Nicky writes…
1st James Kennedy 1:18:33
1stF Lindy-Lee Folscher 1:26:29 Epsom Oddballs
Will Cross (daughters fiancé) 1:45:29
10thF Nicky Mowat 1stF60 1:45:58
Laura Mowat 1:59:02
About 600 runners
After the last two races I have done in appalling weather conditions it was a pleasure to run in the sunshine. Eight degrees at the start was perfect for running. There were beautiful views over London. This arty photo was taken by my sister who came to support.
The course consisted of four laps around the park along various terrains, track, grass and tarmac. By the third lap I had worked out where the ups and downs were! The elevation was a mere 200 ft but the track and the grass were quite muddy so it wasn’t the day for a PB. I was just coming round for my fourth lap when the winner finished – very tempting to follow him through but I think there would be a stewards enquiry if I finished a half marathon in 1:18! I knew that Will would be a similar pace to me but had no idea he was loitering very close behind for most of the race. Just after the 12 mile marker at the end of the last downhill he cruised past me, very casually greeting me ‘Hi Nicky” and I had no chance to catch him.
The organisation was very good as far as marshals and signs were concerned. However RunThrough results were rubbish. They missed Laura off, apparently she started but is still running! We didn’t receive a message with our results and online they do not put your position. They just had the first ten and the first three in each age category.
Another criticism is that they used plastic bottles rather than paper cups which would have been possible given the relative small number of runners. The medal and t-shirt were up to standard and there were plenty of refreshments at the end.
No criticisms about the roast lunch ready for us in Kew (Laura’s future in-laws). Then it was back on the train in time for Strictly.