Glorious sunny weather (no complaints from the helpers, but a bit warm for the runners!) greeted a record turnout: 117 runners completed the course, plus Nigel kindly sweeping up at the rear. There was no mud and even a fair display of bluebells for the last descent through the woods. Four male records fell: John Pullen (35.12) knocked 22 secs off the MV40 record, Chris Penney (Mercia) beat Mick’s MV50 record by 19 secs, Steve Herington improved on his own MV60 best with 41.05 (1min 18 faster) and young Gwynant Jones aged 15 sliced nearly 2 minutes off Tim Lefroy’s JM record of 39.02. Alison , now a FV50, knocked over 30 secs off the old record. Neil had a great race, finishing 7th in 38.50. Patrick, for once freed of his marshalling duties, raced round in a commendable 40.53. Gary was our third finisher, just failing to break the MV65 record by 4 seconds. Matt was close behind in 28th place (45.15), with Alison crossing the line between them, 3rd lady and 1st FV50. Dave Moss made a welcome return, covering the course in 49.15, just ahead of Tom, who had an encouragingly good run. Cei Slade-Jones reappeared, this time unattached, a little way ahead of Jabez (51.33). Dave R snr may have found the combination of hills and warmth not to his liking (52.32), but he came in ahead of Sue P (who had a good race, on ‘home soil’) and Rachel.
Thanks to all who helped in so many ways: feedback has been very positive, and hitches were few!