Three Peaks Fell Race

[Witton Park]

As a road runner in my first season on the fells (bar a couple of races 10 or 25 years ago) I've been caught out by trying to transpose road pace on to races like the 3Ps. My marathon these days is around the 3:10 mark, I was hoping to do about 4 hours on the 3Ps, but I completely mis-judged the first half getting to Ribblehead comfortably, or so I thought, in 1:42. However, the ascent of Whernside drained the old legs, the ascent of Inglebugger finished them off and I dribbled into the finish at 4:45.
So I've got a ghost to slay. My old mate told me the race starts at the Hill Inn, I should've listened.

It's the climbing - I'm the same - new to running really, nevermind fell running. Hill walking and training on the fells whilst trying to maintain some tempo work on track/road/XC will help over time and I would advise 5 minutes slower to Ribblehead will get you a sub 4:30.

[vburke]

Oh am excited! One for me to have a go at this year. Let's see how i get on!

[BritNick]

There are some interesting time comparisons listed between road marathon and 3P times. I always thought the 3Ps marathon qualifying time was unrealistically fast. I'd have no chance of getting anywhere near it, yet I was confident I'd get round the 3Ps within the cut-offs. My marathon best is 4 hours and my first 3Ps time in 2007 was 4:45.
I'd never done an 'official' fell race but qualified with some of the mountain ultras I'd done. They are very accommodating and understanding on qualifying race experience.

[Podro]

I did 3P in 2008, two weeks after completing the London marathon. Respective times were 4:13 and 3:11. Like BL I was fine until the top of Whernside after which it became increasingly difficult. By the time I got to the top of the steps at Inglebugger I had to have a sit down to rest for a few minutes while small children plied me with jelly babies. I kept telling myself (and anyone else that would listen) that it was because of the marathon 2 weeks earlier, but in reality I think that it is just tougher. More fell-specific training this year when I attempt to repeat the double.

[AndyH]

Hi Podro

Am I correct in thinking that you did London in 4.13 and the 3P in 3.11? that's quite interesting and considering you'd just completed London so soon then 3.11 was a pretty decent time

[Jez Hellewell]

I think you may have got that the wrong way round Andy !!!

[Brotherton Lad]

I think he knows, Jez.

See you at Pendle.

[AndyH]

Thanks guys, doh, yes may be a case of think before you type eh!!ha, I'm very much looking forward to the 3P's, should be great fun

[Jez Hellewell]

Will do BL, can't wait !

See you at the 3P's Andy !

[AndyH]

Thanks Jez, look forward to it oh what fun will be had!!!