Category: LDWA

On the 29 to 31 May 2021, the LDWA’s 100 mile event will be taking place. Unfortunately, national restrictions mean that the Y 100 Sir Fynwy won’t be taking place as hoped, when in more normal times the South Wales group would have welcomed hundreds of walkers. Instead, there is the chance for entrants to walk a 100-mile route of their choice anywhere in the country, so the event has more of a national feel this year. And it’s fine to enter to do a shorter distance, with anyone walking 50 miles in 24 hours qualifying for the 2022 Trans-Pennine 100.

I’m taking part in the 100 and I’ve been compiling some resources relating to that. When the new LDWA web-site is launched, this and lots more other material relating to the event will be copied there. Over the next few weeks, I’m speaking (well, writing) to entrants on the 100 and following their efforts up to, and after, the big day. We’ll be using the text from these interviews and updates on social media and also perhaps in Strider, the LDWA’s rather excellent magazine which is sent to our 10,000 members. Hopefully it’ll help inform, educate and inspire others to take part or become involved with the LDWA in other ways.

For anyone who wants to take part in the event, have a look at the SI Entries page, or further information at the LDWA’s web-site.

And this interview is with Julie Cribb, the new national chair of the LDWA, and she’s on top form (I have already received Twixes, she’s world class at her role)! I’m pleased to say that the crowds of mourners wailing and crying following the departure of Dave Morgan as national chair have now dispersed from the streets of Norwich, they’ve now been energised with hope for the future. Julie has been the rather excellent, and I won’t say formidable (as that makes her sound scary, and she’s not!) groups’ secretary for the last few years and will be much missed in that role. Anyway, that’s enough praise, I don’t want to look fawning.

Incidentally, Julie must also have a better support team than Nathan and I are planning for our walk, because there’s no way ours is good enough to stop us giving up….. I’m very excited about the shortbread in 2024, although a little less excited about the haggis (unless it comes in some form of pastry covering, which improves most food, even vegetables).

This photo is of Julie during the Lyke Wake Walk, which she very bravely did in all black, with a little hat and black lace veil, black lace gloves and black nail varnish and make up and big black feathery earrings – as she notes definitely befits the Coffin Walk. And Julie admits to getting some strange looks. And before Nathan asks, no, we’re not.

Is this your first 100?

No – I started the Dorset 100 but withdrew just before the breakfast stop – don’t ask – that’s another (long) story! [don’t worry, I’ll get the gossip on that in due course] I have done non-LDWA long distance events in the past though and have really enjoyed those.

What route are you planning to take?

I live in Inverness, about 10 miles from Loch Ness. There are three trails that now make up the Loch Ness 360 route – The Trail of the 7 Lochs, the South Loch Ness Trail and the Great Glen Way. By joining these I can make up around 90 miles and by adding on around 10 miles at the end by finishing over the Iron Age Hill Fort and going along to the end of the Caledonian Canal it should be 100+ miles by the time I get back home. It also means I pass a really good cafe and a McDonalds just before the end! Don’t know if I’m allowed to name names? [well, I do, quite frequently, and perhaps even obsessively]

Are you following a GPX route, a map, or do you already know your route well?

All 3. I have all the maps and we are recceing the whole route over 7 sections, getting the gpx plots as we do the recces. I have walked all of these trails many times, but usually in the opposite direction to that which I’ll be doing on the event.

What training are you undertaking at the moment?

We are recceing a section every other weekend and doing longer walks or hill walks in the weekends in between. I’d like to build up to 30 mile walks during March and April before tapering in May, when I plan to do a long distance path covering around 10-15 miles a day for 14 days. We are also recceing the probable night sections at night.

Do you think this will be easier or harder than the actual 100 that is traditionally held?

Much easier. Travelling from Inverness to anywhere else usually means leaving at least two days beforehand and a long drive or train journey, then a couple of nights in a strange bed and getting up at an unearthly time to get to the start and register. Unless you carry all your food you need to depend on what the checkpoints offer – which is usually great – but often not what I would choose myself. Doing it this way I can sleep in my own bed, get up and start when I want, not be stiff from travelling, eat and drink what I want more or less when I want and give instructions to my support team to not let me give in!

Your group, North West Grampian, is organising the 100 event in 2024 (the Speyside 100), how much work is that entailing so far? Any suggestions at this stage about what food treats the entrants might expect?

We suspended planning in 2020 due to Covid and the deferment of the YSF100, so at the moment we have an Organising Group, a route, an HQ and most of the checkpoints covered. We are about to get started again with planning meetings. As far as tasty treats go – Haggis of course (only kidding). Lots of shortbread and tablet (like fudge but different) and depending on catering regulations in 2024 we will have our Dream Team back in the kitchen at event HQ.

As an aside, will your route in 2024 be really hilly?

It’s on the border of the northern Cairngorm – nuff said! [hmmmm, it’s not selling it to me as someone from Norfolk, so I’ll focus on the food side of things….]

What food treats are you taking with you?

