Warwick University Cross Country Relays – Nov 13th 2010

Rob Andrew reports: Eight runners from Bournville travelled to Warwick University last Saturday to take part in their cross country relays, and enjoyed a tough 3.3k muddy course, sunny conditions and a fine selection of cakes.

Between the eight of us we managed to put out 3 teams of 4 with Rob, Jon, Andy and Chris each running on two legs completing two legs each. Fiona, Linda, Graham and Barrie also used both legs, but only ran one leg each.

The event was a good runout, very relaxed and informal and was enjoyed by all. Barrie’s concern about whether to wear spikes or not beforehand were quickly dispelled during the warm-up, and the course, although short in length was a good test in the muddy conditions. Jon, Andy and Chris all lined up to race each other on the first leg, with Jon showing an encouraging return to form after many months out showing a muddy pair of heels to the other two. Chris struggled in the conditions without any spikes on – these apparently were last seen setting off from his washing line the night before on the prevailing winds !

Fiona had a good run on what I think was only her second cross country outing, and seems to have taken to it well and should benefit from the experience gained. A very promising run too from her boyfriend Graham. He turned up not expecting to race, but joined the colours on the day and hopefully may join up with us at some point this season. Linda was a bit under the weather and found the going tough, and Barrie did his best to shorten my recovery before my second leg handing over to me for the ‘extras’ team. Andy Halliday won the 2nd leg competition by a second from myself and Jon – Chris again being slowed down by the absence of spikes.

All in all a good day out, and an event that I would encourage others to do next year if you haven’t had experience of cross country running before. It was a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere, and if you do turn up bring your pennies as the cakes were excellent and raised some much needed cash for the University running club !

Results here (PDF).