Sunday 29th March saw the Westgates running the 25th Teignbridge Ten. Sometimes it really hits home how lucky we are; a beautiful sunny spring morning managed to transform what some might regard as a boring looped road race past quarries and houses into a cheerful canter, passing trees laden with blossom and ringing with birdsong.
Having not trained for 8 days I decided to start off in last place and just run within myself enjoying the event. The first three miles I went past lots of runners before I saw John Perratt ahead. Caught him up by mile 4 and ran with him for a while, exchanging places over the next few miles. I think I averaged about 7.5 min/mile to mile 8 then feeling slightly guilty about not trying hard enough finished on two 7-minute miles.
So a wonderful day, friendly marshals, good organisation, facilities etc. as a bonus Lesley picked up a prize for 2nd FV50 and myself one as 6th member of the 2nd male team (SWRR). Lesley thinks she might put the winnings towards a pair of spikes for the track!
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Club Champion graces the Arena
Wednesday 18th March saw the Westgates at the last race in the Exeter Winter 3K series. Excellent organisation by Pete Ferlie of Ironbridge Runner brings together a junior one-mile race followed by the 3K which is split into five separate races graded to your predicted finish time. The event takes place on the floodlit track at Exeter Arena, the spiritual home of the mighty SWRR. Turning up to register can be a bit confusing for the uninitiated because Wednesday night is also SWRR club night and with over 100 of the aforementioned runners milling around before dispersing for their evening road-running sessions it can be a bit noisy.
Talking of the uninitiated, Lesley bravely decided to make her 3K debut. Terrified at getting the pace wrong and finishing last, she opted for group E, the slowest group. She couldn’t have picked a more perfect spring evening, no breeze and clear cool air. This race was considerably shorter than anything she had done before and she was worried that it would be over before she had even warmed up!
During the junior mile race we did many warm up laps together and she insisted that she always raced carrying a drinks bottle. I think this was pushing eccentricity to an extreme with a real possibility of bringing Maiden Newton into disrepute so I confiscated her bottle. The call went out for the group to make their way over to the start. I went one way and Lesley the other. She insisted the start was where the lap counter and timekeepers were and dug her stubborn heels in. However the irrefutable logic that a 3K race over 7.5 laps couldn’t possibly start and finish on the same line eventually persuaded her to follow me to the far side of the track. It was getting a bit cooler now and I had to really insist she keep moving to keep warm; unfortunately she knew three of the runners in the group and wanted to stand chatting.
The runners lined up and on a signal were off. A sharp cry of “wait for me” broke the night air and the race was stopped. No, it wasn’t Lesley but another lady, a bit slow getting her jacket off. (Lucky for her the race was restarted and she won the series over-60 prize). I suppose technically it wasn’t a false start – a real rarity for a 3K – rather a restart. Lesley set off near the rear of the group of 14. There were seven youngsters under 15, two ladies over 60, two men over 50, 2 ladies over 50 and the winner – a lady over 45.
Lesley soon started moving through the field and was looking quite comfortable. She probably ran further than the rest, as for a couple of laps she seemed to be in lanes 2, 3 or even 4 as she went wide overtaking runners. With a lap to go she was still in second position but the lady ahead kept a clear lead. In fact Lesley needed some encouragement to push on, as a young Honiton lad wasn’t far behind. With some effort she held on to second place in 13:46.
I was seeded in race C – predicted time of 12.00. Things went to plan; I started at the back, nice and steady for a lap then moving up a bit. I finished in 11:58, ninth out of 22, very happy. Mike will be interested to note that John Perratt did 12:25 and won the first male over 70 for the series. Full results are on the Ironbridge Runner website. Lesley says never again but I bet she will.
Talking of the uninitiated, Lesley bravely decided to make her 3K debut. Terrified at getting the pace wrong and finishing last, she opted for group E, the slowest group. She couldn’t have picked a more perfect spring evening, no breeze and clear cool air. This race was considerably shorter than anything she had done before and she was worried that it would be over before she had even warmed up!
During the junior mile race we did many warm up laps together and she insisted that she always raced carrying a drinks bottle. I think this was pushing eccentricity to an extreme with a real possibility of bringing Maiden Newton into disrepute so I confiscated her bottle. The call went out for the group to make their way over to the start. I went one way and Lesley the other. She insisted the start was where the lap counter and timekeepers were and dug her stubborn heels in. However the irrefutable logic that a 3K race over 7.5 laps couldn’t possibly start and finish on the same line eventually persuaded her to follow me to the far side of the track. It was getting a bit cooler now and I had to really insist she keep moving to keep warm; unfortunately she knew three of the runners in the group and wanted to stand chatting.
The runners lined up and on a signal were off. A sharp cry of “wait for me” broke the night air and the race was stopped. No, it wasn’t Lesley but another lady, a bit slow getting her jacket off. (Lucky for her the race was restarted and she won the series over-60 prize). I suppose technically it wasn’t a false start – a real rarity for a 3K – rather a restart. Lesley set off near the rear of the group of 14. There were seven youngsters under 15, two ladies over 60, two men over 50, 2 ladies over 50 and the winner – a lady over 45.
Lesley soon started moving through the field and was looking quite comfortable. She probably ran further than the rest, as for a couple of laps she seemed to be in lanes 2, 3 or even 4 as she went wide overtaking runners. With a lap to go she was still in second position but the lady ahead kept a clear lead. In fact Lesley needed some encouragement to push on, as a young Honiton lad wasn’t far behind. With some effort she held on to second place in 13:46.
I was seeded in race C – predicted time of 12.00. Things went to plan; I started at the back, nice and steady for a lap then moving up a bit. I finished in 11:58, ninth out of 22, very happy. Mike will be interested to note that John Perratt did 12:25 and won the first male over 70 for the series. Full results are on the Ironbridge Runner website. Lesley says never again but I bet she will.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Street Winter 5k Series
A short race so a correspondingly short race report. Martin and I drove to Street on Wednesday evening for the sixth and final race in the series.
The Street series is less well supported than the Summer series at Yeovilton but it’s great fun charging round the streets of Street – five times – and we have done them all this year. We approached the final one with some trepidation having survived 20 miles of bogs, beach and cliffs at the Grizzly just three days earlier.
The start of this race is terrifying – the road is quite narrow, it’s downhill, it has speed bumps and everyone is trying to get to the first corner as quickly as possible to avoid getting stuck as the path narrows. Consequently it’s a mad charge with no room to see where you are putting your feet and I’m always grateful to survive it unscathed.
We obviously didn’t try hard enough at the Grizzly because we both had a good race, Martin clocked an excellent 18.18 and I ran my best time for the Series – 20.47. Alternatively it could be that we are finally returning to some semblance of fitness.
The main reason for this race report is to advertise what a superstar Maiden Newton Running Club has in its midst – Martin came home as first Vet 50 in 5 out of 6 of the races, which obviously also meant that he won the vet 50 prize for the overall series. Not only that, he finished in a fantastic 7th place overall in this final race. I’m so proud of him!
The next challenge will be at Yeovilton and the first race of the summer series is at 7.15pm on Wednesday 8th April when hopefully some other Maiden Newton runners will take up the challenge.
The Street series is less well supported than the Summer series at Yeovilton but it’s great fun charging round the streets of Street – five times – and we have done them all this year. We approached the final one with some trepidation having survived 20 miles of bogs, beach and cliffs at the Grizzly just three days earlier.
The start of this race is terrifying – the road is quite narrow, it’s downhill, it has speed bumps and everyone is trying to get to the first corner as quickly as possible to avoid getting stuck as the path narrows. Consequently it’s a mad charge with no room to see where you are putting your feet and I’m always grateful to survive it unscathed.
We obviously didn’t try hard enough at the Grizzly because we both had a good race, Martin clocked an excellent 18.18 and I ran my best time for the Series – 20.47. Alternatively it could be that we are finally returning to some semblance of fitness.
The main reason for this race report is to advertise what a superstar Maiden Newton Running Club has in its midst – Martin came home as first Vet 50 in 5 out of 6 of the races, which obviously also meant that he won the vet 50 prize for the overall series. Not only that, he finished in a fantastic 7th place overall in this final race. I’m so proud of him!
The next challenge will be at Yeovilton and the first race of the summer series is at 7.15pm on Wednesday 8th April when hopefully some other Maiden Newton runners will take up the challenge.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Dalwood Three Hills
Sunday 22nd February saw the Westgates and the Lascelles at the Dalwood 3 Hills. Any race organised by Axe Valley with hills in the title should ring alarm bells for any wimps looking for a fast flat race. Considering the hundreds of races Lin and Martin have entered it was a surprise to learn they were Dalwood virgins, but by the end of the day they had left their mark.
Axe Valley like to make you work for your money. A stamped addressed envelope rewards you with race number only – no directions or parking info etc. Dalwood is a very small community nestling in at the bottom of a valley and some navigational skill is needed if you want to get to the start in good time. I’m not sure who, but someone decided the competitors’ car park wasn’t good enough and decided to park a small red car on a narrow corner about quarter of a mile along the course. The Yeovil Town Road Runner sticker in the rear window offers some clue to the culprit.
It really was a perfect February morning; above average temperatures, little breeze and enough sun to warrant donning the shades. The start seemed friendly, informal and relaxed, however near the front line were five SWRRs who were obviously looking to do well. Lin and Martin were just ahead on my left and Lesley was lurking somewhere behind. (Making my way towards the back, chatting and completely oblivious to the starting gun). There might well be Three Hills, of note, but there seemed very little flat. From the start we climbed, passing the aforementioned small red car and then followed a friendly marshal’s directions onto a track. This race was well marshalled and I loved some of the characters. Some of them were traditional race-supporters with helpful children at water stations. Others seemed to be local farmers or landowners who just stood like scarecrows making no movement or eye contact with passing runners. They were obviously happy to be there to help, but probably thought all runners were mad and had their minds on crop production or the price of lamb.
Within five minutes Martin went past; he seemed very focused and didn’t say anything; I didn’t look behind but expected Mrs Lascelles to be in close proximity. The first four miles are a loop that brings the runners back past the start and the village hall, but not the small red car. I remember running across grassy fields, then hills, then stony tracks. Lesley remembers trampling frogspawn in flooded tracks. Others remarked that she has an evil grin as she walks over lower life forms. Talking of which I remember going through five miles at 40:45 and thinking that wasn’t too bad. I then clocked an 11 minute-mile and came back to earth. I had a target and was losing it. My target had involved me doing a series of 10-mile very hilly training runs. It had also involved me abstaining from alcohol for FIVE whole days. Given my high-pressure executive lifestyle, this took some commitment.
At about 6 miles I heard male and female voices behind me. How can anyone run and maintain a conversion on such a hilly course? Soon they glided past, but on a steep and stony downhill I blundered past them and stayed ahead for another mile. I didn’t have the strength to push on and once again they passed me, finishing 30 seconds ahead; the female being the 1st Lady. The last hill brings the runners to an exposed grassy hump overlooking the village down in the valley. From now on it is steeply downhill, only to be slowed by a field with a very boggy/watery corner. The final sprint to the finish along the Corry Brook gives spectators a good photo opportunity. Not quite the same as wildebeast floundering through crocodile infested waters, but there was a small bank to climb and there could have been giant rats. A very enjoyable run.
Congrats to Mrs Lascelles who got 2nd Ladyand to Martin who finished "fresh as a daisy" some 7 minutes ahead of me. I came home with a PW and Lesley with shoes full of mushy frogspawn. Note from Lesley: I achieved my own personal target which was to beat Bev and Jo. Last year Bev left me standing on the final downhill, and Jo crashed past me on the final sprint across the river. This year the cunning plan was to get a bit ahead earlier on and maintain the gap. However it was all guess work as I never saw them after the first quarter mile.
Axe Valley like to make you work for your money. A stamped addressed envelope rewards you with race number only – no directions or parking info etc. Dalwood is a very small community nestling in at the bottom of a valley and some navigational skill is needed if you want to get to the start in good time. I’m not sure who, but someone decided the competitors’ car park wasn’t good enough and decided to park a small red car on a narrow corner about quarter of a mile along the course. The Yeovil Town Road Runner sticker in the rear window offers some clue to the culprit.
