A new race for me, the extended Anniversary Waltz route. It's a cold day, with a dusting of snow on the high fells and the chance of a few flurries later on; but it's bright, dry and not very windy so ideal running conditions.
We start by climbing Causey Pike, it's a steep climb with no opportunity to ease into the race; but once out the way it's easier going to Outerside and then a contour and climb to Coledale Hause; from here the field splits, we stick with what we know and it proves to be the better line, the first of many; but it's still a long drag to the fantastic summit of Grasmoor.
Next stop Whiteless Pike, and from there the bit I've not been looking forward to, a seriously steep descent to the beck, it hurts and I know will hurt again later. Then a contour and climb to the road crossing at Newlands Pass; we are well inside the cutoff, but only half way.....it's a tough route !
Next to High (or was it Low ?) Snock Rigg, the views are stunning. Another good route choice to Robinson and, at that point, we join the AW route. Onto Hindscarth, Dale Head and painful descent to the tarn. The steady pull up to Maiden Moor is tough but then easy, fast running and mire good line takes us the final bump, Catbells.
A slightly different flagged descent and then a mad dash down the lane to the finish; that's a good place to be.
Not even much food left for us.......but after 15.4 miles and 7,600'of ascent / descent we could do with a refuel ! I feel battered and a bit broken, but glad to have taken on the TWA.
Just the muddy field to negotiate, several VW T5's stuck and towed out, my Cali 4motion takes it in its stride :-)
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