I probably should have researched the route more thoroughly before the day, but it was a - pleasant - surprise to be heading off into woods and fields during the first half of the course.  The scenery is equally beautiful across the fields and along the riverside.

The hilliness of the undulating first half was thankfully offset by slowing the pace every now and again to navigate stiles and gates, and we received encouragement from a herd of friendly cows  :-)

The warmup and wave release was fun and well organised, and the communication from the event organisers was very well coordinated throughout the buildup.  I would suggest a marshal or two be stationed across the fields, as there was one point where I was convinced I was lost or had got the route wrong.  (I *think* I had gone the right way after all, looking at my Strava record!)

The medal and t-shirt are good quality and participants were very well looked after with food and beverages available - the BBQ (available by pre-order) was delicious.

I look forward to booking this event again.