What a superb event run in true millionaire’s county. Starting at the Henley rugby club with superb facilities, bars, cafes, food etc and all open from early morning, around 2,500 runners lined up for the 10k and half-each on different routes.
The half took us through the town, over the Thames and onto lanes that followed the river for 3 miles. Then we ran back to Henley on the bank of the river along the Henley Regatta route with the company of loads of rowers, swans, geese, horses and cattle. Fabulous stuff as we ducked and dived through the grounds of the rowing clubs and several baronial manors.
Then back into town and over the grass lawns of another huge estate backing onto the Thames and open just for the runners.
Then at 7 miles the course changed as it was all uphill till past the 9 mile mark-again on the grounds of yet another Lord’s Hall. Traffic free roads and stunning countryside made the hilly 2nd half a really worth while event-again with manors and estates just visible down long private drives.
Finally back to the finish for our medals, key ring and goodie bag and showers (plus the bar was open).
All this for just £30-I entered on the day and it was +£5.
Good grounding for next weeks Abingdon marathon – also down this neck of the woods.
Massey time:
Dave Phillips 2.28.
Race report by Dave Phillips.