A lovely sunny morning greeted us for the start of the Presteigne Pacers 8.3 mile multi terrain run through and around the lanes by Nash Woods.
This is a race I have done a few times before and I have to admit that it is one of my favourites. The hills are challenging enough that I get a buzz when I get to the top without stopping, even better if I can get past people. The start and finish in the woods is always enough to lift the spirits, especially with the sun shining through the leaves. The pacers kindly rope off a route through the muddy sections so you have to be at least ankle deep but this isn’t a problem because you know you are going to wash it all off when you wade through the two river crossings. Once you get out off the narrow path and onto the main track there is a half mile downhill finish along the forest track, which is always fast as I worry that others are going to catch me at the finishing post.
9 Croft runners took part out of a field of only 44. Why more runners don’t take part is a mystery to me – it is a very similar race to the Wye Valley Runners Muddy Woody which in recent times has always been full.
As we lined up at the start, the runners seemed a bit reluctant to get right to the start line so I found myself the leading lady going up the first hill. I thought that at some point one of the ladies would get past me, but to my surprise none of them did and I was able to finish the race as first lady! So now this race is officially my favourite!
First across the line was Joshua Jones from Griffithstown in 57.39. Our very own Stacy was in second place in 58.11, (MV40 winner) still feeling those hills in his legs from the Source of the Severn the week before. Sam M took third place in 59.59.
The next Croft runner home was Pat in 6th place, 65.28.(MV45 winner). This meant that Croft took home the team prize.
Ashley Robinson 18th in 75.26 (MV65 winner), Myself 21st (first lady) 76.36, Frank Luscott 22nd in , 76.42, Darren Lincoln (Great to see him back after a long stretch off injured) 23rd in 78.02. Gary Gunner 29th 83.32. Tom Davies 32nd in 87.48
Special mention should go to Tom as he set out to run 66 races for his 66th year and this race saw him achieve this before his birthday later this week – Well done Tom!
There was a rumour that if there were less than 50 runners that it is unlikely that this race will take place again. I am hoping this isn’t the case and the Pacers change their mind. If they do run it again next year lets try and get a few more Croft runners to give this local race a go.
