Northern Ireland Outdoors Forum - Hiking, camping and more

The 2011 Iplod Thread is Here : http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=1739.0

Updated 4th Apr
I've been contacted and asked if any of us would like to volunteer to help with the iPlod in June. I don't have full details yet but we will be meeting in Newcastle at 7pm, Friday for something to eat and a briefing then 3 teams will be bused to the entry points. Team A will be leaving from the Trassy pitching at Hares Gap and team B/C from Bloody Bridge pitching at The Bog of Donard and The Castles. Checkpoints need established by 11pm. Each team will be accompanied by a comms dude. Each team will have a list of the groups coming through which they will check as they arrive - once the runners are all through then the teams can sleep until the morning. Runners should all be by Hares Gap by 3am and The Bog by 5am. The teams need to meet up and be at their pickup point (probably Bloody Bridge) to be bussed to breakfast by 9am-ish. At this point marshalls can either leave or hang around to help and as far as I know there will likely be a dinner and a camp spot at Tollymore when the race finishes on Saturday evening.

Final details are still being ironed out and I'll keep updating this post. There's no limit to the number of people that can come and help and we may supply more checkpoints if we have more people. Obviously if you want to help you need to be able to stay up most of the night, be fit enough to walk the Brandy Pad and own gear suitable for a night on the hill in whatever conditions the Mournes experience on the night.  

The easiest plan is to get at least 3 people with a bit of experience who will lead each team - volunteers please contact me.

Also, can anyone that is interested and has first aid certificates of any sort please let me know.

iPlod Info:
http://www.action.org.uk/get_involved/iplod (http://www.action.org.uk/get_involved/iplod)

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Quote
Basically, I got caught up with the N. Ireland Iplod  this year and there was shortage of boys and girls prepared to man check points i.e. wander off into the Mournes on a Friday evening to a designated point...wild camp...register teams through on the Friday night/Saturday...wander off...all in the name of charity...

We could have done with extra teams at the Donard Saddle, Donard Peak, Bog of Donard/top of the bloody bridge path......any interest?

QuoteJoin the ultimate endurance challenge - this walk is not for the faint hearted or ill-prepared. iPLOD challenges you to complete the gruelling 50km route we have designed for you in the magical Mountains of Mourne.

To make your challenge even more interesting you will begin your mega hike at midnight. iPLOD will probably push you further than you've ever been pushed before and just as you reach your physical limits we will throw in a few extra mental challenges to test you even further.

Whether you are a seasoned trail walker or just up for the experience of a big challenge then this is the event for you. iPLOD is all about your individual determination to get through, and getting through it is all about teamwork.  Don't miss out on the ultimate endurance challenge be a part of iPLOD.

Our endurance walkers will be helping to stop suffering in children. Every tough mile completed takes us closer to achieving our mission: to treat sick babies and tackle premature birth, to make life better for children with disabilities, and to target a group of rare diseases that together severely affect many forgotten children.

Teams can consist of 3-6 walkers,  and one support driver.  All will need guts and determination to take on the great outdoors. Team work will be an essential ingredient and you will need to keep each other motivated to get through the long night and the next day.

I think it sounds like a great idea - like an excuse to wild camp while helping a charity.

Current Marshalls
J
666_Pack
MG1
Matthewrblack
MikeD
Dowser
Chuck
AndyD

Count me in. ;D

I'd be game for that. Put me down too. Any xcuse for a night on the hills.

why not! count me in!

Me too. Thats 4 at least which I assume would be enough. Awesome. We've plenty of time to plan :D

I would be up for that n all, ill bring the jaffa cakes. Roll on next year.

That makes 5 now  ;)

I'd definately consider it as long as they don't frown on me bringing as much beer as i can carry  :D

Quote from: ulsterwalker on August 24, 2009, 09:15:16 PM
I'd definately consider it as long as they don't frown on me bringing as much beer as i can carry  :D

I detect a whiff of competition there  ::)

I might have to abandon my 35litre sack for a rather larger alternative  ;D

It will be full going up and empty coming down. Either that or a couple of recce trips to dump them in a safe place would have to take place, but that would never work. I'd either drink a couple once I'd reached the hiding place, or forget exactly where it was!

Quote from: ulsterwalker on August 24, 2009, 09:15:16 PM
I'd definately consider it as long as they don't frown on me bringing as much beer as i can carry  :D

LOL we can lighted the load on the way up  ;D

Action Medical Research have been in touch again about the 2010 iPlod. The dates will be the 18/19 June 2010 but it runs on a Friday/Saturday so a day off work might be needed.

It sounds like a blast and is for a good cause so is well worth the effort. Who's in!

I'm still in ;D

I too, like Flynn, am in.

I'm still in ;D

Hi guys,

Just a reminder that we need to firm up plans and numbers for this.

I'm still up for this.

I have updated the first post in this thread with more details.

Can anyone who wants to lead a team or that has a first aid certificate of any sort please contact me.

I'm up for this too

Matthew

Im up for it too.

Is there any more information or plans for this event yet?

The first post has the long and short of the plans. There'll prob not be that much more info until closer to the time.

Quote from: matthewrblack on April 20, 2010, 07:54:53 PM
Is there any more information or plans for this event yet?

Time to organise this now. At the mo our base list is:

Me
666_Pack
MG1
Chris
Matthewrblack
MikeD
Dowser
Chuck
AndyD

Any other takers?

You might have to change me to a maybe for this :( Working saturday morning at the minute and I'm trying to weigh up whether the drive down for the night is worth it  ??? I might end up turning up as a bit of a last minute thing but for the time being you'd be best on not really counting me. Unfortunately my weekend's belong to B&Q Hollywood for the time being :(

Quote from: J on May 24, 2010, 11:17:32 AMAny other takers?

Count me in.

ps. some chatter here (http://www.action.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?id=725) from the folks taking part.

Quote from: Chuck on May 24, 2010, 03:48:02 PM

Quote from: J on May 24, 2010, 11:17:32 AMAny other takers?

Count me in.

ps. some chatter here (http://www.action.org.uk/forums/viewtopic.php?id=725) from the folks taking part.

Nice one.

Quote from: ulsterwalker on May 24, 2010, 03:09:57 PM
You might have to change me to a maybe for this :( Working saturday morning at the minute and I'm trying to weigh up whether the drive down for the night is worth it  ??? I might end up turning up as a bit of a last minute thing but for the time being you'd be best on not really counting me. Unfortunately my weekend's belong to B&Q Hollywood for the time being :(

No probs.

Ill be leaving work on the bell at 3:25. If anyone needs a lift from Bangor direction give me a shout (ill just get changed down there). I need to be back home for 5 ish on the saturday as its my girlfriends birthday.

Matthew

Hi All,

Jonno told me to join NI Wild as its all my fault  ::)

I am a member of another forum..as is Jonno...and I was a marshal for the 2009 Iplod where we identified we needed a touch more help.  Then AMR asked me to be Safety Officer for Iplod 2010.

Thing is, I live just north of Liverpool so I should have said....nah...but as my forehead is tattooed with MUG I said yes...and got hold of Jonno...who got hold of you guys...so many thanks in advance!

Iplod 2010 is much larger than 2009 and has 25 teams (about 125 challengers) this year.  Not sure much that means it will raise...but do some arithmetic and its a lot! 

The plan - briefly - at the moment is

Friday evening - 7 or 7-30, we meet in a hotel in Newcastle (think it's the Slieve Donard) for a light bite and a briefing.  8pm ish, minibus(s) leave the Slieve Donard and take teams out - drop offs at Trassey for those teams heading up the Trassey to Hares Gap, drop off for Bloody Bridge for teams heading to Bog of Donard and The Castles.  You will be accompanied by a mobile marshal team headed up by a guy called Tim Robson...who has to make sure you are all happy campers, before telling me you are ready for invaders.

If we have enough of you, we would like to put in other checkpoints....Donard Summit anyone?

10-30 ish Mobile 2 (me and another guy) will shoot up Trassey to Hares Gap.

Midnight. Event starts with an orienteering section with first challengers expected at Hares about 2. Each Checkpoint will have a list of teams/challengers which needs to be checked as they go through.  Last challenger through Hares at..err...3?

After that...depends what you want to do.

We will have a BBQ breakfast at Silent Valley...so you will need to get back to your drop off point for...? to be picked up, bussed round to Silent Valley and then back to the hotel for your cars.

There is a dinner Saturday night (I need to know who is going) - its informal - so if you want to be around to give a hand Saturday daytime...great.  If you want to go home...fine...if you want to have some me time in the Mournes...thats cool.

Just a big thanks for all....without marshalls, Iplod wouldnt happen

Good good that's plenty of info. I'll not make it to the dinner!! I remember someone asking about first aid. I'll have mine by the time of the race if it helps things.

Matthew

I have my first aid at work cert if that's any use but not to sure if u would want some random newbie tagging along but my offer is there if needed :)

All first aid certificated people are useful - regardless!

Quote from: Simon Barry on May 25, 2010, 09:27:29 PM
Hi All,

Jonno told me to join NI Wild as its all my fault  ::)

I am a member of another forum..as is Jonno...and I was a marshal for the 2009 Iplod where we identified we needed a touch more help.  Then AMR asked me to be Safety Officer for Iplod 2010.

Thing is, I live just north of Liverpool so I should have said....nah...but as my forehead is tattooed with MUG I said yes...and got hold of Jonno...who got hold of you guys...so many thanks in advance!

Iplod 2010 is much larger than 2009 and has 25 teams (about 125 challengers) this year.  Not sure much that means it will raise...but do some arithmetic and its a lot! 

The plan - briefly - at the moment is

Friday evening - 7 or 7-30, we meet in a hotel in Newcastle (think it's the Slieve Donard) for a light bite and a briefing.  8pm ish, minibus(s) leave the Slieve Donard and take teams out - drop offs at Trassey for those teams heading up the Trassey to Hares Gap, drop off for Bloody Bridge for teams heading to Bog of Donard and The Castles.  You will be accompanied by a mobile marshal team headed up by a guy called Tim Robson...who has to make sure you are all happy campers, before telling me you are ready for invaders.

If we have enough of you, we would like to put in other checkpoints....Donard Summit anyone?
10-30 ish Mobile 2 (me and another guy) will shoot up Trassey to Hares Gap.

Midnight. Event starts with an orienteering section with first challengers expected at Hares about 2. Each Checkpoint will have a list of teams/challengers which needs to be checked as they go through.  Last challenger through Hares at..err...3?

After that...depends what you want to do.

We will have a BBQ breakfast at Silent Valley...so you will need to get back to your drop off point for...? to be picked up, bussed round to Silent Valley and then back to the hotel for your cars.

There is a dinner Saturday night (I need to know who is going) - its informal - so if you want to be around to give a hand Saturday daytime...great.  If you want to go home...fine...if you want to have some me time in the Mournes...thats cool.

Just a big thanks for all....without marshalls, Iplod wouldnt happen

I'll take first dibs on the summit ;D

One thing that is going to make this different from any other wild camp I've done is that we'll have to be up until at least 3am (read: 3/4/5am).../me puts on my Captain Obvious head on: it's gonna get cold up there...I don't know about you guys but when I'm out, once the eating is over, it's into the bivvy bag/tent to keep warm/sleep.

While I'm hoping for a hot and dry summers night, with no wind....What are folks thoughts about keeping warm 'til the wee small hours (esp: if it's chucking it down)? Will a couple of fire bricks/a camp fire with a couple of tarps for shelter keep each group going until the last challengers make it through? Perhaps a four person bothy bag for each group? A three person tent/couple of two man tents? Or do our own thing (ie. own bivvy/tent) and then 'regroup' at 2am?

It's probably best organised with each group as to how many tents would be needed etc. Usually we all bring a tent or bivvy each but sharing wouldn't be an issue. Warmth-wise, I don't think it will be too bad at this time of year - just pack a few more layers than usual. Plus, with more that one person at each checkpoint there's probably no reason that one person couldn't have an hours kip while the other marshalls, then rotate. I'm not sure about firelogs etc - I don't know how much of an orienteering element is involved and having a fire that can be seen from miles away might make it easy for the competitors :D

Quote from: Chuck on May 26, 2010, 02:15:08 PM
One thing that is going to make this different from any other wild camp I've done is that we'll have to be up until at least 3am (read: 3/4/5am).../me puts on my Captain Obvious head on: it's gonna get cold up there...I don't know about you guys but when I'm out, once the eating is over, it's into the bivvy bag/tent to keep warm/sleep.

While I'm hoping for a hot and dry summers night, with no wind....What are folks thoughts about keeping warm 'til the wee small hours (esp: if it's chucking it down)? Will a couple of fire bricks/a camp fire with a couple of tarps for shelter keep each group going until the last challengers make it through? Perhaps a four person bothy bag for each group? A three person tent/couple of two man tents? Or do our own thing (ie. own bivvy/tent) and then 'regroup' at 2am?

I was gonna bid for a donard spot aswell!
No problem staying up untill 3 infact we do some of our best work at 3am!  ;)

Quote from: J on May 27, 2010, 09:23:27 AM
It's probably best organised with each group as to how many tents would be needed etc. Usually we all bring a tent or bivvy each but sharing wouldn't be an issue.

That to me would  be the most sensible idea. I'm going to go light for this one and try out some new kit before my South American adventure.

Any word on the groups yet?

If its not too annoying ill take the Hares Gap direction!!!

Don't forget that the Hares Gap actually has the longest walk as we're all meeting at Bloody Bridge the next morning so whoever is there will have to walk across and down early on Sat  ::) Bog of Donard will have the shortest walk (but the latest finish - talk about not hobsons choice ;))

Quote from: matthewrblack on May 27, 2010, 10:43:39 AM

Quote from: J on May 27, 2010, 09:23:27 AM
It's probably best organised with each group as to how many tents would be needed etc. Usually we all bring a tent or bivvy each but sharing wouldn't be an issue.

That to me would  be the most sensible idea. I'm going to go light for this one and try out some new kit before my South American adventure.

Any word on the groups yet?

If its not too annoying ill take the Hares Gap direction!!!

Thanks guys, perhaps I was being a bit over cautious.

Nothing wrong with a bit'o caution!

Quote from: Chuck on May 27, 2010, 11:49:03 AM
Thanks guys, perhaps I was being a bit over cautious.

Quote from: J on May 27, 2010, 11:05:09 AM
Don't forget that the Hares Gap actually has the longest walk as we're all meeting at Bloody Bridge the next morning so whoever is there will have to walk across and down early on Sat  ::) Bog of Donard will have the shortest walk (but the latest finish - talk about not hobsons choice ;))

Quote from: matthewrblack on May 27, 2010, 10:43:39 AM

Quote from: J on May 27, 2010, 09:23:27 AM
It's probably best organised with each group as to how many tents would be needed etc. Usually we all bring a tent or bivvy each but sharing wouldn't be an issue.

That to me would  be the most sensible idea. I'm going to go light for this one and try out some new kit before my South American adventure.

Any word on the groups yet?

If its not too annoying ill take the Hares Gap direction!!!

ooh scrap that the lol i was of the impression that there were two drops one at trassey and the other at bloody bridge?

"8pm ish, minibus(s) leave the Slieve Donard and take teams out - drop offs at Trassey for those teams heading up the Trassey to Hares Gap, drop off for Bloody Bridge for teams heading to Bog of Donard and The Castles. "

There are 2 drop offs but they want to only have one pickup so they don't have to drive all the way back to the Trassey.

Quote from: matthewrblack on May 27, 2010, 12:01:05 PM

Quote from: J on May 27, 2010, 11:05:09 AM
Don't forget that the Hares Gap actually has the longest walk as we're all meeting at Bloody Bridge the next morning so whoever is there will have to walk across and down early on Sat  ::) Bog of Donard will have the shortest walk (but the latest finish - talk about not hobsons choice ;))

Quote from: matthewrblack on May 27, 2010, 10:43:39 AM

Quote from: J on May 27, 2010, 09:23:27 AM
It's probably best organised with each group as to how many tents would be needed etc. Usually we all bring a tent or bivvy each but sharing wouldn't be an issue.

That to me would  be the most sensible idea. I'm going to go light for this one and try out some new kit before my South American adventure.

Any word on the groups yet?

If its not too annoying ill take the Hares Gap direction!!!

ooh scrap that the lol i was of the impression that there were two drops one at trassey and the other at bloody bridge?

"8pm ish, minibus(s) leave the Slieve Donard and take teams out - drop offs at Trassey for those teams heading up the Trassey to Hares Gap, drop off for Bloody Bridge for teams heading to Bog of Donard and The Castles. "

ooh rite I got it. I dont mind where I am placed to be honest.

Ditto.

Donard, I mean Ditto  ;D

Just to mess things up.....

The hotel we are meeting at is the Burrendale, not The Donard

Shelter - something is a must - at least a bothy bag, but a tent would be a touch more comfortable since you could be there for up to 7 hours.  Bothy bags are great for a few hours...but not much fun when you actually want to be horizontal - that said, if someone wants to trial lightweight gear and a different way of doing things, go for it.

If it all goes pear shaped, I am sure all your best buddies will be full of sympathy and be fighting as to who will open their tent to let you in first. Maybe - or is this just a reflection on my friends?

Pickups.  If you want a pickup at Trassey and Bloody Bridge, we can do that.  What would be kind of handy is if a couple supported Tim Robson by helping sweep through from Hares to Bloody Bridge, if only to tell straggling teams to get a shift on, they are between you and breakfast
;)  If you all sweep through - thats fine too. 

I am hoping it wont get too chilly - last year (when I ran the Bog of Donard and Loughshannagh checkpoints) I just slipped a belay jacket on and was fine.  If the weather is really poor, it will be surprising if Donard Summit will be used - but we will need to "staff" the Brandy Pad a bit more heavily.  Swings and roundabouts.

Camp fire.  well...if it is hoolying and chucking down, no harm to you, a fire wont be much use.  And if it is a nice still clear summers night (do they exist) you'll be visible from Mars...

A pocket rocket and 200 PG Tips T bags seems the trick to me.

What time will Tim be sweeping from Hares Gap to Bloody Bridge?

Quote from: Simon Barry on May 28, 2010, 08:58:29 AM
Just to mess things up.....

The hotel we are meeting at is the Burrendale, not The Donard

Shelter - something is a must - at least a bothy bag, but a tent would be a touch more comfortable since you could be there for up to 7 hours.  Bothy bags are great for a few hours...but not much fun when you actually want to be horizontal - that said, if someone wants to trial lightweight gear and a different way of doing things, go for it.

If it all goes pear shaped, I am sure all your best buddies will be full of sympathy and be fighting as to who will open their tent to let you in first. Maybe - or is this just a reflection on my friends?

Pickups.  If you want a pickup at Trassey and Bloody Bridge, we can do that.  What would be kind of handy is if a couple supported Tim Robson by helping sweep through from Hares to Bloody Bridge, if only to tell straggling teams to get a shift on, they are between you and breakfast
;)  If you all sweep through - thats fine too. 

I am hoping it wont get too chilly - last year (when I ran the Bog of Donard and Loughshannagh checkpoints) I just slipped a belay jacket on and was fine.  If the weather is really poor, it will be surprising if Donard Summit will be used - but we will need to "staff" the Brandy Pad a bit more heavily.  Swings and roundabouts.

Camp fire.  well...if it is hoolying and chucking down, no harm to you, a fire wont be much use.  And if it is a nice still clear summers night (do they exist) you'll be visible from Mars...

A pocket rocket and 200 PG Tips T bags seems the trick to me.

When the last team of challengers go through!  Last year the last team went through Bog of Donard at 4 ish.

Breakfast opens at 6-30am for us - so you want to be down at Bloody Bridge at 6...ish..depending.

Its a bit fluid, depending on the conditions but they wont close the kitchen till we all get in.

Certainly I will be very worried if those who want to be off the hill arent wrapping themselves round breakfast by 7/7-30 ish, if only because it will screw up the timings for later in the day and we will have to lift and shift slow challengers.

Quote from: Simon Barry on May 28, 2010, 08:58:29 AM

Pickups.  If you want a pickup at Trassey and Bloody Bridge, we can do that.  What would be kind of handy is if a couple supported Tim Robson by helping sweep through from Hares to Bloody Bridge, if only to tell straggling teams to get a shift on, they are between you and breakfast
;)  If you all sweep through - thats fine too. 

I would be a fan of the Trassey pickup. Has anyone given a thought to groups or anything as yet?

Can you walk to slient valley for the breakfast?

Kind of depends - its a fair hike to the Silent Valley...and given you'll be a touch sleep deprived  you might just wish to reconsider?

A hike all the way down to the Silent Valley car park (including the section on the road down the waterside)...or a trundle to Trassey or Bloody Bridge road heads and a nice cumfy minibus?

I'm not going to be able to get off work for this. I'll have a go and see if I can get that Saturday switched but its looking grim atm with the new store et all!

 :(

Afraid its a no go, we're loosing 3 to the new store so will be understaffed for a few days while the transition happens.

Cant be helped - bet you'd prefer to be running round the Mournes?

On the other hand....more stew for the rest of us  ::)

No probs. If anyone knows anyone else that fancies helping point them in our direction. We still have 8 but that's the minimum we need.

