The fine, dry weather continued into Race #2. Itchen Valley, usually wet and full of puddles, was hard and bone dry, perfect conditions for some good, fast racing. The course was much less hilly than Fleming Park and everyone found it to be an enjoyable venue.
The event was hosted by Lordshill and again there was a huge turnout from all the clubs with over 500 runners taking part. There was slightly less enthusiasm by Wessex at this event, with only nine making it to the start but enough for a men’s and ladies’ team result.
The mass start was held in the field (usually sodden but perfect this evening) beside the picnic tables and there was a short briefing (still difficult to hear, I’m not sure how effective the loud hailer is) and then suddenly we were off. Across the field and then onto a long, slow climb on a fairly narrow path, with some congestion. A fast downhill section, with some tight corners and then we ducked onto the path between the trees. No standing water to be seen, only the occasional pile of pony poo. Lots of encouraging marshals on the way round, lap one finished and round we went again. At the end of lap two, a quick sprint back across the field to the finish.
Runners home in the order of Jay (52), Chris (214), Daniel (251), myself (252), David (277) and Richard (294). Ladies in the order of Imy (40), Katie (213) and Kavitha (215).
Some good cakes at the end and (as shown in the photo above) a successful packing away of the Club tent. Onto River Hamble on May 21st, hopefully maintaining our streak of team results.
Wessex Road Runners 