Introduction

The Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge route leaves Pooley Bridge to traverse 30 summits over a distance of 48 miles and climbs 16,000 feet (77km, 4877m).

The inaugural run from Pooley Bridge to Wasdale was made by Joss Naylor in 1990, at the age of 54; in very bad weather with heavy rain and a strong SW wind Joss completed the run to Greendale Bridge in 11 hours and 30 minutes.

Chris Brasher offered engraved pewter tankards to the first 20 runners to do so with the proviso that they raised at least £100 for a charity of their own choice. In January 1997, with 17 tankards already awarded, Chris extended his sponsorship. In 2001, with 33 tankards awarded, Joss secured on-going sponsorship for the tankards.

The challenge is offered to fell runners over the age of 50 to complete the run in set times according to their age group. The challenge is intended to be a "supported run" for individuals - each contender is to be accompanied on every leg for safety reasons and unaccompanied attempts will not be recognised. There is more information on the Challenge Details page below.

If you are interested, please have a look at the Challenge Details, download a schedule or contact me using the email address on the Challenge Details page.

Tuesday 7 December 2021

Mark Seddon (M55) - 26 June 2021

 After a year of cancelled races, I felt in need of something to aim for in 2021. The JNLC provided a suitable focus and motivation for spring training.

This was the first supported long distance challenge I have done – in my younger days I was always focused on mountain marathons and orienteering races.

The night before a pleasant evening was spent in the Kirkstone Inn with a few of the support team before sorting out kit and heading off to the campsite at Pooley Bridge.

The weather on the day was ideal in temperature/wind terms but the cloud level was quite low.

A 6am start with Dan and Marcus (fellow Horwich runners) saw us ascend into the clag well before Arthur’s Pike. Dan did a great job on the navigation with just a couple of minor wobbles in the mist. Descending to Kirkstone we just about dropped out of the clag and was met at the car park by Josie. Leg 1 – 2:58

After a quick bowl of cereal and a cup of tea, I headed off up Red Screes and back into the clag with Chris and Duncan. I used some newly purchased ‘poles’ on the ascent – not sure if they were a help or hindrance but certainly added some variety. No problems with navigation in the mist and we made good time. Descending Seat Sandal we dropped out of the clag to find Dunmail bathed in sunshine. Leg 2 – 2:05

Next was the steep climb up Steel Fell with Matt and Tony. The clag level was lifting a little so leg 3 was clear until climbing onto Bowfell. The mist made it tricky to find the best line off Great End. This and my slow descending on the steep rocky stuff meant I lost a bit of time on the schedule here. Leg 3 – 3:42

Josie joined us at Styhead with Matt continuing for the final leg. She kept me well fed on peeled satsumas which were a nice change from the usual sweet stuff. The mist finally cleared after Kirkfell and it turned into a nice sunny afternoon with great views. It was great to finally get to Middle Fell and then jog down to the finish and shake hands with Joss. Leg 4 – 4:20

Total 13:05

Descending Kirkfell

Steeple

Middle Fell

Approaching Greendale Bridge

With Joss at the finish

It was a great enjoyable day out with great support. Many thanks to Dan Gilbert, Marcus Taylor, Duncan Harris, Chris Taylor, Matt Driver, Tony Marlow and Josie Greenhalgh for your efforts over the weekend.

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