Race Report by Gareth:
Race number 9 on the main road/champs calendar yesterday, the Blackrod Scarecrow Festival 10K. There were 11 of us out of a field of 181 runners.
This is the second running of this race after last year’s success and what a lovely addition to the calendar it is!
Starting at Hilltops Social Club on Hill Lane we were underway at 9am with a quick first mile loop around parts of the village to see some of the scarecrows then the long downhill section through Little Scotland, past the Goose and Gander and all the way down to the canal, sharp right turn then 1.5 miles along canal towpath down some steep slippery steps cross the bridge over the River Douglas, up a zig zaggy rocky path and back along the disused railway trail before climbing all the way back up via Aberdeen Farm. It’s a tough last 1.5 miles & the course also measures a bit long at 10.2K.
Dave continued his excellent recent form with an improved time on last year and a fantastic 22nd place overall 👏👏, then followed the great battle between Gaz & Antony, I had the privilege of watching this unfold from a little further back as they duked it out all the way with Gaz just getting the better of the duel by 5 seconds.
I managed to knock 2 mins off last years Covid infected effort but huge kudos to Johanna for being first F40 & 3rd female overall, well done Jo 👊👊. Paul continues his resurgence with an excellent performance, Chris unfortunately had to ease back on his efforts due to a tight hamstring. Tony & Sheila were as strong and consistent as ever and it was great to Sean & Sam put in good races showing there’s much more to come from them.
Big thanks to Greg for the on course support and photography 😊👍👍.
Top mornings racing on your doorstep, what’s not to like? Well done everyone 💚🖤.
