Steve Morton writes:
There were 4 runners in the Men’s Team for this 7 mile cross country event. Conditions did not look too good early in the day with driving rain and an icy feel in the air. I admit I thought it might be better to stay in bed! I roused myself however.
As the blurb for the race mentioned limited parking and knowing that the Women’s race was before the Men’s, I thought I’d head for the overflow / alternative parking site. Once there Google Maps told me it was a 6 minute drive to the race venue – but 1 hour 30 minutes to walk!! I now realise my mistake. The overflow options are meant for convoys of cars with 1 car then going on to the venue proper. Change of plan and I got back in my car and drove to the venue. Managed to park ok, got changed and penguined up the road in my spikes. Luckily Paul Samuels recognised me and even better I got to sit in his car to warm up a bit whilst the other runners, Peter Williams and Tom Robinson (the younger) were getting ready.
Off to the start just in time to avoid any warm-up nonsense and we were off!
I started off conservatively and started to warm up a little. Managed to pass a few runners and even started to enjoy the race. I was thinking “this feels alright, I’m doing ok!”, Then I hit a long incline. Several minutes later and it was heavy breathing and top end heart rate. “Bother this” I said as I was reduced to a walk. A fellow walker made me feel a little better by muttering “Strategic walking!” in response to my expletives. Once in decline again I picked up the running. It was a 3 loop course and I think it was on the second loop on a downhill section that I had my first tumble. Feet left behind up the hill it was onto my side into the mud. No injury or hurt so straight back to it.
Started to enjoy it again apart from struggling to see in my misted up rain soaked glasses. Luckily the marshals sensed I was floundering for direction and kept me going the right way with timely interventions. There were a few ‘troughs’ to navigate and at the top of one of those on the 3rd loop I face-planted in the muddy incline. Glasses a little bent but managed to soldier on in best muddy attire. Finished the race strongly (I thought) and headed straight to the car to warm up – sorry to miss your finish Paul.
The ladies team were on the course and supporting the men as they passed – very welcome! Home, coffee, bath, coffee, food and already looking in the diary for the next race!