Old County Tops

[Mr1470]

I know it's early to resurrect this thread but you know how races fill up these days....

I fancy doing the OCT this year but haven't really done any long races for a year or two. Does anyone know how rigid the entry requirements are?

Never too early to talk about the OCT!!! Best race of the year. As ydt says, a very serious race in view of the distance and terrain covered.

This year I intend to get out and recce the direct descent off Scafell Pike prior to the race. It's one of those "best kept secrets" that nobody will give me any hints on

[Brandini]

I'm not asking anyone to reveal the secret "direct descent off Scafell Pike" route
Just interested on the view of those 'in the know' how much time (roughly) it saves compared to retracing your steps and decending via Little Narrowcove.

[Fellhound]

..As you run in pairs, you wouldn't like to let your partner down, so start training for it!
Yiannis

I've already started a slow build up to it.... just need a partner now.

[Duncan]

I'm not asking anyone to reveal the secret "direct descent off Scafell Pike" route
Just interested on the view of those 'in the know' how much time (roughly) it saves compared to retracing your steps and decending via Little Narrowcove.

hint: try doing it in reverse and take the most unlikely looking route.

[Fellhound]

Does this pic help? It's taken from the big bend in the river near Scar Lathing in upper Eskdale (approx GR.225045).

[Marvin]

It seemed a reasonable route down on the day, although we had a bit of debate about exactly where to go to avoid the crags. We hadn't had a chance to reccie the race, so from Scafell Pike on, we just had to work from the map and follow people who seemed to know what they were doing.....and follow the paper trail!

[Louis Coles]

Hi,

I am considering an entry into this for the first time. Whilst the butterfies are still settling, does anyone have a route they can share with me to help me to make the final decision?
Cheers
Louis

[DaveB]

Here's my actual route from last year if it helps. There is a more direct line off Scafell Pike but we hadn't recce'd it

[Louis Coles]

Thanks Dave - I am unable to open the zip - can you send the file in an MSOffice supported application? Sorry to be such a Luddite!
Cheers
Louis

[DaveB]

Hi Louis
The file is a gpx (for gps/mapping programs) not an office format. The zip opens ok in Vista/XP - what are you using?
Dave