158 replies to this topic

[rodthehornet]

Time:      7.00am
Date:      Australia Day, Saturday, 26th January 2008
Where:    
Entrance, Blue Mountains National Park, Bruce Road, Glenbrook
Distance:
Full route 42.5km.  Will put a witches hat out at 21km turnaround.
Plenty of options just by removing trail spurs for 30-35km

Drinks:      
Water will be put out at 14/24km intersection and Euroka Clearing (33km).  Any sports bottles can be left in drop crates and I will organise for them to be driven out onto the course.  Dont rely on the drops for your water.  I would recommend carrying at least 2 litres and fill up on the route.

Maps:        
Attached is my Garmin map of a recent run.  Note one extra spur in the bottom left is not part of the course (wont get out beforehand to remap course).  I may lose this link soon as I am on the motion based free plan so if anyone knows how to save it, please feel free, and add to the thread.

I will also attach a mud map of the Park that has the route and distances pencilled in, together with topographic maps of the area.  Unfortunately I have problems attaching files to my posts, so will send to someone to upload.

Course Description:
Course leaves entrance and follows Oaks Trail to Oaks Picnic area.  Left turn there and out to Nepean Lookout.  Back to Pigsah Ridge Fire Trail that heads east adjacent to Breakfast Creek.  Turnaround at botom and trace your steps back to Oaks Picnic area.  Follow Oaks Trail down to Bennetts Ridge Track and head along track into Euroka Clearing.  Loop around clearing to the billy goat climb up the hill.  Then follow trail to Portal Lookout, return via Tunnel View Lookout and back to the causeway for a swim.

General
This course has been posted previously and it has a bit for everyone.  Plenty of hills, fire trail running, single track running, Oaks trail downhill and one billy goat climb.  Also captures three lookouts and a nice spur down near Nepean Lookout, adjacent to Breakfast Creek.

This works in about 7 weeks prior to 6 foot track, and the week prior to Megalong Mega.  It is easily accessible from the city by either train or car.  This is not as tough as Megalong, but is a good trail hitout.

As it is Australia Day, it will be considered unpatriotic not to display the Australian flag in some shape or form, on or about yourself.  The national anthem will be played at the commencement of the run.  All runners will be expected to sing the national anthem.

Run will finish at the Glenbrook causeway where you can have a nice swim to cool down.  BYO a couple of post run beers to celebrate the day with friends.

Hope to see you all out there.


Cheers
Rod

http://trail.motionb...pkValue=4038639

Edited by rodthehornet, 12 November 2007 - 08:43 PM.

[Spud]

Sounds great Rod,

As discussed here are some additional files from the April 1st run earlier this year.
Note: I lost satellite connection from Euroka to the turn off for the climb to Portal Lookout.

 glenbrook_gallop.gpx   303.99K   27 downloads
 glenbrook_gallop.jpg   90.69K   43 downloads
 glenbrook_gallop_elevation.jpg   123.61K   42 downloads

Edited by Spud, 13 November 2007 - 07:04 AM.

[SlowManiac]

I will most likely be a starter - if Rod will allow it after I made him wait over an hour for me on the last Fatass he organised!

I had better get learning your National Anthem too.

[Innes]

Sounds great Rod.

Count me in.

[rodthehornet]

Thanks Spud.  Other maps and files should be on the thread in the next day or so.


Rod

[inganbangan]

I should be there, but probably won't complete the full fatathon.

[scurry711]

Here are some maps of the Australia Day run provided by The Hornet. I have reduced the size of them so I could get them onto this website, if you want the larger sized files contact The Hornet direct. First is a mud map of the race, second and third are topo maps.

[rodthehornet]

##Bump##

Kev just added this one to the fatass site.  Thanks mate.

If anyone is interested Scurry and I are planning on camping under the stars at Euroka on Friday night.  Probably take mountain bikes out and have a cruise along the course on the Friday afternoon, followed by a BBQ and a couple of beers.  


Cheers
Rod

[Whippet gal]

Bring it on!

[BasilBrush]

rodthehornet, on Dec 4 2007, 06:34 PM, said:

##Bump##

Kev just added this one to the fatass site.  Thanks mate.

If anyone is interested Scurry and I are planning on camping under the stars at Euroka on Friday night.  Probably take mountain bikes out and have a cruise along the course on the Friday afternoon, followed by a BBQ and a couple of beers.  
Cheers
Rod

Rod, it's not clear where the slack 21km runners like me turn off...will it be sraightforward?

[rodthehornet]

BasilBrush, on Dec 5 2007, 02:12 PM, said:

Rod, it's not clear where the slack 21km runners like me turn off...will it be sraightforward?

