Event 39 of 40

Date:15.10.2016

Run: Milford Mash

Distance: 10K

Time taken: 01:00.33

Memory of Event: Childhood memories on forest trails.

http://www.mashrunning.co.uk

Event Number 39, only one more left to go after this one! I was accompanied today by Mike, who was also undertaking the run, and my Mother, and her partner who had come to watch and support.

This Event was held on Cannock Chase, a part of the country where I was lucky enough to spend many happy years of my childhood years. I spent years living nearby, walking, playing, riding bikes, climbing trees and running in this large expanse of forest. Returning now, not quite with the childhood energy level, but with perhaps a greater appreciation of the beauty of the area, and the joy of running through these forest trails, in the glorious autumn season.

Runners gathered on the Common ready to start the run. The Mash was aptly named, due to the sudden uphill start, which greeted us within seconds of the start, as people started to scramble up the hill. As we got into our running, the hill continued, and continued!! The forest was in its true element with autumnal colours, greeting us, and it was an enjoyable experience running along the forest trails.

There was not many flat bits for this run, it was either up or down. As we descended down, we crossed a small river, as people ploughed through the water, I  more delicately crossed over the stepping  stones!!  That small bit, felt like the only flat section, and it was soon over! As we ascended up and over the final hill, we then were left to finish, on the very same steep slope that we had started up, coming back down was a little more hairy, and with people gathered to watch the finish, I really didn’t want to fall flat on my face in front of everyone!! I managed to keep my feet, and finished to get my medal, the 39th!!

Thanks to Mum and Martyn for the support, and the lift! Thanks to Strava for the route profile: