284 Runners finished this years Muddy Woody, a popular race that is put on annually by Wye Valley Runners.
Entry was limited to 350 and closed before Christmas, this and the increase in price this year may have put a few Croft runners off as there were only 5 of us taking part.
It was a challenging 6.5 mile race, and true to its name was very muddy, much more than I remember it being last year. There are a mix of path types, from main forest tracks to small footpaths winding through the trees, on hard stone, muddy soup and every texture between. At mile 4 there is a river crossing followed by a mile loop with a very steep uphill climb then a gentler downhill path to run alongside the river before crossing it again. This was definitely the hardest stretch for me, it was hard work just to stay upright with nearly every footfall slipping and sliding, I was really pleased to see the river and the hard track after it. The next 2 miles were a slow steady uphill and I was relieved to see the finish line.
My pre-race plan was to beat my time from last year and I was hoping to keep Nikki Tyler from Wye Valley in sight and hopefully get past her. I did manage to keep her in sight most of the way, but she pulled away during the last mile to finish two and a half minutes ahead of me to take her age category prize. Well done to her and I must try harder next year! I did manage to beat last years time by 18 seconds but difficult to compare really as there were some minor alterations to the route and I am not sure about the mud levels. Either way I am happy as no obvious deterioration.
There was a goody bag with a technical t-shirt, drink and banana, donuts and hot drinks and only a short wait for the presentations at the end and a chance to chat and find out how everyone else did.
Croft results:
Sam Mayglothling 6th place 48.29 . Matt Moffatt, 53rd place 57.33, Ashley Robison, 72nd place 59.45, 1st MV 65,
Sam Harper, 13th female 1.05.02, Sue Powell, 22nd female 1.06.42 1st FV 50.
Fantastic result for Ashley and Sue who both collected a couple of bottles of beer for their prizes.
