Reference Guide

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Originally Posted by TheGrump

Good, albeit obvious attempt (would you accept 7 out of 10?), but lacks certain characteristics as exemplified by this recent thread.
The art is to appear and firmly believe you are still on thread, except for failing to spot one key word in the initial post. In this case "prize". Even when posters were reminded, they earnestly persisted with their parallel irrelevant debate, and detracted from a potentially interesting post.

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Agreed. But what is better, the OMM smock or the Haglofs Oz? We still don't know...;)

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Originally Posted by simgreen78

Agreed. But what is better, the OMM smock or the Haglofs Oz? We still don't know...;)

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And I still haven't seen anybody running in this crisp-bag that keeps coming up as an option.
I thought we were getting somewhere with the 'Tonights Crisps' thread but that's rubbish because it doesn't tell me which bags have taped seams and which ones would get past a kit check.:confused::confused:

As my previous post(s) I broadly support the idea of your reference guide G. Not all questions are lazy though. Its okay for people who race regularly to sneer at beginners asking seemingly naive questions but if you've never been to a race it could appear quite daunting

In terms of numbers of posts there are no rules I am aware of limiting members' imput. What's worse than visiting a forum to find it deadly quiet with a handful of posts per day (MDS is a good example). Don't overlook the fact too that lots of regular posters actually know eachother in real life. I'm off to meet some now to run, camp and drink beer with :cool:

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Originally Posted by TheGrump

The point has been made above about not being bothered what the general public think.

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My comment about not being bothered what people think was not made in relation to the general public, but to the people who have sufficient interest in fell running that they read what's posted on this forum.

I think that it's hugely important that the FRA do what they do to ensure that we aren't seen as irresponsible or incompetent by the general public. The reason I maintained my subscription despite having many years out of the sport is that I recognise the FRA as a force for good in ensuring that my kids and the generations that come after them can still pull on a pair of shoes and go for a trot in the countryside with the same freedoms that I enjoy. The 'surprisingly large team' that administer the FRA do an incredibly good job of maintaining the amateur 'feel' of the sport while operating at a level of professionalism that many other sports would envy - take a look at Snowsport England for instance!

The point I'm making is that I view this forum as an extension of the pub after a club night. There's banter about racing, recruiting support and making plans for big runs, gear discussions, club business, and chat about stuff that's got nothing at all to do with running. Whose having these conversations? There's the has-beens and never was's, the old hands and the newbies, the hot-shot racing lads and lasses, the people with high pressure jobs that are looking for a safety valve and the folk looking for work for whom this is a cheap way of getting out of the house and rebuilding a bit of personal pride. The only thing we have in common is fell running and the genuine comradeship that comes from being part of a minority sport.

So what do I do if I'm at one end of the bar and there's a conversation that's boring? I go and find a conversation at the other end of the bar.

My sentiments exactly

Personally I like the forum just as it is

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Originally Posted by tinyman

So what do I do if I'm at one end of the bar and there's a conversation that's boring? I go and find a conversation at the other end of the bar.

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Originally Posted by GeoffB

1. Turn up
2. Pay 3 quid
3. Run (and walk a bit)
4. Drink beer
5. Have fun

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6. spend the following week unable to walk with doms but have the biggest smile on your face

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Originally Posted by daz h

6. spend the following week unable to walk with doms but have the biggest smile on your face

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7. Show off all your new scars to all your friends and family.:D

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Originally Posted by Al Fowler

7. Show off all your new scars to all your friends and family.:D

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So far I have a scar from the Borrowdale, 3 Shires and Langdale on my right leg. Over the next few years I will be looking to get the collection and pick up the Lakeland Classic Series box set of scars :D

I think Tinyman has hit the nail on the head - this is like a discussion in the pub and if someone asked some of the things posted on here in the pub they wouldn't get a second thought - they would just be told where they could park or what map to take and nobody would think anything of it. So its usually just a bit of crack - For example I hope I have enough common sense to know whats waterproof and whats isn't - but I also know that there is a lot of kit about that sits uncomfortably in that middle ground that might or might not be Ok any in one or more of numerous different organisers views, so I dont see any harm in us having a chat about it. If the recent discussion about EDZ jackets has stopped someone turning up at Jura or The Ben, or the Mountain Trial in one and having a barney with an organiser then its saved some hassle, and maybe saved their race. So lets chat about these things, its like TV, if you dont like it you know where the off button is!

As a complete newbie to the sport I've been a bit of a post whore:rolleyes: with all kind of noob questions. However everyone has been more than helpfull with great info/advice...and some good banter too!