It really was a perfect February morning; above average temperatures, little breeze and enough sun to warrant donning the shades. The start seemed friendly, informal and relaxed, however near the front line were five SWRRs who were obviously looking to do well. Lin and Martin were just ahead on my left and Lesley was lurking somewhere behind. (Making my way towards the back, chatting and completely oblivious to the starting gun). There might well be Three Hills, of note, but there seemed very little flat. From the start we climbed, passing the aforementioned small red car and then followed a friendly marshal’s directions onto a track. This race was well marshalled and I loved some of the characters. Some of them were traditional race-supporters with helpful children at water stations. Others seemed to be local farmers or landowners who just stood like scarecrows making no movement or eye contact with passing runners. They were obviously happy to be there to help, but probably thought all runners were mad and had their minds on crop production or the price of lamb.
Within five minutes Martin went past; he seemed very focused and didn’t say anything; I didn’t look behind but expected Mrs Lascelles to be in close proximity. The first four miles are a loop that brings the runners back past the start and the village hall, but not the small red car. I remember running across grassy fields, then hills, then stony tracks. Lesley remembers trampling frogspawn in flooded tracks. Others remarked that she has an evil grin as she walks over lower life forms. Talking of which I remember going through five miles at 40:45 and thinking that wasn’t too bad. I then clocked an 11 minute-mile and came back to earth. I had a target and was losing it. My target had involved me doing a series of 10-mile very hilly training runs. It had also involved me abstaining from alcohol for FIVE whole days. Given my high-pressure executive lifestyle, this took some commitment.
At about 6 miles I heard male and female voices behind me. How can anyone run and maintain a conversion on such a hilly course? Soon they glided past, but on a steep and stony downhill I blundered past them and stayed ahead for another mile. I didn’t have the strength to push on and once again they passed me, finishing 30 seconds ahead; the female being the 1st Lady. The last hill brings the runners to an exposed grassy hump overlooking the village down in the valley. From now on it is steeply downhill, only to be slowed by a field with a very boggy/watery corner. The final sprint to the finish along the Corry Brook gives spectators a good photo opportunity. Not quite the same as wildebeast floundering through crocodile infested waters, but there was a small bank to climb and there could have been giant rats. A very enjoyable run.
Congrats to Mrs Lascelles who got 2nd Ladyand to Martin who finished "fresh as a daisy" some 7 minutes ahead of me. I came home with a PW and Lesley with shoes full of mushy frogspawn. Note from Lesley: I achieved my own personal target which was to beat Bev and Jo. Last year Bev left me standing on the final downhill, and Jo crashed past me on the final sprint across the river. This year the cunning plan was to get a bit ahead earlier on and maintain the gap. However it was all guess work as I never saw them after the first quarter mile.
Friday, February 20, 2009
“Off Road Shoes Required” – The Inca Trail 15th February 2009
Race Report by Jackie Webb
Well it said it all really, but quite frankly wellies or even diving gear would have been more appropriate. I tried not to look at the photos of the flooded course displayed in the club house and concentrated on getting the timing of my place in the loo queue right.
We were slightly dismayed when, during our pre-race pep talk we were told that due to flooding the course had been changed and was now about 8 miles (rather than the advertised 7) and if this runner was anything like the one I live with, I suspected that the “about” meant more like 9. “Don’t worry Jack” Amanda whispered “One potato two potato” (Amanda’s new secret weapon when it comes to pacing herself during races). We were also warned that there were still some fairly deep flooded stretches that were deeper than they looked (they looked pretty deep) and lots of mud.
Well, Michael Rosen’s ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ soon came to mind, with thick oozy mud and of course we couldn’t go over it or under it, we had to go through it. We set off slipping and sliding like Torville and Dean on acid. After a very long stretch of mud, we had about a mile of flat straight track; nice easy running we thought. We then came to a big puddle which we easily skirted around but soon wondered why we had bothered keeping our feet dry. We had to run through water that easily came over my knees, so once we were running in it, we got absolutely soaked. This stretch went on for about 80 yards. I then encountered a new problem. My trousers started falling down with the weight of the water. It’s not very dignified hitching yourself up every few feet.
After the water, came more mud and then a nice bit of clean road. At this stage we started to see the leaders heading back and were both impressed at how friendly and encouraging both the runners and marshals were. Climbing the promised ‘Machu Pichu’ was pretty tough but I managed to run some of it especially when I heard the shake of a sweet tin at the top. Running down was great. I careered down at quite a speed and could see a marshall in the distance but couldn’t make out what she was saying until the words “slow down it’s very slippery” seemed a bit redundant. I managed to keep my balance and then embarked on the return leg; more mud, that water again and finally “one potato two potato” to the finish.
We finished 56th and 57th out of 70, which we were pleased with as they all seemed lithe and lovely club runners. We did it in 1 hour 27minutes and I’m still not sure now how far it was. I heard it was 8.13 miles from one runner. I would definitely recommend this run. Amanda and I both enjoyed it and feel more confident about the Wessex Ridgeway. At least we managed to keep our running shoes. Dave told me one early finisher crossed the line in his socks. Perhaps he didn’t feel he could keep the flippers on for the final stretch.
Well it said it all really, but quite frankly wellies or even diving gear would have been more appropriate. I tried not to look at the photos of the flooded course displayed in the club house and concentrated on getting the timing of my place in the loo queue right.
We were slightly dismayed when, during our pre-race pep talk we were told that due to flooding the course had been changed and was now about 8 miles (rather than the advertised 7) and if this runner was anything like the one I live with, I suspected that the “about” meant more like 9. “Don’t worry Jack” Amanda whispered “One potato two potato” (Amanda’s new secret weapon when it comes to pacing herself during races). We were also warned that there were still some fairly deep flooded stretches that were deeper than they looked (they looked pretty deep) and lots of mud.
Well, Michael Rosen’s ‘We’re Going on a Bear Hunt’ soon came to mind, with thick oozy mud and of course we couldn’t go over it or under it, we had to go through it. We set off slipping and sliding like Torville and Dean on acid. After a very long stretch of mud, we had about a mile of flat straight track; nice easy running we thought. We then came to a big puddle which we easily skirted around but soon wondered why we had bothered keeping our feet dry. We had to run through water that easily came over my knees, so once we were running in it, we got absolutely soaked. This stretch went on for about 80 yards. I then encountered a new problem. My trousers started falling down with the weight of the water. It’s not very dignified hitching yourself up every few feet.
After the water, came more mud and then a nice bit of clean road. At this stage we started to see the leaders heading back and were both impressed at how friendly and encouraging both the runners and marshals were. Climbing the promised ‘Machu Pichu’ was pretty tough but I managed to run some of it especially when I heard the shake of a sweet tin at the top. Running down was great. I careered down at quite a speed and could see a marshall in the distance but couldn’t make out what she was saying until the words “slow down it’s very slippery” seemed a bit redundant. I managed to keep my balance and then embarked on the return leg; more mud, that water again and finally “one potato two potato” to the finish.
We finished 56th and 57th out of 70, which we were pleased with as they all seemed lithe and lovely club runners. We did it in 1 hour 27minutes and I’m still not sure now how far it was. I heard it was 8.13 miles from one runner. I would definitely recommend this run. Amanda and I both enjoyed it and feel more confident about the Wessex Ridgeway. At least we managed to keep our running shoes. Dave told me one early finisher crossed the line in his socks. Perhaps he didn’t feel he could keep the flippers on for the final stretch.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Four Trigs
Martin and I headed down to Sidmouth last Sunday in the lovely spring-like sunshine for our third running of the Four Trigs. Following the frantic recce-ing expeditions of 2007 and 2008 we were extremely complaisant this year and had not been near the route. This is a self navigating run of the four trig points surrounding Sidmouth – and to make it more interesting it is run in opposite directions each year. This year the route was anti-clockwise, my personal favourite, as it gets the killer hills between Sidmouth and Branscombe out of the way early on whilst there is still some life left in the legs.
The run starts at the Yacht Club in Sidmouth and follows the coast path past Salcombe and Westonmouth to reach the first trig point on Branscome cliff. This is the easy bit (from a navigational point of view!). The route then heads inland through Weston and past the donkey sanctuary at Salcombe. At this point it became apparent that two runners who clearly had no idea of the route were using us as guides. This didn’t bother me too much, but when Martin started pretending that he couldn’t remember the way, I realised that it was upsetting him and thought it was probably time to stop chatting to one of them and try to lose them!
We crossed the main coast road and headed into the woods to emerge near Harcombe with our irritating posse still on our heels. The second trig is definitely the hardest to find – it nestles in a knoll of scrubby woodland with no discernible path, so we plunged into the woods, clawing our way up the steep hillside and managed to briefly shake off our pursuers. Emerging a few minutes later, arms and legs badly scratched, we legged it out of the woods trying to reach a cunning short cut before our companions came back into view.
A steep descent through the woods, out into the fields and we headed down to the road crossing at Sidbury. At this point Martin noticed that a girl who had been ahead of us was now several hundred yards behind – together with several other runners who had obviously also had problems locating the second trig – and unfortunately the duo who had been following us.
After the road crossing there is a long, muddy bridle path leading uphill which is quite easy to follow, although it resembles running along a riverbed for most of its route. My female rival had caught us up by this point and was clearly quite happy to discard her map and join our guided tour group. We tried to lag behind but the slower we went the slower they went too. Our cunning plan was that there was plenty of scope for getting lost in the woods leading to the third trig.
Unfortunately we had not counted on another local runner, who clearly knew the route as well as we did, catching us up and, obviously a far more sporting type than us, being quite happy to point everyone in the right direction. Three of our “group” including female runner began to forge ahead with him but we didn’t give up hope of shaking off some of the slower members of our entourage later on.
Once past the third trig there is a long, steep descent before another road crossing and a very tricky section where you have to leave the safety of the East Devon Way behind and indulge in some serious mountain climbing through thick woods whilst hoping that you are heading in the right direction. It was on this descent that Martin decided we would shake off our pursuers, so as not to give them any hint of our cunning short cut through said woods.
The first part of the plan went well and we bombed down the field at breakneck speed. Unfortunately the second part of the plan didn’t work quite so well – we definitely took the most direct route through the woods, but the cliff face we had to scale slowed us down a fair bit!
We crossed the road (again!) and knew that we were finally on the homeward stretch - another long, steady climb up and then a mile or so of nice easy running on flat paths through the woods – and we were on our own now, no sign of anyone either in front or behind.
The fourth trig – High Peak – is out and back and it is so hard turning away from the finish after 14 miles or so and running west towards Budleigh instead of east back to the delights of the Yacht Club. There are two routes up to the trig point and Martin decided to take the second one whilst I opted for the first. When I reached the trig there was no sign of him, so I went back down the other way assuming that he had been and gone and was proving the point that his way was quicker by not waiting for me.
As I headed back towards Sidmouth and climbed the final hill there was no sign of him, either in front or behind. I did have a small twinge of guilt that he was lying in the woods with a badly twisted ankle or had approached the trig a tad too enthusiastically and plunged straight over the cliff, but I managed to quash it and continued to push on to the finish. Halfway down Peak Hill, with the blissful sight of Sidmouth ahead of me, he suddenly appeared from a side gate and ruefully admitted to having made “a bit of a navigational error “ resulting in more bramble clearance and some impressive scratches. I managed not to look too smug as we enjoyed the final run along the promenade, trying not to scare the old age pensioners and Sunday strollers with our battered, bloody rush through their midst.
We finished in 2.55.10 – some seven minutes slower than our 2007 circuit, but as this was by far the hardest run we’ve done since last July we were both pleased to have broken the 3 hour mark. We celebrated with our annual dip in the sea , which was a bit on the chilly side and then retired to the Yacht Club for well earned pasties, cakes and coffees, all included in the modest £5 entry fee.
This is one of our favourite runs – low key, friendly, stunning countryside and great fun – and it’s fast becoming an annual “must do” event. Apart from anything else a great warm up for the Grizzly which is now looming dangerously close!
Running through Salcombe Regis
Friday, February 13, 2009
Slaying The Dragon
Race Report by Dave Carnell
Sunday the 8th February saw the first running of the ‘Slay the Dragon’ race at Hinton St George in Somerset. Given the prevailing weather conditions this could have been called ‘Prancing on Ice’, but sensibly the organisers reduced the roundly 10K race to a more modest circa 5 miler, in order to avoid actually running on the worst bits.
