Running Grand Prix Oulton Park Marathon
Missing from the previous race report was Richard Davies’ trip up to the Oulton Park marathon on Sunday 26 November. Motorsport fans would be familiar with the circuit, set in the picturesque Cheshire countryside. The undulating course afforded runners some great views on their way round (and round, and round!), as light mist rose from the nearby lake and frost sparkled in the fields. While conditions were chilly, they were otherwise excellent for the time of year.
With each lap being 2.6 miles, the marathon was a nice round 10 laps of the track. Spectators therefore had ample opportunity to support and encourage the runners, and easily keep up with their progress throughout the race. (As part of the Oulton Park Running GP event, races were also held over other distances including half marathon, 10k and 5k.)
Richard finished fourth overall and first MV40 in a new personal best of 2:47:56, also shaving a few seconds off the Okehampton Running Club MV40 marathon record. Congratulations Richard, great running!
Fairytale of Newquay Long Half Marathon
On Saturday, Tom Poland headed over the border to Cornwall for a 15 mile long half marathon along the beautifully rugged North Coast of Cornwall starting at Harlyn Bay and finishing on Porth Beach in Newquay. The race began with a river fording which soaked the runners from the off, this was followed by muddy, slippery trail conditions underfoot and Storm Elin was blowing in to add to the fun. Tom commented that whilst it was fortunately sunny, there was a strong headwind throughout to contend with. Tom finished fourth overall and first MV40 in 2:15:05. Great running Tom!
Extremely Jolly Festive 10km Trail Race
Also on Saturday, Karen King took part in the Extremely Jolly Festive 10km Trail Race at Escot House in Ottery Saint Mary. Fancy dress is encouraged so Karen added to festive spirit of the event by running dressed as an elf. Whilst the rain stopped and the sun came out just in time for the race start, the slippery forest tracks, trails and fields were still very wet and muddy. Unfortunately, this year due to all the recent rainfall the river crossing was judged to be too dangerous and had to be avoided. Karen commented that this was a shame as it would have been nice to clean off! Near the end of the run came the fun bit, a giant 30 metre waterslide down the hill, although the runners do then have to then run back up it! Karen had a very enjoyable race finishing in 1:31:56. Well done Karen!
