigatorI came across this book after reading a review on the <a href="http://www.skillsforwildlives.com/2010/05/book-review-the-natural-navigator-by-tristan-gooley/">Skills for wild lives site</a>.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
The blurb on the back of the book says "Put away your map and look up from your GPS". Navigating without a map and compass is not really what this book is about for me. It is about appreciate more of your surroundings. There are lots of interesting practical facts and tips about navigating using the environment around you. Where does the sunrise through the year, how the stars rotate on the celestial sphere.<br />
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This is not just a manual. The information is also combined with history and folklore. Lots of research has gone into navigation techniques used by older cultures. I won't be giving up the map and compass, in fact I have still got a lot to learn but I will try and be a bit more observant. I will probably reread some of the sections but this more a comment on the reader rather than the writer.<br />
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There is a link to the book on amazon on Nicks <a href="http://www.skillsforwildlives.com/2010/05/book-review-the-natural-navigator-by-tristan-gooley/">Skills for wild lives site</a><br />
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Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7087788609272435587.post-91559426906578004762010-11-17T22:49:00.001+00:002010-11-21T11:07:13.732+00:00Short trip around the Mynydd Du (Black Mountain)We set off early for a much anticipated thrip to the Brecon Beacons, this meant that by the time we reached Neath we were ready for breakfast. This was to set the tone for the rest of the trip as you will see. The first cafe we came to was called "Nu cafe" and it was marvellous.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTgGw7E9JIbEnnJO10r8FPjHV6yZlizm4Sq7iObtQyTSIx7nm-kHcAmrZchefKYvMKrNHn4Qe_LqqYlJV-wUhgo2422esbVz94DFYduHhxktx-uUVqB-qkpctxIurUklEKXTEEiuAnGJc/s1600/breakfast.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTgGw7E9JIbEnnJO10r8FPjHV6yZlizm4Sq7iObtQyTSIx7nm-kHcAmrZchefKYvMKrNHn4Qe_LqqYlJV-wUhgo2422esbVz94DFYduHhxktx-uUVqB-qkpctxIurUklEKXTEEiuAnGJc/s320/breakfast.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
The camp site at Dan-yr-Ogof caves was closed for the winter but walked though to the path that leads up the Afon Haffes and then up on to the ridge which leads to Fan Hir. The only rain shower of the day blew over us as we reached the ridge.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfUeWu8PN-CjnsjkqJoC22nZCRE3l1sL23L1qA6I96GxQntmE6_ViS3j4AfMm9rSms4QExd7fu8YU7a2wFHBR9wytAXmcwfMwms51-V-QWFFJFaIuL9E1PJbkgleQ6YMG386ya3840vM/s1600/img_1997.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLfUeWu8PN-CjnsjkqJoC22nZCRE3l1sL23L1qA6I96GxQntmE6_ViS3j4AfMm9rSms4QExd7fu8YU7a2wFHBR9wytAXmcwfMwms51-V-QWFFJFaIuL9E1PJbkgleQ6YMG386ya3840vM/s320/img_1997.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>After lunch over looking Llyn y Fan Fawr we continued along the ridge before turning south above Llyn y Fan Fach.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVh5_vAxQK-J1mu-dmJPPdvCZQduD3bVQY-yw_XpwcKnRGufs16hlBpwDm2Lt5OkOfALwbkW6AwAO0nXxIVTk0YpJTkK110wjgCqluBFZ6QzCeuVxMuLb4eV98Z69ZFyUKvAwNHKBFLk/s1600/img_2000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixVh5_vAxQK-J1mu-dmJPPdvCZQduD3bVQY-yw_XpwcKnRGufs16hlBpwDm2Lt5OkOfALwbkW6AwAO0nXxIVTk0YpJTkK110wjgCqluBFZ6QzCeuVxMuLb4eV98Z69ZFyUKvAwNHKBFLk/s320/img_2000.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fan Foel</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Llyn Fan Fach</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
We camped near the river Afron Twrch (SN801196). One of the ground rules for the trip was that we all had to bring our <a href="http://maceachain.blogspot.com/2009/06/pro-actio-hike-lite-1-review-part-1.html">Argos Hike-lite tents.</a> In the night we had some heavy rain for a few hours and the tents stood up very well to it. Luckily it was not very windy as I am not too confident in the poles but for £20 and 2kg it is a great buy. <br />
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For supper we had <a href="http://www.lookwhatwefound.co.uk/store/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=4&products_id=16&zenid=sn9jdaomjgd68qsttoqrhp6cq2">"Look what we found" Chilli con carne</a> and Smash followed by cake and custard and mulled wine. Louis has recently bought an <a href="http://www.eydonkettle.com/poppin.html">Eydon Kettle</a> which he was keen to try. We had a cannister stove for the food and the kettle for drinks. The Eydon kettle boils water so quickly that we could hardly keep up with the coffee consumption.<br />
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In the night the rain stopped and the skies cleared. A cold start was improved by cinnamon porridge and too much coffee. We followed the track through Carreg Goch, a collapsed landscape of shake holes and crags. All too soon we were heading downhill to the road.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib11whU7l8HlpDq9nwWKzwla_9IYe-MoRAglKu0M_Iu3NuKH6CfoHdNAVPh4QvQ4xXLJA3v0Xr47E4JxVJ-QukJT0GEf5Y6peOB3wqW4E1cA5I3u2s0PUajWXrSsVVyleGfl9q3pQTR6w/s1600/img_2028.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib11whU7l8HlpDq9nwWKzwla_9IYe-MoRAglKu0M_Iu3NuKH6CfoHdNAVPh4QvQ4xXLJA3v0Xr47E4JxVJ-QukJT0GEf5Y6peOB3wqW4E1cA5I3u2s0PUajWXrSsVVyleGfl9q3pQTR6w/s320/img_2028.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06219612737901651511noreply@blogger.com6