Conquering the Peaks and Troughs: A Tale of the Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon
I seem to be collecting annual traditions and one of them is going to the Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon and there is no better exhilaration than participating in the Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon (SLMM). This year was no different, as we tackled the wild, unpredictable weather, diverse terrains, and the camaraderie of fellow runners.
Our mountain marathon adventure started off at the bustling event centre. After registering and receiving our GPS trackers, we made a critical stop to buy some good old mud claws for the next year from Pete Bland. With a new pair of fell running shoes in our stash and our hearts full of anticipation, we unwound for the evening over dinner with fellow competitors. One memorable encounter was with a friendly volunteer, whose passion for the event was truly infectious. After some chitchat and laughter, we retreated to catch an episode of the latest series of ‘Not Going Out’, before falling into a restful slumber.
The next morning welcomed us with a mild drizzle and the residue of a stormy night. Despite the tight schedule, we managed to gulp down our breakfasts and head uphill to the starting line located in the copper mines valley. As the early birds of the day, we found ourselves alone on the hill while the other competitors marking their maps, a momentary solace before we were eventually overtaken by speedier competitors.
The day was not without its hiccups, as we momentarily lost our bearings due to the distractions of other competitors. This mishap served as a stark reminder of the importance of focus and not being influenced by others’ directions. Our journey led us over Wetherlam and then onto a delightful scrambling session up to Swirl How. Despite the thick fog and harsh conditions, we managed to navigate our way to Brim Fell and later out of the cloud, to the overnight camp.
The overnight camp was an oasis in the middle of our journey. We chose a sheltered yet elevated spot to pitch our tents, balancing comfort, safety and not wanting to end up in a puddle overnight. Rehydrating with preordered drinks and indulging in a hearty meal of miso soup, rice noodles, spicy quorn with quinoa, and chocolate biscuits, we relished in the quiet of the evening. The post-dinner hours were spent wandering around the valley and the campsite, inspecting other competitors’ race tents and soaking in the unique beauty of this part of the Lake District.
The brevity of darkness in the summer tent was noticeable. As dawn broke, we prepared for our early start. Day two was as challenging as the first, but with the added confidence of yesterday’s experience. We trekked uphill, traversed windy paths, and descended to Lever’s Water. A chance encounter with a friend from Sheffield was a delightful surprise. With the final few controls involving a pond and a gate, we reached the event centre, signaling the end of our marathon journey.
Post marathon, we enjoyed the post event hearty meal and indulged in a little retail therapy before diving into the cool, inviting waters of Coniston for a refreshing swim. The drive back home was a time for reflection and appreciation of the memories we had just created.
Unpacking back at home, the dampness of the tents served as a reminder of the wild weather on Friday night. Even though the conditions were tougher than usual, the SLMM proved once again to be an event worth every bead of sweat and every aching muscle.
A few extra items I packed above the race rules included a toothbrush and paste (the light ones from Tesco were a great find!), waterproof cases for my phone and wallet, a balloon bed sleeping mat, sandwich bags for keeping socks dry in wet shoes, a buff for the sun, small sun cream, insect repellent, and a fine mesh head net. A little preparation truly goes a long way in ensuring a comfortable and memorable race experience.
All in all, it was another great year at the Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon. Until next year, mountains!
The 8th Chapter of Our Annual Cycle Camping Odyssey
This year, my kids and I ventured into another chapter of our annual cycle camping journey, a cherished tradition that’s seen us traverse exquisite landscapes, foster personal growth, and nurture familial bonds. From the inaugural year with one bike for the three of us to now, where each of us has their own bike – the kids’ bikes sporting wheels larger than mine – the journey has evolved beautifully. This year, my girlfriend joined us on her maiden cycle camping venture. Inspired by previous trips and a recent two-night sojourn with just my daughter, we decided to venture further into the picturesque White Peak in the Peak District National Park, setting up camp in a delightful spot above Lathkil Dale at Over Haddon.
Pre-departure night hummed with anticipation as we readied our camping equipment, cycling gear, and nourishment. We embarked on our adventure as the inaugural raindrops fell.
This year, in contrast to the previous heat wave, we were met with a turbulent welcome. Heavy rain, thunder, lightning, and robust winds characterized our Saturday, though the weather improved slightly on Sunday.
Our trips are always associated with some degree of planning, albeit last-minute these days, and this trip was no different. A week prior, I discovered Pitchup.com, rich in campsite reviews, which proved to be an excellent resource. Their booking process was straightforward and satisfying.
With Komoot app assistance, I plotted our route, anticipating considerable ascent. Our first hurdle was scaling Beeley Moor amid intensifying rain. We found brief shelter under a tree, donned our waterproofs, and sought respite from the trailing thunderstorm at Peak Shopping Village at Rowsley, refueling with snacks and sandwiches.
As we left Rowsley under sunny skies towards Youlgreave, we traversed a portion of the Dark Peak before experiencing the White Peak region. Despite a minor navigation error and a puncture, our spirits remained undeterred.
Upon reaching our campsite, we received a warm reception from friends. Their unlimited supply of tea was a comforting end to a lengthy journey. A night of setting up our tent, dining, laughter, Uno games, and eventual rest in our Terra Nova Polar Lite 3 tent ensued, only slightly postponed by the rustling of the wind through trees.
Improved weather on the following morning led to a delightful stroll along Lathkil Dale. We marveled at a cave, the source of Dale’s water during wetter months, admired wildflowers, and observed a few butterflies braving the breeze.
After disassembling our camp and a final play session for the kids on the rope swings, we embarked on our return journey, with a lunch detour through Bakewell and a café break at Edensor village in the Chatsworth estate. Our diverse route encompassed country lanes, resurfaced gravel tracks, and a strenuous uphill section back to Beeley Moor. The crowning achievement was reaching Beeley Moor’s summit, after which the majority of our ride was blissfully downhill, marking a satisfying end to our trip.
Over Haddon, our overnight refuge, is a charming village perched on a ridge above Lathkill Dale, known for its lovely limestone houses. We reveled in the magnificent view from the iconic Lathkil Hotel, the village’s historical richness adding depth to our adventure.
The trip concluded, but the memories persist, as they do from each annual endeavor. We’re excitedly anticipating the adventures that next year’s cycle camping trip will unfold!