After a jolly 1 mile walk (mostly downhill – real shame we couldn’t run this bit!) to the revised start point, the mixed field of over 70 runner types and foolish villagers lured into participating in the collective madness, all set off across a meadow covered in virgin snow.
The route then took us down muddy footpaths, alongside small streams, along quiet country lanes, across more snowy farm land and then temptingly close to the Dinnington Docks PH (rumoured to be well worth a visit). Temptation resisted, the final test and distinct sting in the tail was the steep ascent up the scarp face of the hill behind Hinton, the top of which led us to the improvised finish at the western end of the village.
All that remained was to then jog back the ½ mile or so to the village hall (a gentle down hill that would otherwise have provided good sport for the sprinter types), where the start and finish had originally been planned to be and where now a generous supply of cakes and warm refreshments awaited the returning competitors.
Despite the appalling weather beforehand and the treacherously icy conditions on the lanes leading to the village, this was a well attended event taking a scenic and varied route – one to recommend for the future.
Sunday the 8th February saw the first running of the ‘Slay the Dragon’ race at Hinton St George in Somerset. Given the prevailing weather conditions this could have been called ‘Prancing on Ice’, but sensibly the organisers reduced the roundly 10K race to a more modest circa 5 miler, in order to avoid actually running on the worst bits.
After a jolly 1 mile walk (mostly downhill – real shame we couldn’t run this bit!) to the revised start point, the mixed field of over 70 runner types and foolish villagers lured into participating in the collective madness, all set off across a meadow covered in virgin snow.
The route then took us down muddy footpaths, alongside small streams, along quiet country lanes, across more snowy farm land and then temptingly close to the Dinnington Docks PH (rumoured to be well worth a visit). Temptation resisted, the final test and distinct sting in the tail was the steep ascent up the scarp face of the hill behind Hinton, the top of which led us to the improvised finish at the western end of the village.
All that remained was to then jog back the ½ mile or so to the village hall (a gentle down hill that would otherwise have provided good sport for the sprinter types), where the start and finish had originally been planned to be and where now a generous supply of cakes and warm refreshments awaited the returning competitors.
Despite the appalling weather beforehand and the treacherously icy conditions on the lanes leading to the village, this was a well attended event taking a scenic and varied route – one to recommend for the future.
Saturday, February 07, 2009
Saturday Stratton Snow Session
The turnout for our latest social run was a bit down on the last. The weather and treacherous conditions underfoot must have had something to do with it. However the four who made it to the Saxon Arms on Saturday... 
I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, mostly, and save me a bit of typing.
Half-way point at Maiden Castle, 
Follow me!
With a brief stop for a bit of steeplechase
and a look at the scenery. 
(plus the one taking the picture) were rewarded with an interesting and scenic 10 miles, courtesy of Mother Nature. The trails were mostly softening snow interspersed with skating rink, frozen ice-cubes and mud. High point was a romp downhill across a snowy field where we raced a couple of deer who got confused and almost let us catch them.
I'll let the pictures speak for themselves, mostly, and save me a bit of typing.
View from the top of the first hill at New Barn Centre.
Half-way point at Maiden Castle,
Where a friendly passer-by took one of all four of us.
Follow me!
Nearly there, It's all downhill from here, promise.
With a brief stop for a bit of steeplechase
and a look at the scenery.
There's Stratton below us.
Monday, February 02, 2009
Fulfords Five
Sunday 1st February saw the Westgates at our first Fulfords Five mile road race at Exmouth. The course does 2 loops through the town with legs along the seafront. Weather was bitingly cold with a nasty east wind, but general opinion was that last year’s conditions were worse with stronger winds sand-blasting the competitors! So with comparatively good conditions I elected to wear shorts, but thank God I wasn’t running further than five miles!
Not much to say about this race really; facilities and organisation ticked all the right boxes and there was plenty of plod about to control the traffic. Not being too fit I aimed for 35 minutes or under so my 34:26was OK. Very pleased and relieved that my age-graded percentage time was just a point or two above Lesley’s! Looking at the provisional results it seems that SWRR did a clean sweep of the major prizes. First man finished at 5:05min/mile pace, which at about 84% is quite high class. Us lesser mortals plodded round, but it was enjoyable, and it’s always good to try a different event.
Some words from Lesley: I was going to moan about how cold it was, but given what we’ve had today, we were really lucky again. I still wore my woolly hat, along with the usual coat, gloves and wrist-warmers. The only concession to it being a race was to wear knee-length shorts instead of leggings.And I was still cold at the finish, in 40:33, which was age-graded at 69%.
Not much to say about this race really; facilities and organisation ticked all the right boxes and there was plenty of plod about to control the traffic. Not being too fit I aimed for 35 minutes or under so my 34:26was OK. Very pleased and relieved that my age-graded percentage time was just a point or two above Lesley’s! Looking at the provisional results it seems that SWRR did a clean sweep of the major prizes. First man finished at 5:05min/mile pace, which at about 84% is quite high class. Us lesser mortals plodded round, but it was enjoyable, and it’s always good to try a different event.
Some words from Lesley: I was going to moan about how cold it was, but given what we’ve had today, we were really lucky again. I still wore my woolly hat, along with the usual coat, gloves and wrist-warmers. The only concession to it being a race was to wear knee-length shorts instead of leggings.And I was still cold at the finish, in 40:33, which was age-graded at 69%.
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Brass Monkeys at the Blackmore Vale Half Marathon
Lin and I arrived well in time for this one, having heard of the limited changing facilities which is code for "not enough toilets". We needed to pick our numbers up and joined a queue outside what we took to be headquarters, but which turned out to be the men's limited changing facility, or bog. The gathered throng took great delight in setting us straight about this fact, and pointed across the street to the village hall into which, red-faced (from the cold of course), we took several minutes to squeeze, and ignoring the queues for the not-so limited women's facilities we navigated to where we claimed our numbers.
We then quickly returned to the car and quickly shut the doors against the elements ( mostly Nitrogen and Oxygen) to gird our loins (and most other parts) for ourordeal race. It was a bit nippy (ok, bloody freezing) with a brisk easterly wind, perfect weather for a day indoors race but along with nearly 600 hundred shivering (fool)hardy masochists athletes we lined up at the start of the Blackmore Vale Half Marathon at 11:00 am on Sunday. The start was in the football field with about 60 yards before a narrow gate which forced me to start off faster than I would like, but going down the steep hill I was still well behind the Maiden Newton duo of Phil England and Dave Webb.
The course, which is all on road,led its winding and undulating route through Holway, and then turned right towards Glanvilles Wooton. The forecast had been of south-easterly winds, but it seemed to be coming from in front, mainly, regardless of the direction I was running at the time. I was following my cunning plan of running only in the lee of another runner (preferably several) to avoid the worst of the biting wind.
This worked quite well, especially when I caught up with the tall figure of Dave Webb who I shadowed for a while until he noticed I was there. We chatted for a while, and reeled in Phil and then Nigel Johns.
Dave and I pressed on towards the 6 mile point which was at the top of a long hill where the route joins a larger road and turns into what was definitely the teeth of the wind. I took advantage of the opportunity to tag onto a runner who overtook us quickly at this point, and running as closely as I dared behind him, I was able to catch up with a fellow Yeovil runner, Steve Sparks, who, being a useful sized chap, I trailed for a couple of miles before he spotted me and I was forced to press on and pass him.
By now I was feeling the strain, but the expectation of being caught by Dave W, combined with the desire to get in out of the cold wind kept me pushing as fast as I could through the village of Pulham, then FINALLY turning west with the wind now helping slightly, I passed the 10, 11 and 12 mile markers and made a sharp right turn up towards Bishop's caundle and the last mile.
This was not fun as it was back into the wind and up a short, sharp hill where I gritted my teeth (for more traction in the icy conditions) and narrowly resisted the temptation to walk. It was probably the sight and support of Steve and Donna and Harvey ( thanks guys!) which kept me going to the top and gave me some impetus as the hill turned from up to slightly down. This was lucky, because at the bottom I looked back and I saw Dave looming against the skyline, obviously gaining on me. I put on as much of a spurt as I could, and ground out a painful ascent of the next and final hill before turning into the field at the top and a 60-yard dash to the finish in 1:31:05. It was just above my optimistic target time of "anything under 1:30", but I was still pleased with it, given the conditions, it was still under 7 minute mile pace. I was also pleased with the boring white T-shirt which would not normally excite me, but it now represented Warmth!
Dave finished almost immediately after, and then Nigel, as I jogged back down the hill hoping to meet Lin as soon as possible. Not just because I missed her, and wanted her to be doing well, but also because I didn't want to have to go far down, and then have to run back up, the brutal finishing hill. Phil passed, and a couple of Yeovil runners then, I was relieved and proud to see Lin, round the next to last bend and forging up and around to the finish in 1:37:50-ish. This was a very good result given the lack of training recently and although it was no-where near her PB, it bodes well for the future.
After a brief chat with Phil and Dave C, Lin and I agreed that we were both too cold and tired to want to do anything other than beetle off back home to the warmth enjoyed by moreunadventurous sensible folks.
Many thanks to the Blackmore Vale Lions for organising the race. They did it well, and special thanks to the marshalls- out in force, in the cold, with water stations almost every mile, although I was too cold to drink a thing.
The results should be available here http://www.bvlions.co.uk/pdf%20files/Half%20Marathon%20Result%202009.pdf
We then quickly returned to the car and quickly shut the doors against the elements ( mostly Nitrogen and Oxygen) to gird our loins (and most other parts) for our
The course, which is all on road,led its winding and undulating route through Holway, and then turned right towards Glanvilles Wooton. The forecast had been of south-easterly winds, but it seemed to be coming from in front, mainly, regardless of the direction I was running at the time. I was following my cunning plan of running only in the lee of another runner (preferably several) to avoid the worst of the biting wind.
This worked quite well, especially when I caught up with the tall figure of Dave Webb who I shadowed for a while until he noticed I was there. We chatted for a while, and reeled in Phil and then Nigel Johns.
Dave and I pressed on towards the 6 mile point which was at the top of a long hill where the route joins a larger road and turns into what was definitely the teeth of the wind. I took advantage of the opportunity to tag onto a runner who overtook us quickly at this point, and running as closely as I dared behind him, I was able to catch up with a fellow Yeovil runner, Steve Sparks, who, being a useful sized chap, I trailed for a couple of miles before he spotted me and I was forced to press on and pass him.
By now I was feeling the strain, but the expectation of being caught by Dave W, combined with the desire to get in out of the cold wind kept me pushing as fast as I could through the village of Pulham, then FINALLY turning west with the wind now helping slightly, I passed the 10, 11 and 12 mile markers and made a sharp right turn up towards Bishop's caundle and the last mile.
This was not fun as it was back into the wind and up a short, sharp hill where I gritted my teeth (for more traction in the icy conditions) and narrowly resisted the temptation to walk. It was probably the sight and support of Steve and Donna and Harvey ( thanks guys!) which kept me going to the top and gave me some impetus as the hill turned from up to slightly down. This was lucky, because at the bottom I looked back and I saw Dave looming against the skyline, obviously gaining on me. I put on as much of a spurt as I could, and ground out a painful ascent of the next and final hill before turning into the field at the top and a 60-yard dash to the finish in 1:31:05. It was just above my optimistic target time of "anything under 1:30", but I was still pleased with it, given the conditions, it was still under 7 minute mile pace. I was also pleased with the boring white T-shirt which would not normally excite me, but it now represented Warmth!
Dave finished almost immediately after, and then Nigel, as I jogged back down the hill hoping to meet Lin as soon as possible. Not just because I missed her, and wanted her to be doing well, but also because I didn't want to have to go far down, and then have to run back up, the brutal finishing hill. Phil passed, and a couple of Yeovil runners then, I was relieved and proud to see Lin, round the next to last bend and forging up and around to the finish in 1:37:50-ish. This was a very good result given the lack of training recently and although it was no-where near her PB, it bodes well for the future.
After a brief chat with Phil and Dave C, Lin and I agreed that we were both too cold and tired to want to do anything other than beetle off back home to the warmth enjoyed by more
Many thanks to the Blackmore Vale Lions for organising the race. They did it well, and special thanks to the marshalls- out in force, in the cold, with water stations almost every mile, although I was too cold to drink a thing.