Cheese straws, rice pudding, hot cross buns with cheese and jam, mini-melton pork pies and Percy Pigs. My back up team will hopefully be able to provide burgers, pizza and other hot food by order for the main meal stops. We are hoping the cafes in Fort Augustus will be open for breakfast on the day. [some nice choices there! Although there’s arguably more to doing an event than just thinking about the food]

Will there be any whisky consumed en route?

I don’t take alcohol during a walk but there will be several cans of draught Guinness in the fridge for the finish and if I make the 100 there will even be a bottle of bubbly on ice.

What tactics do you think you’ll use if you feel like giving up on the walk?

I have an A4 laminated sheet with inspirational and motivational sayings that my daughter has strict instructions to wave under my nose at every checkpoint! My main technique though is to walk to the next end of section. Never look too far ahead and then you can always make it. I like doing complicated planning and calculations in my head while I walk to pass the time too. And there may be others around – it’s a popular time on popular trails.

Are there any wildlife that you’re concerned about meeting on the walk? Sheep, cows, snakes, Loch Ness monsters, pigs, or anything else?!

Nessie is our friend and I’ll be joining her for a swim at the end to ease my tired legs :-). Not really concerned about meeting anything though the eyes in the night can be a bit startling at times. I try to avoid frogs – but that’s another story too!

Do you have any foot care tips?

I am definitely not the one to give out foot care tips – my feet have been in a terrible state since a very wet walk on the Lairig Ghru several years ago and they never recovered (at least I didn’t try hard enough to let them mend before trashing them again and again!)

Will you have anyone cheering you on and giving encouragement during the walk?

Our ‘bubble’ walk and swim buddy is planning on doing two sections with us (one of my daughters is going to try the 100 but will be happy to get to over 50), perhaps going into the first night and then the last 20 miles. My eldest daughter will be main car back up, catering manager and chief cheerleader. My husband will also support when he can. Youngest daughter will deliver and collect our canine walking companion from time to time on sections he will be safe on. He is always fun to walk with.

Would you say you’re looking forward to it?

Tremendously. It’s a walk – who wouldn’t be? [I’m dreading the damn thing, but I’m sure I’ll enjoy it when I get going]

Do you have a time in mind of how long it’ll take you to finish?

I’d like it to be 37-40 hours but we have agreed we will try and stay together through the first night if possible – so timing may be different to planned.

Do you have any advice for others, one top tip about long distance walking?

Set out to enjoy it and take it stage by stage but don’t stop too long at any point as it’s amazing how time can add up over a number of checkpoint stops.

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering the 100, or thinking about doing a 50 mile challenge event, who might be a bit nervous?

It’s a walk – don’t overthink it and you may even enjoy it. After all you have nothing to lose – what else would you be doing that weekend that you can’t do another time?

Finally, congratulations on becoming LDWA chair, how have you enjoyed your first few days?

Thank you. I’ve focussed on two main things – taking over the social media accounts from David and getting to grips with those and getting to know the NEC members and their roles better on a one-to-one basis. I have thoroughly enjoyed doing both but will probably have to get on with some real work soon!

On the 29 to 31 May 2021, the LDWA’s 100 mile event will be taking place. Unfortunately, national restrictions mean that the Y 100 Sir Fynwy won’t be taking place as hoped, when in more normal times the South Wales group would have welcomed hundreds of walkers. Instead, there is the chance for entrants to walk a 100-mile route of their choice anywhere in the country, so the event has more of a national feel this year. And it’s fine to enter to do a shorter distance, with anyone walking 50 miles in 24 hours qualifying for the 2022 Trans-Pennine 100.

I’m taking part in the 100 and I’ve been compiling some resources relating to that. When the new LDWA web-site is launched, this and lots more other material relating to the event will be copied there. Over the next few weeks, I’m speaking (well, writing) to entrants on the 100 and following their efforts up to, and after, the big day. We’ll be using the text from these interviews and updates on social media and also perhaps in Strider, the LDWA’s rather excellent magazine which is sent to our 10,000 members. Hopefully it’ll help inform, educate and inspire others to take part or become involved with the LDWA in other ways.

For anyone who wants to take part in the event, have a look at the SI Entries page, or further information at the LDWA’s web-site.

And this interview is with Kathy Tytler and the Percy Pigs is a great idea, I don’t think that I had them on my extensive food list. Not sure I want to experience a chasm in my mind during the latter part of the walk, but it’ll be some excitement I suppose….

You’ve completed numerous 100s in the past, what makes you keep coming back for more?

I love the event. It is great to see everyone and we get to visit so many interesting parts of the country. There is nothing like the feeling of completing the 100, a mixture of pain and ecstasy.

What route are you planning to take?

I have modified the route of the Centurion Running 100 mile trail race, which is based at Goring – the crossroads of 2 National Trails, The Ridgeway and The Thames Path. It uses 4 different out and back 25 mile routes. My modification is that I start and finish at my house, joining The Thames Path at the appropriate point in Reading.

Are you following a GPX route, a map, or do you already know your route well?

I know most of the route very well. The Thames Path from Reading to Goring is home territory, and I have completed The Ridgeway Challenge Trail Race several times. Being National Trails they are well-signed, but of course I will be carrying my maps and compass.

What training are you undertaking at the moment?

