To finally close out the cross country season, I ventured out with fellow BRAC vets to the Masters National Cross Country Championships held in North Wales. Always a competitive spirit among the aged folk, my nerves began to simmer as we crossed Horseshoe Pass and descended to the small town of Ruthin with some large and steep hills as a backdrop. It seemed likely that a severe cross -country course was on the cards. But looks deceived – the course was actually around nicely grassed farm fields, rock hard and with one minor incline – this would be a doddle compared to the battle round Parliament Hill.

The whole event was well organised, I met another BvH runner, Ed Hartley, just before the start and admired the views before donning my spikes and preparing for the fast start. Coincidentally, Ed sported odd spikes (Mo Farah style) – in fact he convinced me that they were all that were available at short notice!

Head down, dodging 70 year old males!, wiggling laps around the field and avoiding stampeding sheep - I started well aiming for a top 3 placing and appeared to be holding my own as my vocal BRAC supporters raced around the course with encouragement. Into the last lap and my legs began to weaken falling into 4th F50 placing as I battled competitively up the last hill but having to succumb to the superior speed of the finishers – I need more track training.

Happy with the result though as an improvement from two years ago, a great event to meet old friends to enjoy cross country and a good end to the season. Richard and Andy returned safely with pleasing performances and we all enjoyed banter and Richard’s biscuits as we ventured back across Horseshoe Pass, through the valleys and back home to Brum. Next year the Masters National XC is in Belfast – different surroundings but promises another good day out!

Margaret K

Pos	Name	Cat	Time
70th	Ed Hartley	M55	35:27

 

Pos	Name	Cat	Time
4th in cat	Margaret Kenchington	F50	25:37

Results here. More pics here