Great to be back “racing” again. Last night saw the first running of the mini-handicap following the current covid secure guidelines.
Handicaps naturally lend themselves to this, as the start times are staggered, we even socially distanced for a photo. There was the usual handicap banter of “how did you get that handicap”, “I’m not running well, should have an easier time”, “I did intervals last night, won’t be going fast”, “I did a long run at the weekend, legs still heavy” etc.
It was a cracking evening for being out, clear skies, a light breeze and cool. This is a great course, very runnable, but with some route choice decisions to be made between some of the later checkpoints. Rachael Nash was first back, benefitting from a handicap time based from 2 years ago, the advantage of growing. The rest of us suffering from the process of ageing over the last couple of years.
Back at the finish there was more chat about route choice, and where everyone caught Mark Hartree. The only thing that was missing was a pint afterwards. Maybe the pubs will be open next week, and we can stand outside in groups of six, or is it four? or two? Answers on a postcard please.
Thanks to Andy and Ken for organising.
Graham Nash