On Sunday 30th October, 3 A&T’ers made the 2 hour journey to Worksop to compete in the Hallowe’en half marathon.
The weather looked promising so all fingers were crossed that it would stay dry throughout the race. The race began at Worksop town hall and the runners were greeted by the famous marathon music which was played to set everyone off on their way.
The first mile or so was uphill and along a country-type road, which wasn’t a very good setting if you are fond of squirrels as I have never seen so many dead ones before!!!
Some runners must have found this part quite hard as there were a few walking early on in the race and by approx 3 miles some had even pulled out.
The next few miles were again uphill but were followed by a down hill which was great to get some energy back.
Between 4-5 miles, we entered Clumber Park which was a lovely setting. There was also a brass band playing and a lot of spectators encouraging the runners along.
Between 7-8 miles, my legs felt quite heavy but I felt a bit better once I had taken an energy gel and slightly picked up my pace. Luckily, I had my Dad running with me which was great as I had someone to push me along.
At approx 9 miles, I noticed a sign stating ‘sponges ahead’ and this sign was followed by others saying ‘Don’t drink the sponge water as it will make you constipated’ and ‘It will make your hair fall out’. Luckily, I didn’t believe the signs and for the next half a mile it was like a game of hop-scotch trying to avoid all the used sponges.
At 12 miles, the runners made their way back out of Clumber Park and down the hill which we originally ran up at the start. My Dad was a bit ahead of me and kept stopping to wait for me but in the end I told him to carry on. The last mile was a relief as I knew I didn’t have that far to go, but it was also quite hard work as the hill looked so tempting to go flying down but I had a stitch which prevented my from going any faster than I was already doing.
The first A&T’er to finish was Steve Coleman with a fantastic time of 1.28:13. My Dad (Wayne) was next with 1.55:07 and I came in at 1.57:31.
I had wanted to run around the 1 hour 50 mark but given that it was a tough course (and hilly!), I was pleased with my time.
Overall, the race was worth travelling for and was very scenic, but if anyone does fancy this race next year just be prepared for the hills!
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