The results should be available here http://www.bvlions.co.uk/pdf%20files/Half%20Marathon%20Result%202009.pdf
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Axmouth Challenge
It’s been five years since we last ran the Axmouth Challenge – back in the good old days when it wasn’t a question of if I could beat Martin but how much I would beat him by (1 minute 32 seconds in 2004). Sighs............................... Anyway back to the cold hard reality of a fairly tough, part off road ten miler two weeks post a nasty dose of flu. After the sub zero temperatures of late, it was a positively balmy morning if a little damp around the edges and it was great to be running without multiple layers of frost protection on.
Since our last visit here the course has been changed to exclude the stretch along the beach, Grizzly style, and after an interesting start – no warning, took everyone by surprise – we enjoyed the slightly downhill charge alongside the estuary before turning left to start the tough and seemingly endless climb up the track to the golf course and across the fields at the top.
The race follows quiet country lanes with stretches on tracks and footpaths, and loops around crossing the route no less than four times. Even though I had studied the course map beforehand I soon became totally confused and at every junction it seemed that we were turning the opposite direction to the one I would have expected. However, the route was well marshalled and signed so there was never any danger of becoming lost.
Martin had decided to run with me, mainly because he had spotted a fellow male vet 50 rival who he knew he wouldn’t beat, but I think also partly because he didn’t really feel up to pushing himself too hard. Anyway, whatever the reason I was glad of the support as I found this a really tough run – it’s the furthest I’ve run since July, and the three months off with my Achilles injury. It seemed to me that we were running uphill almost the entire time apart from two or three short sharp downhill swoops!
Towards the end of the race we finally managed to burn off an Axe Valley Runner who had been stubbornly keeping pace with us for several miles and as we enjoyed the final downhill stretch back into the village Martin decided to sprint ahead and overtake the runner in front of us too. I made a feeble effort to do the same and did manage to close the gap, but the legs were too weak for serious sprinting today. We finished in 1.22.35 and 1.22.42 respectively, not too disappointing all things considered.
Afterwards we claimed our free cake and coffee in the village hall and I picked up a medal for being 3rd lady.
This is a great little race which almost ceased to exist a few years ago until Axe Valley Runners stepped in to help the village hall with the organisation. The field was small (47 competitors in the full challenge, although there was also a supporting mini challenge) and made up predominantly of a vast contingent of AVRs. However it’s just the sort of race I like, low key and friendly with sensible entry fees and it’s a great way to kick off a new year of racing.
Since our last visit here the course has been changed to exclude the stretch along the beach, Grizzly style, and after an interesting start – no warning, took everyone by surprise – we enjoyed the slightly downhill charge alongside the estuary before turning left to start the tough and seemingly endless climb up the track to the golf course and across the fields at the top.
The race follows quiet country lanes with stretches on tracks and footpaths, and loops around crossing the route no less than four times. Even though I had studied the course map beforehand I soon became totally confused and at every junction it seemed that we were turning the opposite direction to the one I would have expected. However, the route was well marshalled and signed so there was never any danger of becoming lost.
Martin had decided to run with me, mainly because he had spotted a fellow male vet 50 rival who he knew he wouldn’t beat, but I think also partly because he didn’t really feel up to pushing himself too hard. Anyway, whatever the reason I was glad of the support as I found this a really tough run – it’s the furthest I’ve run since July, and the three months off with my Achilles injury. It seemed to me that we were running uphill almost the entire time apart from two or three short sharp downhill swoops!
Towards the end of the race we finally managed to burn off an Axe Valley Runner who had been stubbornly keeping pace with us for several miles and as we enjoyed the final downhill stretch back into the village Martin decided to sprint ahead and overtake the runner in front of us too. I made a feeble effort to do the same and did manage to close the gap, but the legs were too weak for serious sprinting today. We finished in 1.22.35 and 1.22.42 respectively, not too disappointing all things considered.
Afterwards we claimed our free cake and coffee in the village hall and I picked up a medal for being 3rd lady.
This is a great little race which almost ceased to exist a few years ago until Axe Valley Runners stepped in to help the village hall with the organisation. The field was small (47 competitors in the full challenge, although there was also a supporting mini challenge) and made up predominantly of a vast contingent of AVRs. However it’s just the sort of race I like, low key and friendly with sensible entry fees and it’s a great way to kick off a new year of racing.
Sunday, December 14, 2008
Three In One
Since the Westgates have let the side down - must be a least a fortnight since they ran a marathon - I felt duty bound to update the blog. So, three things:-
Maiden Newton Running Club Non Meeting - 11th December
Only the real hard core turned up for the pre non-meeting run. Phil, Martin and I slithered around the icy lanes of Cattistock and even Phil admitted that it was a bit cold. Personally I resorted to handwarmers after about half a mile...... In true Maiden Newton Running Club form our numbers swelled once the running was over and the pub began: Mike, Di and Dan turned up to join us in the nice warm pub for a drink.
No minutes were taken as we weren't sure if it was a meeting or not but we did a sort of past events - I whined about how hard the Colyton Five was and gloated about beating my previous Street 5k time by over a minute, mind you I was so slow the previous month it wasn't much of an achievement. Martin bemoaned his loss of race fitness which has resulted in him losing a minute over the 5k and blamed it on his recent weight gain. Yeah right - must have grown his toe nails or something. Di let slip that she is an experienced skittles player and I made a mental note to make sure she ends up on my team for the Xmas skittles game. At the mention of Xmas we discussed the possibility of having the do at the Fox & Hounds. Phil warned us that it might be pricey compared to the Chalk. Dan, with amazing speed headed for the bar to find out - possibly the idea of being able to stagger home afterwards motivated him. If he showed a turn of speed like that in races MNRC would have a new champion to boast about. Anyway, a couple of hot dishes and garlic bread for the very reasonable price of £6, with chips and salad thrown in for an extra £1. Unfortunately Saturday 10th is booked so a few alternatives were discussed and Phil undertook to e-mail everyone (still waiting Phil!!!). We glossed over future events - Stoke Stampede on Boxing Day got a brief mention, Dan told us that he almost went fishing but it was too cold and after confirming the ridiculously early start time of 10am for the Sunday morning run the non meeting shuddered to a halt and we all went home.
Reindeer Run - Otterton, South Devon
Unfortunately this coincided with the Yeovil Running Club Xmas do - so Martin and I spent a sleepless night on Friday in the van in the car park at the Halfway House in Chilthorne Domer (having considerably reduced our normal alcohol intake) listening to the rain beating against the roof. By the time we had negotiated the mud, floods and road closures to reach the start we were fairly confident (and it must be said, slightly hopeful) that the race would be cancelled. Fortunately (or unfortunately) runners are a hardy breed and although a large part of the course was completely flooded it had been re-routed so that the race could go ahead - but over a shorter distance of about 8k.
This is a pleasant, mostly off road run but with a tough uphill start. We set off quite conservatively, neither of us feeling particularly competitive. The off road sections were killing - struggling up sodden fields trying to keep your footing and a lovely section of lane which made the Grizzly bog look like a walk in the park - real stamina sapping stuff. The best part was the diversion at the end which made the last mile and a half take to the roads - an easy option you might think, but only until we reached the floods and ran the last half mile through ankle deep water. The shortened course was only just 5 miles, but it was really hard and took us just under 40 minutes. Mulled wine and mince pies afterwards and then an announcement that the road had been closed. It was OK for over a hundred runners to negotiate but way too dangerous for all those precious cars! Martin, he who is so overweight and must lose half a stone, succumbed to the temptations of the cake stall and bought a large coffee and walnut cake to take home with us, then we went to the pub for lunch and a couple of pints. No wonder he's such a blob........!!
Sunday Morning Run - Fox & Hounds
A good turn out. Phil, Dan and his non-imaginary friend Rob, Mike and Di, myself (Martin languishing in bed with a cold - that'll teach him to spend Saturday morning running through icy cold water), Andy and Charlie, and best of all, Tyson the Boxer joined us - with enough enthusiasm for the rest of us put together. Di decided that Phil's treacherous off road route was to be avoided at all costs so 8 of us set off up the muddy hill towards the A37. Interesting how Phil is the only one of us fit enough to keep talking all the way up the hill...................
A brief swoop down into Sydling where Mike and I both (secretly) considered sloping off home, and then the hard slog back up the Wessex Ridgeway to cross the main road again. The track down to Maiden Newton bore a strong resemblance to yesterday's route - Dan and Rob treated us to an impressive display of sprinting hard through the biggest puddles, not sure what that was about - reversion to childhood perhaps or possibly not having to wash their own running kit later..........
Charlie and Tyson left us at the station in Maiden Newton, Tyson with considerable reluctance - a new member perhaps? The rest of us headed up the railway path and Chilfrome lane back to the pub.
Martin & I are planning a 10 mile, mostly off road run from the Greyhound at Sydling next Sunday if anyone is interested in joining us. Course, I may have caught Martin's cold by then but being a woman I'll still be able to go out for a run..........................
Maiden Newton Running Club Non Meeting - 11th December
Only the real hard core turned up for the pre non-meeting run. Phil, Martin and I slithered around the icy lanes of Cattistock and even Phil admitted that it was a bit cold. Personally I resorted to handwarmers after about half a mile...... In true Maiden Newton Running Club form our numbers swelled once the running was over and the pub began: Mike, Di and Dan turned up to join us in the nice warm pub for a drink.
No minutes were taken as we weren't sure if it was a meeting or not but we did a sort of past events - I whined about how hard the Colyton Five was and gloated about beating my previous Street 5k time by over a minute, mind you I was so slow the previous month it wasn't much of an achievement. Martin bemoaned his loss of race fitness which has resulted in him losing a minute over the 5k and blamed it on his recent weight gain. Yeah right - must have grown his toe nails or something. Di let slip that she is an experienced skittles player and I made a mental note to make sure she ends up on my team for the Xmas skittles game. At the mention of Xmas we discussed the possibility of having the do at the Fox & Hounds. Phil warned us that it might be pricey compared to the Chalk. Dan, with amazing speed headed for the bar to find out - possibly the idea of being able to stagger home afterwards motivated him. If he showed a turn of speed like that in races MNRC would have a new champion to boast about. Anyway, a couple of hot dishes and garlic bread for the very reasonable price of £6, with chips and salad thrown in for an extra £1. Unfortunately Saturday 10th is booked so a few alternatives were discussed and Phil undertook to e-mail everyone (still waiting Phil!!!). We glossed over future events - Stoke Stampede on Boxing Day got a brief mention, Dan told us that he almost went fishing but it was too cold and after confirming the ridiculously early start time of 10am for the Sunday morning run the non meeting shuddered to a halt and we all went home.
Reindeer Run - Otterton, South Devon
Unfortunately this coincided with the Yeovil Running Club Xmas do - so Martin and I spent a sleepless night on Friday in the van in the car park at the Halfway House in Chilthorne Domer (having considerably reduced our normal alcohol intake) listening to the rain beating against the roof. By the time we had negotiated the mud, floods and road closures to reach the start we were fairly confident (and it must be said, slightly hopeful) that the race would be cancelled. Fortunately (or unfortunately) runners are a hardy breed and although a large part of the course was completely flooded it had been re-routed so that the race could go ahead - but over a shorter distance of about 8k.
This is a pleasant, mostly off road run but with a tough uphill start. We set off quite conservatively, neither of us feeling particularly competitive. The off road sections were killing - struggling up sodden fields trying to keep your footing and a lovely section of lane which made the Grizzly bog look like a walk in the park - real stamina sapping stuff. The best part was the diversion at the end which made the last mile and a half take to the roads - an easy option you might think, but only until we reached the floods and ran the last half mile through ankle deep water. The shortened course was only just 5 miles, but it was really hard and took us just under 40 minutes. Mulled wine and mince pies afterwards and then an announcement that the road had been closed. It was OK for over a hundred runners to negotiate but way too dangerous for all those precious cars! Martin, he who is so overweight and must lose half a stone, succumbed to the temptations of the cake stall and bought a large coffee and walnut cake to take home with us, then we went to the pub for lunch and a couple of pints. No wonder he's such a blob........!!
Sunday Morning Run - Fox & Hounds
A good turn out. Phil, Dan and his non-imaginary friend Rob, Mike and Di, myself (Martin languishing in bed with a cold - that'll teach him to spend Saturday morning running through icy cold water), Andy and Charlie, and best of all, Tyson the Boxer joined us - with enough enthusiasm for the rest of us put together. Di decided that Phil's treacherous off road route was to be avoided at all costs so 8 of us set off up the muddy hill towards the A37. Interesting how Phil is the only one of us fit enough to keep talking all the way up the hill...................
