The Hope Rising ‘Tyrrell Trail’ Cross Country Run, was again held at the beautifully scenic Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Activity Centre. This was the 8th running of the event at this location. We could not have asked for better weather, sunny and mild with very little wind and ideal for a trail run through a beautiful part of the forest Just over 180 runners started and finished a track that was really tough and very muddy in places, challenging but very rewarding. The 5km race consisted of one loop around the Avon Tyrell property while the 10km run consisting of two loops. While this track is demanding it does take the runners through and past some spectacular and breath-taking views. The track was a little short of the advertised length, but this will be rectified for the run next year We try to limit the amount of tape on the course so as to offer as much of mother nature as possible without too much interference from us, with flat and fast sections, demanding climbs, twisty down hills and some mud and water just to remind the runners where they are running
There were some very good finishing times from the runners, despite the mud! We had a lot of very positive comments from the runners, that this one of the most enjoyable and technical courses available, that it was a wonderful event The runners were most complimentary on the track layout, directions and marshalling which allowed them to focus on the very challenging trail run and just enjoy the scenery.
All runners received a medal as a memento and all runners in the top three of each race received a place medal and prizes. Several spot prizes were given out as well
Thank you to the team at Avon Tyrrell who were, as always, extremely helpful and a real pleasure to work with, and of course for accommodating us in the use of the grounds. We will be returning.
A Final thank you to all the Hope Rising team for their invaluable help in making the day the success that it was, to all the officials, marshals, helpers and catering team a very big thank you.
