18 October 2010

I've always recorded the stuff I do in the outdoors: diaries, log books, drawings ............ but this is a new thing, a bit of an experiment. So here goes.

Its starting at an interesting time - doctors are encouraging me to take a look at just exactly what I do (dodgey knees!), consultant seems to have quite a pessimistic outlook but thankfully GP & Physiotherapist are more positive (Andrew - if you read many thanks, really appreciate all you do!!) 

Caving
The back end of the summer is always a quiet time for personal caving but lots of group work. Recent outings have been: County - Wretched Rabbit (trip out with this year's new trainees) and an afternoon in Calf Holes/Browgill with a group staying at the Centre over the weekend (see also below)

Running
Ran the Old Crown Round at beginning of October with Martin. "Team In2venture" (Alan-R; Ferg; Paul & Joy) made a cameo appearance for Great Cockup. The Old Crown Round is set in the area to the north of Skiddaw / Blencathra - our local fells.
"Our round" was: Mosedale; Mungrisdale Common; Blencathra; Sale How; Skiddaw; Bakestall; Great Cockup; Great Sca Fell; High Pike; Carrock Fell; Mosedale - 20.1 miles & 6,939' of ascent weather was dry, cool & clear except for Blencathra & Skiddaw. Felt good at end, apart from sore knees!

Martin on Carrock Fell

Me - same place

Since the round have only ran once - eight miles around the local lanes. Did this too soon after the longer run - no good for the injuries! If I follow medical advice will probably stick to running in the fells from now on & add some biking / more walking to the mix.

Other
Done 3 x approx. 1 hour sessions on the bike this week, all around the local lanes which are quite hilly.This is a new thing - I don't love the bike but might have to learn to like it!

Went out with Kay the other day & walked up Lattrig for the first time - can't believe I've never done it before (Kay had) - weather was glorious, excellent views in all directions - coffee in Keswick when we finished. Just Lonscale Fell to do & I've completed everything in Wainwright's "Brown Book"

Kay on Latrigg summit with skiddaw in background

Took group (see above) down roped section of Stoneycroft Ghyll on Sunday, always a good day out & water levels were more sporting than expected despite quite a dry spell over recent days in the Lakes.