Nothing about the performance or the time, but two great races that leave you with the biggest smile on your face and the feeling of such generosity and enthusiasm of those who make these events happen. First the Bramhall Foodbank 5 and a bit k on Thursday. A new race, possibly only a one off, but a fund raiser for Stockport Foodbank. It was a fiver entry fee and a can of beans or similar. It had such an amateurish feel about it, but it was so well organised, a new course in Happy Valley around Bramhall.
Trail, a few little hills, a fast road section, prizes, cakes...it had it all on a wonderful Thursday baking in the evening sunshine. Smiles on everyone's faces as they crossed the finish line. I came 6th. There can't be many better ways to spend a mid week. Then Bollington Nostalgia on Sunday. Less than 100 runners around the hills and canals of Pott Shrigley and another roasting hot day. We had the local MP start us off, the Macclesfield Mayor giving out prizes, wonderful ladies on tea and cakes, more marshals than I've ever known, water stations a plenty...and all for £6. Bargain.
Seriously, it can't get better than that. All these people out supporting us so we can chase each other around the fields playing 'catch me' like kids. Yes, we raised a few hundred quid, but this was about community and support. Excellent. 43 miles last week, no parkrun but an early dawn raid down The Carrs on Saturday morning. Not been down there for months. Overgrown paths and essentially dog free at that time. Got a couple more races coming up this week and with no let up with the heat I sense a little fatigue setting in. No complaints, though. Not with cake like this!
