This is a tough race not because it crosses any really steep or mountainous terrain but because the course follows fast, hard but invariably muddy paths and tracks. It is also a little unusual in that it starts at the top of a hill and sets off downhill but finishes with a draining climb to
Ashurst Beacon. The hill topped by the Beacon is notable for being just about the westernmost viewpoint before the landscape falls away to the West Lancashire Plain, with views on a clear day from Snowdonia to the Lake District and all the flat land in between. I didn't see any of that of course but I've looked at the map and it must be true.
I hate uphill finishes. It is very dispiriting to see the group ahead ease away when in most fell races I am picking off runners at that stage. Note to self: lose some weight and gravity will be less of a hindrance. At the time of writing I don't know whether or not I made the top half of the field but with a time of around 50 minutes I will be there or thereabouts. I must also mention clubmate Jamie Dowdall, who thrashed me comprehensively today. Good run Jamie.
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| The final muddy climb before the Beacon |
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| Still breathing - just about |
Results: 63rd/152 50:50
Distance: 9.5km/5.9 miles Climb: 290m/951ft
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