arriving at the race hq there's ample parking where your guided to your spot by a slightly grumpy marshal.  Registration was easy. There was a board at the entrance to the hall with everyone's name & number, walk in, tell them your number & hey presto, get busy with them safety pins!

With all the runners congregated at the start the race director attempts to give a briefing, but a dodgy megaphone means only he knows what he's saying.The only thing I picked up was we were going to be running an extra half a mile. Thanks for that joyful news!

The race itself is a mixture of trail,field and road. It takes you through some beautiful scenery, stunning estates,vineyards,corn & barley fields. The trails soon sap a lot of your energy,and I felt the road sections ,(which I wasn't expecting so much of) interfered with my already questionable rhythm. As it was dry I wished I wore road shoes apposed to trailies. The aid stations were packed with traeats,with watermelon being the main draw for me. Apparently everyone had the same idea so I wasn't too greedy!

once finished I received a nice medal with a very nice cup. They had a barbecue,cakes & some lovely coffee to refuel with. I'd certainly do this again, though the lure of doing the ultra may one day lead to me starting even earlier...

if you are bored with your usual half marathons & are looking for a challenge, then this could be the race for you. Did I mention you must like hills' possible mud & have a little navigation skills, oh & be able to climb stiles or pass through gates when you are flagging! The stunning countryside, the beauty of running trails, made this tough half marathon an absolute joy. 

I love the bling & for this event I wasn't running for the medal but a beautiful handmade mug, but there was still a nice medal too. After you've crossed the line & are given your goodies, you proceed to the cafe & they fill the cup with lovely 'Taylor's' coffee & point you in direction of the cake, all included in your entry. 

So well organised & the route very well marked considering the complication, that I'm even considering there September event, which is supposed to be harder!