I am increasing the time I am spending on my long walks, currently exploring Reading and beyond from my front door – and have discovered some very interesting places. Often I walk with my neighbour, Jocelyne.

Do you think this will be easier or harder than the actual 100 that is traditionally held?

Being on familiar territory should make it easier, and there are fewer hills than on recent 100s. Mentally it may be more difficult, not having the lovely people at the checkpoints to look forward to and the lure of the railway station with its regular trains to Reading, each time we return to Goring

What support will you have during your walk?

Pat Seabrook and I plan to walk together, as we have done on many 100s. I have invited friends to walk sections with us, or to come to Goring to meet us. A couple of people are interested so far. We plan to start at dawn on the Saturday and my neighbour has said to call for her and she will walk to Goring with us and get the train back.

What food treats are you taking with you?

Percy Pigs! and other sweets.… A balance of sweet and salty – pretzels are easier to carry than crisps. A load of flapjack for sustenance. Maybe I can find someone who will let us set up a treats box in Goring?

You took part in the Hadrian 100 that was very tough at night with the weather conditions. Would you say that was your toughest 100?

The part after Greg’s Hut was very hard, not helped when we missed the flags and veered off track. Despite wearing 2 layers of waterproofs I was still soaked to the skin. We got to Dufton and retired. Luckily I wasn’t aware of the devils and demons that are said to haunt Cross Fell (aka Fiend’s Fell).

All 100s are challenging, but the ones I have retired on must be the hardest!

What tactics do you think you’ll use if you feel like giving up on the walk?

As I will be quite near home and I will have told a lot of friends what I am doing, there is the threat or promise that they may pop up at any time along the route.

Are there any wildlife that you’re concerned about meeting on the walk? Sheep, cows, snakes, pigs, or anything else?!

Ghosts on The Ridgeway! It is such an ancient track that there must be some, but I have been there at night many times on The Ridgeway Challenge and it’s been OK

Do you have any foot care tips?

I wish! Every time I think I have got the right shoe/ sock/ foot cream combination, I have problems on my next long event.

Would you say you’re looking forward to it?

Yes I am. After so many cancellations and am hoping that this is something that will go ahead

Have you had hallucinations during a 100 walk?

Yes, one of the things to look forward to. Often entertaining, only occasionally scary – when we reached a black tarmac road after crossing the rough moorland in the Elan Valley on Cant Canalberth, it looked like a chasm and I had to test it before I stepped onto it

Do you have a time in mind of how long it’ll take you to finish?

By starting at dawn we will be maximising the use of daylight and hope to finish before dark on Sunday – for the first time ever!

 Do you have any advice for others, one top tip about long distance walking?

Once you get started don’t think of the whole distance, break it down into manageable chunks. Promise yourself something really good when you have finished.

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering the 100, or thinking about doing a 50 mile challenge event, who might be a bit nervous?

If you are worried about the night sections, recce it before in daylight if you can. Night walking is great – enjoy it, try not to worry too much about who or what is out there.

On the 29 to 31 May 2021, the LDWA’s 100 mile event will be taking place. Unfortunately, national restrictions mean that the Y 100 Sir Fynwy won’t be taking place as hoped, when in more normal times the South Wales group would have welcomed hundreds of walkers. Instead, there is the chance for entrants to walk a 100-mile route of their choice anywhere in the country, so the event has more of a national feel this year. And it’s fine to enter to do a shorter distance, with anyone walking 50 miles in 24 hours qualifying for the 2022 Trans-Pennine 100.

I’m taking part in the 100 and I’ve been compiling some resources relating to that. When the new LDWA web-site is launched, this and lots more other material relating to the event will be copied there. Over the next few weeks, I’m speaking (well, writing) to entrants on the 100 and following their efforts up to, and after, the big day. We’ll be using the text from these interviews and updates on social media and also perhaps in Strider, the LDWA’s rather excellent magazine which is sent to our 10,000 members. Hopefully it’ll help inform, educate and inspire others to take part or become involved with the LDWA in other ways.

For anyone who wants to take part in the event, have a look at the SI Entries page, or further information at the LDWA’s web-site.

And this interview is with Shirley Hume, who is one of the organising committee for the event which should have taken place in 2020 (and then in 2021), but it wasn’t to be….. And it’s very hard not to be impressed at the sheer number of 100s that Shirley has taken part in, and just to think of all the fuss that I’ve made about just planning to take part in one…..

Is this your first 100?

Number 38 in the official list , but 39 if you count the two in 1990. 2021 would have been my 40th if it wasn’t for Foot and Mouth and, of course, Covid 19. My first 100 was The Pilgrims 100 in 1982, about a year after I joined the LDWA and before 50 mile qualifiers were introduced. I turned up in Guildford wearing a cotton polo shirt, a pair of denim shorts and with Clarks Nature Trek shoes on [older members may remember these]. I had no idea what I was taking on but got to the end in under 36 hours.

The following year I went to Snowdon for the 100 wearing the old style walking breeches, leather boots and woollen socks, number 3 was Dartmoor and by now I had changed to Brasher Boots and finished in 32 hours. 2 years later it was trainers, running gear and sub 24 hours. I have entered and completed every 100 since 1982 with my times steadily going back up as the years advance. If I keep going much longer I will get to experience the joys of a second night.