Quote from: chris on June 05, 2010, 06:43:07 PM
Afraid its a no go, we're loosing 3 to the new store so will be understaffed for a few days while the transition happens.

I am still up for this I have to work Saturday night so will heading off after breakfast .I am thinking of buying a bothy bag for this or using a bivvy bag not sure what everyone else is doing . I also have a tempest 3 man tent if that's of any use .

It's probably best for teams to have at least one sheter between them. If the weather is nice I'll bring a tarp. If not, a Pro Action Hike Lite.
(We'll be selecting the teams on Wednesday this week.)

I'm still available, but I have to be back in Belfast for around 3pm on Saturday for a stag thing.....

Likewise, I'm still in.

Like J, if the weather's mild, it will be tarp and bivvy bag for me, my Pro Action Hike is light enough to bring along as well, if someone wants to borrow it feel free.

I'll stick my 2 man Vango beta 250 in the car, if it looks like it's turning very nasty that can come along instead of/as well as the above.

Again I am still in for this. I am probably going to bring the Laser with me rather than chance a bivvy.

Any news with teams and team locations yet?

Quote from: matthewrblack on June 07, 2010, 11:31:31 PM
Any news with teams and team locations yet?

Quote from: J on June 07, 2010, 09:57:14 AM
(We'll be selecting the teams on Wednesday this week.)

I suspect it will depend on who's still talking to who after an evening tramping around Meelmore in the rain tonight   ;D

Lol. I did want to wait until tonight to put a few faces to names. Occasionally you get someone new who comes for an afternoon hike with a Rambo knife and 3L of White Lightning :o

Quote from: Chuck on June 08, 2010, 09:21:33 AM

Quote from: matthewrblack on June 07, 2010, 11:31:31 PM
Any news with teams and team locations yet?

Quote from: J on June 07, 2010, 09:57:14 AM
(We'll be selecting the teams on Wednesday this week.)

I suspect it will depend on who's still talking to who after an evening tramping around Meelmore   ;D

Hmm..is that the minimum entry requirement?

That being the case I may need to up my game a little: get a really sharp edge on my Dora the Explorer (http://www.vogue-ltd.com/images/products/Dora-The-Explorer-Cutlery-Set.jpg) knife....and put a splash of port in my 'Blueberry Burst' herbal tea. Would this (http://glamguns.com/mylittleponycarbine.html) be too much?

I definitely want a My Little Pony M4A1 carbine. Wonder if they do a Unicorn version?

(http://www.vogue-ltd.com/images/products/Dora-The-Explorer-Cutlery-Set.jpg)

is this available in titanium? ::)

Quote from: 666_pack on June 08, 2010, 01:57:52 PM
(http://www.vogue-ltd.com/images/products/Dora-The-Explorer-Cutlery-Set.jpg)

is this available in titanium? ::)

I can only dream...

Since they constitute violent weapons I'm afraid under UK law you wouldn't be allowed to leave the house with that sort or hardware!

Quote from: 666_pack on June 08, 2010, 01:57:52 PM
(http://www.vogue-ltd.com/images/products/Dora-The-Explorer-Cutlery-Set.jpg)

is this available in titanium? ::)

Quote from: 666_pack on June 08, 2010, 01:57:52 PM
is this available in titanium? ::)

Not that I can tell...let's get the BackPackingLight.co.uk product development team on the case. Perhaps we'll get a box of skittles for the suggestion :)

Quote from: Chuck on June 08, 2010, 02:35:01 PM

Quote from: 666_pack on June 08, 2010, 01:57:52 PM
is this available in titanium? ::)

Not that I can tell...let's get the BackPackingLight.co.uk product development team on the case. Perhaps we'll get a box of skittles for the suggestion :)

I wonder how much lighter the Ti ones would be compared to plastic.

Groups are as follows:

1) Hares Gap - MatthewrBlack, Dowser
2) The Castles - AndyD, Chuck
3) Bog of Donard - MG1, J
4) Donard Summit - 666, MikeD

I've tried to make sure that every group has 2 people that know each other. If anyone has any issues with these then PM me.

Quote from: J on June 09, 2010, 02:58:41 PM
Groups are as follows:

1) Hares Gap - MatthewrBlack, Dowser
2) The Castles - AndyD, Chuck
3) Bog of Donard - MG1, J
4) Donard Summit - 666, MikeD

I've tried to make sure that every group has 2 people that know each other. If anyone has any issues with these then PM me.

woop ;D

Grand Job J

I'm looking forward to it. Nice to be doing something a bit different.

Quote from: matthewrblack on June 09, 2010, 04:26:48 PM
Grand Job J

Quote from: Dowser on June 09, 2010, 07:35:30 PM

Matthewrblack

Iplod Marshalling

  18th - 19th JUNE 2010 

Sorry Matt... Just wanted to make sure its in your Diary!

;D

HA HA that's brilliant, I suppose i do deserve that. Better than my diary it's in my girlfriends too, she never forgets. I have it in my phone, school diary and e-mail planner too.

There are just that many things on for me before we break for summer.

Early professional development submission
Year 8,9,10 school reports
cover for the last three days of school
final marking for the year
checking booklets for next year
injections
first aid course
packing
kit organising
17 pupils travel plans

The list goes on

Over the last two weeks I have been getting two injections a day for travelling and the knock on has been total lack of sleep even though I'm actually shattered.

Harsh but fair ;)

Quote from: matthewrblack on June 09, 2010, 07:54:12 PM

Quote from: Dowser on June 09, 2010, 07:35:30 PM

Matthewrblack

Iplod Marshalling

Sorry Matt... Just wanted to make sure its in your Diary!

