Race 8 of this year’s RR10 took part at Wide Lane. Following record UK temperatures on the previous two days, Wessex runners were pleased to see a slightly cooler and cloudy evening was forecast. Five runners were scheduled to attend so another team result was on the cards.
There was another good turnout from other Clubs with 357 runners present – perhaps inspired by Jake Wightman’s Gold medal for GB in last night’s 1500m World Championships.
This was my first time at this RR10 location and certainly different to any others I’d ran before. The course was around Southampton University sports’ pitches, very flat, very firm and no hills to speak off. There was plenty of room at the start and plenty of space for overtaking (or being overtaken!). The best analogy I can think of was this being a Time Trial stage of the Tour de France. One lap around the small loop, under the bridge, two laps of the large loop, back under the bridge and a small loop lap to finish.
A swift race briefing at the start line and then we were off. It wasn’t the most exciting scenery (unless you were a fan of transport – Motorway, airport, trainline on the way round) but it was a good opportunity to run a consistent pace. I really enjoyed it and had a good battle with some other runners on the final loop.
All Wessex home safely (supported by Derek), in order – Mike (109), David S (136), Nigel (151), Richard (212) and Dough (217). A team result of 32nd out of 44 clubs.
There are only two races left in this season’s RR10, with the best six results counting for final places. The next race is Badger Farm (August 3rd), followed by IBM (August 17th).
Jake Wightman might have got a Gold medal following his race but some rhubarb from Richard’s allotment was just as good.
Wessex Road Runners 