LDWA - Awesome Events

15th July Hannington Hike - 14+ wonderful miles with Christian & Dario through challenging Northampton shire Countryside.

If you haven't yet discovered the -The Long Distance Walking Association - (The LDWA is an Association of people with the common interest of walking long distances in rural, mountainous or moorland areas) take a look.

As a runner look out for the "challenge events" which are open to runners & walkers - You can do an annual membership for around £13 solo or just under £20 as a family - the events usually range from £7 - £20, all run by the amazingly friendly volunteers with awesome CP & lots of homemade cake !

My first experience of an LDWA event was the Coventry 40 a few years ago - not sure how I managed to run 40 miles & eat so much, including the jacket spud at the end - yes they even feed you once you have finished!

The routes are generally unmarked, you are provided with route descriptions & maps available to download from the site & most have a GPS file available also. It is a great opportunity to learn how to navigate a course without the time pressure of other organised events.

Don't expect any bling or timing mats - you can purchase a badge, what you do get is a friendly welcome, really well stocked Checkpoints, a fun day out with no time pressure - you can run, walk, hike - your time is recorded - there are usually 3 distances to choose from, Marathon distances do count towards the 100MC club (most are listed) - all for under a tenner!

Yesterday we chose to do the short route 14 miles, that suited all of us given the heat of the day, it was Dario's first proper trail he did amazingly well & enjoyed, for me tapering has started for the NDW100. The boys were great company - what better way to spend a Sunday morning, stunning countryside, laughs, selfies, sunshine - amazing lemon squash & peaches at the CP & a pint of bitter at the finish.

Thank you Beds Bucks & Northants for a great event

www.ldwa.org.uk/bedsbucksandnorthants

see you at the Sundon Saunter

Happy Running x