It will probably be to Oaks campground, then return to Euroka via Bennetts Ridge fire trail, out to Portal Lookout and back to causeway.  That works out about 23-24kms.  Only a couple of km over a half, but gets you out to a couple of lookouts which are nice.

I could work an exact 21.1, but you would proably miss the lookouts (plus the pain of the Portal climb).  Wouldnt want you to miss out on all the fun.    


Cheers
Rod

[scurry711]

Hornet, if you run from the rangers station directly up to the gate at the Oaks, turn around and run to Euroka via Bennett's Ridge trail then run back to the ranger station it is almost spot on 20k's. To make it 21 would only be a matter of adding 500m on the road towards Nepean Lookout. I like this run except for the two tough climbs home!

[scurry711]

*BUMP*

Just a reminder that this one is coming up soon. Rod and I are still planning on camping the night down in Euroka the night before and doing the water drops in the morning pre run. (Feel free to join us. An evening mountain bike ride is planned. The camping area is absolutely beautiful and full of Kangaroos). Last year we had about 15 or so for the Australia Day Andersons Fire trail run so I hope we can match that number this year. An indication that you might be coming would be good so we know how many to cater for in relation to water drops etc, but feel free to turn up unannounced, a la Terry...

Edited by scurry711, 02 January 2008 - 08:13 PM.

[vstaR]

Count me in!

[shogun]

I am planning on running the full course minus the climb up to Mt Portal on Friday morning before work. I will take the camera out and try and post some photos either on CR or my blog.

[Horrie]

I will probably end up doing a version of this run, either with or without BlueBel. It is a bit cheaper than going down to Victoria to do Mansfield to Mt Buller.

[Innes]

Horrie, on Jan 1 2008, 08:59 PM, said:

I will probably end up doing a version of this run, either with or without BlueBel. It is a bit cheaper than going down to Victoria to do Mansfield to Mt Buller.

Hey guys

I have some family commitments in the afternoon but am keen on a nice 42 k's in the morning.
How long would we expect to be completing this run in>?

Would midday be possible or dreaming?

[rodthehornet]

Innes,

Budget about 4 hours if you push yourself and 4.5 hours if you take it easy.  Probably on a rough par with Fitzroy Falls in terms of terrain.

As Scurry posted, I know there are plenty of lurkers, but we just need an idea of numbers.  I will do the water drops and a few goodies on the course, but without rough numbers it is difficult to work out provisions.  There is no tank water on the course that I know of, so just want to make sure there is plenty for all.  

I will have a few foam crates and will do the drops at the 12km mark which is also 24km mark.  There will also be a drop in Euroka at the 33km mark and the causeway/finish.  That will give 3 drops at regular intervals.  

I will meet everyone at the start and then drive the crates out (unless there is a crew fairy out there keen to help).  This will give you a chance to drop your own bottles in the crates as well if you want something on the course.  I will do a shorter run from the 12km mark and my car will be out there.  All the crates will be back at the finish with your bottles.

Just might need a hand in the mornng with some ice.  We will be in the park and they close the gates.  The gates wont be open at 7am so we cant get out with the car.  Dont fancy riding back from the service station with bags of ice.  Might also need another 15L container, but will sort this all out closer to the day.

Thanks.  Hope to see you out there.  Dont forget to brush up on the words of the national anthem - and no Innes, Brick, Tallgeoff, Kevin or any other UK invader that does not mean God Save the Queen - Spud you are okay.

Cheers
Rod

[Reddog]

Hi Rod  Book me in for at least the 32k option will bring ice, extra water etc

[Brick]

rodthehornet, on Jan 3 2008, 09:49 PM, said:

Dont forget to brush up on the words of the national anthem - and no Innes, Brick, Tallgeoff, Kevin or any other UK invader that does not mean God Save the Queen - Spud you are okay.

   You crack me up Rod.
I am maybe at the moment, it is all up to what the family is doing.

Brick

[Innes]

I am a definate Rod, for the 42 K's.
I have already learned Waltzing Matilda the aussie anthem.
I will speak to you closer to the time about ice and stuff mate.

Innes

[Spud]

rodthehornet, on Jan 3 2008, 09:49 PM, said:

Dont forget to brush up on the words of the national anthem - and no Innes, Brick, Tallgeoff, Kevin or any other UK invader that does not mean God Save the Queen - Spud you are okay.

Cheers
Rod

Jeez so many pommie CRs amongst us    Rod I remember crossing my fingers behind my back as I swore allegiance to the Queen on Citizenship Day back in the 90s. Know all the words to the Aussie Anthem though and am happy to join in.

Slainte

Spud

[Mister G]

Definite possible.....

[Running Angel]

Spud, on Jan 4 2008, 09:03 AM, said:

Jeez so many pommie CRs amongst us    Rod I remember crossing my fingers behind my back as I swore allegiance to the Queen on Citizenship Day back in the 90s. Know all the words to the Aussie Anthem though and am happy to join in.

