Herefordshire XC League – Race 3: Rotherwas
REDS TURN UP THE HEAT AT FROSTY ROTHERWAS
On a sunny bright morning with thick frost covered ground there was confusion and unease, “Where are the hill’s?”, we heard people say “there’s none..” replied Russ, as the Wednesday night group grinned. Organised fantastically by Hereford Triathlon Club, 3 laps, each 2.2 miles of pan flat hard terrain awaited the race goers, providing a welcoming contrast to Croft.
The race began with a tentative start, heads turning as to see who would take on the initial pace as we lined out into single file along the river bank. It was no surprise to see Tim Davies, swapping duties with Jon Pugh lead a pack, including Eliot and with Charlie just adrift, both full of confidence after setting 5km PB’s in Bristol midweek. Another lap down the pace began to creep up, breaking up the original pack now down to Eliot and Robin (Builth) as they turned along the river bank for the last time. The long straight opened up a gap between the two and Eliot came home 35s clear. Charlie flew home in 6th, relishing the flat fast course and gaining on those in the original lead pack, shortly followed by vest biter Matt in 8th, with Russ completing the team in 12th and first V50 by 70s!
Another strong performance by young Ross Cameron (23rd) just sneaking home under the 42 minute to edge out Richie Richards in 25th. It’s great to see Ross progressing at this stage of the season and grinding out those tough midweek sessions. Mike Link built upon his performance from the last outing and also has rediscovered his racing legs after last Sunday’s Howling Bull race. Brilliant to see Chris Clearly proudly wearing the red vest once more, while the not so light footed Kev ensured the frozen puddles were well and truly crushed, finishing in 78th.
Unfortunately no complete ladies team this time around but top running from Amy battling up the field 11th, while Dad looked on (Come on Pete!). Issie made her league debut and looked to having far too much fun skipping over the icy ground in 48th!
Merry Christmas Reds!
Next league race and County Champs: Monkhall – 8th Jan.
You’re being a bit modest, Eliot. It was a fantastic run to beat former champion fellrunner, Tim Davies and Jonny Pugh who has been running so well. And well done the whole team…..another great victory. We’re clawing our way back to our home on the summit!
Steve