Originally Posted by
Suffolk Punch
Hello,
I was touched by fell running for the first time last year whilst on a walk around the Langdale Pikes in the Lake District, when I saw maybe 2-300 running a 15-mile route. I had heard of the sport and some of names before but knew little else about it. Always up for a challenge I decided that this year I would have a go. The race I've chosen is The Kinder Downfall, in the Peak District.
As a keen marathon runner for the last 6 years and enthusiastic XC and trail run competitor, a lapsed but once-seasoned racing cyclist, an Ironman finisher (for which I had to learn to swim) and someone who loves being in mountains (whether for cycling, walking, climbing or skiing...), even though I hail from the flat lands of East Anglia, my perception is that this is not outside the realms of my capabilities.
So, I come here to seek sound advice from you sane (a-hem) and level-headed fellows, I guess my questions are not too far removed from the same-old, same-old....
1) Am I being completely naive, this is way outside my capabilities and should I crawl back under the stone from whence I came....?
2) In accordance with rule 9 of the FRA.... I am supposed to carry with me a "windproof full body cover". Thinking of weight, is this open to interpretation and will my trusty space blanket suffice as a "windproof fall body cover"? Or do I need something a little more technical, i.e. jacket + trousers, if so, can someone recommend me a product (my walking gear, though technically brilliant, will be far too heavy for this - hence the term "walking gear")?
3) Living in East Anglia has its disadvantages when it comes to training for fell running. Mainly a lack of anything remotely like a fell. I suspect the Sunday xc league events I regularly take part in fall somewhat short in terms of effort required, but there are many rough trails I can train on. Is anyone else here in a similar situation?
4) Should I mention Inov8's - or is this a swear word in these parts?