Lincoln Lions 1

The Lincoln Lions 1/3 Marathon is run from the North Kestevan Leisure Centre , North Hykeham, Lincoln. Since being a RAF child I moved around a lot and the start was just 1/4 mile away from a school I used to go to (1964). Of course the school dinners are not in wooden bowls any more and you can get second helpings these days.

Lincoln is built on a junction of several Roman Roads and has a natural feature of a large hill. In fact a ridge runs north / south through that part of Lincolnshire. Well the run soon picked up on this and after 2.5 miles we started to climb (Waddington Hill) I can't think of anything comparable in Suffolk. The first water stop was at the top being 4 miles (yes the climb is approx 1.25 miles). We then had a 1 mile down hill stretch which had its own set of problems. The run then was flat a large portion through housing estates with the usual gravel and curbs to cope with. Finally the last 600 meters was round the sports field.

This produced a comical moment, just as we entered the field at the back of a building a small group of people were clapping and cheering. At this point a keen male runner sprinted past me, I was just thinking how impressed I was going to be with his 600 meters sprint finish, but then he realised his mistake and slowed to a jog. I eased past him and didn't see him again.

I arrived at the finish line to find no water left and a cheerful gentleman handing out a goody bag. I was a little tired and didn't examine the contents but thought the bag seemed a little light. In the changing rooms I opened the bag to find three items: An entry form for the Sleaford 1/2 marathon, a Mencap leaflet for London sponsorship and a small plastic, Lions 1/3 marathon, badge. I expected to find a hole also but there wasn't one ! (well it was for charity) Just like Waddington Hill I can't think of anything comparable in Suffolk !!!