10k run on Sunday 7th December.
Tony on the downhill stretch t the finish line |
It is a 10k multi terrain run around the 'Apedale Community Country Park', which is reclaimed land from the old mining area. 'Multi Terrain' is a very apt description, because the course took us along gravel paths, muddy fields, tarmac you name it, what's more it was very hilly, horribly hilly.
Of the 200 entries, 2 striders took part, Heather Carter and myself. After a quick
breifing, we were counted down and sent on our way round the country park. There
was no gentle start, as we were soon faced with one of many steep inclines, followed by sharp descents, this was the story of the race, along tracks and narrow paths up and down, and up again.
One of the nice things with this race, there was lots of moral support, with local people out in force, cheering us on, and I did here someone shout 'come on sandbach', which was nice to here.
Heather raced of into the distance, which she has a habit of doing lately, and I took
a more leisurely pace behind. After about 5k, I caught her up, and just managed to get
club line honours, though I'm not sure for how much longer.
We finished a respectable 26th and 29th with times of 44m 52s and 45m 25s
respectively. Heather kept up her winning tradition, finishing 3rd lady, and winning
a voucher. All finishers were given a china mug as a memento of the event, which
was a nice touch.
This was a great race, well organised, with a festive feel. Its a bit tough on the old
legs, and not a pb race, but I'd definitely do it again.
For more information visit the website.
Tony