Norwood

Took the bike out for it's first proper outing today. Got lost on the way so it took two hours, but saw some seldom seen parts of the district and ended up at Norwood.
Friction was superb but landings are all a bit dodgy as there are tree stumps every where and there is lots of vertical leaf litter. The situation is a bit post apocalyptic. In all I was a bit disappointed but it was a great ride and I did find one thing I was prepared to climb.


iPhoned this

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Lord's Seat

First proper mission of the year went to Lord's Seat- up on Barden Fell- to celebrate my birthday. We only had the afternoon but the guide said it was a 30-35 minute walk, so off we went up the hill. 1 hour later we finally got there! That said, it was a stunning (if strenuous) walk in, and the climbing well worth it.

First impression was of the quality of the gritstone- not only was it unbelievably sticky, but there were some jug-sized pebbles going on as well. So great friction, and sore fingers. Second was the range of climbing- from kid-friendly scrambles, easy slabs, solos, to more complicated roof problems. Given our abilities (V0-3) we were spolit for choice, but limited by time. We warmed up on the furthest outcrop, scared ourselves on the Front Bay, and were just getting into the South Face problems when got rained off. That said, the grit was easy to climb with damp shoes as most of the ground was wet, so I reckon you could climb in the drizzle there quite happily.

Definitely somewhere to return to, but next time for a full day and hopefully better weather.

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Starters for me

First day outdoors this years and mixed results. Predictably rusty and as ever shocked the holds aren't coloured after so long indoors.

Got a couple of moves further on the crucifix traverse until My arms gave in. should go soon, as I just have to link it now. Having done both bits before. Its very physical though, two goes and your done at this time of year. That pretty much finished me off so it was pleasant pootling in the sunshine other than  a token hang on the Virgin Traverse which just laughed at me.

On the upside definitely feeling a little stronger than last year so hopefully the results will come. No injuries and it was outside.

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