Paul D was unable to make this race so Ed and myself were the only representatives for Bournville Harriers.

As it had been pouring down with rain for a lot of the day, I had nipped home at lunchtime to pick up my trail shoes, only to find out, when we got there, that the race was all on roads. I had been so looking forward to slogging through lots of mud, but never mind.

Although the base is Droitwich High School, the actual start line is almost a mile away, just about right for a nice and easy warm up jog in the rain.

There was a road bridge about 20 yards from the start line and a lot of people had to be coaxed out into the torrential rain for the start of the race.

The race itself was fairly undulating and followed the usual pattern of Ed flying off from the start, showing me a cleanish pair of heels. I as usual had the battles of being passed by the odd runner going up the hills and then passing them on the downhills, all the time trying to catch up with the runners in front on the flat bits. At some time during the race, the rain had stopped, I just didn't notice when, I was too busy trying to run and breathe at the same time.

I eventually finished in 42:24, I think Ed was about two minutes in front of me.

Yet another drinks bottle, a gel bar and a sachet of energy drink mix were given to us on registration, the value of which must surely be more than the race entry cost of £4.

Another little gem of a race which will be on my list of races to enter next year.

Terry