Brutal Dartmoor!

Early into run

Well I thought I would brave the barren world that is Dartmoor for a long training run. With the incoming snow imminently due, I set off from Tavistock with a planned route through the moors to Dousland and up to Princetown (home of Dartmoor Prison) then back to Tavistock.

A circular route across some of the most exposed parts of the moor and a total ascent of around 1,800 feet. Being only my second run of the fortnight, I was expecting it to hurt, but add the complication of snow, sleight and sub-zero temperatures and it was one of the most brutal runs I have ever done.

The early parts of the run were very comfortable, light snow and cold but moving well and not too many taxing hills.

Passing through the village of Dousland and picking up the road from Yelverton to Princetown the terrain and environment shows why Dartmoor is a barren place. The temperature dropped and roads disappeared miles in the distance.

The weather takes a turn for the worst and the snow gets heavier and the problem is the moor provides you no protection from the elements.

10 miles into the run and I arrive at the prison town of Princetown and just short of the highest altitude of 1,500ft, the weather takes another turn for the worst and snow gives way to driving sleight and wind.

I can see why they put the prison here, any inmate who contemplates a break out has no chance in the surroundings, especially this time of year!!!

Knowing I have 8 miles to go, I have to dig deep into my mental reserves, knowing though that it is nearly all down hill all the way. The roads wind down towards the Dartmoor Inn, and if I had a few quid I would have been tempted to dive in for shelter and a cup of tea! But no, relentless forward progress is the only way to go.

As I get closer to my destination, the legs are starting to feel heavier and heavier, but still maintaining the steady pace I am motivated to carry on. Then at last I approach the welcoming sign to Tavistock and with another dip into my reserves I grit my teeth for the final 2 miles.

It is not the furthest distance I have run, but the terrain, surroundings and weather makes it one of the most brutal runs I have ever done. 17.35 miles in 3 hours and 15 minutes makes me satisfied. And with only two weeks till the first Ultra Marathon in London. I am more positive that I can finish it, as long as I slow the pace. I know there won't be the same hills and terrain for this one!!!!