It was very interesting reading Rich's comments below. I know how much training and detailed planning Rich and Keith have put into this years effort. As you can imagine I was gobsmacked when they wandered over to our tent on Sat evening and announced that they had retired! Unfortunately, Keith just had a bad day in the mountains. Maybe his body had not recovered fully from the 'Highland Fling' he ran less than a month ago (see previous post).
Steve (my race partner) and I embarked on our first LAMM together. It was my second LAMM, having completed last year's event in Glenfinnan, and Steve's first MM. Unlike Rich and Keith, our goal was to complete C class and simply give it our best effort.
We ran the Yorkshire 3 Peaks a few weeks ago, with my mate Tim, as a warm-up and to gauge our fitness levels. We did ok, completing the 25 mile circuit in 6 hrs 30. We could have done much better if it wasn't for the chronic cramp that seemed to attack every muscle in my legs after 13 miles and incapacitated me for the rest of the day! I have always struggled with severe cramp, especially during long distance biking and running events. Keith kindly gave me some 'Nuun' tabs on Friday night which seemed to stave off the cramps completely on both days (thanks Keith!)
As usual, the location was stunning and the scenery utterly breathtaking.
It took us a while to get going on day one, but we plodded on while our bodies slowly adjusted to the environment. Reaching the 5th control (of 8) always gives me a huge lift, psychologically, knowing that the final 3 controls are positioned fairly closely together. Steve recognised this and we pushed on and finished the first day 59th out of 150 teams.
On day 2 we felt good after a reasonable night's sleep, a feast of expedition food and tea! We started well and knew that if we kept the pace up we could massively improve our overall position. This was thwarted, however, by a schoolboy navigational error on the 3rd control. We lost 45 mins at least..........enough said! Spirits were low at this stage, but we picked ourselves up, checked off the 5 remaining controls and crossed the finish line in 66th place!
We will be looking at a top 3o finish in C next year!?
Mountain Equipment used:
AR2 tent - perfect, lightweight and roomy
Xero 250 Sleeping Bags.
Compressor Vest - a superb lightweight alternative for throwing on over your layers at the end of the day!
Microtherm Alpine Jacket (see my off piste skiing post). This has to be the most versatile piece of kit that I own. Amazing and only 80 quid!
Altus S/S and L/S Tees. Shifted the moisture quickly and worked well with Microtherm.
Axion Jacket. Worn for 20 mins on day 1! The lightest jacket ME make.
Particle Pant. Not worn
Will post some piccies asap.
