learning BGR sections

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13-11-2008, 09:49 AM
Bob

Re: learning BGR sections
Quote:

Originally Posted by Derby Tup

Anyone got any thoughts on the value of a 'steady-away' 3day backpack / trot around BGR as an initial famaliariser? Last time I walked something before then running it was Burnsall fell race but accept this is ever so slightly different! ;) :D

Not a bad way to recce the route. Two advantages that I can see:
1. You are not under pressure to get back to the car or do X miles so you can take the time to check out the best lines or areas you think you may have nav trouble.
2. Even with lightweight camping kit you are going be carrying a few kilos of weight which will improve your hill fitness.
Maybe best done as a final recce a month or so before an attempt so as to get the best fitness benefits.
13-11-2008, 09:53 AM
MorganW

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bob

Maybe best done as a final recce a month or so before an attempt so as to get the best fitness benefits.

Bob's a bit more "scientific" than me DT as you can see. :D

I'd squeeze it in whenever you can.

And if you are going to do this, will you PM me please because I really might fancy the trot out with you (and Mrs BGSec if she's up for it). :D
13-11-2008, 09:59 AM
Derby Tup

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGSec

Bob's a bit more "scientific" than me DT as you can see. :D

I'd squeeze it in whenever you can.

And if you are going to do this, will you PM me please because I really might fancy the trot out with you (and Mrs BGSec if she's up for it). :D

It's not likely to be before next spring but keep an eye on the recce thread ;)
13-11-2008, 10:47 AM
Mr1470

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Derby Tup

It's not likely to be before next spring but keep an eye on the recce thread ;)

Derby Tup - I'd join you for that as well. It's something I've been thinking of doing. Only question is....c/w or anti?:D
13-11-2008, 11:12 AM
Hanneke

Re: learning BGR sections

Can I join the posse? I was planning on doing the round in two days next spring camping somewhere midway-ish...
13-11-2008, 11:14 AM
Hanneke

Re: learning BGR sections

Also, for some strange reason that I do not understand, could be genetic, after all I am Dutch, we do loads of downhills even before we are born ;) I never seem to have too much trouble descending, not even when knackered...
13-11-2008, 11:17 AM
stevefoster

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Derby Tup

Anyone got any thoughts on the value of a 'steady-away' 3day backpack / trot around BGR as an initial famaliariser? Last time I walked something before then running it was Burnsall fell race but accept this is ever so slightly different! ;) :D

Sounds a good idea, i'll have to bring me teddy though;)
13-11-2008, 11:23 AM
Hanneke

Re: learning BGR sections

I never travel anywhere without my teddy :D
13-11-2008, 11:38 AM
southernsoftie

Re: learning BGR sections

I'd be up for this 'n'all if you wouldn't mind?? Will have to see how good I've been nearer the time though;)
13-11-2008, 11:42 AM
Donkarlo

Re: learning BGR sections

Went through my maps last night marking the route, I can see the advantages of the 1:40,000 map, having all the route on one sheet. Think I might have to invest. Two/Three day back pack sounds like a good plan I would think good places to camp would probably be, Grizedale Tarn, for a wild camp night 1, then Wasdale Head for pub and conveniences night 2. PLenty of time to weigh up lines etc.
Just looking at the maps last night the possibilities are endless regarding route choice. Guess thats why I need to get up there soon. Got two weeks in Cuba at the beginning of December then its all in from then on.
Is December too early to start carbing up ?!! All inclusive and all that !;):D
13-11-2008, 11:45 AM
Derby Tup

Re: learning BGR sections

lol - a week ago I couldn't sort out someone to run the Fairfield Horseshe with and now loads of folks want to do a 3day BGR :)

Not bothered myself c/w or a/c Mr 1470 so long as we have an evening re-hydrating at Wasdale Head ;)
13-11-2008, 01:31 PM
stevefoster

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Derby Tup

lol - a week ago I couldn't sort out someone to run the Fairfield Horseshe with and now loads of folks want to do a 3day BGR :)

Not bothered myself c/w or a/c Mr 1470 so long as we have an evening re-hydrating at Wasdale Head ;)

Fairfield's just a sprint:rolleyes: This will be an epic 3 days with lots of hydrating:cool:
13-11-2008, 02:19 PM
Mr1470

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Derby Tup

lol - a week ago I couldn't sort out someone to run the Fairfield Horseshe with and now loads of folks want to do a 3day BGR :)

Not bothered myself c/w or a/c Mr 1470 so long as we have an evening re-hydrating at Wasdale Head ;)

It's a deal DT:D

Do they serve Ram Tam in the Wasdale Head?:confused:
13-11-2008, 02:27 PM
emmilou

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Derby Tup

lol - a week ago I couldn't sort out someone to run the Fairfield Horseshe with and now loads of folks want to do a 3day BGR :)