What route are you planning to take?

After much deliberation, and not being sure what the travel arrangements might be by end of May, I have decided against doing the actual Sir Fynwy route – given I will have no support I would prefer a route with a base I can visit several times to pick up water and food. As a result I have booked a cottage in Winchcombe and plan to do the Winchcombe Way [42.9 miles] twice. It is a figure of 8 route round Winchcombe so I can have a CP every 20 miles or so. I still need to measure how far it is from the cottage on to the route and then plan a shorter loop to get me up to 100 miles [plus a bit for luck and validation].

Are you following a GPX route, a map, or do you already know your route well?

Map, although if it turns out to be possible I might try and fit in a recce of the night section. Hopefully it will be way marked, at least in places

What training are you undertaking at the moment?

Not enough! I haven’t walked over 30 miles in one go since the Roundhay 50 in February 2020. Although I have walked a lot of miles this year [680 to date] I need to get some longer distances in. Sadly I have discovered how boring my own company is!! I also do a lot of cycling and am concentrating on hills as the training does seem to translate to hill walking [although this may be wishful thinking].

Do you think this will be easier or harder than the actual 100 that is traditionally held?

A bit of both to be honest. Fewer checkpoints will suit me well and it will certainly be good to have my own choice of food. I have done quite a few Marshals Walks in recent years, so walking on my own at night doesn’t bother me, but i will miss the regular meeting up with LDWA friends at checkpoints.

You were on the committee planning the actual event, so you knew the actual route well. What were the highlights of the route for anyone thinking of walking the route in the future, whether in one go or over several days?

I would recommend taking 4-5 days to enjoy the route, especially if you are looking for accommodation on the way round. The highlights for me are the section from Abergavenny to Pandy, an easy day walk with a bus service between the two locations, and the Wye valley section from Monmouth to the finish [again a regular bus service between the two locations most days].

What food treats are you taking with you?

With 20 mile gaps between checkpoints I don’t anticipate needing much between them and I find it hard to transport apple crumble and custard, but you will never find me without a supply of emergency chocolate!

What tactics do you think you’ll use if you feel like giving up on the walk?

I have done a lot of 100s and haven’t given up yet, or even seriously thought about it – even with trashed feet, stomach problems etc. Chris, who will be manning the checkpoints in Winchcombe, has strict instructions to check me out after 15 minutes and he seems to be relishing the prospect [a bit too much if I’m being honest!]

Are there any wildlife that you’re concerned about meeting on the walk? Sheep, cows, snakes, pigs, or anything else?!

Out of control dogs off-lead.

Do you have any foot care tips?

Stop worrying about how your feet look – if you can still wear open-toed sandals without people fainting in the street after completing a 100 you are doing OK. Although in fairness, after 37 hundreds I never wear open-toed sandals. Always remember that nobody actually needs 10 toenails. I’m really not the person to ask about feet – a physio in Bristol on learning that I was Chris’ wife said to him ‘Lovely lady, horrible feet’, to which Chris allegedly replied that at least he was right about the feet.

Will you have anyone cheering you on and giving encouragement during the walk?

Sadly not, but hoping to have someone at ‘HQ’ to boil the kettle and chuck me back out after 15 minutes.

Would you say you’re looking forward to it?

Only if you want me to lie!

Do you have a time in mind of how long it’ll take you to finish?

Since I don’t really know the route it would be a guess, but somewhere between 30 and 36 hours [depends how rigorous the CP staff are].

Do you have any advice for others, one top tip about long distance walking?

Don’t overthink it and don’t try to incorporate advice from numerous people as it will probably all be contradictory [e.g. best foods, best footwear, how to look after your feet etc.]. Just walk from one stop to the next [assuming you have planned your fuelling stops] and NEVER think about how far you still have to go until it is below 20 miles.

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering the 100, or thinking about doing a 50 mile challenge event, who might be a bit nervous?

Just do it and don’t beat yourself up if you fail to finish the first time. If you are worried about night walking on your own try to find someone to walk the night section with you [if not the whole thing]. And enjoy it, the result doesn’t matter, the journey is what counts – so take time to enjoy the scenery, smile and greet people you pass on the trail and remember that sore feet are rarely the primary cause of death.

On the 29 to 31 May 2021, the LDWA’s 100 mile event will be taking place. Unfortunately, national restrictions mean that the Y 100 Sir Fynwy won’t be taking place as hoped, when in more normal times the South Wales group would have welcomed hundreds of walkers. Instead, there is the chance for entrants to walk a 100-mile route of their choice anywhere in the country, so the event has more of a national feel this year. And it’s fine to enter to do a shorter distance, with anyone walking 50 miles in 24 hours qualifying for the 2022 Trans-Pennine 100.

I’m taking part in the 100 and I’ve been compiling some resources relating to that. When the new LDWA web-site is launched, this and lots more other material relating to the event will be copied there. Over the next few weeks, I’m speaking (well, writing) to entrants on the 100 and following their efforts up to, and after, the big day. We’ll be using the text from these interviews and updates on social media and also perhaps in Strider, the LDWA’s rather excellent magazine which is sent to our 10,000 members. Hopefully it’ll help inform, educate and inspire others to take part or become involved with the LDWA in other ways.

