The 5th race of this year’s CC6 saw us return to the New Forest. Two weeks earlier at Ocknell the thermometer barely got past zero but Holmsley felt very Spring like. Only four Wessex runners made it to the start but a low turnout seemed to be affecting the other clubs too. It must be the furthest race from Winchester, needing a 45 minute drive – almost crossing the border into Dorset.
It was a five minute walk from the car park to the start line, with plenty of space to spread out. The first kilometre was muddy with some standing water (other runners still seem surprised when they encounter this on a trail race) but after the course was dry and solid, mostly been run on paths/gravel. It was fairly flat, other than a ‘big dipper’ which we went down and up twice on the way round. A final hill towards the end, opening out for the last kilometre and a flat, fast finish. A very enjoyable course with excellent weather conditions.
All Wessex home safely in the order of Phil (48), Nigel (124), David H (128) and Richard (143). A team result but only just.
The penultimate race of this year’s CC6 will be at Badger Farm on February 11th.
Wessex Road Runners 