;D

HA HA that's brilliant, I suppose i do deserve that. Better than my diary it's in my girlfriends too, she never forgets. I have it in my phone, school diary and e-mail planner too.

There are just that many things on for me before we break for summer.

Early professional development submission
Year 8,9,10 school reports
cover for the last three days of school
final marking for the year
checking booklets for next year
injections
first aid course
packing
kit organising
17 pupils travel plans

The list goes on

Over the last two weeks I have been getting two injections a day for travelling and the knock on has been total lack of sleep even though I'm actually shattered.

i will be using my tarp as most of you will be using yours for this as the weather is going to warm and dry (fact) ;D so what set up will you be using. i have been looking through the site at a few pics and on line and i the best one i have manged to do my self is the easy one with walking pole. easy in back garden and no wind

i really liked Tims http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz86/orcryst01/Binian%20Summit%20Camp/100_1851.jpg

Ahh, tarp porn!
I like the V setup. One corner on a walking pole and the other 3 corners pegged to the ground. Very easy, very wind resistant and only needs one pole, 4 pegs and one guy.

Here's a few previous threads we could bump:
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=981
http://www.ni-wild.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=190

Quote from: andyd on June 10, 2010, 03:51:41 PM
i will be using my tarp as most of you will be using yours for this as the weather is going to warm and dry (fact) ;D so what set up will you be using. i have been looking through the site at a few pics and on line and i the best one i have manged to do my self is the easy one with walking pole. easy in back garden and no wind

i really liked Tims http://i816.photobucket.com/albums/zz86/orcryst01/Binian%20Summit%20Camp/100_1851.jpg

Ha...knew you guys would come up trumps....and produce the UL/tarp porn sometime!

See you all Friday night.  Dont forget your sense of humour - I know they dont weigh much, but some people think they are too heavy to carry  ::)

Weather forecast for Friday night looks like low of 11C, 6mph winds steady, Saturday, high 20C, 8mph winds steady.

Visibility excellent.  Bring a camera

Quote from: Simon Barry on June 15, 2010, 10:30:14 AM
Dont forget your sense of humour - I know they dont weigh much, but some people think they are too heavy to carry  ::)

Crumbs, you are a happy puppy  ;)

Anyhow..more tarp pr0n here (http://www.naturalbushcraft.co.uk/shelter/tarpology-setting-up-your-tarp-in-different-configurations) as well, complete with a couple (http://www.naturalbushcraft.co.uk/images/tarpology/Tarp-Configs1.jpg) of drawings (http://www.naturalbushcraft.co.uk/images/tarpology/Tarp-Configs2.jpg) . I fancy the look of that Tipi one just for giggles...don't fancy trying to fit myself in there. :)

730pm at the Burrendale on Friday night.
It's important not to be late!

Any questions or if you don't have my mobile number then PM me.

Quote from: Chuck on June 16, 2010, 10:43:49 AM

Quote from: Simon Barry on June 15, 2010, 10:30:14 AM
Dont forget your sense of humour - I know they dont weigh much, but some people think they are too heavy to carry  ::)

Crumbs, you are a happy puppy  ;)

Anyhow..more tarp pr0n here (http://www.naturalbushcraft.co.uk/shelter/tarpology-setting-up-your-tarp-in-different-configurations) as well, complete with a couple (http://www.naturalbushcraft.co.uk/images/tarpology/Tarp-Configs1.jpg) of drawings (http://www.naturalbushcraft.co.uk/images/tarpology/Tarp-Configs2.jpg) . I fancy the look of that Tipi one just for giggles...don't fancy trying to fit myself in there. :)

tarp porn is so addictive  ;D

QuoteForecast for Friday/Saturday as of 8-00am this morning.

Much the same as I gave you before.  Friday night conditions look to be nigh on perfect and I suspect we will get a late darkness and early dawn due to clear skies - sunset around 10pm with sunrise around 5, but I expect false dawn to kick in around 3am.

Only a crescent moon, but it will cast a bit of light.

UV index has risen for Saturday from 4 to 5.  Be Aware of this.

Simon Barry

Quote from: admin on June 17, 2010, 08:55:15 AM

QuoteForecast for Friday/Saturday as of 8-00am this morning.

Much the same as I gave you before.  Friday night conditions look to be nigh on perfect and I suspect we will get a late darkness and early dawn due to clear skies - sunset around 10pm with sunrise around 5, but I expect false dawn to kick in around 3am.

Only a crescent moon, but it will cast a bit of light.

UV index has risen for Saturday from 4 to 5.  Be Aware of this.

Simon Barry

cool

More tarp pr0n:  http://www.equipped.org/tarp-shelters.htm

Been thinking about some sort of tarp setup that uses the wall for wind protection and to lean our backs on.

ps. I'm planning to get to the hotel by 7pm, give the complementary stew time to settle before hitting the hills at 8pm  ;)

See Y'all Friday night!

Cheers for all your help Simon, see you there.

Quote from: Simon Barry on June 17, 2010, 11:05:00 AM
See Y'all Friday night!

730pm at the Burrendale it is then.

(http://www.netweather.tv/gfsimages/gfs.20100618/06/21/ukprec.png)

looking good people.

See you all @ 7......ish ::)

Have fun tonight guys

Good time had by all I hope - my 'high' point - was 'Radio Donard' - such a laff - go 666 u mofo!

