Phew - this was my first 10 mile race - and probably the hardest 10 miles I have ever run!
I was not sure until yesterday that I would actually run it having spent last weekend laid up with a stomach bug but managed a couple of gentle outings on Friday and Saturday and felt ok so thought I would give it a go.
Woke up this morning to the sound of HEAVY rain - looked out and thought, "at least its falling vertically" . By the time I got to Ripley (5 miles North) it most definately was not falling vertically any more
The route is very scenic, and this year involved running up and down streams and through small ponds although I understand it is usually along country lanes
I'm not sure how, but the wind contrived to be blowing very strongly into my face on all the downhill bits - so even they were hard work! Fortunately the steep uphill sections seemed to be sheltered.
Despite the wind and the rain the marshalls were friendly and encouraging and some hardy souls even turned out to watch!
Normally I would be a bit disappointed with 1:32 for 10 miles but given my state of health last week and the conditions I felt happy to have got round without walking.
A well organised race, with a great goody bag full of Nestle chocolates and a big jar of Gold Blend.
I think this one will become a regular feature of my calendar.
I entered this race but was unable to run due to another tender calf (probably overdoing the training post marathon!). Mind you I wasnt too bothered when I looked at the weather - sounds like you enjoyed it though - times are not everything!
Guy Fawkes 10
Posted - 01 Nov 2009 : 2:21:37 PM
. By the time I got to Ripley (5 miles North) it most definately was not falling vertically any more 
