Sailsbury 5-4-3-2-1

I have to say it’s frustrating at the best of times not to really know how far you have to go in a long distance event. However some organisers are kind enough to give you a distance marker around the 1 mile or 2km remaining mark. Unfortunately for me this was not one of those events!

Another dreaded map event – not to put anyone off but I am always hesitant coming from so many road races when I get to a long trail event and I get given numerous sheets of A4 paper with maps directions notes emergency numbers – yes you read that correctly Emergency Numbers! However as with all the other trail events this was extremely well sign posted (black arrows on luminous yellow card) with only two potential places that people could get lost, but with the support of regularly runners who have completed this event in previous years I managed to stay on track.

This particular event supports the Fire Service and the great job they do. It is also as with so many of these events very well supported by the St Johns Ambulance service, whose volunteers are a great support at such events and do a great job.

While I had chosen this event for the need to include more trail events I had also hoped given the start location my oldest nephew would love the time spent looking a the fire engine and enjoying the hours while I put myself through some more pain. However the preceding days weather forecast and the weather on the morning meant it was not to be - avoiding him spending the inevitable 3 or 4 hours sat in a car with the rain pouring down. However after an initial few heavy shows on the way to the event and a few light shows during the event it was in fact a pleasant day.

Well ever closer to the 400 mile mark - knees slightly more tender than normal after this event so time for a new pair of trainers!