Shutlingsloe
This race is always a challenge; to get there on time, to do battle with the midges, and finally to get up that hill. I eventually made it to the start line after a long warm up, leaving a cloud of midges to start on the dessert course (spectators!). Tony took up his place towards the front, then we were off, gently climbing the Cheshire Matterhorn. In to the Forest and Jim and Nick appeared in front of me, so – what the hell – it is not often you get the chance to lead group one. I crawled past them trying to look confident and not out of breath. On to the open fells and a steam train appeared behind me, then Jim overtook me. Round the corner to face the last steep climb to the summit and there was Jim walking! (I can now confirm that Group 1 runners do walk in Races!) Well, a golden opportunity to show that Group 2 runners really do run, so I passed him at a slow sprint. From the summit I “legged it” and dreamt of 49 points. However Jim overtook me in the final half mile to take the summer points.
A great race
Ian Smallwood