Not bothered myself c/w or a/c Mr 1470 so long as we have an evening re-hydrating at Wasdale Head ;)

:D..... right well if it fits in I'll be up for this for sure :D
13-11-2008, 02:41 PM
MorganW

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Derby Tup

lol - a week ago I couldn't sort out someone to run the Fairfield Horseshe with and now loads of folks want to do a 3day BGR :)

Hell, we're going to need a bus DT. :eek:
13-11-2008, 02:50 PM
Derby Tup

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGSec

Hell, we're going to need a bus DT. :eek:

Aye, you might be right there :D
13-11-2008, 03:00 PM
Derby Tup

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr1470

Do they serve Ram Tam in the Wasdale Head?:confused:

Doubt it but I seem to remember having a pint of very fine dark porter-style beer last time I was there ;)
13-11-2008, 03:03 PM
Donkarlo

Re: learning BGR sections

They brew their own, see http://www.greatgablebrewing.co.uk/:)
13-11-2008, 03:12 PM
Derby Tup

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Donkarlo

They brew their own, see http://www.greatgablebrewing.co.uk/)

Yewbarrow stout it was and at 5.5% full of isotonic goodness :D
13-11-2008, 03:19 PM
Hanneke

Re: learning BGR sections

Sounds very promising! Can we do the round in two days and two nights, staying both nights in Wasdale Head so we can sample the breweries wares? :D
13-11-2008, 03:53 PM
Donkarlo

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hanneke

Sounds very promising! Can we do the round in two days and two nights, staying both nights in Wasdale Head so we can sample the breweries wares? :D

Would be a bit of a funny route, although you could maybe camp at Great Langdale on the first night then you can sample the wares at the ODG http://www.odg.co.uk/home/index.cfm which also boasts a nice collection of real ales, sorry isotonic drinks:rolleyes:
13-11-2008, 04:00 PM
Baggins

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGSec

Mrs BGSec has designs on a BG (2 Ilkley Harriers lady successes this year) and we have talked about this method of getting started, tho' 2 days was mentioned.

I think a 2 day backpack would be nearly as hard as the BG in 24 hours ;)
13-11-2008, 04:05 PM
Baggins

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hanneke

In my opinion it is infinitely preferable to run down a mountain at the end of the round than it is to stagger along 6 m iles of tarmac... especially if you hate it as much as I do...

Its not just the descent of Skiddaw, you've got a hard climb up Blencathra then the tussocks, compare that to the climb up Dale Head after which you're running on good paths then a road where you can switch off a just plod along :)
13-11-2008, 04:23 PM
Baggins

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Bob

The AC descent off Robinson isn't too bad, just one or two awkward drops on the path but you can avoid them by keeping left. Also dropping down to Honister is reasonable as again there are only a couple of very short awkward sections. I reckon you'd be able to keep a decent pace up as they aren't bad enough to worry about that you'd keep at a slower pace.

Compare this with descending Halls Fell in the dark, you can't really let go as you are never sure when another rocky step is going to appear until you are a long way down the ridge.

Well as someone who did both these sections in the dark I lost 5 mins coming down Blencathra (The Yiannis descent not Halls Fell) but conditions were thick clag and very greasy rocks, two of my support had a hard time getting down Halls fell their torches apeared below the cloud level as I set off on leg 2 :eek:

On the last leg conditions were dry and a clear night with a 3/4 moon? I lost 5 mins on Dale Head (nothing to do with the dark I was having my Honister "stop" food on the go :o) then I made up time all the way.

The descent off Grey Knotts is ok in the dark but I found due to twisting my knee in a tussocky hole just after the summit I had to keep on the path so I could see any dips or boulders rather than the faster off path loop I usually do.
13-11-2008, 04:25 PM
Mr1470

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baggins

Its not just the descent of Skiddaw, you've got a hard climb up Blencathra then the tussocks, compare that to the climb up Dale Head after which you're running on good paths then a road where you can switch off a just plod along :)

Baggins....I've only done this leg c/w and it just seemed like a long, long slog up and I didn't really notice what it was like underfoot. Is it really that tussocky? I'd got it in my head that it would be a nice, soft, slightly boggy descent down to the river:o
13-11-2008, 04:44 PM
Baggins

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr1470

Baggins....I've only done this leg c/w and it just seemed like a long, long slog up and I didn't really notice what it was like underfoot. Is it really that tussocky? I'd got it in my head that it would be a nice, soft, slightly boggy descent down to the river:o

It will be for tired legs.

I mentioned before about keeping on the path due to the tussocks coming off Grey Knotts, I've never found them to be a problem but when you've been on your feet for twenty hours its a different thing all together and its no way as bad as back of Skiddaw.

