Report Sean Hornby

It was another very warm evening, and another run out with the ‘IGUN’ people. The race was originally meant to be in Marsden but there was an issue with route access, so the course was then moved to Meltham Moor but then due to local moorland fire it was moved to Slaithwaite. This was another canal tow path route but for some reason or other it just felt much more enjoyable a route compared to the usual Kirkstall area towpaths, it might be just because it was an unfamiliar area, but it’s a really lovely part of the county. These events are generally fairly easy-going relaxed affairs, a lot of people simply turn up on the evening and sign up to compete in either the 5k or the 10k.
My friend, Mark Taylor who I’ve known for over 20 years came along (he’s also relatively new to running and he now lives over in Prestwich and runs for Radcliffe AC) for the 10k and our friend Andy Donnelly came long for the 5k. The route out for both 5 & 10 was ‘downhill’, there were quite a few locks to negotiate as well as tight tunnels and a road to cross. The shade of the trees was most welcomed, but I regretted not bringing my sunglasses along with me as the return leg was a tad bright. Also, the route back resulted in climbing those locks (not the actual lock of course, the path!)
The reward for completing the race was as follows….. a very nice medal, a hotdog (two if you wanted), beer/cider, chocolate, sweets, fruit and lots of soft drinks. All agreed it was a grand evening out and I’d be more than happy to take part in these events again. Both Mark and I were happy with our results as we thought the temperature would shave off quite a bit of time, but this wasn’t the case. Andy also did a proper smashing job too in the 5k!
Results: https://www.itsgrimupnorthrunning.co.uk/results/registration-category/34792/11707