I had chosen the Bedford half for my 60th Half Marathon, this Inaugural event had the feel of a large corporate race, but the atmosphere of a local run, supported in the main by club runners across the Home Counties.
A multi terrain, dumbbell shaped course, think Kingsbury Water Park & Arrow Valley with a sprinkle of Henley on Thames. Having a cross country feel in stages, perfect for those who tire of road races, the last mile on grass was particular challenging.
My main objective was to complete the course in time to return to the hotel with enough time to shower and check out, for those who know me, I do not run for PB's, just run to enjoy, with 60HM behind me, you think experiences counts, unfortunately not! Getting ready this morning I discovered I had no socks! Joking on Thursday with Paul about barefoot running, karma was fast approaching. A 6:30am dash scouring Bedford for a pair, finally purchased Tesco's finest, oh dear, let that be a lesson in complacency.
Overall a very enjoyable race, hot, but plenty of shade, not much support for a country park, those who cheered were encouraging, definitely a race for the calendar, thanks to Belinda, I purchased the Bibb clips earlier in the week, oh my what have I missed? A flapping Bibb number has often annoyed me over the years, they are fab, a perfect solution.
Plenty to eat and drink post race in a family picnic type environment, great medal and t-shirt too! Did not glance or take notice of my Garmin, I crossed the line around 1:55, all in all a great first event, well done Bedford.
And the socks? I have a blister the size of New York :-(