A great forum I think!;)

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Originally Posted by SEFTON

As a complete newbie to the sport I've been a bit of a post whore:rolleyes: with all kind of noob questions. However everyone has been more than helpfull with great info/advice...and some good banter too!

A great forum I think!;)

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We where all noobies once upon a time.

Aye, its a reet good place.:cool:

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Originally Posted by TheGrump

However, I still suggest, along with others, that there are too many repetitive, often critical posts based on erroneous assumptions about rules or situations, which could easily be resolved by some basic research. A combination of following links and obtaining the handbook by joining the FRA would help everyone immeasurably.

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Yes to basic research. But FRA membership for all forumites is a lose lose scenario.

I wonder how many existing FRA members viewed this forum prior to taking the decision to join. I did. And the fact that I found it to be a friendly and encouraging resource, full of wit, banter, advice and comradery played a part, however small, in deciding that the FRA was something I wanted to be a part of.

Of course, some people will have posted on here for years with out joining the FRA. So be it. I don't see the correlation between that and repetitive or irrelevant threads.

If you don't like it, don't read it.

Yep same here!

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Originally Posted by TheGrump

Thanks as usual for the response DT.
This isn't about beginners though, even if I do express myself poorly; given the chance I'll always try to help and encourage newcomers, if only because I was made so very welcome and helped when I started, from the champions of the day to wet and cold marshals.
However, I still suggest, along with others, that there are too many repetitive, often critical posts based on erroneous assumptions about rules or situations, which could easily be resolved by some basic research. A combination of following links and obtaining the handbook by joining the FRA would help everyone immeasurably.
But enough is enough, I've had my say; time to retire I think. Thanks to you all for your interest, patience, and contributions.
Be warned though, I may return if sufficiently baited. :eek:

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Yes, but you are a pedant.

This forum is as much about chatting and good banter as posting very concise replies without humour etc

I think the light heartedness of this forum is it's lifeblood.

But then again I might be the only one who thinks so.

There are three aspects to this:

1. individual views on what the Forum could/might/should/etc, be: eccentric's,TheGrump's, mine; all are equally valid.

2. the stance of the FRA Committee which "created" the Forum. It's current view is "arm's length", eg you do not need to be a member of the FRA to contribute. I do not see that changing at present.

3. the reality of what the Forum actually is: sometimes puerile, erudite, amusing, helpful, patronising, good craic, insults, et al, ie the reality of the Forum is the creation of its active contributors (which is a very small % of the FRA membership).

So the Forum is what it is and what those who contribute have made it. And to return to point 1., it allows TheGrump the freedom to have a moan: and so it should.

I think the forum is great. I reckon it gives a newcomer a very good feel for the grassroots, anarchical and out of left field nature of this niche sport and pastime of ours.

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Originally Posted by GrahamB

There are three aspects to this:

1. individual views on what the Forum could/might/should/etc, be: eccentric's,TheGrump's, mine; all are equally valid.

2. the stance of the FRA Committee which "created" the Forum. It's current view is "arm's length", eg you do not need to be a member of the FRA to contribute. I do not see that changing at present.

3. the reality of what the Forum actually is: sometimes puerile, erudite, amusing, helpful, patronising, good craic, insults, et al, ie the reality of the Forum is the creation of its active contributors (which is a very small % of the FRA membership).

So the Forum is what it is and what those who contribute have made it. And to return to point 1., it allows TheGrump the freedom to have a moan: and so it should.

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Pedant!

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Originally Posted by eccentric

Pedant!

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I think the word you actually wanted was "erudition".

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Originally Posted by GrahamB

I think the word you actually wanted was "erudition".

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Pedant!

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Originally Posted by eccentric

Pedant!

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I think you will find that contribution is adequately described by TheGrump's reference to repetitive postings.

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Originally Posted by GrahamB

I think you will find that contribution is adequately described by TheGrump's reference to repetitive postings.

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Keerist - that's two pedants


Please lighten up - esp. TheGrump


Bloody hell, life is far too short

Anyway, Bunny 2 on Tue - you there?

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Originally Posted by eccentric

Keerist - that's two pedants


Please lighten up - esp. TheGrump


Bloody hell, life is far too short

Anyway, Bunny 2 on Tue - you there?

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Bunny 2? No.

After Bunny 1 I am replete.

apparently another of TheGrump's pet hates is anyone questioning the scheduling of races - something which is apparently equivalent to insulting the ROs, I discovered not long ago. It was very enlightening.

His/her wisdom on this count can obviously be relied upon, so can I suggest that any further questions regarding the scheduling of races be addressed to TheGrump's private message inbox?

On a more serious note, and on the subject of ROs, are we sure we want to encourage people to pepper ROs direct with queries about races?

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Originally Posted by TheGrump

Race queries - see 1 above, and/or ask the organiser.