For anyone who wants to take part in the event, have a look at the SI Entries page, or further information at the LDWA’s web-site.

I’ve been absolutely inundated with messages asking me to answer my own questions. Well, I haven’t received any yet if I’m being honest, but it’s good to be pro-active in these matters.

The mud on my face isn’t because I’d fallen over during a walk, it’s because I took the photo in Liam’s car on the way home from the mud run I took part in (and was considerably brave at if I’m being honest)…..

Anyway, I’m walking this with Nathan, and he’s answered some of the questions relating to our walk. I’ve used similar questions to those I’ve sent other people, as otherwise interviewing myself would end up with me writing about craft beer and crisps. And yes, this is all a bit self-indulgent, but there we go, so is having a blog if I’m being honest.

This is your first 100, what inspired you to take part?

Because Nathan failed to give the correct answer of “no” when I asked him to take part with me. So here we are a year later stuck doing the bloody thing. And I suppose it’ll be fun.

Do you think this will be easier or harder than the actual 100 that is traditionally held?

I think it’ll be easier than the route we would have walked in the rain in South Wales which had some very big hills in it. Being from Norfolk, hills are something that would have slowed me down and exhausted me, perhaps being just too big an obstacle to deal with. There’s an element of the mental challenge as well, we’re more in control of our own route and that’s a good starting point. However, it’s a shame that we don’t have lots of checkpoints to look forwards to, although we do have a support team to help in that regard.

What food treats are you taking with you?

I’m not carrying all of these, as they’ll mostly be carried by the support team, but they will include:

Chicken bakes, sausage rolls, pork pies (no jelly), Quavers, Wotsits, Nik Naks, Monster Munch, Mini Cheddars, McCoys, Skips, Walkers Prawn Cocktail, Squares, Scampi Fries, Bacon Fries, Hula Hoops, Transform-a-Snack, Frazzles, Chipsticks, French Fries, Mars Bars, Twixes, Kit Kats, Mars Bars, Boosts, Chocolate Oranges, Double Deckers, Bounty Bars, Rolos, Munchies, Picnic Bars, Maltesers, Galaxy and Aero. That will get me by between what the support team prepare, such as pizza, chips, chicken strips, fish fingers and one cherry tomato.

Do you plan to have some decadent craft beer during the walk?

Yes. Nathan’s answer about dark beer doesn’t apply to me. I’ll want some stouts and the like at random points of the walk.

Will you get annoyed at Nathan?

Yes. That kind of annoyance will help power me on.

What tactics do you think you’ll use if you feel like giving up on the walk?

I’ll pretend that I’ve tripped over a dog and blame that for ending the walk early, so I get sympathy. It’ll be hard to be motivated at 60 miles or so, as there is so far to go, but Nathan and me have plans to talk about people who have annoyed us, so that should get us through to 80 miles. And then, it starts to feel more doable.

Are there any wildlife that you’re concerned about meeting on the walk? Sheep, cows, snakes, pigs, or anything else?!

Yes, all of the above, but especially cows. There are some along Wherryman’s Way that are the size of elephants and there are also adders along that path as well. Pigs concern me a little less. Pheasants and the like are annoying during the night as well, as they randomly jump out whilst making as much noise as possible. Frankly, I find nature quite scary at times.

Would you say you’re looking forward to it?

No. But I’m sure it’ll be fun when we get going….

Do you have a time in mind of how long it’ll take you to finish?

Ideally, 42 hours. But just finishing within 48 hours will do me. We’re starting at 06:00 on the Saturday and we’re really hoping not to have to walk through two nights, as that might just be beyond us.

How will you celebrate when you finish?

If I complete it, I’ll be on social media for at least six hours messaging everyone I know how brave I am. I will also be planning a collection time for all the craft beer Simon H is getting me. Then I’ll exhaust myself and have a sleep before waking up and replying “I know” to those people who have told me I’ve been very brave.

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering the 100, or thinking about doing a 50 mile challenge event, who might be a bit nervous?

It’s an adventure, go for it! And, there’s nothing wrong with setting a smaller target, it’s worth trying something new and that’s exciting.

On the 29 to 31 May 2021, the LDWA’s 100 mile event will be taking place. Unfortunately, national restrictions mean that the Y 100 Sir Fynwy won’t be taking place as hoped, when in more normal times the South Wales group would have welcomed hundreds of walkers. Instead, there is the chance for entrants to walk a 100-mile route of their choice anywhere in the country, so the event has more of a national feel this year. And it’s fine to enter to do a shorter distance, with anyone walking 50 miles in 24 hours qualifying for the 2022 Trans-Pennine 100.

I’m taking part in the 100 and I’ve been compiling some resources relating to that. When the new LDWA web-site is launched, this and lots more other material relating to the event will be copied there. Over the next few weeks, I’m speaking (well, writing) to entrants on the 100 and following their efforts up to, and after, the big day. We’ll be using the text from these interviews and updates on social media and also perhaps in Strider, the LDWA’s rather excellent magazine which is sent to our 10,000 members. Hopefully it’ll help inform, educate and inspire others to take part or become involved with the LDWA in other ways.

