Winter Woolly 10km

Race report... Very chilly in Woolhampton the morning of the race, so much so that the water pipes in the sports hall toilets froze leaving just four equally frosty portaloos! Ground was not too muddy, but there was ice in places, which caused a few slips, but the worst of the ice was marshalled and avoidable. There was some light sleet, but the heavy rain held off for the race. The route is mainly off-road undulating through some picturesque countryside; definitely not for road shoes! It is a friendly and generally well organised event, with nearby parking and you can see your time as soon as you finish the race.

The event deserves at least 4 stars because of the faultless organisation, marshalling and the facilities at the venue. The route is picturesque and I am sure on a dryer sunny winter's day would be wonderful. However, this year it was extremely muddy due to much rain leading up to the event, and rain on the day. I spent much of the event slipping, sliding and just trying to stay on my feet; wishing I had better trail shoes. In the end I was satisfied with my time, but this was a race for the mudlarks!