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I avoid emailing ROs, assuming they'll probably be busy enough, and because it's less of an intrusion to ask a Q like 'will there be anywhere to stash a bag?' on here.

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Originally Posted by GrahamB

There are three aspects to this:

1. individual views on what the Forum could/might/should/etc, be: eccentric's,TheGrump's, mine; all are equally valid.

2. the stance of the FRA Committee which "created" the Forum. It's current view is "arm's length", eg you do not need to be a member of the FRA to contribute. I do not see that changing at present.

3. the reality of what the Forum actually is: sometimes puerile, erudite, amusing, helpful, patronising, good craic, insults, et al, ie the reality of the Forum is the creation of its active contributors (which is a very small % of the FRA membership).

So the Forum is what it is and what those who contribute have made it. And to return to point 1., it allows TheGrump the freedom to have a moan: and so it should.

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...and isn't it a shame the grump chose to do it in such a condescending and obnoxious manner.

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Originally Posted by tinyman

The point I'm making is that I view this forum as an extension of the pub after a club night. There's banter about racing, recruiting support and making plans for big runs, gear discussions, club business, and chat about stuff that's got nothing at all to do with running. Whose having these conversations? There's the has-beens and never was's, the old hands and the newbies, the hot-shot racing lads and lasses, the people with high pressure jobs that are looking for a safety valve and the folk looking for work for whom this is a cheap way of getting out of the house and rebuilding a bit of personal pride. The only thing we have in common is fell running and the genuine comradeship that comes from being part of a minority sport.

So what do I do if I'm at one end of the bar and there's a conversation that's boring? I go and find a conversation at the other end of the bar.

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Best post I've read in a long time. Makes my aching thighs all the more worthwhile!:)

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Originally Posted by Wheeze

Best post I've read in a long time. Makes my aching thighs all the more worthwhile!:)

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Makes my ruined calves worthwhile too! :D

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Originally Posted by mr brightside

...and isn't it a shame the grump chose to do it in such a condescending and obnoxious manner.

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Dear me, if you think that was condescending and obnoxious, you've led a very sheltered 'net life ;)

Should have a look at uk.rec.motorcycles if you want to see what condescending and obnoxious is. It's *very* robust but I've made a lot of very good friends (in real life) on there over the past 11 years.

would a dedicated BG section not be a sensible and useful alteration to the forum?

Given that at least half the threads in 'Long Distance Challenges' are BG-related and that people are always coming on here hunting for BG advice, would it not serve a purpose to have it all in one place?

it would also perhaps leave more room for the other threads in long distance

Perhaps a link to the PDF guides for race organisers could be added to the reference guide. I had a read of them the other day because i had come to the end of my tether with trying to figure out exactly how the labels results system works, a half hour well spent.

All fell runners must read and memorise The Unwritten Fell Running Rules, see post http://forum.fellrunner.org.uk/showt...-Running-Rules

this is a useful link for anyone using an internet message board

http://www.ehow.com/how_2090771_igno...rd-trolls.html

Thanks for all this useful info - very helpful for a novice fell runner!

I'd like to recommend another book for fell runners out there - Mud, Sweat, and Tears by Moire O'Sullivan. This is the story that inspired me to take my first run of this sort, and it's inspired me to continue pushing myself. In short, O'Sullivan was the first person to successfully complete the Wicklow Round in Ireland, and she recounts the path she took to get there through the book. If interested, she keeps a neat blog of her current fell running pursuits also (includes more info on the book) - http://moireosullivan.com/.

Meanwhile, keep up the great site, and keep up the great runs!

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Originally Posted by DazTheSlug

this is a useful link for anyone using an internet message board

http://www.ehow.com/how_2090771_igno...rd-trolls.html

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worth bumping every now and then

A great forum, Keep up the good work！

long may the Forum last... if I ever close the FB down I might send a link to every one inviting them back..:D ;D

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Originally Posted by IanDarkpeak

long may the Forum last... if I ever close the FB down I might send a link to every one inviting them back..:D ;D

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I saw your post on the FB group. Its a whils since I've been on the forum but it's definitely better than fb. I may need to come back more often

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Originally Posted by eccentric

Yes, but you are a pedant.

This forum is as much about chatting and good banter as posting very concise replies without humour etc

I think the light heartedness of this forum is it's lifeblood.

But then again I might be the only one who thinks so.

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I always liked eccentric.

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Originally Posted by millipede

I always liked eccentric.

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So do I, so nothing eccentric there...:)

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Originally Posted by DazTheSlug

this is a useful link for anyone using an internet message board

http://www.ehow.com/how_2090771_igno...rd-trolls.html

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Argh, no longer there.