Denis picked me up from the club car park at 8.30, on horrible wet windy morning, and we made are way down to the race. Things were going well and we made our way to Newcastle in good time, however things took a turn for the worse, when Denis's super efficient car gps took us to the heart of a new housing estate. Problem, not a runner in sight! After chatting to a friendly dog walker, he directed us to Newcastle college, to the starting point of the race.
Still arriving with plenty of time, we went to the clubhouse to pick up our race numbers. It was evident, this was a popular race, with lots of club runners from the local area, and as with a lot of races it sold out a long time ago.
We then made our way to Newcastle College, the start point for the race. Still wet and windy, the local mayor said a brief words and sent us on our way. The course for the first 2 km took us out of Newcastle on an undulating road, the course then winds it's way up the tough but rewarding 'Black Bank', a long 2km grind uphill, that was a bit of a killer, but I managed to gain a few places. The course then descended down into Silverdale, before picking up the old railway line, it was then a fast 2 km to the finish. I was struggling, but managed to find some deep reserves and hang on with my group. I finished in 40 mins 16 secs, which I was pleased with, Denis banished his demon's, and right the wrongs of last year, and finished in a creditable 54 mins and 35 secs.
For more information, visit the race website.
Tony