Yesterday was just dragging out back at camp so with a spur of the moment decision was made to climb Cradle Mountain…again. This time I was on my own, which kind of suited me as firstly I wanted to see just how quick I could climb the mountain and secondly it would be good training for Mt Ossa to be really able to push myself to the limit.
So I left Mole Creek at 1:30pm arriving at Dove Lake at 2:45pm. Most would see that as a little late to start the climb but for me this was to be a speedy, push it all the way climb, drop dead…well almost…kind of climb. Off I went following Dove Lake to the steep section to Marions Lookout. To the sign post at Marions Lookout I made it in 27 mins and 45 seconds (that’s right, Dove Lake to Marions Lookout). From there it was the Overland Track to Kitcheners Hut at the start of the Cradle Mtn summit track – for this section of track 19 mins and 15 seconds. Finally the summit climb…Kitcheners Hut to the Cairn Stone at the summit of Cradle Mountain…29 mins and 35 seconds. So from Dove Lake via Marions Lookout to the summit of Cradle Mountain it took a total of 1 hour 16 minutes and 25 seconds…I surprised myself…wow.
On the way down it was easier and I moved somewhat faster. I really wanted to beat the one hour mark so I was prepared to jog where necessary to get under the hour. Soooo, going down Cradle Summit to Kitcheners Hut 21 mins and 15 seconds, Kitcheners Hut to Marions Lookout 16 mins and 20 seconds and Marions Lookout to Dove Lake car park 20 mins and 20 seconds. Total time down was 57 mins and 55 seconds…under one hour…yeah I did it…awesome.
Yes, I am a nut, a little crazy and find enjoyment in doing these things others would call silly. I just like pushing my body to its limit and seeing how far I can really push myself. Getting out of your comfort zone and pushing through boundaries is what it is all about. The same stays true no matter what you take on in life. Unless you are operating outside your comfort zone do you really learn anything or move forward…for me no…get out there and give it a crack and see what you can achieve…the results will amaze you. Lets face it, just over 11 weeks ago I was 10+ kgs heavier and a whole lot more unfit and to achieve what I did today proves you can do anything you put your mind to.
So that was what Bushman Bud does when he is not 4WDing, camping or looking for adventure somewhere.
Bushman Bud…Enjoying Australia
Tags: 4WD, 4WD;Adventure;Climbing, Adventure, Bushman Bud, climbing, Cradle Mountain, Free Camping, Mountain;Peak Bagging, Offroad, Tasmania, Track