Race report by Mike Blenkinsop.
The recent Paris Olympic Games were both enthralling and inspirational and, at the latest Bircher Common Handicap Race, the Croft Ambrey runners were motivated by the Olympic motto of Citius, Altius, Fortius (faster, higher, stronger).
Faster : the phenomenal Sam Juson was “Onfireman Sam’ as he destroyed the existing course record by a massive 1 min 3 secs as, in full flight, he scorched the turf whilst galloping round the challenging Bircher Common course. Sam now holds the records for both the road and off-road versions of the handicap series. Not to be outdone, young Saffi Reid sliced 33 secs off the record for the one lap version of the course with an equally impressive performance.
Higher: as all the runners climbed to the summit of Bircher Common. Whether many took advantage of the magnificent views of the distant Brecon Beacons, Black Mountains and Malvern Hills is debatable as they recovered from their punishing ascent to the top.
Stronger: as well as the 2 course records, there were 2 age group records registered. Guy Whitmarsh’s MV80 time of 35.45 was spectacular in the extreme and an example to all as to what can be achieved with deep determination and will-power. Liza Austin also continued her recent spell of good form by setting a new FV60 course record. There was also an illustration of the club continuing to get stronger with 4 more runners making their debuts at this late stage of the season.
It proved to be pre-race favourite Steph’s Kingdom as she won the race by almost 5 mins (this is probably a handicap series record in itself) and the queen bee had plenty of time to admire her domain whilst awaiting the arrival of her subjects. Completing the top 3 places were 2 notable runners making their debuts. Mark Hasty lived up to his name in 2nd, whilst Henry Eastman clocked an exceptional 26.50 in 3rd place to now feature at no 13 on the fastest times list. Henry overtook 27 other runners as he sped around the tough course and that is more passes that have been witnessed since I appeared on Mastermind.
For me it felt pleasing to be back in the company of fit runners as I was liberated from my uncomfortable ankle tag and, thanks to my good behaviour, my restraining order has been lifted and the Bircher Common sheep no longer need to look nervously over their shoulders.
The final race in the 6 race series will be held just 2 weeks hence on Tuesday 3rd September.