For anyone who wants to take part in the event, have a look at the SI Entries page, or further information at the LDWA’s web-site.

And this third ‘interview’ is with Nathan Hensley, who is doing the event with me, so he has a huge advantage to the other entrants that he has my company, encouragement, initiative and engagement.

This is your first 100, what inspired you to take part?

Like most great ideas in life this was borne out of a chat down the pub. Your (Julian’s) walking exploits were made to sound like an exciting challenge, and the 100 would be the pinnacle of them all. I liked the idea of pushing myself to achieve something a bit different too, so it all came together nicely.

What route are you planning to take?

Starting in Lowestoft and walking to Great Yarmouth, then taking the Wherryman’s Way into Norwich. With a few detours that should make us reach over 50 miles, then we’ll head north out of the city along Marriott’s Way and meander back. Ideally for the final few miles we’ll stay local to Norwich (probably doing smaller and smaller laps of the streets near our houses if I’m being honest).

You’re walking the 100 route with one of the most professional members of the LDWA, does that give you lots more confidence?

I am confident that we will keep each other entertained! Knowing us, I think we’ll want to look a bit braver than the other so that will spur us on too.

Do you think this will be easier or harder than the actual 100 that is traditionally held?

I think it will be easier than Y 100 Sir Fynwy would have been at least, primarily because we’re not tackling many hills. The lack of encouragement from other walkers will probably add a unique challenge though.

What food treats are you taking with you?

I’ll make sure I carry sweets and nuts with me at all times, I don’t tend to get hungry on a walk but I do need a pick-me-up at regular intervals.

You have a support team, what food and drink will you be requesting that they supply you with?

Some coffee during the night and a bacon roll for the second morning would be fine, though if someone fancies sorting out a fry-up instead then I’d be very grateful.

Do you plan to have some decadent craft beer during the walk?

I think it would be silly to rule out that possibility, especially if our spirits drop a bit. It will be important to not overdo it though, and I’ll probably stick to lighter beer as a stout might feel a little heavy.

What tactics do you think you’ll use if you feel like giving up on the walk?

The main thing will be to distract myself. If we can spend the time chatting and gossiping, or I can focus on the upcoming food then hopefully the thoughts of giving up won’t enter my mind.

Are there any wildlife that you’re concerned about meeting on the walk? Sheep, cows, snakes, pigs, or anything else?!

I’d rather not see a snake if I’m honest, and a night-time cow encounter could be problematic too, but I think I can deal with most of the expected wildlife. This is, of course, if my walking partner doesn’t decide to start saying the word ‘bull’ as I’m halfway across a field…. [can I just note, I was reading aloud the huge sign which said “DANGER – BULL IN FIELD” that Nathan had meandered by, it wasn’t my fault Nathan rushed back thinking I had actually seen a bull in the field]

Would you say you’re looking forward to it?

Yes and no. I’m looking forward to the experience and hopefully the achievement. I’m less enthused about the inevitable soreness, tiredness and all-round grumpiness.

Do you have a time in mind of how long it’ll take you to finish?

I will be more than happy with finishing within the 48 hours time limit, but I think aiming for 42 hours is achievable and sensible to give us leeway.

How will you celebrate when you finish?

With a very long lie-down!

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering the 100, or thinking about doing a 50 mile challenge event, who might be a bit nervous?

Even in these strange times, the walking community has been friendly and welcoming to a relative novice like me. It’s a great opportunity to learn about your limits, discover the places around you and to meet people from different walks of life. I’d also say that unlike a lot of other events, if you pull up short for whatever reason then it’s not a failure or a wasted day, you’ve still been able to enjoy a nice walk!

On the 29 to 31 May 2021, the LDWA’s 100 mile event will be taking place. Unfortunately, national restrictions mean that the Y 100 Sir Fynwy won’t be taking place as hoped, when in more normal times the South Wales group would have welcomed hundreds of walkers. Instead, there is the chance for entrants to walk a 100-mile route of their choice anywhere in the country, so the event has more of a national feel this year. And it’s fine to enter to do a shorter distance, with anyone walking 50 miles in 24 hours qualifying for the 2022 Trans-Pennine 100.

I’m taking part in the 100 and I’ve been compiling some resources relating to that. When the new LDWA web-site is launched, this and lots more other material relating to the event will be copied there. Over the next few weeks, I’m speaking (well, writing) to entrants on the 100 and following their efforts up to, and after, the big day. We’ll be using the text from these interviews and updates on social media and also perhaps in Strider, the LDWA’s rather excellent magazine which is sent to our 10,000 members. Hopefully it’ll help inform, educate and inspire others to take part or become involved with the LDWA in other ways.

For anyone who wants to take part in the event, have a look at the SI Entries page, or further information at the LDWA’s web-site.

This interview is with Kathy Finkel, who is taking part with Dennis Johnson. I very much like the idea about throwing insults to build up a rage, I might try this with Nathan on our walk. That might encourage him on.

