I went to a comedy show at Winchester’s theatre a few years ago and the comedian was doing some back and forth with the audience. He was incredulous when he asked someone in the audience where they were from and they replied ‘Badger Farm’. ‘They farm badgers in Winchester?’ The Badger Farm RR10 is less amusing.
The weather had been somewhat unsettled but by the time of the race all was dry, with forecast thundery showers not materialising. We had an excellent Wessex turnout with 13 runners – enough for a Men’s A team, B Team and a Ladies’ team result.
There is always a little apprehension about the Badger Farm races, they are always up and down, the paths are quite narrow and there are numerous roots to trip on or branches to hit your head on. This year’s course was no different with the set up reverting to a previous CC6 course.
We walked half way down Whiteshute Ridge to the start. It was all a little tightly packed but the downhill start was appreciated, we did a quick loop and then back up the Ridge and into the trees – very congested with resorting to walking pace. A long, narrow climb with no room for overtaking was next and it was time to accept your position in the pack for a while. Then a long descent towards Compton and a then a short, sharp climb to bring you onto a path with excellent views of St Catherine’s Hill. A run through Yew Hill nature reserve and then briefly joining the Clarendon Way into Oliver’s Battery. Back onto Whiteshute Ridge for a final loop and a tough hill finish.
Wessex Men home in the order of Peter (123), Andrew S (155), Daniel (169), myself (193), Gary (205), Chris (229), Kevin (254), Anthony (261), Andrew C (263) and Richard (268). Ladies home in the order of Imy (26), Katie (156) and Kavitha (157).
Next up Wessex are hosting at Ampfield Woods, car parking duties and cakes required.
Wessex Road Runners 