Race report by Josie:
On Saturday, I travelled to the beautiful village of Buttermere in the Western Lake District to run The Buttermere Sailbeck Fell Race. A tough 15km (9.3mi)/ 1,315m (4314ft) mountain horseshoe over two distinct ridgelines. Although a relatively short fell race (for me), a lot of elevation is packed into the distance with three big climbs.
The Conditions were dry but very windy. Having the wind behind me on the first long climb was quite nice but I knew this would be a headwind on the second half of the race. I had a comfortable run across the first ridge to checkpoint 1 at Ard Crag followed by a flying descent down to Rigg Beck passing a number of runners on the technical section. I worried I might pay the price for this on the following steep ascent directly up the face of Causey Pike. However, I felt strong and maintained my position.
Heavy gusts hammered the high tops from Causey Pike severely hampering forward progress. I needed another layer as the windchill was biting at my arms as I fought my way up Sail.
After battling the fierce headwind along the highest ridgeline, it was time for the final drop off Whiteless Pike. This descent is long and steep and prior knowledge is useful to nail the optimum line. I managed to overtake a few more runners on the way down, including a lady in my own age category. I was really pleased to win a prize for 3rd FV50 in a Race that had some exceptional Lady veterans in it.
