An early season event at the end of February that I’d planned to use as a taster for HMs and 70.3s later in the year. The HM course consists of six laps of the race track. It’s slightly repetitive but at least you get used to the course and can pace yourself well. 

The event was very well organised - registration was simple (on the day) and there was ample car parking close to the start and finish line. That said, the weather was cold which led to many DNSs on the day. 

We assembled at the start line around 15 mins  before the 12:30 start and there was a short briefing. 

There was a water station each lap (just after the start line) and the kids who manned it ensured everyone could get water. On a HM, gels would have been appreciated but I knew that these weren’t provided so brought my own as did many others. 

There were numerous pacers who were all friendly and kept runners in high spirits. 

Finishers received a t-shirt and medal, along with a couple of protein sachets. There was also bananas and jelly babies at the end. Value for money was good overall (although I had obtained a discount). 

The event was fairly well supported for a cold February day but it is a large circuit so don’t expect to see many supporters along the route. The course itself is located in fairly picturesque countryside which makes for a pleasant event. 

In terms of feedback points, it would have been helpful to have placed litter bins (for used gels) on the course - I didn’t see any so was reluctantly forced to discard these on the floor.