The Hope Rising Cross Country Run, branded as the ‘Tyrrell Trail’ was again held at the beautifully scenic Avon Tyrrell Outdoor Activity Centre. This is an annual winter event held since February 2012
It was a beautiful day, mild and sunny from the start, with very little wind and ideal for a trail run through a beautiful part of the forest
Just over 60 runners arrived and ran a track that was quite muddy in places, but this only added to what is a very challenging track. The runners had the choice between a 5km race and a 10km race which appeals to the more serious runners. 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 course is designed to offer as much of mother nature as possible without too much interference from us, with flat and fast section, demanding climbs, twisty downhills and a little mud and water just to remind the runners where they are running
There were some very good finishing times from the runners with excellent winning times of 23.39 for the 5K, and 48:12 for the men’s 10km and a tremendous time of 47:49 for the ladies 10km
One of the winning runners commented that it was the most exciting track he had run as it made him feel like a kid again, on a forest adventure just not knowing what was ahead and looking forward to every twist and turn with excitement, and a little trepidation!!!!
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
Once again many thanks to Chris Potter, Keith and Liz for their invaluable help. Without your help it would not be the same
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.
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, marshalls, helpers and catering team a very big thank you
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