A brief swoop down into Sydling where Mike and I both (secretly) considered sloping off home, and then the hard slog back up the Wessex Ridgeway to cross the main road again. The track down to Maiden Newton bore a strong resemblance to yesterday's route - Dan and Rob treated us to an impressive display of sprinting hard through the biggest puddles, not sure what that was about - reversion to childhood perhaps or possibly not having to wash their own running kit later..........
Charlie and Tyson left us at the station in Maiden Newton, Tyson with considerable reluctance - a new member perhaps? The rest of us headed up the railway path and Chilfrome lane back to the pub.
Martin & I are planning a 10 mile, mostly off road run from the Greyhound at Sydling next Sunday if anyone is interested in joining us. Course, I may have caught Martin's cold by then but being a woman I'll still be able to go out for a run..........................
Thursday, December 04, 2008
Bicton Blister
A very cold morning last Sunday found Richard and I at Bicton in East Devon. We were there for an off-road race of approximately 11 miles. The start has been moved half a mile down from the College to the Arena. This wasn’t a positive move as far as I was concerned as instead of a warm hall, registration area and showers, we now had an outdoor toilet block with showers attached, and a large marquee for everything else. The race itself went well enough. It was very cold and I saw very few who were brave enough to run in only a running vest (and shorts of course!). I had my coat, hat, gloves and wrist-warmers, and the gloves only came off briefly. The course was almost entirely off road, with mainly forest tracks, and a very exposed bit through a quarry, and a long grassy section at the beginning, and we re-traced our steps there at the end. Only two very small streams, which were almost small enough to jump over, and one or two boggy bits. Nowhere near as wet as the route I remember from two years ago. Richard finished well ahead of me as expected in a time of 1:28:46 and I managed a meagre 1:48:09 although I did overtake at least five runners in the last mile. Closer inspection of the results has just revealed another Maiden Newton Runner: Charlie Bladon who finished in 1:50:05.
Saw a few familiar faces while warming up, but as the warmest place after the race was in the car, there wasn’t much socialising. Needless to say, no trophies to take home. And even if we had deserved one, they weren’t there as they had been stolen from the organiser’s car on the previous day.
Saw a few familiar faces while warming up, but as the warmest place after the race was in the car, there wasn’t much socialising. Needless to say, no trophies to take home. And even if we had deserved one, they weren’t there as they had been stolen from the organiser’s car on the previous day.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Colyton Fiver
A strange thing happened this weekend - Martin and I dragged ourselves out of bed at an unearthly hour and drive down to Colyton to run a race. Almost four months since we last did such a thing...............the difference being that this was just a five mile trot round the flat lanes of Colyton.
This used to be a 10k but has now been reduced to 5 miles - 2 laps of the village instead of the trek across muddy fields to the start and two and a half loops. Also a new race HQ - with parking, toilets and entries all under the same roof - a real luxury on a morning when it was chucking it down with rain.
Richard and Lesley arrived soon after us looking remarkably fresh and well rested after their sojourn across Bodmin moor last weekend. With the Club Championship at a crucial stage the only betrayal of any interest was a casual question regarding whether we had seen Dave Carnell!
At 10.30am the rain stopped as if to order, the sky turned blue and off we set. Martin quickly disappeared into the distance and I tucked in on Richard's heels to see how long I could keep him in sight. I was aiming for 7.20 minute miles due to my appalling lack of fitness, but as usual got carried away by the excitement of it all and ran the first mile in 6.49 - by which time I already knew that I'd gone off way too fast.
Richard was starting to ease gently away from me and it was already beginning to feel like hard work. When I ran the 10k in 2003, I would have sworn the route was dead flat, but now several hills seem to have appeared. It was a relief to turn the corner into the village, out of the wind and to head back up towards the start line (another hill!).
Richard had long since disappeared and as I started the second lap I could hear a runner closing in behind me. My lack of fitness was really beginning to tell now and it was just head down and slog it out. As I passed the 4 mile marker I could tell the runner behind me was female and I started to feel sympathy for Richard - if it was Lesley my plan was to wait until she passed me and then crawl into the nearest ditch and stay there. Fortunately it was an unknown Honiton runner, and I couldn't hear anyone else behind me although I was way too scared to look back!
With two corners and a few hundred yards to go I met Martin trotting back to meet me and with him yelling encouragement I attempted a bit of a sprint to the finish - crossing the line in 37.11, not too far outside my target time, but it was way too hard for such a short race and left me wondering how the hell I managed to run three ultra marathons earlier this year!
In a strange quirk of fate - bearing in mind last week's cruel defeat of Richard - the Westgates managed to get their numbers mixed up so if you look at the results it appears that Lesley beat Richard by over 5 minutes!
This used to be a 10k but has now been reduced to 5 miles - 2 laps of the village instead of the trek across muddy fields to the start and two and a half loops. Also a new race HQ - with parking, toilets and entries all under the same roof - a real luxury on a morning when it was chucking it down with rain.
Richard and Lesley arrived soon after us looking remarkably fresh and well rested after their sojourn across Bodmin moor last weekend. With the Club Championship at a crucial stage the only betrayal of any interest was a casual question regarding whether we had seen Dave Carnell!
At 10.30am the rain stopped as if to order, the sky turned blue and off we set. Martin quickly disappeared into the distance and I tucked in on Richard's heels to see how long I could keep him in sight. I was aiming for 7.20 minute miles due to my appalling lack of fitness, but as usual got carried away by the excitement of it all and ran the first mile in 6.49 - by which time I already knew that I'd gone off way too fast.
Richard was starting to ease gently away from me and it was already beginning to feel like hard work. When I ran the 10k in 2003, I would have sworn the route was dead flat, but now several hills seem to have appeared. It was a relief to turn the corner into the village, out of the wind and to head back up towards the start line (another hill!).
Richard had long since disappeared and as I started the second lap I could hear a runner closing in behind me. My lack of fitness was really beginning to tell now and it was just head down and slog it out. As I passed the 4 mile marker I could tell the runner behind me was female and I started to feel sympathy for Richard - if it was Lesley my plan was to wait until she passed me and then crawl into the nearest ditch and stay there. Fortunately it was an unknown Honiton runner, and I couldn't hear anyone else behind me although I was way too scared to look back!
With two corners and a few hundred yards to go I met Martin trotting back to meet me and with him yelling encouragement I attempted a bit of a sprint to the finish - crossing the line in 37.11, not too far outside my target time, but it was way too hard for such a short race and left me wondering how the hell I managed to run three ultra marathons earlier this year!
In a strange quirk of fate - bearing in mind last week's cruel defeat of Richard - the Westgates managed to get their numbers mixed up so if you look at the results it appears that Lesley beat Richard by over 5 minutes!
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Cornish Marathon
Sunday 16th November saw the Westgates at the 25th Anniversary Cornish Marathon. It’s with very mixed emotions that this blog is being written cos after 18 marathons the Cornish was a bit of a landmark. I’ve come to the conclusion that the pain my stomach has to endure, during and after the race is just not worth it. For those of you who have seen the race results, this decision has absolutely nothing to do with the fact that Lesley slightly beat me by about 5 minutes! There was a possibility that race numbers got mixed up or a weasely claim that I dropped out after pacing her for 21 miles, but the truth is she ran much better than me. For those who I haven’t bored with the details of my stomach problems it goes like this: at some point my stomach seems to stop absorbing any fluid that I take on board. As I get thirstier I drink more but it just sits in my stomach and I start to feel very sick and weak and dehydrated. On a bad run I stop and puke at the road side then try and pick up the pace again. For up to three hours or so after a race I am still unable to eat or drink without puking. So on top of the normal aches and pains of marathons this is just a stage too far, so unless someone can suggest a miracle cure I won’t run this distance again.
Back to the Cornish. Quite a trek down to Pensilva near Launceston Drove through loads of low cloud and heavy drizzle, but it was mild with not too much wind – perfect for marathon running. We had a race plan. I would run with Lesley, calling out mile times etc. until 20 miles and then perhaps push on ahead. She promised not to keep talking but as a precautionary measure I brought some earplugs, but went and left them in the car. Saw some familiar faces at the start – Alan Littlejohns of Launceston RR dressed in a tutu, bra and a brilliant gorilla head piece; Mr Wells City (don’t know his name), Danny from the 100 marathon club who we saw at the Neolithic, Robin from Dawlish Coasters, and of course Jenny Mills.
Starting off near the back you can’t hear a word the race director says – so why do they bother? The first two miles are laps of Pensilva passing the start twice; this was great for the spectators and a good gentle warm-up for the runners before the hills. This is described as a tough course. After the initial 2 mile loops, there is a 5 mile section to Redgate, a 14 mile loop up the Draynes valley and across Bodmin Moor and down the Fowey Valley, before rejoining the 5 mile section back to Pensilva. Running with Lesley proved fairly relaxing at about 9.5 min/mile pace. However as soon as we hit any hills I found it easier power walk while she pulled away; going downhill I found it easier to increase my pace, caching her up and going a little ahead. On the level I ran a bit behind; this was not so I could admire her running style, but rather keep out of earshot as she kept striking up conversations with strangers. She gave up talking to me when, pretending not to have heard, I kept asking her to repeat herself.
In retrospect I am glad that I didn’t realise that we went out and back along the same 5 mile section; there were a few demanding hills which would definitely have worried me; ignorance is bliss. We didn’t have to climb much before being rewarded with some good views. Across the moor it got a bit cooler and although Colliford Lake was very scenic it generated a cool wind; fortunately I was wearing long-sleeve helly, club vest, running jacket, gloves and a woolly hat, bit of a wimp really. At Bolventor (Jamaica Inn) there was a welcome crowd of supporters. I must say that even in the quiet, remote bits there were supporters and cyclists going up and down cheering us on. At Jamaica Inn we turned right and right again to follow the Fowey Valley. Immediately the temperature picked up and there were glimpses of sun. It was downhill for as far as we could see and we felt good. Our target was to do better than 10-minute miling, and we were still doing about 9.5. Optimistically I said to Lesley that if we continued at this steady pace we would probably pick off some runners later on who had over-cooked it. Following the Fowey there were stagnant pools of water and trees full of lichen. All along a scattering of cheering supporters – probably the same ones moving around.
We did, in fact, catch and pass several runners and this felt so good. After about 19 miles, I noticed, with some horror, a range of hills ahead. Lesley assured me it was OK as we would go round them, rather than over them, It seemed she was right, we did rise a bit, but there was some downhill as well. At about 21 miles I noticed Mr Wells City stretching against a supporter’s car; he told us he was bushed! While I exchanged a few words Lesley took the opportunity to pull ahead going uphill. I was starting to feel sick and my brain convinced my body that all would be well if I just walked the steeper bits and caught her up on the downhills. However after that first hill I never saw her again. There was a good downhill to Crows Nest and I was sure she would be just ahead, but no. From Crows Nest there’s about two miles to go with about 1.5 miles of heart-breaking uphill. Towards the top some runners I had passed miles back went back past me.
It came over very misty with drizzle and I didn’t really care about anything anymore. Every time I tried to push on, my stomach felt so bad. After what seemed like an eternity or to quote an East Cornwall Harrier “the road seemed to stretch endlessly like a rubber band”, we at last levelled out, and turned left for 50 metres on the main Liskeard to Launceston road before the final half-mile downhill to the finish. An Axe Valley Runner who I had passed as we both struggled up from Crows Nest went back past me. This seemed to spark into life a final bit of competitive spirit and I somehow found the energy to catch and pass him before the finish.
The finish was a bit of a blur but I remember fumbling with my coat to show my number. I found myself shrouded in a space blanket refusing all offers of water. Lesley was there! She said she would have waited but she thought I was just behind her. She looked fresh as a daisy and took herself off for a shower, followed by a cup of tea and a pasty. I laid out under the space blanket on the sports hall floor trying not to be sick. 20 minutes later I dragged myself into the shower. Later on I was in the toilet voiding alternately at both ends.