On the 29 to 31 May 2021, the LDWA’s 100 mile event will be taking place. Unfortunately, national restrictions mean that the Y 100 Sir Fynwy won’t be taking place as hoped, when in more normal times the South Wales group would have welcomed hundreds of walkers. Instead, there is the chance for entrants to walk a 100-mile route of their choice anywhere in the country, so the event has more of a national feel this year. And it’s fine to enter to do a shorter distance, with anyone walking 50 miles in 24 hours qualifying for the 2022 Trans-Pennine 100.

I’m taking part in the 100 and I’ve been compiling some resources relating to that. When the new LDWA web-site is launched, this and lots more other material relating to the event will be copied there. Over the next few weeks, I’m speaking (well, writing) to entrants on the 100 and following their efforts up to, and after, the big day. We’ll be using the text from these interviews and updates on social media and also perhaps in Strider, the LDWA’s rather excellent magazine which is sent to our 10,000 members. Hopefully it’ll help inform, educate and inspire others to take part or become involved with the LDWA in other ways.

For anyone who wants to take part in the event, have a look at the SI Entries page, or further information at the LDWA’s web-site.

This interview is with Tim Ryan, from the Cornwall & Devon group and his proposed route is on Komoot.

Is this your first 100?

No, although I was a late starter (and sometimes a late finisher) to the LDWA Challenges. My first LDWA challenge walk was the wonderful “Six Dales Circuit” organised by Staffordshire Group – which I completed on my 60th birthday. I have since completed 4 100’s – 5 if you count last years “virtual”, which I really enjoyed. The above picture is a “virtual” of me at the “virtual” start – wondering why it was so quiet! In reality of course I completed the event from my home in Mid-Devon.

What route are you planning to take?

I have a few options open, and a lot depends on local restrictions. However most likely I will be walking the “Exe 100” from home, a route which I have put together from bits of local walks, social walks which I managed to squeeze in to lead groups of 6 last year as well as parts of a couple of long-distance paths – The Two Moors Way and Exe Valley Way. Having started to put this together in case I needed a local option should restrictions demand, I began to see that this is not such a bad route, so why not do it anyhow? It is a circular route which includes the upper Exe valley in Mid Devon, visiting Exmoor’s highest point at Dunkery Beacon and the source of both the Exe and the Barle on Exmoor.

Are you following a GPX route, a map, or do you already know your route well?

All of the above. I have put the route together as described and have saved it as a gpx as well as posting it on the Virtual Hundred Komoot site. I am carrying out reccies using a map, on the few bits I don’t know – but will of course take a map on the event. But by and large am familiar with the route. I am in the process of writing a route description should anyone else wish to walk the route.

What training are you undertaking at the moment?

Nothing specific just now. I have been on reasonably high mileage since coming out of quarantine, averaging over 300 miles a month the past 3 months. Originally In December because I was leading social walks every weekend and reccie-ing the rest of the week. Since lockdown I have been taking on the various virtual challenges being put on by LDWA and local groups. Something I am very grateful for.

Do you think this will be easier or harder than the actual 100 that is traditionally held?

Too soon to say. It would be a mistake if I was to think it was going to be easy, they never are. Nor would I want them to be, I guess we do them because they are difficult not because they are easy. Route finding should be easier, but no village halls without a sit down, a warm welcome and excellent food. That is a different challenge.

What food treats are you taking with you?

Jelly babies will be involved. There are also a couple of potential pub stops (if open). Wouldn’t be the first pubs I had visited on Hundreds. I will have some support at “checkpoints” so should be ok for food.

What tactics do you think you’ll use if you feel like giving up on the walk?

Best not to think about it. But at the end of the day – we do this for fun and enjoyment. If that’s not happening anymore, leave it. Come back another day, do not make any injuries worse. I think this is a good opportunity for anyone thinking about a Hundred to give it a go – without the same pressures that walking with many potentially more experienced walkers may bring.

Are there any wildlife that you’re concerned about meeting on the walk? Sheep, cows, snakes, pigs, or anything else?!

No none, well not much. I was leading a Ramblers walk a couple of years back when I was attacked by a cow and knocked down twice. So I am more wary of cattle than I ever used to be. But that’s about all. Not keen on packs of dogs, but you don’t get those so much in this Country.

Do you have any foot care tips?

Good fitting boots and talc. Don’t skimp on the cost of boots any more than you have to. Get what feels most comfortable (if you can afford them).

Will you have anyone cheering you on and giving encouragement during the walk?

Yes I think there may be 2 or 3 of us on the walk (restrictions permitting) and with promise of some support and back-up. As well as witness testimonies!

Would you say you’re looking forward to it?

Yes, definitely.

Do you have a time in mind of how long it’ll take you to finish?

No not really. I have always tried to get back in daylight on day 2, so about 36 hours – but never quite managed it. Its not that big a deal though, just keep going – you have paid for 48 hours after all. Last year of the event was my first over 40 hours for reasons those taking part will fully understand! And those that didn’t will have heard about. I didn’t feel any less satisfied at that achievement than faster years. I would say the Hadrian’s Hundred was an excellent route and as usual with these events very well organised.

Do you have any advice for others, one top tip about long distance walking?

