St Helen’s part 2 Kate Sutton

Always seem to post this  after Nick who really says it all so well.

The torrential rain before the ladies race turned a soggy Sherdley Park into a quagmire. However the sun came out as we emerged from the welcome shelter provided by the YM. 

Clare disappeared after the start and ran strongly with Nicky and I chasing. Nicky had won the Santa dash in Warrington organised by her husband that morning so after the first undulation I was able to pull away. Trevor did a fine job of telling us our placings on the way round – tho’ I didn’t like the comment that Nicky was closing… The men were scattered around the course and the support was appreciated.

Huma ran strongly and I’m sure has improved on her placing at BHC. Sally P had roped in her husband at short notice for his navigation skills to the venue – he wisely went off for brunch during the rain. Penny had a traumatic morning – 3 flat tyres of which she will no doubt tell you more herself. Chairman Roy rescued her – it’s always fun (!) getting the ladies teams out… Oh and Amanda was let down by "infallible" satnav.

So we had a seniors and a vets team – the placings are awaited with interest. Sally P ,Clare and I were able to see the men’s race at several points as the course snakes round the park. Running between the loops to keep warm and get some life back into frozen feet.The highlights were Malcolm’s storming run. the mud splattered runners – particularly Jim with what looked war paint splattered from brow to cheek… Watching Tom bravely limp round the last lap,Trevor’s battle at the finish…

So those who weren’t there – you missed and epic. Those wanting to run in the Cheshire’s on Saturday 5/1/08 – please let Nick and I know. Entries need to be in by the end of December.