Back in the hall Lesley nonchalantly informed me that she might have won another prize! Carry on like this and she’ll be disappointed to come away empty-handed. Prize giving was very noisy with several clubs having large contingents. As predicted Maiden Newton scored – 2nd FV50. For the record Lesley’s time was 4:11:52, and mine was 4:16:04.
Jenny Mills was very sympathetic to my plight – take up long distance walking. Five miles into the journey home, (with Lesley driving) we had to stop so I could engage in some projectile vomiting. I think Jenny was right. Some 15 minutes later as if someone had flicked a switch I suddenly felt better and ate a mars bar and then my pasty – it felt like Heaven. However I’m still not doing any more marathons.
Anyway I’m so pleased for Lesley. It seems like only yesterday when she started running and she would do 1 minute running followed by 3 minutes walking and she would claim I didn’t give her the full 3 minutes. How times have changed.
In spite of everything I highly recommend this race to anyone; it’s very well organised, friendly marshals and helpers at the water stations and top facilities at the roomy HQ (especially the hot showers).
Back to the Cornish. Quite a trek down to Pensilva near Launceston Drove through loads of low cloud and heavy drizzle, but it was mild with not too much wind – perfect for marathon running. We had a race plan. I would run with Lesley, calling out mile times etc. until 20 miles and then perhaps push on ahead. She promised not to keep talking but as a precautionary measure I brought some earplugs, but went and left them in the car. Saw some familiar faces at the start – Alan Littlejohns of Launceston RR dressed in a tutu, bra and a brilliant gorilla head piece; Mr Wells City (don’t know his name), Danny from the 100 marathon club who we saw at the Neolithic, Robin from Dawlish Coasters, and of course Jenny Mills.
Starting off near the back you can’t hear a word the race director says – so why do they bother? The first two miles are laps of Pensilva passing the start twice; this was great for the spectators and a good gentle warm-up for the runners before the hills. This is described as a tough course. After the initial 2 mile loops, there is a 5 mile section to Redgate, a 14 mile loop up the Draynes valley and across Bodmin Moor and down the Fowey Valley, before rejoining the 5 mile section back to Pensilva. Running with Lesley proved fairly relaxing at about 9.5 min/mile pace. However as soon as we hit any hills I found it easier power walk while she pulled away; going downhill I found it easier to increase my pace, caching her up and going a little ahead. On the level I ran a bit behind; this was not so I could admire her running style, but rather keep out of earshot as she kept striking up conversations with strangers. She gave up talking to me when, pretending not to have heard, I kept asking her to repeat herself.
In retrospect I am glad that I didn’t realise that we went out and back along the same 5 mile section; there were a few demanding hills which would definitely have worried me; ignorance is bliss. We didn’t have to climb much before being rewarded with some good views. Across the moor it got a bit cooler and although Colliford Lake was very scenic it generated a cool wind; fortunately I was wearing long-sleeve helly, club vest, running jacket, gloves and a woolly hat, bit of a wimp really. At Bolventor (Jamaica Inn) there was a welcome crowd of supporters. I must say that even in the quiet, remote bits there were supporters and cyclists going up and down cheering us on. At Jamaica Inn we turned right and right again to follow the Fowey Valley. Immediately the temperature picked up and there were glimpses of sun. It was downhill for as far as we could see and we felt good. Our target was to do better than 10-minute miling, and we were still doing about 9.5. Optimistically I said to Lesley that if we continued at this steady pace we would probably pick off some runners later on who had over-cooked it. Following the Fowey there were stagnant pools of water and trees full of lichen. All along a scattering of cheering supporters – probably the same ones moving around.
We did, in fact, catch and pass several runners and this felt so good. After about 19 miles, I noticed, with some horror, a range of hills ahead. Lesley assured me it was OK as we would go round them, rather than over them, It seemed she was right, we did rise a bit, but there was some downhill as well. At about 21 miles I noticed Mr Wells City stretching against a supporter’s car; he told us he was bushed! While I exchanged a few words Lesley took the opportunity to pull ahead going uphill. I was starting to feel sick and my brain convinced my body that all would be well if I just walked the steeper bits and caught her up on the downhills. However after that first hill I never saw her again. There was a good downhill to Crows Nest and I was sure she would be just ahead, but no. From Crows Nest there’s about two miles to go with about 1.5 miles of heart-breaking uphill. Towards the top some runners I had passed miles back went back past me.
It came over very misty with drizzle and I didn’t really care about anything anymore. Every time I tried to push on, my stomach felt so bad. After what seemed like an eternity or to quote an East Cornwall Harrier “the road seemed to stretch endlessly like a rubber band”, we at last levelled out, and turned left for 50 metres on the main Liskeard to Launceston road before the final half-mile downhill to the finish. An Axe Valley Runner who I had passed as we both struggled up from Crows Nest went back past me. This seemed to spark into life a final bit of competitive spirit and I somehow found the energy to catch and pass him before the finish.
The finish was a bit of a blur but I remember fumbling with my coat to show my number. I found myself shrouded in a space blanket refusing all offers of water. Lesley was there! She said she would have waited but she thought I was just behind her. She looked fresh as a daisy and took herself off for a shower, followed by a cup of tea and a pasty. I laid out under the space blanket on the sports hall floor trying not to be sick. 20 minutes later I dragged myself into the shower. Later on I was in the toilet voiding alternately at both ends.
Back in the hall Lesley nonchalantly informed me that she might have won another prize! Carry on like this and she’ll be disappointed to come away empty-handed. Prize giving was very noisy with several clubs having large contingents. As predicted Maiden Newton scored – 2nd FV50. For the record Lesley’s time was 4:11:52, and mine was 4:16:04.
Jenny Mills was very sympathetic to my plight – take up long distance walking. Five miles into the journey home, (with Lesley driving) we had to stop so I could engage in some projectile vomiting. I think Jenny was right. Some 15 minutes later as if someone had flicked a switch I suddenly felt better and ate a mars bar and then my pasty – it felt like Heaven. However I’m still not doing any more marathons.
Anyway I’m so pleased for Lesley. It seems like only yesterday when she started running and she would do 1 minute running followed by 3 minutes walking and she would claim I didn’t give her the full 3 minutes. How times have changed.
In spite of everything I highly recommend this race to anyone; it’s very well organised, friendly marshals and helpers at the water stations and top facilities at the roomy HQ (especially the hot showers).
Monday, November 03, 2008
Templer Ten
Firsts for Paula Radcliffe, Lewis Hamilton and Lesley Who????
Sunday 2nd November saw the Westgates at the Templer Ten, a 9.7 mile race that starts and finishes at the Passage House Hotel at Kingsteignton. Following last week’s mistake at the Stagger I made sure to wear my warm, woolly hat ’cos the Passage House is situated on a very cold, windy estuary location. The Templer has barely a slope in sight so none of the gut-busting rigors of last week. This really is a gentle sort of course, about 4 miles of road and the rest along the River Teign flood meadows, some woods and a circuit of the picturesque Stover Park and lake. I felt relaxed, set off at a gentle pace, overtook runners up to 3 miles then settled into a relaxed pace. I was on my own through the woods – always a risk of an old git like me missing the tape and going off-route. However all went well and although I was unable to catch any other runners, only one person caught and passed me in Stover Park; so for the last 4.5 miles I was running on my own with just few snatched glimpses of the two runners ahead. Conditions were a bit wet underfoot but by picking the right line it was fairly easy to keep your footing; Lesley even ran in normal road shoes.
I would like to report that there was a huge entry with national class runners across all age groups. Truth is that Teignbridge are quite generous with their prizes and age-categories. However you still had to be there to win and of course I’m immensely proud of she who said you’d never see her running, as she picked up First FV 50; a trophy and a bottle of white and 2:20 off her previous best at this race. My 69:10 was a personal worst after six attempts, but by some miracle earned 2nd MV50 and a bottle of red.
And from herself: I guess all these national class runners were in New York for the marathon. I had my own personal target and time to beat in this race. After achieving increasingly faster times in the previous four Templer Tens, I was hoping to shave a few further seconds off my time for a fifth consecutive PB. My cunning plan to achieve this was to start nearer the front, saving several seconds on what is usually a fairly congested start. This plan had another advantage as it meant I was mixing with some more serious runners, who didn’t consider the first mile to be a warm-up and time for a chat. The first mile therefore went quite quickly in 8:12 mins – yes I was wearing a watch and occasionally managed to glimpse the time on it. I was fairly confident that my road shoes would be OK having tried them on a similar training run, and there were no problems in the fields and on the easy path around the lake. On the last bit of road back towards the finish the punishing pace!! was really starting to take its toll and I ended up counting paces. (It’s good enough for Paula). I was glad to see the 9 mile marker as this was where the last short section of off-road began. Through a field, over bridges, round some bends, under a tunnel and along some very uneven track. I could hear traffic so knew it wasn’t far, there were footsteps behind me, but he didn’t know I wasn’t racing him but my own personal time. Round the last bend and I glimpsed “22” on the clock. Had I achieved my goal? Got to the line and was astonished that my time was actually 1:20:29. (The glimpse was the seconds not the minutes).
I was really pleased to pick up the prize, although if all the usual faces had been there I wouldn’t have stood a chance. For any insomniacs my times for the five races from 2004 on were: 1:30:50, 1:25:53, 1:23:14, 1:22:49, 1:20:29. Now I just have to think of an even more cunning plan for next year……………
Sunday 2nd November saw the Westgates at the Templer Ten, a 9.7 mile race that starts and finishes at the Passage House Hotel at Kingsteignton. Following last week’s mistake at the Stagger I made sure to wear my warm, woolly hat ’cos the Passage House is situated on a very cold, windy estuary location. The Templer has barely a slope in sight so none of the gut-busting rigors of last week. This really is a gentle sort of course, about 4 miles of road and the rest along the River Teign flood meadows, some woods and a circuit of the picturesque Stover Park and lake. I felt relaxed, set off at a gentle pace, overtook runners up to 3 miles then settled into a relaxed pace. I was on my own through the woods – always a risk of an old git like me missing the tape and going off-route. However all went well and although I was unable to catch any other runners, only one person caught and passed me in Stover Park; so for the last 4.5 miles I was running on my own with just few snatched glimpses of the two runners ahead. Conditions were a bit wet underfoot but by picking the right line it was fairly easy to keep your footing; Lesley even ran in normal road shoes.
I would like to report that there was a huge entry with national class runners across all age groups. Truth is that Teignbridge are quite generous with their prizes and age-categories. However you still had to be there to win and of course I’m immensely proud of she who said you’d never see her running, as she picked up First FV 50; a trophy and a bottle of white and 2:20 off her previous best at this race. My 69:10 was a personal worst after six attempts, but by some miracle earned 2nd MV50 and a bottle of red.
And from herself: I guess all these national class runners were in New York for the marathon. I had my own personal target and time to beat in this race. After achieving increasingly faster times in the previous four Templer Tens, I was hoping to shave a few further seconds off my time for a fifth consecutive PB. My cunning plan to achieve this was to start nearer the front, saving several seconds on what is usually a fairly congested start. This plan had another advantage as it meant I was mixing with some more serious runners, who didn’t consider the first mile to be a warm-up and time for a chat. The first mile therefore went quite quickly in 8:12 mins – yes I was wearing a watch and occasionally managed to glimpse the time on it. I was fairly confident that my road shoes would be OK having tried them on a similar training run, and there were no problems in the fields and on the easy path around the lake. On the last bit of road back towards the finish the punishing pace!! was really starting to take its toll and I ended up counting paces. (It’s good enough for Paula). I was glad to see the 9 mile marker as this was where the last short section of off-road began. Through a field, over bridges, round some bends, under a tunnel and along some very uneven track. I could hear traffic so knew it wasn’t far, there were footsteps behind me, but he didn’t know I wasn’t racing him but my own personal time. Round the last bend and I glimpsed “22” on the clock. Had I achieved my goal? Got to the line and was astonished that my time was actually 1:20:29. (The glimpse was the seconds not the minutes).
I was really pleased to pick up the prize, although if all the usual faces had been there I wouldn’t have stood a chance. For any insomniacs my times for the five races from 2004 on were: 1:30:50, 1:25:53, 1:23:14, 1:22:49, 1:20:29. Now I just have to think of an even more cunning plan for next year……………
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
Exmoor Stagger with real stag
Sunday saw the Westgates at the Exmoor Stagger, one of my favourite races and Lesley’s first attempt having previously done the Stumble. I was particularly looking forward to it as I missed last year’s event while trekking in Nepal. Chatted to Fred Hagen before the start, he was cheerful as ever but not up to running at the moment. Pre-entries were a bit down this year but then about 100 entries on the day!
