A classic race full of hills and history and the thrilling finale of the Summer Series. And last year most of the group 1 places on the mug were still up for grabs on the final hill down into Langley as the series went right to the wire. This year by Tuesday night training the whisper was that most of group 1 weren’t even running. This promised a handy points bonus to all hardy group 2+ runners willing to brave the Langley hill. But of course if your rival might be there (even if they were currently feigning injury /work / family commitment) then you just had to get along and fill your boots too … or at least that seemed to be how Roy was explaining the complex dynamics of the various Summer Series league tables. Anyway it was no surprise to see yet another bumper turnout from team Wilmslow.
Damian led us out at a smart pace through the first flat mile and all too soon we were turning to face the hill. After the first half mile past the Ryles Arms rain was beginning to mix with the headwind and I found myself shielding a whole group of Manchester Harriers from the elements. Bored with this and perhaps taking confidence from all those hill reps I managed to open up a gap. I was quickly joined by Ed Gamble and we made good progress up the steep section of Wythenshaw Lane. By the turn Damian was still just in sight cresting the final hill.
Having walked the final ascent last year I was delighted to pass the summit at a decent pace and admire the views across Macclesfield Forest. Somewhere down there was reservoir, tea and tiffin but no more time to look as we pounded down the first descent. I felt less at home on the steep down hills and Ed began to slowly edge away. I hung on knowing that I had to make the most of the flat section along the reservoir edge. For a while there I was catching Ed and even gaining on 3rd place but another couple of short sharp down hills ended my challenge as we entered the village despite Simon’s shouted support. So I settled for 5th and a prime position on the boggy field to watch the rest of the race. Damian was looking justifiably well pleased with himself having led from start to finish. Bill and Colin chased in soon followed by Tony (winning Running Bear kit as first V50), Mike C running in ahead of Ian S, Mick and Peter C, Nicky first LV45 just ahead of Sally (PB over the first 5 miles?!) and Ian A. Sean, Rod, Kate S., Peter (first V60) and Roy in quick succession. Some great runs, quite a few people up on their rivals, upsetting the form book perhaps. I was trying to picture the effect on the league tables but instead found myself picturing a chocolate cake and quickly headed off to the church hall to get first choice.
All in all a great afternoon and well done Macclesfield and whoever makes all those cakes for organizing such a splendid event.
Rob