October 2004, 2 Mile Race, High Wycombe

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RACE REPORT BY SHANKARA:

High Wycombe isn't called 'High' for nothing. This was a fact illustrated ~ some would say cruelly ~ to the 50 or so brave runners who competed in our Joy Weekend 2 mile race on Sunday. I had very generously offered to pass up the chance to participate and instead act as photographer, and when I saw the giant hill that featured in said race, I felt a surge of relief that I would not be attempting to pound up and down it.

Picture: Sahadeva crosses the line! Report author Shankara looks every inch a professional photographer (picture right).

That aside it was a perfect race morning: blue skies; beautiful landscape with the leaves and explosion of every hue from red to gold. As I stood looking at the hill which was certainly steep and long, I felt not only pity and admiration for the runners who had to run down it and then crawl back up, but also I felt certain that the times were going to be slow. Surely the majority would end up walking at least some of the way? Well I was proved a lazy cynic! Not only were the times as good as ever but everyone was running and smiling. The winner, Roger Chamberlain, even claimed that it was his perfect race! There were a few good natured curses sent in the direction of the race organiser but everyone felt happy afterwards and certain that they had earned their breakfast!

What the sleepy residents thought of 50 nutters attacking their hill early on a Sunday morning I don't know but it was a great start to a great day.  I only fear what our French visitors will have planned for us when we return the visit in March. They have promised a course to rival this one. Better get training on that big hill in Richmond Park now.

Picture: Dhavala is first lady (again!)