Quote from: MikeD on June 19, 2010, 06:15:13 PM
Good time had by all I hope - my 'high' point - was 'Radio Donard' - such a laff - go 666 u mofo!

what a bunch of drunken hooligans that should not be allowed anywhere near a mountain :), so when is the next outing ;) nice to meet you all and did we ever get that group photo  :P  

Quote from: MikeD on June 19, 2010, 06:15:13 PM
my 'high' point - was 'Radio Donard'

I see what you did there.  :D

Came together quite well.

Lots of stories to be told, inc. comms guys with jeans and tea shirt, ruck stealing foxes, random groups of folks doing the seven highest mountains in Ireland in 24hrs (that was right yea?), random balaclava'ed loaners prowling around Donard summit...

Edit: couple of pics (http://www.flickr.com/photos/mcrobert/sets/72157624165015583/).

Well done guys, we did a stellar job - no people mislaid!

Personally, I had a great time. I know there was alot of hanging around but for a bit of a change of pace it was top fun (and we got to play with walkie-talkies :))

I'm defo up for it again next year!

This was the cheeky chappie that stole my rucksack. Next time he's going on the spitroast!
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4018/4717606430_c478ee60b2_b.jpg)

thats one plump fox.

Quote from: matthewrblack on June 20, 2010, 07:22:18 PM
thats one plump fox.

Not a bit of wonder, by the sounds of it he has just swallowed an OMM Villain ;)

Great big THANK YOU to all you guys!

I know this sounds really daft (to people like us) but to find characters who will
a) happily spend a night on the mountains (in potentially all weathers)
and
b) and enjoy said night on the mountains
and
c) keep smiling

is really really difficult.

Without people like you, things like Iplod wouldnt happen and circa £25,000 wouldnt be raised for the charity.

We had a few drop outs during the day section - knackeredness and blisters in the main,with comments so far are very positive.

Any feedback (good or not so good) from you guys would be useful.

Now I am going to lie down in a dark room.

I enjoyed it good crack. You can count me in for next year.

Quote from: MG1 on June 20, 2010, 08:51:52 PM
I enjoyed it good crack. You can count me in for next year.

ditto to the above

Had a great time and would def say to anyone who is thinking about it to do it .

Ditto the ditto.

Feedback: came together well. A Biro malfunction would have been disastrous for the checkpoint teams ;) If the weather had turned nasty the comms guys could have been a bit of a drain on the rest of the team's resources, since they didn't seem to have any outdoor kit with them (I know they are made of far tougher stuff than us Civvies).

ps. Some stuff from the iPlod site:

QuoteThis amazing 50km team night walk attracted 26 teams with around 150 walkers. The weather was perfect, and all the teams made it to the finish, if not all the walkers!

You should all be really proud of the achievement, it was a great weekend's walking in the beautiful Mourne Mountains and I hope everyone got a really great night's sleep on Saturday night!

Congratulations to the 2010 iPLOD Champions Team GRG!

Check out and purchase images from the walk at http://www.modafoto.co.uk/contactsheets/iplod/

Email [email protected] to purchase images.  The price is £2.00 for a high resolution electonic image to be emailed and £5.00 for a 6x9" glossy image to be posted.

(snip)

We would like your feedback.  Please feel free to complete the survey below to help us make iPLOD even better for next year. http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/iplod

Need another challenge? We have many more challenges, be it walking through the night, cycling 100 miles, running marathons or racing canoes from dawn to dusk.

The next challenge event in Northern Ireland is the Finn MacCool 100 bike ride.  A 100 mile bike ride from Belfast to Coleraine along the coastal road.

Gissa smile J (http://www.modafoto.co.uk/contactsheets/iplod/image/iplod_143.jpg)  ;) - no other pics of us as far as I can see (even tho I did see a photographer taking pics of us while we where sitting in the sun in the car park)

I have a few of you boys - am mailing them to Jonno...

The organisers have asked for any suggestions on what might be done to improve things in the future. Has anyone any (useful) ideas?

Team Sheets to be printed at the last moment, so the team members are as up to date as possible.

Teams to be listed on the checkpoint sheets in alphabetical order.

Iplodders to wear a particular reflective vest, so if we see them go off track, we can identify them and raise alarm as soon as possible.

Megaphones given to checkpoints to shout over to IPlodders going the wrong way.

Signs placed at certain points that say, "If you're an Iplodder and you're reading this - turn back - you've gone the wrong way".

Better communication between checkpoints, so once Team 1 is through checkpoint 1 - Checkpoint 2 should be informed, Team 2 should be on the lookout for them and concerned if they do not arrive in a certain amount of time.

Better instruction to IPlodders - not to leave team members isolated - a number of teams split up coming up Donard - leaving individuals coming up it on their own - with has safety considerations - considering - random nutters and its pitch black up there.

Better instructions to outside radio operators in regards of adequate clothing\equipment for the mountains.

Im sure I'll think of a few more.

And high-powered mobile spotlights for looking for teams that haven't checked in.

And, some procedure to address the point that certain teams passed certain checkpoints and never checked in (Hares Gap - slackers!).

And although we we're an optional checkpoint, I'd imagine it would be best if compulsory checkpoints must inform the 'HQ' whenever a team passes, so 'HQ' can monitor the big picture as to why a certain team has not passed the checkpoint.  Just to reduce risk....

some pics from iplod quality crap and not many due to battery dying

http://www.flickr.com/photos/51397326@N02/?saved=1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/51397326@N02/?saved=1)

Some of my dodgy pictures...

http://picasaweb.google.co.uk/107952315853856002749/Iplod?feat=directlink

Them jackets really mess with the pics  ;D ...wonder if they can be edited out.

