Cool runnings.....

Santiago called and we were on for a lunchtime run. It was cold, baltic cold. The ground was frozen, the air still but there was a level of enthusiam that warmed even the coldest parts.

We set off up the Col du Carnock which dragged the freezing air into the lungs and challenged the burning quads. Not only was the air temperature still low but the ground was entirely frozen. We slip slided away until we reached the bottom of hill by which time the road was dry.

We chatted about our week. Santiago confessed to feeling a little jaded after the bike run on Saturday but it was a hard ride so we were all a bit tired after pushing a big gear. After reaching Cairneyhill we turned towards Crossford and then almost immediately off road and onto the track that leads back up to Crossford. The ground was frozen which was a relief because it would have been very muddy if it hadn't been!

We charged on back up to the Dean Plantation. Through the forest and up the hills to the main road. We pushed hard at the start but I fear went too early as we laboured up the last of the hill.

The drop down to the bike path was welcome. We met with some guys coming off the path with there bike - it was incredibly slippy.

An hour done - good mix of terraine and conditions. It was good. Despite the cold I warmed up very quickly and I enjoyed the run much more than I anticipated. Running with a partner is motivational, it passes the time quickly and encourages improved performance.

I'm still a runner turned biker rather than a biker. Having said that I love biking.