Running like the wind or perhaps running from the hail?

February 24, 2008 on 9:31 pm | In Hillwalking, Uncategorized |

Sometimes the Hebrides has the ability to take your breath away both physically and methaphorically.

As the final run in the training for the Mighty Deer Stalker next weekend, I went out with Mike. Mike had just bought a new camera and was keen to take some pictures. So with the blue skies punctuated with vicious showers we decided to go for a run. Mike suggested the West Coast of Lewis from the Gearrannan Black House Village up to Shawbost where we parked my car. Jayne dropped us off and was then going to take the kid’s for a walk.

The wind was a strong westerly so we were in for a push but the thing is westerlies bring showers.

The first hill was a killer and I was glad when Mike stopped to get the camera out.

Running on, we rose and fell to reach each headland, time and again we were treated to another stunning vista.

The running was varied with very little level ground, I am convinced there was more up hill than down though.

As we ran, we became aware of an impending sense of doom, each time we glanced over our shoulders there was gathering cloud, threatening to deliver its payload on us.

It was noticable the pace quickened and as we crested the hill above Dalbeag, we were suddenly being pushed along by the freshening wind. First there was a few flecks of rain in the air, then the rain got a little harder, then it got much ‘harder’ as it turned to hail. By this time we were hurtling head long over the bog, we could see the car, all be it about half a mile away. The dogs were haring in front of us, perhaps a sign?

The backs of my legs were stinging, to the point I thought it might cut the skin. Through the pain I heard Mike’s cheery comment ‘Just wait until they get to the size of golf balls’. I ran faster.

The shelter of the car was a welcome restbite and the heater even better.

Thanks to Mike for the pictures, I am looking fowards to more runs with the camera . ‘Oh look there is a great picture … shall we stop for a second?’

Tim Pickering
http://www.canoehebrides.com
My regular mantra - Everyone should visit the Outer Hebrides, it is the extreme outdoor capital of Scotland. CanoeHebrides.com - Sea kayaking Expeditions BikeHebrides.com -Quality Mountain Bike Hire