Julian's (50)60 at (50)60: Race 24: Snaefell

This is a tough race with a slightly unusual course in that there is a significant descent before the main climb, so knowing that I am better downhill than up, I thought that I had better go for a good start and see how long I could hold my position. I got to the checkpoint before the descent in 18th and gained one as we dropped into the valley. From there, we climbed up Clagh Ouyr and to my surprise I was still in 17th position at the top, with three men in a group a short way behind. Looking good for my best result of the season so far I dropped to the crossing of the Mountain Road and even increased the gap slightly on the last climb up Snaefell itself. I rarely get overtaken on the downhill, mainly because the fast runners have all gone by the time I reach the top but still, I was feeling confident of holding on for 17th out of 48 - if I could catch just one more then I'd be in the top third - wow!

I found the top of the main path down and set off; there were no other runners in sight but in such a small field that isn't too unusual. I was looking for the runner in 16th but couldn't see him, then over to my right, about halfway down, I saw two Manxmen from the group behind me on a different, more direct path. I did my best catch them after crossing some rough grass to get on their line but my energy was spent. Never mind. 19th - I should be happy with that. But I'm not!