Slightly surprised to see Martin Lascelles on the start line. Chatted briefly and tried to get a quick, straight answer as to how he might do, but in typical politician, shifting sand evasive double talk the answer took some time drawing, but it seemed he undoubtedly thought he would do sub 2:30. I was hoping for sub 2:45, but we both recorded personal worsts! Lesley predicted she would be sensible, start slow and finish slow. She didn’t want mud on the club vest as it wasn’t due for its monthly wash. However she was devastated when some oaf splashed her as she carefully stepped round a muddy puddle. However she had the last laugh as she picked up 3rd female vet 50 even though she had crossed the line holding hands with 4th FV50. ‘Spect she won it on a short nose.
For me the race started off well at a comfortable pace but gradually got worse and worse. I knew I wasn’t anything like race-fit when Jenny Mills skipped past leaving me and Rod Appleby behind; no shame really though, she is an inspiration with such an efficient, powerful running style that belies her age and build. Thought I’d manage an easy walk/run method up the Beacon but this deteriorated into a weary trudge. I cursed the fact that my warm hat was at home; the driving wind and rain froze my head and ears and I started to lose balance! I was so jealous of the hardier runners who enjoyed the Beacon section as it cooled them down! I wasn’t the only one felt the cold – Rod Appleby sported size 24 bright yellow thermal gloves although he did claim they were for rescue purposes if he got lost.
Two-thirds up the last hill I caught Rod again; he was suffering with cramp. I think I managed to pass 3 more runners, at the time this was like huge milestones as I didn’t feel too good. So relieved to see the 1 mile to go marker but it was lonely with no other runner in sight. Suddenly on the narrow road section before the finish I heard steps behind me, so I sped up; the footsteps sped up but I wasn’t going to look round as this could be a sign of weakness. However as I turned into the finish straight I had to look back; there was no one there. I had dug deep, risking cramp in both legs, spurred on by my own echoing steps.
Once again I missed seeing Lesley finish.
And a few words from herself:
Yes I did see a real deer of some sort on the horizon as I was also wearily walking on the wet, boggy track up towards the Beacon. And I did have my coat and hat on and my hood up as well with the wind. However I wasn’t as cold as Richard, and managed to pass the time in pleasant conversation with fellow runners. When we crossed the road I recognised the track from a previous training run (on one of the hottest days of 2007) and was determined to repeat my previous performance of running all the way to the top (which I almost achieved). It was bliss to be running down the other side, wind behind us and a 10 degree rise in temperature. Paid for it with shin pain later. From this point on the runners were very sparsely place and I decide to run with another lady – from Australia and who prefers our climate. Apparently you can get bored with constant heat! We kept each other going with thoughts of delicious chocolate cake at the end although sadly with our meagre time it had all gone when we got there. We were spared any embarrassment at the prize-giving as they only gave out the first FV50 at the time, and it was only on enquiring after my time I found out my position. I wonder if there is a set procedure in the event of a tie? In all the excitement I never did get my time.
Slightly surprised to see Martin Lascelles on the start line. Chatted briefly and tried to get a quick, straight answer as to how he might do, but in typical politician, shifting sand evasive double talk the answer took some time drawing, but it seemed he undoubtedly thought he would do sub 2:30. I was hoping for sub 2:45, but we both recorded personal worsts! Lesley predicted she would be sensible, start slow and finish slow. She didn’t want mud on the club vest as it wasn’t due for its monthly wash. However she was devastated when some oaf splashed her as she carefully stepped round a muddy puddle. However she had the last laugh as she picked up 3rd female vet 50 even though she had crossed the line holding hands with 4th FV50. ‘Spect she won it on a short nose.
For me the race started off well at a comfortable pace but gradually got worse and worse. I knew I wasn’t anything like race-fit when Jenny Mills skipped past leaving me and Rod Appleby behind; no shame really though, she is an inspiration with such an efficient, powerful running style that belies her age and build. Thought I’d manage an easy walk/run method up the Beacon but this deteriorated into a weary trudge. I cursed the fact that my warm hat was at home; the driving wind and rain froze my head and ears and I started to lose balance! I was so jealous of the hardier runners who enjoyed the Beacon section as it cooled them down! I wasn’t the only one felt the cold – Rod Appleby sported size 24 bright yellow thermal gloves although he did claim they were for rescue purposes if he got lost.
Two-thirds up the last hill I caught Rod again; he was suffering with cramp. I think I managed to pass 3 more runners, at the time this was like huge milestones as I didn’t feel too good. So relieved to see the 1 mile to go marker but it was lonely with no other runner in sight. Suddenly on the narrow road section before the finish I heard steps behind me, so I sped up; the footsteps sped up but I wasn’t going to look round as this could be a sign of weakness. However as I turned into the finish straight I had to look back; there was no one there. I had dug deep, risking cramp in both legs, spurred on by my own echoing steps.
Once again I missed seeing Lesley finish.
And a few words from herself:
Yes I did see a real deer of some sort on the horizon as I was also wearily walking on the wet, boggy track up towards the Beacon. And I did have my coat and hat on and my hood up as well with the wind. However I wasn’t as cold as Richard, and managed to pass the time in pleasant conversation with fellow runners. When we crossed the road I recognised the track from a previous training run (on one of the hottest days of 2007) and was determined to repeat my previous performance of running all the way to the top (which I almost achieved). It was bliss to be running down the other side, wind behind us and a 10 degree rise in temperature. Paid for it with shin pain later. From this point on the runners were very sparsely place and I decide to run with another lady – from Australia and who prefers our climate. Apparently you can get bored with constant heat! We kept each other going with thoughts of delicious chocolate cake at the end although sadly with our meagre time it had all gone when we got there. We were spared any embarrassment at the prize-giving as they only gave out the first FV50 at the time, and it was only on enquiring after my time I found out my position. I wonder if there is a set procedure in the event of a tie? In all the excitement I never did get my time.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Mendip Muddle
Well, no more photos appeared so here are some words from Richard:
Sunday 12th October saw the Westgates at the Mendip Muddle – approximately 13 miles, mainly off-road, run under FRA rules. I keep saying that amidst all the rain this year we have had some exceptionally warm days to complement some of the finest races in the West Country. Sunday was no exception: after a slightly worrying amount of early fog we had brilliant blue skies, warm sun and no wind. (It was so warm I had to abandon my warm shorts and borrow a skimpy pair from Richard – LW). I was so happy ‘cos I love running in warm weather and the views were fantastic. 330 entries was a record entry although only 280 turned up and finished. Perhaps there is a breed of fell-runners who only turn out if the weather is foul!
I did this race in 2002 and the weather was so wet and miserable that the only views I can remember were hallucinations from hypothermia and exhaustion. It’s taken six years to put this behind me, but having had such a good experience this year it’s back on my fixture list as a must do.
The course is described as tough with 420m of climb. I found the boggy bits on the open moorland a bit energy sapping but overall a fair bit easier than the Stagger. With the clear bright skies we were rewarded with some really stunning views as we turned corners or crested hills. The start is slightly narrow and congested so by starting off quick I avoided some of the delays at stiles. Lesley reckons she waited about a minute at each of the first two stiles. The route soon opens up and the runners spread out. I found everything about this route enjoyable including the bit of competition with Rod Appleby as we leap-frogged. I must admit he gave me some encouragement as I walked/ran one of the last hills and I had enough energy left to keep ahead of him at the end. Was he really trying or just warming up for the Stagger?
The official description of the race includes the following: Roman lead mines, underground rivers, a nature reserve, potholes, an ancient rabbit warren, an Iron age fort, deciduous conifer forest, and prehistoric tumuli. Other landmarks are: Velvet Bottom, Rhino Rift, Beacon Batch, Black Down and Rains Batch. Glad we didn’t have to find them all! There were also 25 prize-winners in all, although sadly we weren’t among them.
Sunday 12th October saw the Westgates at the Mendip Muddle – approximately 13 miles, mainly off-road, run under FRA rules. I keep saying that amidst all the rain this year we have had some exceptionally warm days to complement some of the finest races in the West Country. Sunday was no exception: after a slightly worrying amount of early fog we had brilliant blue skies, warm sun and no wind. (It was so warm I had to abandon my warm shorts and borrow a skimpy pair from Richard – LW). I was so happy ‘cos I love running in warm weather and the views were fantastic. 330 entries was a record entry although only 280 turned up and finished. Perhaps there is a breed of fell-runners who only turn out if the weather is foul!
I did this race in 2002 and the weather was so wet and miserable that the only views I can remember were hallucinations from hypothermia and exhaustion. It’s taken six years to put this behind me, but having had such a good experience this year it’s back on my fixture list as a must do.
The course is described as tough with 420m of climb. I found the boggy bits on the open moorland a bit energy sapping but overall a fair bit easier than the Stagger. With the clear bright skies we were rewarded with some really stunning views as we turned corners or crested hills. The start is slightly narrow and congested so by starting off quick I avoided some of the delays at stiles. Lesley reckons she waited about a minute at each of the first two stiles. The route soon opens up and the runners spread out. I found everything about this route enjoyable including the bit of competition with Rod Appleby as we leap-frogged. I must admit he gave me some encouragement as I walked/ran one of the last hills and I had enough energy left to keep ahead of him at the end. Was he really trying or just warming up for the Stagger?
The official description of the race includes the following: Roman lead mines, underground rivers, a nature reserve, potholes, an ancient rabbit warren, an Iron age fort, deciduous conifer forest, and prehistoric tumuli. Other landmarks are: Velvet Bottom, Rhino Rift, Beacon Batch, Black Down and Rains Batch. Glad we didn’t have to find them all! There were also 25 prize-winners in all, although sadly we weren’t among them.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Parrett Trail Relay 2008
Race Report - Leg 1 by Dave Webb
As proud members of the ‘Cheese’ team, Jackie and I were running the first and last legs. In fact, we could be seen as the Cheese sandwich.
The new Maiden Newton Runners multi-team approach to relays seemed like a great idea to me until 6.10 am on Saturday, when I dragged myself out of bed with a sore throat. So much for the weekend lie-in till gone 7.00. I had to get myself to Bridgwater for 8.00 to meet up with the Englands, and then on to a secret coastal location for the start of the race. The secret location might have stayed a secret if Phil hadn’t spotted a car load of Yeovil runners for us to follow.
Before the start Phil agreed that we weren’t planning to run competitively, just to get round the course. We chatted to Fred Fox, one of the 7 Yeovil runners, and as he changed into his race top I noticed he had put plasters over his nipples; clearly a runner in a different league of seriousness, I thought to myself. But once we were off and running, Phil seemed intent initially on keeping close to Fred. I hared along behind Phil, with no time to take in the gorgeous estuary views. After about a mile we caught up with Fred, had a bit of chat, and soon saw him easing away again in front of us. But there was no time to relax; Phil had spotted a Crewkerne runner ahead, Richard Blackmore, and was determined not to be beaten by him. Once more I thought about Phil’s idea of not being competitive, as we upped the pace to get past Richard. Maybe it was the early start, or the half-marathon last weekend, but I found the whole thing a bit of a struggle.
The problem we now had was that, with no one in sight in front of us, there was no one for us to follow. This was the 3rd time Phil had run this leg, and he had recced part of it again recently. So we should have been OK. But there were a few occasions when we entered a field and wondered where we should be heading, each time with Richard closing on us. Eventually he fell behind, and we got to the finish together, though Phil had one last trick up his sleeve, lurking on my shoulder and dashing past me just before the line.
Leg Six by Jackie Webb
In a reckless wine-fuelled moment a few meetings ago, Amanda and I casually signed ourselves up for a leg of the Parrett trail relay. At the time neither of us had run more than 10k (plus a bit if it’s in Maiden Newton!) but it’s funny how confident you feel after a couple of cinzanos. Dave suggested it would be a good idea for us to do leg six, as he knew the route. He failed to mention, that it is billed as the hardest and hilliest leg. Something we only discovered at the point of no return.
On the afternoon of the relay, the October temperatures soared as we made our way nervously to the start. Our nerves were not calmed by the sight of Paul Rose at the starting line poised as if to start the 100 metre sprint. Funnily enough we didn’t see him again; perhaps he took a wrong turn.
