Start to 2 miles – Everyone always runs off at the start as if we are at the Pamplona Bull Race. As in every race, the first 2 miles are the easiest of the run, taking you along the beach, up on to the prom and past all the cheering spectators. This really makes you want to pick up the pace but you have 8 miles of hard terrain ahead so conserving energy is a must.
2 to 4 miles – The long and winding road of the Toll Road. This road runs along the coast so it’s good for the scenery but not so good for the legs as it has a lot of small hills along it. When you finally get to the end, there is a mountain of a hill taking you right to the top of Weston though the woodlands.
4 to 6 miles – After climbing the long, steep hill, your legs are burning but at least you are at the top. Here we were welcomed to more cheering spectators and drinks of water. After following the woodland trail for about half a mile, it turns into a steep hill which is covered in wet, slippery rocks and mud. This takes you to the start of the Toll Road.
6 to 8 miles – I have to do that AGAIN!? This is the hardest part of the run, both physically and mentally, as you know what’s ahead - pain and THAT hill! When getting to the end of the Toll Road again you reach that dreaded hill. Everyone struggles up it this time around and a lot of people just walk it.
8 to 10 miles – At the top of the hill, a second wind comes over you as the only way you can go now is down! Yippee! Running down the long decline, you get to rest ready for the final push. The tarmac last mile seems long but easier on the legs and running on to the beach with spectators cheering from the sea wall like an audience high up in a theatre gives you the energy to sprint to the finish.
Great race. Really enjoyed it. Perfect first all-terrain run. Aim for 8 to 9 minute miles and you will have done well. |
