Race Date: Sunday 28th April 2019

I ran the Tissington Marathon today. The weather was fine – no rain and not too cold. The start of this race (Nicework are the organisers) starts on the disused railway track outside Ashbourne and heads north. There was quite a good turnout but I didn’t see any other Striders there. It climbs about 700 feet at a steady incline and the views are stunning of course. It is an out and back marathon and the path is shared by cyclists and walkers. Everyone I spoke to was friendly. As usual I ran the first half too fast and paid the consequences with about 8 miles to go when I was forced to take brief stops to ease the muscles. I had thought that it would be easier on the way back, being downhill – but I was knackered.

There were 145 runners. Anyway, I managed a respectable 4.13.04 which, while not a PB, is good considering my level of fitness. The winning time was 2.42.56 by Lee Athersmith of Wharfedale Harriers. The first woman was Danielle Brearton of Wigan Harriers in 3.25.17.  There was a welcome cafe right at the start and a coffee was much needed when I finished. I was walking a bit like John Wayne back to the car. Must remember to tape the nipples next time.

Striders Results: