Training Archives

On a dark blustery night with Gordie and Laurie still bog-tired we opted for Laurie's secret route to White Craig. All went well until we reached a barbed wire barricade - maybe the farmer had seen us last time! We all made it over safely and reached the moor below White Craig with Laurie only getting us lost once up a dead-end firebreak. Up at the top Pat entertained us with his glowing ball - what next? An easy return was made through to the 'golf ball' and down the farm track.

PS Apologies from Jim - recovering from an accident involving a hot-tub, a 'mankini' and his coccyx???

PPS Health and safety warning! If you've given Paddy a lift, check that he has removed everything - when it got to Thursday my wife started to suspect an animal had died in the car before finding Pat's socks and bottoms under the seat.

An enthusiastic crowd gathered for this first winter foray to the Ochils. We were blessed with a calm clear night giving great views of the pretty lights. Congrats to Rosie on reaching her hundredth - go on, give her a break now Laurie! Up at the top Jean felt frisky and leapt on a man - she looked disappointed to discover it was Gus! Gordon led a small party down the burn of Sorrow while the rest enjoyed a great descent down over Bank hill.

Good luck to Gordon and Laurie in the High peak marathon - lets hope the bogs aren't any bigger than the one below W Lomond!!

Richard Shaun Fraser Andy Jim Gus Jean Jennifer Alan Laurie Gordon Andy David

An indeterminate number of Lomies thronged the Creag Mead car park and set off with the usual vague plan - West Lomond 'off piste'. It was great fun with lots of ups and downs and wee snow slopes but when the advance party reached the West and sat down for the usual banter we realised we were missing a couple (we think!). Search parties were dispatched into the murk, one of which found the missing pair but then all got lost in a bog. Eventually we all appeared to make it back to the car park - but where was Jean? Alan

Jennifer Jim Shaun Fraser Laurie Gordon Alan Donald Pat Andy Gus Richard Jean?

It was a dreich night but there was the usual cheerful banter. We welcomed Neil (I've just come down from the Isle of from Skye!) and then set off on our usual bumbling way towards Maspie. It was a bit slippy with all the rain but the waterfall was worth seeing. There was a reluctance to extend the run beyond Falkland hill where we found the Kelty clippie but we enjoyed a brief sit down before descending to the delights of Guinness in the Lomond tavern and Paddie explaining his thinking behind 'Golden scarf 2'. (I didn't spoil the fun by telling the guys that Neil works as an alcohol counsellor!)

PS Many thanks to Bob Beveridge for his bomb disposal work on the hill before our run! See Sun, Record etc for details

Another record number of Lomies enjoyed a magical night on the moonlit slopes of the Bishop. By the time we decided on a route the advance party had set off so we just had to follow - Paddy had a plan! A tough ascent from Kinnesswood took us up Jabber's gully to the plateaux where we found two women (and Jim). After a brief stop at the top we made the mistake of allowing Adrian to suggest a route which nearly resulted in a few of us dying from exhaustion. We slithered down the Burdens route to the wall where the two 'squaws' were dispatched into Indian country. Jim showed off his bloodied ankles- time for long breeks Jim! We carried on to the Pulpit track where we turned left and headed back up to the top. At this point we were entertained by Mr X attempting to 'refill' Mr Y who must have thought he was in a Kelty bus shelter! After another rendevous at White Craig we hightailed it down to the 'Well' where some great crack ended up a fine night. Pat entertained us by devouring what looked like 2 jobbies in an Yorkshire pudding.

Jim Jennifer Jean Shaun Fraser Pat David Derek Al Laur Gord Rich Cameron BrL BrM Gus Adie

We all (eventually!) managed to find the car park at the end of the prom for this new venue and mingled with the doggers and boy racers. With clear skies and a cold bracing wind the colour of Gus's legs told us it was near freezing as we set off along the beach to Lundin Links. By the time we reached the caravan site we decided that Largo law was within our reach and after a steep climb we reached the summit. After a brief stop to admire the views we scampered cautiously down the slippery slopes and returned by the Serpentine to Largo. After a good run back along the beach we caught up with Gus and the ladies who had ended jumping burns in Keils den.

Safely back in the Cally hotel we enjoyed refreshments and wished Spyke all the best with his move down south.

I saw the results from Devils burden race this weekend and it looked as Lomond team performed well. Please forward a greeting from Sweden to all we know in the club.

My training has started again and since Christmas I have been training as usual and feels really great. Today I and Michael been out for a coast run in total 18 km. We have had a lot of snow so it has been quite difficult to get good running, but skiing is OK

Michael and I have not so far been able to come together in one race but I have a question from an old friend who has his 50th birthday and we discuss a travel to Islay as he is a fan of the whisky from there. This would then be during the week from 30 of May to the 6th of June. In this period there is a hill race in the south of Scotland – Yetholm Hill race (12,8 km, 780 m climb) – Is this any race you or someone in the club has any experience of ?

With a record turn out on a perfect winters night we set off on the long haul to West Lomond. Jim opted to stay with the women (maybe he knew they would be needed to carry him down!) and I think we all made it to the top. The photos suggest that the burdens might have been too much for some! A great run down the west (the yeeha was mine by the way Jean!) led us to the bog where Laurie led us to safety. A big Lomie hello to Jean and Jennifer and I'm looking forward to seeing what they look like in daylight!

Just to say that Jennifer and I had a great time last night. We went a bit too far north going up West Lomond and missed you all coming down We did hear Jaba ye-ha but couldn’t see so we headed down the south side (leg 3 route) picked up the path and then back. We fell in more than a few ditches crossed many swamps ( no crocs thankfully) but had lots of laughs. The views of Fife from the top were stunning and it was a beautiful starry night too. Couldn’t have been in a better place. If we keep at it one day we will not be so far behind you all. Jim had a nasty fall on a stone wall rattling his knee cap so was a bit sore and wee bit in shock when we caught up with him but he came good gradually. Anyway hope you enjoyed your run as much as we did.

Jean Jennifer Jim Gus Alan Derek BrianL BrianM Laurie Joe Pat Richard Gordon Fraser Donald

It all must have looked a bit suspicious to the citizens of Muchty! A bunch of fit looking SAS types gathered at the Cycle, jumped into three cars and sped off into the darkness. We parked up at Lumquhat farm (more twitching of curtains) and led by Alan set off for the grand tour of Redmyre forest. An intricate route of forest tracks took in an open top with a trig point, some newly felled ground (oops!), more forest trails, a great viewpoint looking north (where a few thought they had been before - it was miles away!). We ended with a trundle down across fields where Alan managed to find a wee dam across the burn to keep our feet dry.

Back in the 'Psycho' tavern we chatted about the Burdens race and barefoot running. The mystery man who had been running with us tonight turned out to be Cameron Watson - welcome to the club! Alan showed off the first printed copy of first novel - a story ranging from our stone age past to a possible stone age future and partly inspired by our trip to the Verdon gorge. (email me if you want a copy!)

Derek Laurie Alan Cameron Spyke Fraser David BrianM BrianL Richard Shaun Donald

The three kettle-eers at least knew where they were but for the others it must have seemed like a succession of muddy fields /barbed wire fences /slushy paths / melting ice/ locked gates but there were good viewpoints at Downhill and the heights of Cults to make it all worthwhile. Pat's took up the rear with his glow-worm of last week diminished to a twinkle.

It was too tough for Derek (never again!) but for Alan and Andy sat in the cosy Station Inn until the money ran out it was roll on the next Kettle run.

The murk probably dissuaded a few tonight but as always we made the most of it. It was good to have the 'postie' section back, released from the shackles of the Xmas postbag and with Pat as usual putting us to shame with his unique fashion sense. We made the top of East Lomond through the slush and mush with Falkland hidden below in mist. After a wander round the bottom of the hill we went back to the top and found we were now above the cloud which was lit from below. A series of bum slides took us down the steep side with Pat taking up the rear lit by one of his £1 'glow-worms' and culminating in a spectacular 'arse over tit' down the steepest bit. Back into the trees Laurie showed us how 'swinging' is done in Falkland.

With the full moon there was no need for torches so we made for White Craig and then enjoyed a wonderful run in the moonlight across the snowy plateaux to the top of the Bishop. After a stop with Alan guddling about as usual with his camera we returned back towards White Craig where Derek took us down a steep little gully and then it was bum slides and whooping all the way to Kinnesswood. All in all another memorable night. Alan

Tues: 7am Alan and David set off up E Lom to observe the first winter solstice lunar eclipse for over 400 years and Alan celebrates his 'ton-up' on EL for 2010. (David happily admired his scrawled MCFC from the previous day oblivious to the added --RPISH) In spite of the forecast conditions were superb with the coppery ball of the eclipsed moon hanging in the NW with the sun rising opposite. Roll on the 25th century!

The Birnam Olympics may have been the sporting event of choice that weekend for all discerning Lomies, but 2/3 of the Kettle Section of the LHR gained a brief respite from shovelling snow and managed a quick ski down East Lomond. We skinned up the track and met a snow boarder about to leap off one of the mountain bike jumps......no - he actually slithered down the bank like a normal person. There was a chap on the summit in snow shoes and a couple trudging up in Dr Who style scarves. With mandatory summit photos in the bag we headed off the top down towards the turn in the track. It was a wonderful, if not a bit short, ski. Powdery snow on a crusty base followed by a comedy ski through the trees...we did not even have to take the skis off to get back to the car. Ski-ing down is certainly quicker than running! Donald

After Laurie showed us his new torch and we said hello to first-timer Fraser (someone had recommended the Lomies as being decent but mental - sounds about right!) we set off along the road and up through the woods to the foot of Benarty. The going was surprisingly good with hard packed snow and we managed to traverse the great wee ridge to our perch overlooking Kelty. Brian, a native of Kelty regaled us with his memories of the place (what is protection during sex called in Kelty - a bus shelter!). Alan

There was a definite sense of deja vu as a few brave (daft) souls gathered in the sub-zero snows of Falkland (well done Richard!) We headed along first to check out the icicles of Maspie and they didn't disappoint. Dodging the falling icicles was fun but dangerous. We continued up to Creag Mead and on to the East Lomond track where the snow lay deep and young Donald used up his energy kicking steps for us. Luckily this year it was calm and clear and we able to keep warm and enjoy the views. On the way down we let it rip with whooping, bounding, bumsliding and even 'swimming' all in use to reach the stile. A visit to the Lomond tavern rounded off a great night. Alan

The F'hills meet was cancelled due to a spot of snow but that didn't stop the 1st Postal expedition (Pat and Joe) setting off for the uninhabited nether regions of Glenrothes. After dallying in such beauty spots as Formonthills, Coull den, the town park and Markinch woods they recovered from frostbite in the Fettykillfox.

Meanwhile - on the other side of the hill. Alan happened to surprise David and Robert on the top of Falkland hill after a tough climb in deep snow. On Wed Al ran from Kettle to the top of E Lomond with deep drifts on the hill but the views made it well worth the effort.

As Bergfuerer Gordie counted down the seconds to our later start time of 6.45 we said hello to new member Shaun Germany. Arriving a few milliseconds late, Laurie had to be left behind! We warmed up along the Tetley trail with rent-a-mob (Pat and David) at the back getting a bit overenthusiastic about some silly English football teams (bring ear plugs next time) We lost the track beyond Kinneswood but blundered on through the gorse. Laurie caught up but then got detached as he tried a high route. After a few of the zig-zags we traversed round to the Carlin Maggie pinnacle. Pat told us that he had an aunt called Maggie Carlin!! Then up to the top of Bishop, across the moor and a trundle through the quarries back to White Craig. The lights we spotted earlier turned out to be Andy. All in all a fine cold night with a full moon and crisp frost underfoot.

Andy, Alan, Joe, BrianL, Pat, David, Spyke, Shaun, Gordon, Laurie, Richard, Derek

It wasn't a piss up in a brewery - it was the Lomies on the grand tour of Falkland hill on a dark winters night! We'll put it down to 'Golden scarf fever' but there were folk and dogs running in all directions over the hill. Somehow we all got back (not necessarily at the same time) without any one getting lost.

Back at the Stag things proceeded in the same vein - orders had to taken three times for supper! Richard did his best to keep us focussed on AGM business. Brian reported on his year as president - he was nearly voted in again but we were worried that we might lose hot tub privileges! It must have been hard for first timer Spyke to take things seriously with Mr Refill sitting opposite in a pink panther suit. At last we got onto the main event with Pat conducting his Golden scarf presentation in his own inimitable style! The fabled Golden scarf (thanks to Paddies sister) ended up round Laurie's neck with Joe second and Gordie and Pat equal third. Alan

Laurie, BrianL, BrianM, Richard, Gordon, Joe, Alan, David, JohnD, Spyke, Adrian, Pat

Glenvale 9th Nov

On a fine starry evening we enjoyed a relaxed run up to the pulpit and then up towards the Bishop. We cut left before the top to follow the fell relays leg1 route down through the trees and back to Glen Vale. All very civilised - Pat and David were missing! Back at Gateside we drafted out a winter calendar - excitement at the prospect of Pat's Scarf presentation next week has reached fever pitch!

Brianl, Joe, Alan, Gordon, Derek, Donald, Andy, Laurie, Richard

Creag Mead 2nd Nov

seven guisers braved the gusty nite - towards west lomond we set off being merrily swept up to the slopes of the west - a few apparitions appeared thru the murky trails (apparently wanting a penny 4 the guy with bonfire night approaching) - a swift decent of west lomond saw laurie summon up his powers in the darkness to drive his demons down 2 an xtra gully - pat and david just headed back by the usual track awaiting their ghoulie chums in the car park at the end

Pat

Holl Reservoir 25th Oct

The pacesetters managed to pass the cutoff for Laurie's choice for the night so we pressed on towards the West. After crossing the dam we guddled along in the dark to the stile and then enjoyed the steep climb to the summit. After a blether we had a fine run down to the dyke and then took the direct line to the top end of the reservoir. After Addie found his dog who had gone AWOL it was back to the Borough for drinks.

Alan, Derek, Laurie, BrianL, Joe, Pat, Adrian, David, Donald

Falkland 19th October

With most of the 'troublemakers' otherwise engaged it was a very select and well behaved group (still tired from our exertions on Sunday!) that enjoyed an easy run up Maspie Den and over Falkland hill on a cold and clear night.

Alan, Joe, Pat, BrianL, Andy

Scotlandwell 12th October 2010

We could have had an easy run to the top but some unnamed person shouted 'the crags' and that was that! Some time later, after having run through endless nettle beds, we found ourselves in a field surrounded by an electric fence dodging stampeding cattle and horses. A steep slope of more nettles and deep bracken took us up to the crags where Joe tested out the stability of an overhanging rock. Now in total darkness we jogged through the trees up to White Craig. After a break at the top Derek led us down a gully to the steep descent to Kinnesswood. Alan

BrianL, BrainM, Adrian, Derek, Pat, Joe, Alan, Andy, Donald, Laurie, Gordon

Laurie's place 5th Oct 2010

With the Morocco mob back in town there was mischief in the air as 11 of us gathered to sample Laurie's idea of hillrunning. We started by 'Milking the Goat' and then sampled some bonny tracks along the river Leven. Still nursing his upset tum Alan turned for home half way up the reservoir road and the others disappeared into the gloom towards Bishophill. In what seemed like hours later the bedraggled stragglers reappeared after a record time out. Pranksters Andy and Laurie's plot to pop out on the golf course dressed as Beduoin tribesmen came apart when they couldn't find the gear in the dark. Derek was not impressed by a glass of our Moroccan mint tea - 'that's pish!'' or the bottle of Casablanca beer that had been refilled with fermented mule's urine. Thanks to John Donnelly who made the long trip from the west and showed us his excellent photos from Morocco. Alan

Many thanks to Laurie and June for their hospitality

Laurie. John, Andy, Gordon, Pat, David, Richard, BrianL, Joe, Derek, Alan

Bishophill 28th Sept

it was decided to change the venue to scotlandwell so those available could arrive at 6.30 - we ventured up the Tetley trail- derek doing the leading - as we assembled below the carlin crags Pat produced a small black object from his midriff which would appear throughout the clammy but misty nite - up to the real bishop - 2 cyclists came into focus as our torches went on – pat’s shoe got stuck in a muddy trench as he asked them when they would lite up (no double entendre intended) - serves him right - a swift sweep of the 3rd leg of the burdens - a blondish figure approached thru the murk and muck – why! - it was brian, our tub host on occasion - pat had left his dark thing on the cairn - it revealed a re-enactment of ice cold in alex (a tribute to members in morocco) - back down to the ‘well’ where all our mouths were replenished after another dark but clammy evening Pat

featuring joe, pat, david, tim (welcomeback), richard, derek and 2 brians

davids place on tuesday nite saw us do a reccy of the upcoming fra 2nd leg relay- we took split times at various stages - quite a muggy atmosphere as darkness ensued - much needed refreshment enjoyed at the lomond later - better than moroccan cocktail! - iodine behind bars - david joe derek adrian richard pat brianl

Our first home run for a while winkled out a decent crowd. We jogged up the track to the pulpit and headed directly up to recce a possible line for the relays. It turned quite nasty for a while in a blustery downpour - a few still in shorts realised that summer was definitely over! We continued a circuitous route to the summit of the West via the rocks of the burdens and the quarry (disputed by some!). After a brief sit down we scurried back down the tree line and made a mess of crossing the moor. We were back at the cars for some time before David asked, "where's Pat?" Down at the pub the imminent foray to Morocco was discussed with Derek expertly 'stirring' from the sidelines (something about making a hash of it ???). Alan

Richards plan was good - too bad we didn't listen carefully enough. Also turning onto the Blair' road from Perth might have been a good idea! About 40 minutes late we finally got away and disappeared into the murk above Bridge of Caley where Richard kept us informed about the great views that we might have seen. We followed part of the Cateran trail and enjoyed watching a large herd of red deer crossing the track before the light faded altogether. The Bridge of Caley hotel provided a very civilised end to the evening. Alan

The last day of summer treated us well with a superb evening. We had to park at the road end to Loch Glow this time but we unaccountably failed to recruit two fit looking guys that seemed to be waiting for us to arrive - maybe they wanted to join the club! We ran the usual route in reverse, going out along the loch and coming back over a few bumps to ascend the gully on Dumglow. A few stops allowed us to admire the superb views and look ahead to the Ben race. We returned through the forest and back over the 'Indians' with their vast herds of wild horses. Alan

Unfortunately our host from 'Fawlty Towers' was away up North for the week but we still managed to enjoy the superb evening. The first part of the run up Kings seat was spoilt by a horrendous muddy track being gouged out by two dastardly diggers that we passed further up. Happily we left this eyesore behind and we stopped to enjoy the stunning view from the rocky outcrop half way up. Another breather at the summit cairn allowed us to take in the wider views and then it's very pleasant running over the top of Kings seat as the track winds through the scattered pines and bits of rock and then drops down a long set of steps. Being in the rear I had a premonition of pain to come when the guys stopped at a gate and jumped over into what seemed like an endless hell of deep heather. A lifetime later we emerged scratched and weary below Obney hill. After catching our breath at the top we bounded down to the north free of the damned heather and took the forest track back to the village and the lure of the 'black stuff'. Alan

We set off from the end of largo with a high tide leaving us only soft sand for the fine run along to Shellbay. Yet again Pat set off equipped with bodran and vuvuzela and had to be persuaded to leave a large courgette behind. (Sherlock Holmes himself would puzzle over these essential items but Pat was heard muttering 'Lorelie' ???). We ran round the top of the point and had a great time coming back over the chains. Alan took a notion to swim one of the coves but no-one was daft enough to join him. Shouting 'its warm' with chattering teeth is not too convincing! At one point we had to wait for the tailenders and Brian impressed us with juggling three large boulders - somehow he managed not to knock himself out. Safely back on the track we were treated to a stunning sunset over the Lomonds and after a thigh deep wade of the burn it was a weary jog back into the gathering darkness and the cosy nooks of the Railway Tavern. Alan

The steep southern slopes of the Ochils are the big draw but this wee area on the north side is a little known gem. After driving through downpours we parked at the farm below the hill where a info board gives details of two routes to the top. We headed up the farm track past a quarry and then cut left up the grassy ridge of Ben Effrey where we discovered a 'pat' bearing a remarkable resemblance to our club postie. An easy run (Gordie was a wee bit tired after the Glenshee 9!) took us round to the dip below Craig Rossie where we clambered down to investigate the remarkable geology of crag and landslips. Then up to the top of Craig Rossie where we were enjoying the magnificent sunsets towards Ben Vorlich until we were assailed by a demented Englishmen who appeared to believe that they had won the world Cup. A fine grassy descent took us directly back to the farm. Alan

a bunch of 5 gathered at the aptly named lomond centre 4 an interesting run thru the hites of glenrothes a swift downhill towards a now defunct bridge yes its still there pat up 2 re enact whw at bob allisons hoos onwards and upwards the varied terrain of cadham and coul soon brought the sweat on this most muggy nite as we headed 4 the pastures of the toon park pat sensed the holy grail of the town park bandstand was in sight misinformed he learnt it hasn't been there 4 about 4 years nonetheless he tried to summon up its spirit no not with the empty bottle of buckfast near to hand but with boran cajoling and his holistic horn didn't work of course so a quick dash u to the top of the park and a few underpasses later we finished to enjoy a few weegie pints of abbot ale at the acorn Pat

With folk busy on lots of ploys a select band of 6 turned up for the annual pilgrimage up Ben Vrackie - definitely one of our annual highlights. We were pleased to welcome Hamish who had met us on West Lomond a few weeks before. He proved his worth by heading off with Gordie over the pass while the rest off us slogged up the path. It turned out to be a fine evening and at the top we made friends with a bunch of lasses in training for the Ben. The views were braw (no - not the girls!) and for a change we jogged round to the other top and down the grassy ridge. As usual the Moulin provided a fine end to the evening with fine ales and fancy tales. Alan

After much sky watching waiting for a weather window to do the Bob Graham round I decided to use my primed muscles to crack another nut which had been on the 'to do list' for years. The Tranter Round (the mamores, grey corries, Aonachs and Ben Nevis)

At the last minute after a favourable forecast for West Highlands travelled up to the Fort and slept in the back of the motor with the intention of getting up at first light which should give me enough time to get off the Ben before it gets too dark.

Woke up and got moving at 4:30am, not my favourite time of the day, but with the early morning mist due to burn off and give good visibility, which was vital as I was running blind on many of the hills.

Other than scaring the early morning deer I cracked the first three munro's with out too much difficulty then off to find Am Bodach in the mist which had still not cleared. There seemed never ending stepped climbing but felt good and strong after eating the first Vegetable samosa of the day, then on top of Stob Coire a Chairn got a bit disorientated and found I was just about to make my usual 90 degrees error in heading out to An Gearnach, but finally at 10am the mist started to clear making my navigational worries evaporate. However about an hour later when I was stripped to the waist and overheating, could have done with the mist returning, the other concern was gathering enough water as temperatures started to rise.

In crossing the glen for Stob Ban decided to drop off the Sgurr shoulder and take the left hand side ascent to the top of the Stob, this took forever, between the rough traverse and the sun beating down on my back.

After a brief stop on top for a view and food headed over to the grey corries which had been caing for around 3 hours now, the initial climb of Claurigh was done steadily and then although I was starting to walk more and more, managed to get off the corries and prepare for the long Aonach Beag climb, glad to find plenty of grassy slopes on the Aonachs as my feet were starting to feel shredded and sore.

As the sun was starting to drop in the sky was glad to put the last major climb up Carn Mor Dearg out of the way and head towards the Ben. Got to the top of the Ben just to see the sun start to set and provide a fantastic climax for a very tired runner (walker!) I knew there was a fast way off down to the Hostel, but decided to play safe and let gravity carry me down the tourist path and finish at 11.04pm giving a total time of 18:34.

Hoping that on the back of this I am still going to be able to see the weather settle and allow a crack at the BG but will need to get over the sore feet/dehydration/horsefly bites/dodgy sunburn/knee pain/upset stomach. Laurie

some lomies couldnt help but let their hair down at the weekend davids lasereye surgery seemed to have worked

GlenDevon 20th July

On a humid evening we followed the fine mowed grassy track through the new plantation to the summit of Innerdownie. Talk was of windfarms with one on the hills opposite and another being built further along. Atmospheric views into the hills to the north with ridge fading into ridge and shafts of sunlight made the effort worthwhile. We set off for Whitewisp but a few 'pussies' (quote from Derek) turned back. They passed Brian and Mike who had set off late but hurried on to catch the others. Alan

Brian, Ian, Alan, Derek, Brian, Mike, Laurie, Gordon, Richard

Creag Mead 6th July

Under the ruse of a recce of the Relay's route our good shepherd (you all know who I mean!) directed the lomie 'flock' into the new plantation and through the heather towards the Maiden. The master plan went slightly awry when Alan spotted a tree and declared 'I want to go there'. It turned out to be a fine rowan perched at the top of a steep slope. After hurtling gentle abuse down at the remainder of Laurie's flock below we continued along the edge to meet up half way up the gully. On the way along to the gully Derek threw himself off the narrow track in desperation - freedom or death! Above the gully the weather turned nasty with mist, rain and strong winds making it feel more like winter. Adrian was spotted at the top but was never caught. By the time Alan had taken a photo of Pat playing his horn at the top of West Lomond the rest had turned tail for the safety of Creag Mead.

Alan

Joe, BrianL, Gordon, Laurie, Derek, Andy, Donald, Alan, Pat, Richard

Beinn a Ghlo 29th June

Adrian, Brian Moore, Laurie and Richard turned up beside Loch Moraig for this season’s Tuesday visit to a Munro. Carn Liath always seems to loom rather large on the approach through the pleasant meadows. Once embarked on the stony zig-zags though, it all passed fairly painlessly- even for Laurie, still running after his multi-race week! It didn’t take much longer than Ben Vrackie in fact. Summit views were very sharp, though a keen wind didn’t let us hang about for long. It always looks tempting to go out along the sinuous connecting ridges, but too far for a Tuesday night! 25 minutes later we were back at the cars and heading for a pint in Blair Atholl.

Richard

Auchterhouse 22nd June

We enjoyed a superb evening run over to the masted Craigowl and then back to the lovely tree covered top of Auchterhouse. The views up to the Cairngorms, across to Perthshire and back over the Tay to Fife were superb on a perfect clear and sunny evening. Richard surprised us with the info that we had climbed 1700 feet over 7 miles.

Alan, Richard, Gordon, Adrian, Derek, laurie, Andy

Alan had been left stranded at the last minute and had the brainwave of joining Pat and his 'mail bag' team for the local run. A phone call to Andy revealed that 'Refill not landfill' had bypassed him at Milnathort and he was on his way to Gateside. Meanwhile Pat, Brian and Joe were traversing along below West Lomond, Alan was scouring the slopes for signs of the intrepid trio and Andy was powering up Cation's gully. Somehow we all came together on West Lomond and sat to meditate on the meaning of life, the 'hamster wheel' of hillrunning and the futility of pursuing the over 50 championship. Pat updated us on his future plans for the Golden scarf and we tried not to get too excited.

No sign of the hill but a cheery mob mingled in the car park. We welcomed back Mike frae London up working with Brian. David (disbelieving) was offered the lead and we set off for the monument via the picturesque wee track below the crags. At the road crossing we made the short diversion to see the fine new viewpoint that has been opened up (suspicions of an attempt by Laurie to usurp General David proved unfounded). We continued up to Creag Mead via the Lomond's race route and then disappeared into the mists shrouding the East. After a brief stop at the top we raced down to Falkland and were soon snug in the Lomond Tavern.

Pat, Laurie, David, Gordon, Andy, Alan, Joe, the two Brians, Mike, Adrian, Derek

With Laurie and Gordon knackered from Jura (thumbs up from Gordon!) and the rest of us complaining about injuries an easy run was the order of the night. We ambled up the Law at a pace which allowed us to appreciate the great views. A lengthy break on Ben Cleuch allowed us survey the wind farm work going on just to the north which is going to impact on the Ochils in a big way. For a bit of variety Alan led the party down the Glen directly back to Tilly. Further down there is a very impressive hidden gorge which isn't seen from the Law route. Adrian appeared at the pub having managed round the Maddy moss route - "knee's bloody sore!"

We were supposed to have had a plan for the nights run but we ended up with a long Laurie style mystery tour of Pitmedden forest. The highlight was a dash down a firebreak to a grassy top with fine views north across the Tay. The downside of our sit down to enjoy the view was being woken at 5am to discover my first tic of the season burrowing into my leg. Our return trip involved a 'short' cut and the inevitable split into 3 separate groups which all magically came together on the run down from the clink. We had been out for nearly two hours and some of the less fit were starting to suffer.

It was good to see Adrian and Louise waiting to say hello down at the Cycle tavern with his knee looking a bit bonnier than at the end of the Ben Lomond race. As we supped our pints we enjoyed a lively discussion of Pat's amendments to the golden scarf race series - all I can say is that anyone who can do two races in a day deserves to win the scarf.

We enjoyed a very easy run up Kings Seat on a superb clear evening with an exploration of the land slip area half way up. A few of us professed injury and some were racing tomorrow so we split at the top. Some headed down the track taking another variation down the slippage area while the others descended by the burn of Sorrow.

Dumyat was supposed to be the venue for this week. However with a long Stuc a chroin last weekend and a Ben lomond to come 7 hardy souls set off to west lomond. Pat got his economical stylish pace going but soon let his bank holiday exertions catch up with him. Once at the top a serene view awaited. It was agreed to set off for the direction of strathmiglo woods whereupon new tracks led us up 2 the lomonds of fife woodland route. As we ascended to the monument for a breather Laurie revealed scratches to his leg - he says a kick from gordon at stuc. Naah - should've gone for matching legs! We finally adjourned to the lomond tav but with a typical glasgow old firm match showing we should have drank outside.

Joelad brianl adrian gordon laurie pat donald all present with davidoz holding the drinks for us thru a revolving door

Yes, just two runners for the run up Deuchary Hill. The rain and mist held off and we had a pleasant run up Deuchary, down the far side and back round through the rocky gap. Some of the paths have been manicured recently so the running is less rough now. We rounded off the evening with a quick pint at the ever musical Taybank Hotel. I daresay the rest of the club were a bit jaded with running and travelling after the weekend up north!

On a fine cold night with grand views north to snowy tops Adrian, late from 'Birnam, would to high Dunsinane hill' catch us up. United we traversed over tops and trotted along trods to Kings Seat where we sat and enjoyed the view. A plume of smoke drifting our way made us think of poor Laurie stuck in Turkey.

Hi All Report from Turkish Branch LHR

Climbed 3.300 feet straight up into high mountains saw Eagle and mating tortoises
Some people are cracking up but Im having a great time with my mega training. never been this fit for years

Hope alls well and say hello to Rosie for me

Lorenzio

After David and Pat sampled the Kettle version of a hot tub we reran (more or less) the winter route of a few months before but this time we were able to appreciate the views. This time we took in a extra bit towards Clatto reservoir and then enjoyed a cracking sunset from Down hill. The cows got a bit rattled as we descended but we sneaked past safely and made it back to the comfort of the Station Inn in Kingskettle where we discussed the various options for runs on the training weekend.

Dark cloud blanketing the hill and rain greeted us at the water tank but spirits were high. We set off with Pat sporting a curious oval bulge on his posterior. Up at the Bannet stane some of us wriggled though a hole in the rock but all of us chickened out of climbing the Bannet stane - getting down is the hard bit!. Further up we climbed a loose gully where we reenacted our youth with YMCA dance and then made it to the summit of the West. At this point the mists parted to reveal glimpses of a glorious sunset and Pat's bum cheeks parted to reveal a chocolate Easter egg which was photographed in various compromising situations. Not content with his lot Derek suggested extending the run and like dafties we followed him down an admittedly entertaining route past the Burdens and then back to where we had had started (how silly is that?). We sat blethering for a while at the top but the lure of Guinness sent us scampering down the hill in the gathering dark. Postscript ... down in the pub Pat cracked the egg and passed it round. As we bit into the choco we suddenly remembered where it had spent the last two hours!

It was supposed to be our first summer run - shorts, sunshine etc but it didn't turn out that way. We should have stayed at home but we're not that sensible (Derek's response when Laurie asked if he was coming is unprintable). The path up through the Vane farm nature reserve was fine but above the trees the snow got deeper, the wind got stronger and our nether regions got colder. Soon we were getting blown along the Benarty ridge in the murk with the threat of white out. We made the cairn, tried to bury Paddy in a snow drift and then battled back into the blizzard. It was crazy but we had fun!

Gathering in the car park we were impressed to see the figure of David jogging down from the hill.

Tonight was the long awaited finale of the winter calendar and Laurie assumed (as he is wont to do!) the mantle of leader to take the party of 11 on a grand tour of Bishop. We got to the crags just as the light was fading and enjoyed the wee scramble along the rocks. Forest trails led up to White Craig where we enjoyed our sit down before the steep descent to Kinnesswood and the Tetley trail back to the start.

Back in the pub our attempts to pair up to order pints got hopelessly confused until the young barmaid sorted us out. "Will you make your bloody minds up?"

It was a fine night with glimpses of Perth and Bridge of Earn our only clue as to where we might be. We never yet found the cairn (a map might have been a good idea!) and arrived back at the cars far too quickly but we had the enjoyable and lengthy task of thrashing out the summer calendar to keep us amused in the pub.

met at 630 - new fella tim allan joined us - made our way thru the snowy tundra to the base of west lomond - a freezing ascent was in store - boy how some of us needed an ice axe - once we summited pat took a few pics - the descent was glacial to say the least - searching for grass to run on was at a premium once we congregated back at harperlees style i think it had been the coldest nite we had ever run up west lomond - at least the acorns real ale warmed us up

Andy, Donald, Pat, Alan, Laurie, Derek, Gordon, Brian, Adrian, Richard, David

A night which promised little and delivered a lot. The miserable rain and thaw of earlier held off and we had an enjoyable meander up to East Lomond in the deep snow. No-one, including the leader, appeared to know where we were going next but it was great fun. The great snow bounding and arse over titting down from Falkland hill was definitely the highlight of another great night out.

We assembled at Falkland in a blizzard and full of trepidation for what lay ahead. It turned out to be a night that none of us will forget. Soon after our assembly time Gordie got itchy feet and informed us we would have to set off (Laurie found us ---- eventually!)

We were sucked, like lambs to the slaughter into Maspie Den, with a fairly well beaten track through the deep snow (at least it was well beaten by the time I managed to catch up with them) The photographer was always under threat of being left behind (me!) The icicles and ice formations were mind blowing and included a fully formed lingam. All went well until Creag Mead when we were spat out into deep drifts, spindrift, gale force winds and wind chill of about -20oc (probably an underestimate!) Laurie sneeked up behind us on the way up EL and we spent a short time at the summit. Alan felt quite cosy wearing nearly all the gear he'd had on crossing the Thorong La at 5400m), others less so.

On the way down Alan was in the rear yet again and decided to find out who his real friends were by pretending to have fallen. From his vantage point half way up the track he could see some lights disappearing into the trees and down to the pub (Laurie) while the other lights appeared to mill about in confusion before setting off back up the hill to find the 'father of the club'. Thanks Derek, Tara the rescue dog, and others.

So 5 runners 2 dogs set off up East Lomond on a quite beautiful snowy winter's evening. Commander Laurie in the lead as ever. Let's go up the firebreak piped up David and indignantly our leader agreed but that was the last of that! Progressively deeper snow was negotiated and it was a wonderful playground nearing the summit. Then down even deeper snow to the path to Creag Mead. Pat lagged behind but we were safe in the knowledge that we had a trained rescue dog, Tara, to take over if things went pear shaped.

Down to Creag Mead then into Maspie Den to find Mallory at the waterfall where there was an amazing mass of ice stalactites which provided much amusement.

As a group now (sort of!) we descended the Den only for Pat to run into a barbed wire fence blocking the track bashing his arm. Fortunately no serious wound and after my reassurance that he had not severed an artery all arrived back safely.

David

Mallory, suffering from a swinish flu but otherwise 'exceedingly high' set off up the village street having been waved off by Bob Beveridge. By 7.30pm, up at the waterfall with no sign of Shackleton's group he had visions of calling out the rescue party. There was no sign of the dipper but yard long ice added spice and danger. Back at the Lomond a long icicle which fell out of Mallory's jacket confused the barmaid. Alan made vain attempts to obtain ice for Pats grievous wound!

Alan

Time then for a pint and debrief of a super memorable evening

Photos by Alan click to enlarge (note David checking for frostbite)

22nd Dec 2009 Benarty Hill

Wee report from last night - Running in a winter wonderland

Laurie,Alan,Joe,Brian,Pat,David,Richard and Derek.

Santa and the elves convened near Vane Farm for an assault on the north face of Benarty. Conditions were perfect winter conditions with a temperature of -5 celcius and no wind. The snow was perfect with beautiful powder snow wich was not too deep allowing great running especialy descents.

Heading up the first few fields it became clear that it would take some extreme power running to keep warm and any stops were accompanied by jumping and running in circles. Following some fresh Fox tracks we made our way over the moor onto the ridge and made the trig point on the top of the hill. Brian was entranced by the fantastic sight of his hometown stretched out below us, otherwise known as Kelty.

After charging out with whoops and yelps we climbed and fell through the Benarty skyline, but after returning to the Trig once more Alan informed us that he had lost the lense from his specs. We then had twenty cold minutes of trying to find a clear lense in six inches of snow over a 200 meter area ...in the dark, needless to say we were not 'lucky' and Alan descended the hill one-eyed.

Final training involved pushing the odd car up the hill from the car-park and getting our head round Alan's latest book project. Definitely a night to remember.

Laurie Anderson

16th Dec 2009

Training at Scotlandwell - Alan, Joe, Laurie, Adrian, Derek, Brian (others were rumoured to be resting for the second nightmare)

We'd had a great wee run from Scotlandwell. Along the Tetley trail below Whitecraig and then a punishingly steep climb up to the plateaux. Ailing, Alan decided to have a solo saunter while the A-team ploughed on to Bishophill. Reunited at White Craig the lure of our hot tub and our 'visitor' at 8.30 meant a rapid descent.

Fast forward to Brian's pad

It had reached 8.30 in the hot tub at Brian's on a cold starry night. We were chilling out, satisfying our drouth, and as usual contributing nicely to the Irish balance of payments until Adrian informed us that he'd just had Giardia in Kathmandu (a water borne infection) - nice one Addie! Joe started looking anxiously at his watch. "When is she coming?"

For full (explicit) report: Lomies please log in and enter password

(xxxxxxxx tassles xxxxxxxxxx suds xxxxxx tossing the caber xxxxxxxxxx 38dd xxxxxx lap xxx

xxxxxxxx Joe xxxxxxx filters clogged up xxxxxxx bubbles xxxxxx babyoil xxxxxxx y-fronts xxx

xxxx wilted xxxxxxx )

Story by Alan, Photo by Donnie Graham (click to enlarge)

8th Dec 2009

Training at Falkland - Derek, Donald, Andy, Gordon, Alan, David, Laurie, Richard

As we set off it was noted that none of the drinking squad from Callander had put in an appearance but David did roll up just too late to join us for what turned out to be a very enjoyable jaunt up the cycle track and then up to the summit via the T-woods. Alan achieved his goal by making his 100th ascent of Falkland hill of the year. We descended to the mast and then down across the moor back to the trees.

Alan

'The School Run' - 1st Dec 2009

Laurie, Gordon, Donald, Pat, Brian, Richard, Joe, Derek, Alan, David

Training - Winter had definitely arrived so with rain, wind and snow forecast we made our first visit of the year to the school. We opted for our normal bad weather run up to the trig above Formonthills. The trig point was reached without incident at which point Bergfuehrer Graham pulled out a damp map scribbled from Googleearth. A route had been discovered leading up to East Lomond. It went very well at first- a lovely track through the trees and then onto a snowy trail but we missed the return track through the trees and took the longer route via the EL car park. It was quite wild by this stage and the time was drawing on so Laurie came to our rescue with a direct route back to Formonthills involving a barbed wire fence and a burn. We straggled back to the school tired wet and muddy but the showers were good. Alan

Holl Reservoir - 24th Nov 2009

Leslie police received reports from a local farmer of suspicious activities in the fields below East Lomond on the evening of 24th November. A large number of lights were seen in the fields moving in fairly random directions. The lights then regrouped and headed up to East Lomond. On their return to the fields they again split up and wandered about as if lost. Some time later police apprehended the suspects at Holl reservoir soaked to the skin and covered in mud. The self confessed gang leader known as Paddy gave a garbled account of their activities. His story that they had been 'out for a run' on what was a pitch black night of heavy rain and gales was dismissed as ludicrous. There is a suspicion that sheep rustling may have been behind the gangs activities but evidence that some gang members have also been spotted in the Cleish hills may point to involvement in 'other activities'.

