This is the second time I have completed this race, both times as a pacer. The race is nice and early which is benefical for the running widows that endure their much beloveds heading off racing. I was pleased to hear the organiser stating over the PA system that headphones were no permitted on this race, but as usual there was a huge amount of runners wearing headphones ignoring EA rules and the marshalls and organisers did nothing to enforce the rules.

I was charged with pacing the 1:45 pace group. The race start is staggered which avoids the usual mad rush to get over the line. Immediately upon starting I realised that the ever present toilet queues were an issue as people who were late for the start were dashing across the road infront of the oncoming race crowd.

The race itself was blessed with a beautiful day weather wise. However within 2 miles of the start you are thrust upon the pavement with open roads, not ideal for those chasing a break neck speed PB. This was the conituning theme with the event marshalls figting a neverending battle with the great British public hating having an hour of their lives disrupted by people wishing to get healthy and compete socially!

The path along Hampton Court was lovely but again runners being bustled and barged by cyclists. The water stations were spread out evenly and the course is flat as a pancake!

Overall I love this race but it is just marred by open roads and run haters. I believe the cost of the race is on the expensive side given lack of closed roads.

I was also made aware of some issues with the bag drop, queues and return of extremely muddy bags. The race village is some what lacking.