24th March 2002

The information sheet received with my running number told me that this wasn't going to be the most enjoyable of races.  The course is a dull 4 laps of a 5 mile urban route, some of which was along the south coast sea front.  For most of the race the runners are encouraged to run along the uneven concrete pavements, weaving in between gardens overgrown shrubs and street lamp posts. 

The good point was that this was a well spectated race compared to rural Suffolk with good marshalling and water stops.  I can also claim my best suntan of the year from this race!

The field of runners exceeding 800 runners represented all abilities and there were many out on the course with still a lap to go when I left for home.  The lead runner passed me at about 1:40 mark finishing in a time well under 2 hours.

Katy, my ever keen supporter, must have run over 5 miles herself between points on the circular course in an effort to keep me topped up with Lucozade and moral encouragement.  Thanks to Katy and to the lady from Chichester Running Club with whom I ran the last 10 miles with.

Rich

The Stowmarket Striders results are:-

There were lots of finishers.