Slainte

Spud

Unfortunately I am not yet a citizen and don't know the words to the National Anthem - am I banned or can I still come?

Would be up for doing the 32k option if there is anyone else around my pace (ie slow). Is it suitable for an inexperienced trail runner like myself? Only trails I have run are Woodford to Glenbrook, part of Megalong Mega and Bulls Head.

Cheers

[Spud]

Running Angel, on Jan 4 2008, 01:02 PM, said:

Unfortunately I am not yet a citizen and don't know the words to the National Anthem - am I banned or can I still come?

Would be up for doing the 32k option if there is anyone else around my pace (ie slow). Is it suitable for an inexperienced trail runner like myself? Only trails I have run are Woodford to Glenbrook, part of Megalong Mega and Bulls Head.

Cheers

Running Angel,

According to the fatass creed of:

No fees
No awards,
No wimps

Nothing in there about "no slow runners"

This course does have a few hills in there but if you've managed W2G and Megalong, you'll be fine.

Cheers

Spud

[Running Angel]

Spud, on Jan 4 2008, 01:13 PM, said:

Running Angel,

According to the fatass creed of:

No fees
No awards,
No wimps

Nothing in there about "no slow runners"

This course does have a few hills in there but if you've managed W2G and Megalong, you'll be fine.

Cheers

Spud

Thanks Spud.

Put me down as a maybe, depending on transport. Also would prefer to have someone to run with rather than on my own as I'm always worried about getting lost!

[rodthehornet]

Thanks guys for the offers of help.  Will speak closer and line things up.

Running Angel, if you can read a street directory, you can follow this course.  This trail is very doable and I reckon even Milov would not get lost    .  No rocky sections, bit of a bush climb, but nothing to worry you.  I would suggest you drop the spur down at Nepean Lookout and that will give you 32km.  That way you get all the lookouts.  I am sure there will be a few to keep you company.


Rod

[scurry711]

Also if you have transport problems, the start is only about 1km from the Glenbrook Rail Station.

[vstaR]

Rod, having recently moved I now have an empty chest freezer, and I'm not far from Glenbrook. Just let me know how many bags of ice you want and I'll hand them over at the Ranger station pre-run.

vstaR

[GraeGrae]

Put me down as a probable for about 32k.

[Running Angel]

rodthehornet, on Jan 4 2008, 06:33 PM, said:

Thanks guys for the offers of help.  Will speak closer and line things up.

Running Angel, if you can read a street directory, you can follow this course.  This trail is very doable and I reckon even Milov would not get lost    .  No rocky sections, bit of a bush climb, but nothing to worry you.  I would suggest you drop the spur down at Nepean Lookout and that will give you 32km.  That way you get all the lookouts.  I am sure there will be a few to keep you company.
Rod

Thanks for that Rod, I am a definite possibility! Especially if I can get there easily from the station

[CoolwalkerDavid]

Rod - I want to see you guys for a short while - only problem is I am in a pantomime with a matinee and evening performance so don't want to get too tired so will play it by ear - but out of the Nepean fun-run and your baby I know which I would prefer.

Probably a slowish 12-15k ( perhaps Euroka and the lookout) will be enough for me though this time.

All the best

David

Edited by coolwalker david nee newborn, 07 January 2008 - 02:18 PM.

[CoolwalkerDavid]

Spud, on Jan 4 2008, 01:13 PM, said:

Running Angel,

According to the fatass creed of:

No fees
No awards,
No wimps

Nothing in there about "no slow runners"

This course does have a few hills in there but if you've managed W2G and Megalong, you'll be fine.

Cheers

Spud

There's nothing about slow walkers either - that's the good bit!!

[Koala1]

Hello - been thinking about this for a little while - put me down as a maybe.  Sounds a good one - just depends on other committments.

RA - if I am there, would be up for the 32 as well - we can chat on saturday.

[Running Angel]

Koala1, on Jan 7 2008, 09:01 PM, said:

Hello - been thinking about this for a little while - put me down as a maybe.  Sounds a good one - just depends on other committments.

RA - if I am there, would be up for the 32 as well - we can chat on saturday.

Hi Koala1

That would be good, I would much prefer to have some company. You may be a little faster than me on the trails (due to my lack of experience) but I'll do my best not to slow you down too much!

Will see you Saturday

[CoolwalkerDavid]

Rod - I will have more time than I thought - so might try somewhere between 32 and 42 this time !

I presume unless I start very early everyone will be gone by the time I finish - such is life

David

[Running Angel]

My train will get into Glenbrook at 6.53am so cutting it a bit fine - will the start be at 7am sharp?