@andy: have a blast with the 'auto-fix' option in Flick's 'Edit Photo'...it can't fix the pixelation but it's great at bringing the 'real' colours out (I did a test and it made the foggy pics much more natural (before  (http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1395/4727350247_de7ae18d3b.jpg)- after (http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1369/4728168006_f6ee1ba6e7.jpg)). (if you fancy a bit of DIY Paint.net (http://www.getpaint.net) has a auto level option that works quite well)

Cheers might just do that tonight with my bottle of wine :) as for the hi-viz vests think only thing that will solve that is not to wear them 

Anyone remember the fire in Annalong Wood the night of the iWait? Was down there today, serious amount burnt. Bracken and whin bushes are fecked...but the grass is growing back at a fair speed already.

Is that just on the other side of the gate?

Yup, taken from the top of the stile/gate after coming up from Carrick Little Car Park, looking towards Binnian on the left, Lamagan/Cove in the middle, Annalong Valley on the right.

The burnt area goes right along the path down (but not too deep) into the wood, but it seemed to have gone right down to the river (Dunnywater?) on the right.

Quote from: Chuck on June 28, 2010, 01:05:01 AM
Anyone remember the fire in Annalong Wood the night of the iWait? Was down there today, serious amount burnt. Bracken and whin bushes are fecked...but the grass is growing back at a fair speed already.

That's heartbreaking to see that, I haven't been to Annalong wood since March.  I just hope it's given a chance to regrow this time without idiots destroying it again

Tim Robson and I saw the fire on the Friday morning, when putting out the clickers in that area.

It started down by the river and went uphill - according to the fire brigade (we had a chat with them as, the fire could have been a big problem) it was started in three places but no sign of the wee gits.

Wouldnt get too wound up about the vegetation - it'll come back soon enough.  "Firing" fells is used regularly over here to maintain scrub and vegetation and encourages fresh growth.  Its the wee animals that will have suffered - birds nests in particular.

myself and mikeD saw the fire as whe headed for our check point about 1030ish and called the police/fire brigade as we were not sure if the had been notified.

was well burning at 10-00am and they had four fire engines plus an incident control unit there.  they were being strategic about it - let the grass etc burn out, but keep it out of the trees at all costs.

Fairly frequent incident - they said - and, judging by the mess we found in the woods (burnt out BBQs etc etc etc) lots of less-than-environmentally sensitive camping going on

Quote from: Simon Barry on June 28, 2010, 08:41:24 PM
... they were being strategic about it - let the grass etc burn out, but keep it out of the trees at all costs.

Another thank you note to the Fire service is in order I think: link (http://www.nifrs.org/feedback.php?sec=5974)

I'm heading to annalong wood this Thursday night with four boys from work for an overnighter :) we will be well away from track and shall be sensible and of course wat ever we bring we leave with , 3 have bought hammocks which will be fun watching them putting them up , do you think we will get any hassle as I'm sure the locals will be keeping an eye out due to fires and do you think we could get away with a small camp fire

Quote from: andy on June 29, 2010, 11:43:15 AM
I'm heading to annalong wood this Thursday night with four boys from work for an overnighter :) we will be well away from track and shall be sensible and of course wat ever we bring we leave with , 3 have bought hammocks which will be fun watching them putting them up , do you think we will get any hassle as I'm sure the locals will be keeping an eye out due to fires and do you think we could get away with a small camp fire

nah mate you should be fine. It's a pity your of on thursday and not friday I would have headed up and met you.

Have to head up Thursday as we are back into work the Saturday , I'm still up for that summit camp you mentioned and I might even bring a bottle of Lurgan champagne :)

no worries mate have a good one. We'll get that summit camp sorted out too. Which one did you have in mind?

I'm don't mind but I'm away for 3wks this Sunday so was thinking start of august :)

The Action Medical Research chaps are looking for their high viz vests and clipboards. Can anyone who still has theirs get the to me at some point.

Cheers.

Hit me with your address (or their address) and I'll stick my jacket in the post.

Sure I'll get it off you next time we're out and get that all back together.

Quote from: Chuck on June 30, 2010, 07:47:36 PM
Hit me with your address (or their address) and I'll stick my jacket in the post.

One hi-viz vest washed and ready , will give ya it at nxt meet

Washed ;D

That sounds like you have the same problem I have: a wife that thinks all walking kit should be machine washed after every use (I regularly catch her machine washing her jacket & waterproof trousers..she now wonders why they are not waterproof any more...)

I hide mine :)

Quote from: Chuck on July 01, 2010, 10:23:01 AM
Washed ;D

That sounds like you have the same problem I have: a wife that thinks all walking kit should be machine washed after every use (I regularly catch her machine washing her jacket & waterproof trousers..she now wonders why they are not waterproof any more...)

I have a big metal locker I took a lend of from the m.o.d when they where closing Mahon barracks , has a big lock on it to keep kids out + wife :) also any new gear can be stashed away awaiting the sentence" I've had that ages dear "

Andy it sounds like your another one of these guys that get s there new gear delivered to work ;)

Quote from: MG1 on July 02, 2010, 12:40:58 PM
Andy it sounds like your another one of these guys that get s there new gear delivered to work ;)

guilty :-[