This is probably the best location that I have been privileged to run in. Every part of the course was very scenic from the stone houses, to the many panoramic views of unspoiled British countryside.
The race was run over 3 laps or if you are an endurance specialist (also known as) Ultra runners they completed a 4th lap making the race either 26.2 or 35.2 miles long. I had the pleasure of running with a group of Ultra runners during lap 2 and they then left me behind as they pushed on for lap 3 and 4. They were great company and I wish them well in the Comrads event in South Africa later this year.
Others that I should mention are Pam Storey who was completing her 132nd marathon/ultra event. Pam is also trying to do important things for charity and I would urge everyone to take a look and spread the word and support – http://pamstorey.co.uk/ www.advanceinternational.org
I was hoping that my time would be quicker than Cambridge as this was a road race rather than a combination of roads/cross country but by the end of the 2nd lap I was just happy to finish the course. Gloucester has provided 2 very hilly courses and I did not get on with either too well. I am not sure if I struggle with the lap element due to causing my own worries about running up that scary hill again but I am definitely going to return.
My split time for 13 miles was 2 hours 4 minutes which should have left plenty of energy in reserve but it just did not happen on that 3rd lap and I finished in 4 hours 32 minutes, my slowest Marathon of 2010.
The next stop is Blackpool on the 11th April so there is a good recovery period for me. Blackpool is also described as a fast flat course so there are possible PB opportunities and could even get under 4 hours.
