CavemanClarke in Trail Running mag, UK

Apparently, running makes men more attractive?! Well this was news to me. I knew it made the ladies rather appealing, but I always thought muscle-bound rugby players and men who spent more time honing the 'perfect' physique in dark-dingy gyms whilst spending countless hours staring at their own reflection and posting endless 'selfies' of their half-naked torso's on social media got the girls. Well it seems not! 

CavemanClarke trail running 

According to an article in this months Trail Running magazine, UK, distance runners have historically been selected as better mates over their lesser-mileage counterparts. Something to do with high testosterone, high sperm count and a healthy sex-drive and distance runners were selected as ideal mates to hunt and breed. On top of this, generosity and intelligence were also mentioned as qualities of distance runners.

Although I certainly don't want to dismiss this statement, I have yet to find myself fighting off the hoards of female fellow runners chasing me down the trails and often find myself chasing much faster female runners at events and races. Still, when I am struggling away on a cold rainy day, it certainly gives me something to hope for and giggle about. 

Oh, and if this is so true, why does my wife give me the look of disapproval every time I tell her I'm heading out for a long training session?!?!

I think I will stick to running whatever the outcome of attractiveness, but it's a comforting bonus!

CavemanClarke in this months Trail Running Magazine, UK

I am thrilled to say that I have an article about choosing your first pair of trail running shoes in the current edition of Trail Running magazine; the heart of everything you need to know about trail running here in the UK and across the globe. I have read Trail Running pretty much since it first came out a few years ago, and it has often inspired my trail running journey and helped with many tips and tricks along the way. If you need a little inspirational 'kick-up-the-butt' on cold winter days, want to know the latest news and updates on your favourite runners or long to improve your own skills and fitness, this magazine won't disappoint!

Ashmei Ullswater 9 & 20 mile trail runs, 2014

CavemanClarke and new run buddy Paul Yeoman

Not too long ago, I had a fantastic weekend trail running in The Lakes. Pooley Bridge, a small village situated by the quietly lapping waters-edge of Ullswater was to host the 2014 Ashmei 9 and 20 mile trail runs. Thirty and a half miles later (more about that in a minute!), a few new friends and with fun tales to tell, I fondly look back at what turned out to be a really great event.

It all started early Friday morning, packing my new favourite toy. After much consideration and saving, my wife and I decided to invest in a comfortable way to travel and stay all over the UK without having to slum it in a tent or pay through the nose for a B&B. So we bought ourselves a campervan; a Mazda Bongo to be exact. After shuddering at the weather forecast, carefully remembering everything on the race kit list, and not forgetting the espresso maker, (after all, we are glamping now!) we headed off on the 4.5h journey to Ullswater. Upon arriving we pitched up in a lovely spot with all the other campers staying for the weekend and sat back to ponder what the weekend would bring. Ashmei events had set up a huge tent-marquee with race registration, chill-out area, food section and shop selling their merino wool run clothing and merchandise. A fire pit was smouldering away and an inspirational running movie was playing on a big screen. Nice!