Unknown

28 November, 2009

The result of most hill runs are predictable. A precession of seeded runners following each other in almost unchanging order.

Race one of the 50k challenge was not like this, so OK Paul Nolan won the race, but nothing else about the race was predictable with the running order changing continually throughout the race.
Evan Paul was beaten over the first climb by two M50s and an M40 by climbing 60m that was not necessary. Local knowledge shouted the pack who did the same, but no, we were all over that ground last Wednesday.

The 50k challenge is part one of a three-part race where the total distance is 50km and the lowest accumulated time in all three races wins. These races are for navigators, but the navigation is not difficult however route choice is vital. Andrew Allers had a brilliant start with a route choice that covered the early stages not only in a shorter distance but with much less climb and was well on his way to the first compulsory point, War Hill before being overhauled by Paul. He was to hold on to his second position until Laggala where he may have been affect by marshalls who were concerned by his proximity to the cliffs and descended to the very rough ground of the Cloghoge Valley and a place in the middle orders.

Most discussion pre races and post race concerned where to cross the Cloghoge River. Most knew a direct line from War Hill to Luggala was not on but how far up (West) the road to go before crossing was the question. The conservative went as far as the second bridge loosing less height and hoping for easier ground to the ridge where most knew there was a track. Those who took the most direct route lost time and energy crossing very rough ground while whether due to expert map reading or plain luck does who took the compromise position did best.

Everyone seemed to enjoy the very fast run off Luggala but that was soon forgotten by the slog up to the Sally Gap Road. The jury is still out as to whether the final route choice of leaving the tarmac at the end of this gruelling run for the shorter gully option was worth it.

One shudders at what race 2 and 3 will be like with distances and climbs getting progressively longer. With the spread of times small and the possibility of disaster great anyone could still win. However one thing is clear Zoe Melling can’t be beaten in the ladies race.