The build-up to this event was over shadowed by the approaching Storm Darragh. With rare RED weather warnings (and the early cancellation of The Bolsover 10k), I had an expectation that this event would also be cancelled. An e-mail (despite gale force winds in the BBC forecast) on Saturday evening confirmed that the event (at that point in time) was on.

As with other recent events, the morning drive to the venue was through strong winds and driving rain. It certainly wasn’t enticing. The 10.30am start was however a real bonus for a more leisurely Sunday morning start.

Parking, near the start/finish point was easy to find. The warm indoor venue (perfect to get out of foul weather) was packed with runners sheltering from the elements. Number collection was also straight forward and loos (with a small queue) were at the building’s back.

Chip timing meant that the start wasn’t too congested. And after a quick briefing, off we went into the driving rain and gusts. Thankfully the rain wasn’t too heavy so we didn’t get soaked through – just cold and very “damp”. Puddles and run-off did however quickly flood the shoes.

The undulating route is run on mostly quiet country roads, most of which were open to single file traffic. A number of marshals had “STOP” lollipop signs to manage traffic (mostly through the villages and at key junctions. A number of RUNNERS ON ROAD warning signs were also located around the course.

The most significant ascent on the course is just over 4k in. A marshal near here suggested that the rest was easy. Easier, maybe. There were still about 10 more climbs en-route. Total Strava elevation gain for the race was about 204m (vs Clowne Half at approx. 198m – for comparison).

Support through the villages was appreciated. There were however long rural country lanes were no one was out braving the weather (or giving the us a much needed encouraging cheer).

As it was cold, windy and damp, today’s strategy was to pass the water stations, without breaking rhythm. It worked. The headwind in places was however “amazing” and must have affected overall running times.

Thankfully the finish line was next to the INDOOR race H.Q., so a after a quick water stop, I moved inside for a tasty (and welcome) hot soup and sausage roll.

It looks like only 2 Striders headed this far south on the day. After the 12.30pm prize giving (and attempts) to warm up it was time for dry clothes and a full blast of the in car heater on the journey home.

Thanks go to all the organisers, volunteers and marshals who braved these conditions. It probably can’t get much worse (can it), so on a more pleasant day this would be a very nice race through open country side with a number of potentially pleasant views.

This is a long established and popular December run, with many runners returning each year.

Keyworth is a village nestled in the countryside of the South Nottinghamshire Wolds, eight miles to the south east of Nottingham. It is just off the A606 Nottingham to Melton Mowbray road and just off the A60 Nottingham to Loughborough Road. Many residents commute to Nottingham to shop and work.

The route is well marked. Marshals manage traffic (at key sections) and protect, guide and encourage the runners. Mile boards helped

Radio cover around the route is provided by RAYNET enabling spectators at the start/finish line to be continuously informed about the progress of the runners, and providing reliable communication around the route.

Originally, turkeys (ready to cook I believe) were awarded to the winners of the various categories.  However, with diverse dietary requirements, food vouchers and glass trophies are now offered.

£50 cash prizes are awarded for any new course records.

Facilities at the race include St John’s Ambulance offering first aid at the start/finish and roving first aid on the route.

Three drinks stations are available on the route. The 4th is at the finish.

Toilets, hot showers, refreshments, secure changing area & kit storage, trade stands including running equipment. Race T-shirts bearing the names of runners

Free pre and post race massage is also available.

Runners’ supporters who can relax indoors and enjoy some entertainment, while they await the return of the runners. Not sure what that was though. Sports shoe shopping. Maybe

Minimum age for entry is 18 years, on the date of the race. There are no on-day entries. There is also a 2 1/2 hour time limit. Minimum pace 12 minutes per mile.