Lakeland Trail Race and Challenge
Hawkshead 15k 18/04/09
How time flies, we were back one year on to the glorious lake district for the first of the Lakeland Trail Race series. There is a lot to love about these races, obviously the beautiful landscape and the routes are varied with the right amount of up hill and down dale, but also that they are usually on a Saturday which means a slap up proper English pub dinner and lashings of real beer that evening. The Saturday fixture also means we can enjoy a recovery walk the next day before wending our weary way home.We meet our pals Andree and Paul and have a good weekend talking nonsense and comparing running and other adventures, David and Paul reliving their scary experiences hanging off The Dolomites on the Via Ferrata.
We had a lovely sunny day for the race which means hanging around at the start was pleasant and the events afterwards can be enjoyed. The route was dry and mostly sheltered from the sun by woods. The race doesn't start until 1pm so I was getting a little worried about the heat. I love the hill and trail races as the route varies so much the miles fly by, the weather can sometimes throw up extra challenges but that only adds to the experience.
I felt really good for most of the race until the last 2k where I started to feel the lack of mileage training in my legs however my injury didn't reappear and I beat last years time by a few seconds. David felt good too and finally admitted that doing the training works!! The organisation is fantastic and run with a huge enthusiasm which is infectious. The event is meant to be inclusive and as well as the 15k challenge and race there is an adult 5k and several childrens' races. There are many spot prizes donated by sponsors Puma Trailfox and Bridgedale socks, Tshirts and sports drinks.
Check out the website for details of the Lakeland TrailsReport and photos Lynn Hanley
