I’m always slightly disappointed that the Marwell RR10 route doesn’t actually go through the zoo itself. Perhaps seeing a tiger (penguins less so) may encourage us to speed up a little. We had to make do with a course with plenty of long grass, so we could use our imaginations to conjure up a big cat.
It was still very hot at 19:00, the race start time, with temperatures in the low 20s and full sunshine. We had another good turnout with a Men’s A and B team but just fell short fielding a Ladies’ team. It was good to see Derek making his race (competing) debut this season.
The route was similar to last year. We were led to the car park start with a loop around the car park itself. Then into a field with some long grass. Marshalling there was Phil (formerly of this parish but now running with Eastleigh, tonight’s race organiser) who offered some encouragement. Then it was into the trees for a narrow climb, seemingly going on forever with some dangerous roots as hazards. We eventually emerged into the sunshine and were rewarded with a downhill section before completing a second loop of the field. A final, fast, flat finish in a ‘U’ shape and a run to the line.
Runners home in the order : Men’s – Mike (137), Peter (138), Andrew (170), Daniel (193), Chris (197), Nigel (262), Anthony (277), Derek (279), Andy C (282), David H (284) and Richard (290). Ladies’ – Imy (37) and Kavitha (181).
Next RR10 (a return to Itchen Valley) is on July 9th
Wessex Road Runners 