Much as I have enjoyed the razzmatazz of the big road running events, pounding the tarmac was beginning to make me feel a little jaded last year.
So I looked around for something a little bit different.
I found it in the Bath Skyline 10K, a series of cross-country races organised by Relish Running.
Last Sunday, along with 155 other people (and 2 dogs), I took part in the third race of a series of four.
One of the things I really like about this event is the friendly almost family atmosphere amongst the runners and spectators.
Yes, there are some serious athletes running to win, but although it’s a very small field compared to the bigger, higher profile events I’ve run in there are still all sorts of people taking part (so I wasn’t the only one walking up the steeper hills!)
The course is a “proper” cross-country course – squelchy, slippery, pull-your-trainers-off mud – through the woods, over stiles and up some challenging hills. Each race the course has been a little bit different from the last one but always well marked with well placed marshals who are friendly and encouraging.
“You’re doing great Hilary”
So nice to hear when you’re facing a big hill climb for the second time!
There was lots of support at the finish, a goody bag and (well worth the effort to finish) a huge plate of jelly beans to tuck into – the calories don’t count when you’ve just run 10k!
All together great fun and very exhilarating!