On Sunday 16/10/2011, I was unable to run or even drive as I watched with envy the athletes leave Tilsley Park for a 26.2 mile journey along a mainly flat tour of Abingdon on a perfect day for running. Only four days before I was tapering for the BMAF Marathon Championship with the aim of a good time. Unfortunately a concrete bollard and my rib cage met with a bang as I fell from my bicycle on the way home from work. However, this accident allowed me to witness why this race is oversubscribed within a few days of being advertised. Its strengths are a PB accurately measured safe course, excellent marshalling, a fair price, access to showers, baggage drop and refreshments all within the entry fee. Plus if you finish within 5hrs a technical T-Shirt and a finisher’s medal. All this led to only a very small number of federation members getting their entry in on time. Those who did were awarded with a perfect day as the results below validate.
Praise must be directed to Stephen Male M45 with a very fine 2:31:46, Paul Fernandez M35 2:36:42, Mike Hatton M50 2:43:18, John Lawlor M55 2:55:58, Jill Rush F35 3:04:32, Trevor Edgley M60 3:08:39, Sharon Hawkins F45 3:11:34, Colin Talbot M65 3:27:38, Vicky Talbot Rosner W50 3:28:22, Alan Peers M70 3:55:49 and Grahame Cooper M75 5:19:14.
I tried very hard to ensure as many category winners received the correct BMAF medals before they left. Please e-mail me at walterhelen@hotmail.co.uk if I missed you or you missed me.
Walter Hill 20/10/2011