Back to the tried and tested team, Russ and I ! Lost count how many Mountain Marathons we have competed in together but we must be doing something right to come back for more.
The start of this years SLMM is a farm just to the South of White Combe (which is just East of Black Combe). We're in for a hot weekend and I pack light, small tent, lightweights waterproofs, Primaloft gilet rather than smock and other weight saving choices.
So we're off and soon into marking our maps and deciding on route choice. Our first control is on White Hall Knott and we have a short steep climb through the gorse to reach the summit. Then we head, generally, in a northerly direction picking up various controls; navigation does not cause us any issues and the running is reasonably good - grassy and very clear. On to Whitfell and close to Devoke Water before heading out towards Green Crag; this was a bit of a tussocks trudge but only to be expected on a MM.
Back towards Devoke and then some fast, wet running to the overnight camp at Stainton; this is a great location and the weather is glorious. Views west are out to the sea and east to the fells. An enjoyable evening, camped next to Garry and Caroline and I catch up with numerous people that I know, including Mike the skipper of Nanatak (Scottish Islands Peak Race).
Day two dawns bright and we set off for a slightly more tricky control on Yoadcastle. We pass Steve Baker and make good progress zig-zagging our way to the finish. But then comes the sting in the tail, a real tough heathery contour which goes on for miles and includes some really steep ravines and ghylls to drop into and then straight back out, Russ is not impressed and is wilting in the heat.
Our last climb takes us straight up the back of Black Combe and to the tarn just south of the main summit. Then a painfully steep descent through head height bracken to Whitecombe Beck and the finish at White Hall Farm.
We have run well, steady pace and precise navigation. We head to the beck to cool off and then grab some food.
We finish 17th overall, a pleasing result.
Another great weekend, thanks Russ.
Results:
SLMM website (with links to photos and event comments):
