We've done the Great South a few times and now I've done more big scale runs, I think I've learned to appreciate it more. Yes, it's pricey, especially as transferring numbers is a no-go. Yes, logistics need planning and patience. Yes, it's tricky to find your running buddies and supporters. But it's also one of the best organised big runs - and one of the biggest running events in the deep south. And 10 miles is a lovely distance.
Debbie and Sam |
We were in the white wave - middle speed for mortal runners. Spotted Lyndsay & her husband.
Jo Pavey was there to start us off - she won the event in 2012 - but sadly, no opera singer for the first time the 3 of us could remember. Trumpets though. Clare set off on a mission for a PB, Lou & I were going slower. I did toy with the idea of sticking with the 1:40 pacemaker, but we were a little ahead. My favourite bit is in mile 2 where the route goes through the Historic Dockyard, past Warrior and Victory. Lots of music - drumming and a pipe band.
We spotted Claire D and Maria - both looking very good round about mile 4 just before the first water station - unlike previous years, there were 2 water & 1 lucozade points (and very thankful it wasn't gatorade).
We ran past a Chinese restaurant where apparently Peter Sellers was born. Great to see Lyndsay again - quality support - and Louise was chuffed when she heard one of her students cheering her.
Sam, Debbie and Lucy |
I finished in 1:45:35. Ended up walking through the finishers' funnel behind a group of marine commandos, complete with drummers and green berets, which was rather cool. Met up with Lou and Clare - so pleased that both of them had good times and that Clare had a PB. Bit sad that I didn't find any other Sisters - but it was great catching up with everyone subsequently. 19 of us took part - most impressive!
Long walk to the ferry made shorter with a fab conversation about debating (yes, really!) with Lou's eldest.
Having said it would be my last GSR, I'm weakening already.....
Solent Running Sisters Nailed the Great South:
Bernadette: 1:55:27
Claire Deacon 1:28:58
Clare World 1:33:21
Claudia Lucas 1:55:07
Debbie Harvey 1:52:12
Dee Atyeo 1:42:03
Eileen 1:52:02
Emma Hickman 1:41:54
Gin Tidridge 1:45:33
Joanne Thomas 1:42:50
Louise Hillier-Wheal 1:39:54
Lucy 1:52:02
Maria Warwick 1:26:17
Nic Jones 1:33:46
Pauline 1:33:57
Rachel Sturdy 1:30:41
Sam Radford 1:52:04
Sophie Mackenzie 1:37:11
Tanya Marie Carter 1:49:19