Garth Race 2002 Results

A few forced changes to this fine circuit meant that there was always going to be a course record set for what is now 3¼ miles and 1050 feet of climb (915 of which come in the first ¾ of a mile).  Tom Gibbs was always in front, the tricky ascents and the positively lunatic descents suiting his lobotomised running style.  His girlfriend, Astrid Wheatcroft , likewise dominated the ladies event (despite her relative sanity).  Chris Taylor had no close challenger for the vets prize, nor did Steve Littlewood (who must have a picture of an old man in his attic) for the over 50’s.  Sharon Woods (1^st lady vet) might have pushed Astrid harder but for an attack of stitch on the surprisingly difficult run in.   Cledwyn Jones was always going to take the over 60’s, despite saving himself (so he says) for a cross country on Sunday.  He was probably lucky to keep in front of Lynne Handley who finished strongly as first lady of a certain age.   Final honourable mention to John Battersby, first man to carry his pension book and heating allowance over the finishing line.  He may want to enjoy his triumph, for Cledwyn will be 65 on Boxing Day.

I had thought that this might be the last running of this race because of the difficulties of erosion, undergrowth (overgrowth?) and fallen trees.  (Anyone who does not believe in global warming should see the effort that now goes into scything bracken and trimming brambles this late in the year!).  However, every runner not only seemed to enjoy him or herself, but also actually preferred the new routes.  It may therefore be that the worlds only fell race on a true mountain with a course entirely within a capital city may well be run again next Christmas.  Thanks to the good people of Gwaelod-y-Garth for lending us their facilities (sorry we made it difficult for regulars to watch the rugby in the pub afterwards).  Particular thanks to K, Jess, Fred and Angie for marshalling, and to Shirley for a superb system of registration which made it easy to distribute the prizes within 5 minutes of the last runner coming in.