Although our aim was always just to complete the distance, we did feel slightly demoralised at the sight of the other runners dashing off into the distance. We managed not to get lost, largely thanks to Amanda’s sense of direction and the reassuring sight of Dave at strategic points along the route shouting encouragement and proffering drinks. We were also inspired to put a spurt on through North Perrot after catching sight of fellow team members cheering us on. I’d already agreed with Dave that I wouldn’t answer my phone if it rang as you can guarantee it would be someone for a chat, but Dave did ring (helpfully scaring a herd of bullocks) because he’d heard two women had taken a wrong turn. Oh he of such little faith.
In fact we managed to keep to the route throughout, which included various fields, with and without animals, lots of mud, deceptively deep cow muck, a river, tunnel under a road, railway crossing and, oh yes, that huge hill at the end. Amanda maintains that she had nightmares about that hill, but actually when we got that far and could barely heave ourselves over the gates, we had gone past caring. We got to the top, half running, half walking, to see a woman leaning on the last gate shouting “you’re nearly there” with a lovely smile. I just wanted to shout back, “open the f***ing gate then”, but I’m far too polite. We managed to put a bit of energy into the finish so that we didn’t look quite as knackered as we felt. Amanda has said several times “I’m never doing that leg again” and right now I have to agree. We were both really glad to have turned out for MNR and proud that we exceeded our longest distance, over difficult terrain, but can we have an easier leg next time please?
More photographs courtesy of Phil:
Eagerly awaiting Jackie and Amanda to pass through North Perrott aka having a beer at the Manor Arms
Late replacement, Steve Mottershead, finds out early on in Leg 3 just what he has let himself in for!
Looking good - Amanda and Jackie pass the beer swilling hecklers at North Perrott
Another glorious October day for the Parrett Trail Relay and this year Maiden Newton Running Club rose to the occasion with not one but two teams on the start line. Not that there weren't some last minute hiccups in the shape of injuries, post operative tenderness and unexplained absences in Colchester....but it all came together on the day and everyone made it to their respective starts. Although someone did cut it a bit fine!
A big thank you to Steve Mottershead, Ines Braun and Tom Parsons who all saved the day by acting as last minute replacements. It was great to see some different club faces in the teams - the two Charlies, Jackie and Amanda. And of course the Parret Trail stalwarts, Dave, Phil, Martin, Di and Ian.
The results are up on the Crewkerne website:
PTR Results 2008
Okay, so we didn't win it, but we had a lot of fun along the way.........................
Martin sprints to the top of Burrow Mump
Ian races to the finish
Ines is just glad it's all over!
Did they discuss their co-ordinating outfits in advance?
Jackie and Amanda head thankfully to the pub.
As proud members of the ‘Cheese’ team, Jackie and I were running the first and last legs. In fact, we could be seen as the Cheese sandwich.
The new Maiden Newton Runners multi-team approach to relays seemed like a great idea to me until 6.10 am on Saturday, when I dragged myself out of bed with a sore throat. So much for the weekend lie-in till gone 7.00. I had to get myself to Bridgwater for 8.00 to meet up with the Englands, and then on to a secret coastal location for the start of the race. The secret location might have stayed a secret if Phil hadn’t spotted a car load of Yeovil runners for us to follow.
Before the start Phil agreed that we weren’t planning to run competitively, just to get round the course. We chatted to Fred Fox, one of the 7 Yeovil runners, and as he changed into his race top I noticed he had put plasters over his nipples; clearly a runner in a different league of seriousness, I thought to myself. But once we were off and running, Phil seemed intent initially on keeping close to Fred. I hared along behind Phil, with no time to take in the gorgeous estuary views. After about a mile we caught up with Fred, had a bit of chat, and soon saw him easing away again in front of us. But there was no time to relax; Phil had spotted a Crewkerne runner ahead, Richard Blackmore, and was determined not to be beaten by him. Once more I thought about Phil’s idea of not being competitive, as we upped the pace to get past Richard. Maybe it was the early start, or the half-marathon last weekend, but I found the whole thing a bit of a struggle.
The problem we now had was that, with no one in sight in front of us, there was no one for us to follow. This was the 3rd time Phil had run this leg, and he had recced part of it again recently. So we should have been OK. But there were a few occasions when we entered a field and wondered where we should be heading, each time with Richard closing on us. Eventually he fell behind, and we got to the finish together, though Phil had one last trick up his sleeve, lurking on my shoulder and dashing past me just before the line.
Leg Six by Jackie Webb
In a reckless wine-fuelled moment a few meetings ago, Amanda and I casually signed ourselves up for a leg of the Parrett trail relay. At the time neither of us had run more than 10k (plus a bit if it’s in Maiden Newton!) but it’s funny how confident you feel after a couple of cinzanos. Dave suggested it would be a good idea for us to do leg six, as he knew the route. He failed to mention, that it is billed as the hardest and hilliest leg. Something we only discovered at the point of no return.
On the afternoon of the relay, the October temperatures soared as we made our way nervously to the start. Our nerves were not calmed by the sight of Paul Rose at the starting line poised as if to start the 100 metre sprint. Funnily enough we didn’t see him again; perhaps he took a wrong turn.
Although our aim was always just to complete the distance, we did feel slightly demoralised at the sight of the other runners dashing off into the distance. We managed not to get lost, largely thanks to Amanda’s sense of direction and the reassuring sight of Dave at strategic points along the route shouting encouragement and proffering drinks. We were also inspired to put a spurt on through North Perrot after catching sight of fellow team members cheering us on. I’d already agreed with Dave that I wouldn’t answer my phone if it rang as you can guarantee it would be someone for a chat, but Dave did ring (helpfully scaring a herd of bullocks) because he’d heard two women had taken a wrong turn. Oh he of such little faith.
In fact we managed to keep to the route throughout, which included various fields, with and without animals, lots of mud, deceptively deep cow muck, a river, tunnel under a road, railway crossing and, oh yes, that huge hill at the end. Amanda maintains that she had nightmares about that hill, but actually when we got that far and could barely heave ourselves over the gates, we had gone past caring. We got to the top, half running, half walking, to see a woman leaning on the last gate shouting “you’re nearly there” with a lovely smile. I just wanted to shout back, “open the f***ing gate then”, but I’m far too polite. We managed to put a bit of energy into the finish so that we didn’t look quite as knackered as we felt. Amanda has said several times “I’m never doing that leg again” and right now I have to agree. We were both really glad to have turned out for MNR and proud that we exceeded our longest distance, over difficult terrain, but can we have an easier leg next time please?
More photographs courtesy of Phil:
Eagerly awaiting Jackie and Amanda to pass through North Perrott aka having a beer at the Manor Arms
Late replacement, Steve Mottershead, finds out early on in Leg 3 just what he has let himself in for!
Looking good - Amanda and Jackie pass the beer swilling hecklers at North Perrott
Another glorious October day for the Parrett Trail Relay and this year Maiden Newton Running Club rose to the occasion with not one but two teams on the start line. Not that there weren't some last minute hiccups in the shape of injuries, post operative tenderness and unexplained absences in Colchester....but it all came together on the day and everyone made it to their respective starts. Although someone did cut it a bit fine!
A big thank you to Steve Mottershead, Ines Braun and Tom Parsons who all saved the day by acting as last minute replacements. It was great to see some different club faces in the teams - the two Charlies, Jackie and Amanda. And of course the Parret Trail stalwarts, Dave, Phil, Martin, Di and Ian.
The results are up on the Crewkerne website:
PTR Results 2008
Okay, so we didn't win it, but we had a lot of fun along the way.........................
Martin sprints to the top of Burrow Mump
Ian races to the finish
Ines is just glad it's all over!
Did they discuss their co-ordinating outfits in advance?
Jackie and Amanda head thankfully to the pub.
More photographs to follow, watch this space!
Monday, October 06, 2008
Cricklade Half Marathon aka A Stroll Down Memory Lane
Race Report by Dave Webb
50,000 people may have tackled the Great North Run on Sunday, but the real action was in Cricklade, where 230 runners sped round the eponymous half-marathon. Cricklade is, of course, famous for being my birthplace. I was born in my parents’ farmhouse, with the district nurse anxiously looking out of the window to see where the doctor was. He never arrived, but luckily I did.
The half-marathon course finished at the bottom of our lane, at the new sports centre (built in 1977). Unfortunately it started half a mile away at the village primary school, which meant a jog down in the pouring rain, and no shelter whilst we waited. I decided to wear my cagoule until the call for the start, lobbing it over the fence into the adjoining cemetery for safe keeping. The weather was varied, that is, at times there was light rain, and at times there was heavy rain. Luckily I had remembered the Vaseline and was able to keep the chafing to a minimum. My aims for the day were to enjoy the run down Memory Lane, and to finish in under 1 hour 30. The Memory Lane part of the plan was easy enough. The course covered familiar roads and lanes, including a section that passed the edge of what used to be our farm, but which is now the Cotswold Water Park. It took a stretch of the imagination to visualise our walks and picnics on fields that have been replaced by lakes; and to think of my grandfather farming the land 70 years ago.
Pacing a run has never been my strong point, and my recent marathon experiences have dented my confidence in my ability to keep going strongly throughout. I wasn’t helped on Sunday in the first few miles by a woman from Headington Runners; I overtook her, then heard some laboured breathing as she worked hard to sprint past me. Again I overtook her, and again she went past me, panting heavily. Eventually I pulled ahead, and the sound of her gasping subsided. I settled into a fairly even pace, and some recent training paid off as I was able to keep going fairly well, passing some runners towards the end and beating the 1.30 mark. All that remained was to return to the cemetery to retrieve my cagoule, which I found under a tree. I then thought that it would be nice to visit the grave of my great-uncle, a sporting fellow who was renowned for his bad language, poor hygiene, and limited social skills. He sounds like the prototype for a Maiden Newton Runner in fact. Sadly I couldn’t find his grave, despite ringing my parents for directions, so I left with some unfinished family business but a sense of satisfaction from a good race on a flat course. I checked the online results later, and discovered that David Webb from “Maidenhead” had finished in 1.29.
50,000 people may have tackled the Great North Run on Sunday, but the real action was in Cricklade, where 230 runners sped round the eponymous half-marathon. Cricklade is, of course, famous for being my birthplace. I was born in my parents’ farmhouse, with the district nurse anxiously looking out of the window to see where the doctor was. He never arrived, but luckily I did.
The half-marathon course finished at the bottom of our lane, at the new sports centre (built in 1977). Unfortunately it started half a mile away at the village primary school, which meant a jog down in the pouring rain, and no shelter whilst we waited. I decided to wear my cagoule until the call for the start, lobbing it over the fence into the adjoining cemetery for safe keeping. The weather was varied, that is, at times there was light rain, and at times there was heavy rain. Luckily I had remembered the Vaseline and was able to keep the chafing to a minimum. My aims for the day were to enjoy the run down Memory Lane, and to finish in under 1 hour 30. The Memory Lane part of the plan was easy enough. The course covered familiar roads and lanes, including a section that passed the edge of what used to be our farm, but which is now the Cotswold Water Park. It took a stretch of the imagination to visualise our walks and picnics on fields that have been replaced by lakes; and to think of my grandfather farming the land 70 years ago.
Pacing a run has never been my strong point, and my recent marathon experiences have dented my confidence in my ability to keep going strongly throughout. I wasn’t helped on Sunday in the first few miles by a woman from Headington Runners; I overtook her, then heard some laboured breathing as she worked hard to sprint past me. Again I overtook her, and again she went past me, panting heavily. Eventually I pulled ahead, and the sound of her gasping subsided. I settled into a fairly even pace, and some recent training paid off as I was able to keep going fairly well, passing some runners towards the end and beating the 1.30 mark. All that remained was to return to the cemetery to retrieve my cagoule, which I found under a tree. I then thought that it would be nice to visit the grave of my great-uncle, a sporting fellow who was renowned for his bad language, poor hygiene, and limited social skills. He sounds like the prototype for a Maiden Newton Runner in fact. Sadly I couldn’t find his grave, despite ringing my parents for directions, so I left with some unfinished family business but a sense of satisfaction from a good race on a flat course. I checked the online results later, and discovered that David Webb from “Maidenhead” had finished in 1.29.
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