Saturday 8th December 2012
A momentous day. Well not really but it was my first race as a V50.
Having been a bit full of cold in the week I doubted if I would be able to run. Even at 9 o'clock on race day I questioned whether it was a good idea. Once up and breakfasted I felt better and packed my bag. The wife was back late from an errand which meant I arrived with only enough time change, register, 5 min warm up and then be ready to race ( I mean run/ jog).
The track we followed for the first part of the race was partly icy but mostly OK with little snow cover. I went very steady until I spotted a club mate ahead and noticed I was gaining on him. By the time we reached the top gate I had caught him and made my pass. However this only resulted in joining single file traffic up the last part of the climb.
The wind here was cold and icy, blasting us from the south. I wished I had my cag on.
There was no passing opportunity as venturing of the snow trod meant entering deep snow and expanding a lot of energy. Once on the summit plateau things improved . We moved quicker but the odd drift slowed progress. I manage to pass a couple of runners just before the descent.
This was fun but venturing of the trod meant shins would be cut or grazed as feet broke through the icy top layer of snow. I passed when I could but otherwise just strode out and enjoyed it. Once back on the track I concentrated on picking off the few runners I could spot ahead and keeping my feet.
Times were well down on last year. 12 mins for me. A warm pub for prize giving was most welcome. Soup and chips. A pint. A good day. Glad I made the effort.
Russell
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