This was my first ultramarathon so I cannot compare it to other races, so am simply reviewing this as a one-off event.

First of all, huge credit to the organisation team for keeping us updated on the status of the race throughout the preceding months through the COVID-19 pandemic. We received regular emails about whether the race would go ahead, and then on what measures were going to be put in place for our safety. You could tell that they had thought out how best to still hold the race, introducing measures such as staggered starts, a new start line, and readily available hand sanitiser at aid stations.

As for the race itself, I had read multiple previous reviews suggesting the reviewer had got lost once or twice during the race. The organisers provided both .gpx and a Google MyMaps file in the week before the event, allowing you to have a navigation option with you. I had the route on my phone in case, but actually could have had my phone in my bag as at no point did I get a lost, and there were only one or two moments of uncertainty which could be resolved simply by running for another 30 seconds and spotting the next marking. 

The first section of the route is my favourite with approximately 10km along the side of the Thames and then an undulating 5k through some pretty scenery. There is a section alongside the A33 (I think?) in the middle which isn't the most fun, but that's the nature of a circular event and at least you can push on in that part. As for the final 10 miles or so, by that point I was mentally struggling and so less focused on the route, more focused on just making it to the finish. I do remember some nice tree-lined paths, but wasn't in the right frame of mind to enjoy them (sadly).

Aid stations had fairly minimal provisions (water, coke, sultanas, bourbon biscuits and peanuts I believe) but did provide the option to have your own nutrition taken to each checkpoint. The helpers were very kind both at the start/finish and throughout - particular credit to the lady at CP5 who on hearing it was my first ultra but I was beginning to struggle, really did her best to get me a bit of energy and on my way for the final 8k.

The one disappointment for me was that the staggered start meant I actually went around 14 miles in the middle of the race without seeing another runner. I've read so much about the cameraderie between runners in ultramarathons, and obviously seeing your competitors can help motivate you to keep pushing. In hindsight I lost about 20 places and 20 minutes to my end of race slump which I believe would have been different in a normal race scenario. However, this was obviously required to comply with social distancing, and certainly preferrable to having to cancel the race.

Overall I'd definitely reccomend this race, particularly if like me you're looking for a first ultramarathon experience. I am sure I'll be back in a few years to try and better my time and get the full non-COVID event. Thank you very much to the organisers for all your hard work!