For the Hundred it is “don’t think about it as a hundred miles” – but a dozen or so medium length walks from one food stop to the next. 100 miles is just too daunting a prospect – until you’ve finished!

What would you say to anyone thinking about entering the 100, or thinking about doing a 50 mile challenge event, who might be a bit nervous?

Do it, but have as your primary objective to enjoy it. It’s 2 days of your holiday so have a great time, and good luck.

This was our eleventh walk in preparation for the 2021 LDWA 100.

WALK NUMBER: 11 (Faffing about near Surlingham)

DISTANCE COVERED: 17.8 miles

NUMBER OF NATHAN’S FRIENDS WE “ACCIDENTALLY” BUMP INTO: 3

SUFFICIENT BEER CONSUMED: No (all the pubs are shut)

PUBS VISITED: 0 (not through choice)

WEATHER CONDITIONS: Moist

ATTACKED BY ANIMALS: No

NUMBER OF SNAKES SEEN: 0

We didn’t set out today with any particular route in mind, but we did want to walk some of the Wherryman’s Way, which will be the first half of the path we’re taking on our actual LDWA 100 effort. So, that’s where we started and since I didn’t take any food along with me, we couldn’t go anywhere too rural for the entire day.

Nathan pointed this building out, which we’ve walked by many times, and I realised that I didn’t have a clue what it was. I’m not an urban explorer, as I’m not brave enough, but, fortunately, someone has done that already and taken photos of what’s there.

Here’s a map from around a century ago, showing at the time that the site was the Norwich Corporation’s sewage works. The buildings were constructed between 1865 and 1871 under the supervision of Joseph Bazalgette, best known for his work on sewage systems in London. They’ve now been superseded by Whitlingham Sewage Works, but the buildings remain and are in a decent condition.

One of the wooden sculptures at Whitlingham Lake.

We set off along Wherryman’s Way walking along the river and this is Woods End. It started to rain quite hard during this time, so this wasn’t looking like the more ideal of days for meandering around, but it stopped after about an hour and didn’t return. Perhaps quite usefully, the route wasn’t at all busy and we didn’t see that many people during the entire day.

It has been a wet few months and much of the area was either flooded or quite damp.

Well, and quite muddy as well.

We had a little meander around St. Mary’s Church in Surlingham.

When we were walking down the road a local resident mentioned that there was quite a flood up ahead. Always hunting for some form of adventure (OK, it’s true that walking down a flooded road isn’t that adventurous, but we are a bit limited at the moment) we thought this sounded more exciting than off-putting.

I had my phone ready to capture anyone (and I won’t name names) who might have slipped over into the water and although that didn’t happen, this is how moist the area was. It’s certainly not ideal.

After Nathan had climbed over the stile I helpfully said the words “bull in field” just to warn him of the potential danger. He interpreted that as my having seen a bull in the field, and I was impressed at how fast he was able to return. It shows what excellent reactions he has, which will prove useful in the event of a snake attack during the warmer months when adders and grass snakes flood into the area.

Mud, which was really rather quite slippy. Not ideal. There were also numerous fields like this where the line of the public footpath isn’t marked out even in the most basic of forms.

Walking past the solar farm at Yelverton, fiercely opposed by many residents when it was announced in 2014, but it certainly makes an impression of the landscape as it’s a pretty huge site.

The Old Water Tower on Framingham Earl Lane, which appears to have been converted into a residential property given the letter box arrangement.

We did think about getting chips, but the excitement of a One Stop meal deal proved just too much to turn down. We were quite impressed at the efforts made by One Stop to offer a selection of craft beer and although we didn’t get any today, there’s definitely a tide turning where shops are focusing more on decent beers and less on other alcoholic drinks and generic lagers.

We had a choice of two routes back from Arminghall into the city, and we perhaps chose the wrong one as this one was rather muddier than we expected. But, neither of us complained….. Well, not for long anyway.

This is the sand and gravel quarry near to Trowse, which is one hell of a hole in the ground now. I’m hoping that they turn this into some water park arrangement when they’ve finished their digging, perhaps with a Greggs and decent pub there as well to serve visitors.

The collections box on Boudicca Way, which has some random pottery which has been found in the field and some feathers…..

A horse which stared at me in what I thought was quite a disdainful manner. I think I need to get out more….

And back into Norwich, this is one of the warehouses beside the River Wensum which I suspect will be transformed by property developers over the next couple of decades. It took us some time to get back into the city centre as we had to keep stopping so Nathan could talk to his friends that we kept bumping into. We had a variety of people on this one, including work colleagues and a former teacher…..

In terms of the walk itself, it was only 18 miles and that’s obviously a long way short of the 100 miles LDWA challenge that we’re planning. But, there were no problems during the way and so it was useful to get some distance in given the current limitations that we have. We had hoped to walk Wherryman’s Way in its entirety again, but we can’t use public transport to get to Great Yarmouth at the moment, although hopefully that might change.

As for the write-up of today, that’s the best I can do with the route we chose, which was quite a lot of wet footpaths and river banks and it’s territory that we’ve walked along before. It’s still what I’d call a training walk though, so I didn’t want it to pass by without making at least a brief reference to it.