I was looking forward to this one having been told by others what a good course it is.
Driving over, the thick fog hinted at a cold, miserable affair to come however, upon arrival the reservoir was basked in glorious sunshine, the tent area resembling a holiday camp, perfectly situated on the water front, a really beautiful setting.
As the team assembled I realised I was already sweating in the balmy sunshine, many runners hastily adjusting their outfits, swapping the gloves & thermals for trendy shades & vests.
When the race eventually started it initially felt more like a pleasant coastal run than a tough XC race, until heading into the woods when the temperature seemed to plummet and the first of 2 steep(ish) hills appeared, the second being particularly tricky with many people opting to walk up, the course wasn’t overly muddy with a large section of path making for some decent sprints, the downhill finish was welcomed
Fast Anne seemed to be pacy as ever despite her recent hectic schedule, I was very pleased with my own race, managing to find some decent pace (for me) around miles 3/4, I enjoyed some friendly banter with some other runners, including a little bit of argy bargy, I was very happy to sprint past most of them on the final stretch.
Overall I’d say this was one of my favourite event with the Wreakies so far and was a brilliant way to spend a Sunday Morning, I may have been slightly spoilt though, as each of the 3 Derby Runners I have done thus far have all been on dry, sunny days.
All of the other Wreakies appeared to be happy with their runs also.
Fast Anne came in first, followed in order by Jim, Gavin P, Richard Bettsworth, Gareth, Myself, Mark Jelley, Liz Collingham, Andy Peel, Julie, Jane Collingham.
Much appreciated support & photography by Helen