[scurry711]

Approx 1km from train station to ranger station, you will be fine.

[moh]

Looks like I am a starter for this as well.  Not sure about the 42, but definitely 30-32 for me.  

Thanks Hornet and Scurry for organising!

Cheers
moh

[rodthehornet]

Good work RA - train is fine.  As Scurry said it is about 1km downhill to the start.  You should arrive just in time for the national anthem.  Just bring a bag with change of clothes and towel and you can throw in the back of my car.  

Moh - will be good to see you out there.  32km is a great run, but I am sure you would be right for full monty.

David - Just make sure you pack a bottle for Euroka.  I will leave it out if you havent passed thru when I pack up.  

Vstar is going to help with water/ice at the stops, but dont forget if you want sports drink etc, I will drop out there.  I will also put soft drink on the course - some coke and solo.


Cheers
Hornet

[Brick]

rodthehornet, on Jan 9 2008, 07:38 PM, said:

Good work RA - train is fine.  As Scurry said it is about 1km downhill to the start.  You should arrive just in time for the national anthem.  Just bring a bag with change of clothes and towel and you can throw in the back of my car.  

Moh - will be good to see you out there.  32km is a great run, but I am sure you would be right for full monty.

David - Just make sure you pack a bottle for Euroka.  I will leave it out if you havent passed thru when I pack up.  

Vstar is going to help with water/ice at the stops, but dont forget if you want sports drink etc, I will drop out there.  I will also put soft drink on the course - some coke and solo.
Cheers
Hornet

Does this mean we do not need to organise water for ourselves just food or sports drink?

[Running Angel]

rodthehornet, on Jan 9 2008, 07:38 PM, said:

Good work RA - train is fine.  As Scurry said it is about 1km downhill to the start.  You should arrive just in time for the national anthem.  Just bring a bag with change of clothes and towel and you can throw in the back of my car.  

Moh - will be good to see you out there.  32km is a great run, but I am sure you would be right for full monty.

David - Just make sure you pack a bottle for Euroka.  I will leave it out if you havent passed thru when I pack up.  

Vstar is going to help with water/ice at the stops, but dont forget if you want sports drink etc, I will drop out there.  I will also put soft drink on the course - some coke and solo.
Cheers
Hornet

Thanks for that Rod, I'll get directions from the station nearer the time if I take the train option. Since I have no idea of the words for the National Anthem (being a pommie!) I'll just have to stand there and mime! Guess I'd better actually learn them before I go for my citizenship in May!  

[Innes]

Running Angel, on Jan 9 2008, 07:12 AM, said:

Thanks for that Rod, I'll get directions from the station nearer the time if I take the train option. Since I have no idea of the words for the National Anthem (being a pommie!) I'll just have to stand there and mime! Guess I'd better actually learn them before I go for my citizenship in May!  

Running Angel,

Maybe you should let people know which suburb you are travelling from?
I am driving from Concord and happy to give anyone a lift enroute....

Cheers
Innes

[Running Angel]

Innes, on Jan 10 2008, 09:48 AM, said:

Running Angel,

Maybe you should let people know which suburb you are travelling from?
I am driving from Concord and happy to give anyone a lift enroute....

Cheers
Innes

Hi Innes

I'm coming from Bondi Junction. I may be able to get a lift but not sure so the train is the last option

[Innes]

Running Angel, on Jan 9 2008, 07:56 AM, said:

Hi Innes

I'm coming from Bondi Junction. I may be able to get a lift but not sure so the train is the last option

No worries, well if you find it easier to get to Strathfield I am happy to pick you up from there as a last resort.

[rodthehornet]

Brick, on Jan 10 2008, 08:46 AM, said:

Does this mean we do not need to organise water for ourselves just food or sports drink?

Brick,

FYI, I will bring water, cordial and some soft drink for the pit stops and these will be on ice so they are nice and cold.  I also got some mini bags of chips, jelly beans, snakes and jubes.  Bananas were the right price at my local market the other day, so will probably pick up a few kgs as well.

That just leaves personal preferences if you want other drinks or food on the track.  Feel free to raid your pantry and bring out anything.

I am really paranoid about getting a scorcher so I will do my best to have enough fluids out there.  Thats why I am so keen on numbers to make sure we are OK.


Rod

[Brick]

At present I am 75% in, just need to work on some more brownie points and I am in.
Just a bit hard with Mega Long Mega the next weekend.

Brick

[Hamburglar]

Rod, I am 50/50 at this stage (for about 30k). I will confirm closer to the day.

Cheers!

[rodthehornet]

Thanks guys.  EOI are fine at the moment.  I will send out the call in the last week for final acceptances, then knock up a rough start list.


Rod

[Redback]

I'm a probable maybe for a bit over 30k. I'm starting to like this bush stuff.