In reply to cheek to the rock:
> I used 5 runners,is that alot?
Haven't done 999 but would doubt it. Back in the (very long ago) day did Wombat with 4 runners and Cenotaph with (I think) five. Smart? No. Totally fu*king dumb!
If in doubt, don't run it out! Instead, fill it with gear. (The pump, while faffing around, is great training.)
> They say grit is better in cold weather... Felt dodgy today.
Better friction, which can make a big difference on hard stuff on natural grit - but only if you're incredibly careful about getting/keeping warm. If you're cold, it's game half-way over.
But never mind all that. You topped out. Good effort!
mick