A concerned citizen

Scotlandwell - Tues 17th Nov 2009

David, Alan, Derek, Pat, Joe, Andy, Brian, Gordon, Laurie, Richard (late)

David was given the honour of route finding tonight and with Derek's backing resisted attempts by the usual culprits to hijack his route. And what a route it was! We followed the usual trail up to Whitecraig and along the tree line to Bishophill. Beyond the gate the fun started - the cattle had transformed the track into a night attack on the western front complete with barbed wire and Pats torch flickering away in the rear. David suggested a descent of the zigzags - very slippy in the recent rain. As for the traverse to Kinnesswood, lets say it is hard to find and there are plenty of brambles. Gordie shepherded Pat back on the Tetley trail while the rest of us burnt up spare energy with a steep climb back up to below White Craig. To sum up - a brilliant night! Alan

Gateside - 10th Nov 2009

Andy, Donald, Derek, Alan, David, Richard

The weather was kind to us once again with the rain clearing to give us a calm evening with a few stars appearing. In the absence of Mr Refill Alan led the happy throng on a Laurie style 'grand tour' of West Lomond. We turned into the woods at the Bannet Stane and then traversed round to above the pulpit. By the time we reached the Burdens Derek was completely confused and had no idea where he was! We continued round to the wee quarry on the side of the West and after clambering to the summit enjoyed our usual sit down and natter.

PS The saga of Pat's mishaps continues. Tonight he lost his shed key where he keeps his headtorch and hillshoes. Alan

27th Oct 2009 Training and AGM

It was a typical Lomie night of confusion - thirteen of us set off from Falkland, twelve arrived at the monument. Brian became 'detached' on the way up and Pat injured his leg on a tree stump. We cut short the run by descending Maspie Den where we discovered last weeks dipper roosting on the same ledge.

Tonight we welcomed new member Dave Cowan who has just returned from doing the Amazon ultra 6 day event. It was also great to see Kenny and Shug who had made the long trip from the west for the AGM. Back at the Lomond Tavern we enjoyed a fine meal and drinks as we discussed what the next year would bring for LHR. Minutes of the AGM will be available soon.

20th Oct 2009

Training - Falkland Gordon, Laurie, Pat, Alan, Donald, Adrian, Derek, Richard, Brian. 3 dogs

A typical Lomie night of Keystone cops stuff in the woods. We ended in in three separate groups fumbling about in the pitch dark depths of Maspie den all wondering what the others were up to. Adrian, who had fallen behind for a pee was bemused to find lights flashing all over the place. Reunited at the waterfall I looked up and spotted the magical sight of a dipper resting on an ledge on the overhanging roof a few inches above my head. We continued up to Craig mead and on to Falkland hill for a sit down and blether.

AG

29th September 2009

Training - Benarty hill

Laurie - "a miserable damp run up the best wee hill in Scotland - okay it was only Benarty"

For Pat with his camera it was an exciting - "'TRIP' into a the world of 'lochores luminous flying jellyfish' and 'Pat Vader trigging the light fanbasquetic' " (injoke for david)

Rosie 'woof - why is that woofing bugger taking me up there - he'll not be running up hills when he's 94'

15th September 2009

Training on Bishophill Alan, Gordon, Laurie, David, Andy, Pat, Richard

The skies had clouded but that didn't spoil our run up Glen Vale and up to the top of Bishop. After a seat at the top some idjit led us down the route of maximum boggyness into the unexplored hinterland of Bishophill - a land of virgin forests and steep grassy ridges - where we discovered a new species of homo posty speaking a language akin to Basque and living in primitive wooden shelters. A specimen was captured, taken down to the Gateside inn and force-fed Guinness.

1st September 2009

Training at Collace - Derek, Pat, Andy, Alan, Gordon, Laurie, Richard, Bob Thornton

We parked at Collace and enjoyed an easy saunter up Dunsinane and then along to Kingseat via Black Hill. After mixed weather during the day we ended up with another fine evening in the Sidlaws with stunning sunsets and fine views.

Talk was mainly of the Ben race with nearly the entire club running this year. Alan declared that his number 25 would be his last hillrace. Pat, Donald (our great hope!) and Andy are all virgins (of the Ben race). Gordon plans to reclaim his 3 seconds over 2hours from last time. Laurie is quietly confident. Richard and Bob are both on number 20. Derek claims he is going to take it easy. David and Joe (ended up in casualty trying to surmount a pavement!) are walking wounded. Good luck to all!

18th August 2009

The Chain walk at Elie - A select quartet of Alan, Richard, Andy and Gordon (where were the rest of you!)assembled at Largo for the run along Largo bay to sample the delights of Scotland's only Via Ferrata round Kincraig point. There's lots to see - seabirds, wartime emplacements, interesting geology and the opportunity to get wet if the tide is in.

Click to enlarge

4th August 2009

Auchterhouse training - Pat, Adrian, Richard, Laurie, Derek, Alan, Donald, Gordon, Bob from DHH

The mist lifted just in time to give us a superb training run over the treetopped Auchterhouse hill and across to the multi-masted Craigowl. Great views of Fife and into the highlands. We finished with a run round the quarry (Pat - "where's the quarry then?" Gordon - "that was it!") and then back to Auchterhouse and Guinness at Birkhill.