Read FM account on a Winter round he puts it much more elloquently :D
13-11-2008, 05:09 PM
emmilou

Re: learning BGR sections

I quite fancy a bit of wild camping.... you lot and your home comforts :rolleyes:
13-11-2008, 05:21 PM
IanDarkpeak

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by emmilou

I quite fancy a bit of wild camping.... you lot and your home comforts :rolleyes:

We talked about a forum wild camp last year with Hopey and Sarah amongst others I think but it didn't come off.
I'm up for it.
13-11-2008, 05:27 PM
MorganW

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baggins

I think a 2 day backpack would be nearly as hard as the BG in 24 hours ;)

Bill, Mrs BGSec did sub 9 hours for OCTs this year, so she likes a challenge!! :D
13-11-2008, 05:33 PM
Mr1470

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by IanDarkpeak

We talked about a forum wild camp last year with Hopey and Sarah amongst others I think but it didn't come off.
I'm up for it.

By definition......can you have an "organised group wild camp"?:p
13-11-2008, 05:33 PM
Mr1470

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGSec

Bill, Mrs BGSec did sub 9 hours for OCTs this year, so she likes a challenge!! :D

Blimey!! I bow down. I have some way to go! :o
13-11-2008, 06:15 PM
MorganW

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Mr1470

Blimey!! I bow down. I have some way to go! :o

The mixed record (Martin Stone/Ruth Pickvance) for the OCTs is 7 hours 40 minutes so our 8.56 was a little off the pace.

You can do the OCTs as part of your BG preps 1470 if you can find someone to go round with. :D

There's always a great atmosphere and looaaads to eat on the way round. Those Cockley Beck flapjacks............:D:D
13-11-2008, 06:30 PM
Mr1470

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGSec

The mixed record (Martin Stone/Ruth Pickvance) for the OCTs is 7 hours 40 minutes so our 8.56 was a little off the pace.

You can do the OCTs as part of your BG preps 1470 if you can find someone to go round with.

There's always a great atmosphere and looaaads to eat on the way round. Those Cockley Beck flapjacks............

Thanks BGSec. Done it twice now though....and moved my original intended BG date next year to make sure I can do the OCT as well:) Just over 9.30 last year:o but reckon I can go close to 9. The OCT prompted me to think I could have a go at the BG - both times I've finished thinking I COULD go on if I "needed" to.

Don't forget the hot tea and the egg sandwiches by the way....:D:D
13-11-2008, 06:45 PM
Baggins

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by BGSec

Bill, Mrs BGSec did sub 9 hours for OCTs this year, so she likes a challenge!! :D

It'll be a nice warm up for her then :D
13-11-2008, 06:51 PM
MorganW

Re: learning BGR sections

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baggins

It'll be a nice warm up for her then :D

But she declined the Trail des Aiguilles Rouges, going to the World Masters instead. Fancy chosing a 11 k uphill only blast over a 58 k suffer-fest. :eek:

I'll get her back on the rails, if I can catch her of course. :D
13-11-2008, 07:02 PM
Hanneke

Re: learning BGR sections

Donkarlo... I know the ODG and have sampled their wares :)

I recce-d leg one a/c and did not find it all that tussocky between Blencathra and Great Calva. I also did not find there was too much heather bashing.... and going up Hall's Fell did not seem too awful. Mind you, it was only a shortish run for me that day clocking in at under three hours from Lattrigg carpark to Latrigg carpark so my legs were far from tired... and it was a dry clear day...

However, after recce-ing leg 5 clockwise I do agree that that last section is REALLY easy compared to the others... I do want to recce the whole round at least twice, once in each direction, and then make up my mind... especially bearing in mind that I will be much more tired than I ever will be recce-ing...
13-11-2008, 08:27 PM
bestathlete

Re: learning BGR sections

ive had a plan in the back of my mind to do BGR over two days next year. Must admit though that I imagined I would get a lift home and then back again the next morning. I likes me own bed and fave indian carryout
15-11-2008, 07:26 PM
DazTheSlug

Re: learning BGR sections

Irish Carol - did you get my PM?
I'm getting increasingly giddy about next Friday's Leg 1 recce, I hope you're still on for it!? :eek:
15-11-2008, 07:49 PM
Hanneke

Re: learning BGR sections

I am going to see if I can run again tomorrow. If I feel the ankle is up to three days in the Lakes recce-ing, I shall also be there on Friday :-)
17-11-2008, 06:43 PM
DazTheSlug

Re: learning BGR sections

Lake District Forecast:
"Friday

Cold with a severe wind chill. Bright and sunny spells, but risk of the odd snow shower leading to blizzard conditions at higher levels. Freezing to most levels. "

Wahey! This is the stuff! Looks like I'll need to pack most of the clothes I own, as well as old newspapers and bits of carpet! :D

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