Green Belt Relay 2010
| Photographs © Stephanie Burchill, Caroline Schurmann |
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Captain's Report from Martin Morley: 2010 and as a club we had decided we needed to start our organisation much earlier as we had struggled and failed to put out full DR members only teams over the last couple of years. This is not good for a club of our size. A committee of Caroline Schurmann, Mike Mann, Andy Murray and Martin Morley set to work just before Christmas last year. Caroline and Mike were down to recruit and inform while Andy was helping Martin on logistics. We soon had 33 names, which included some that were injured but hoped to be ok by the time of the relay. With so many names it meant that we had to pick two teams of eleven runners made up of new runners through to experienced runners which meant we had to disappoint a lot of people, but better that than not have a team to start with. We had decided that the names allowed us a mixed team and a mixed vets team. As we progressed we had our list of reserved runners and as we predicted the expected injuries started to occur. By the time of the relay weekend we had lost six people through injury and had run out of people to call on especially in the last week of losing two people. We did just manage to get 2 full teams out by the skin of our teeth. The weekend had its usual hiccups, laughs, fun, challenging weather and runs, but everyone involved just calmly dealt with everything and we had some great individual runs with leg wins and one new leg record! Read the reports and see how everyone thoroughly enjoyed the weekend and want to run again next year. Well done and thank you to everyone who helped and participated. Martin. |
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Stage 1: Hampton Court Palace to Staines Distance: 12.7 Miles Grade 6 Runner: Claire Tinker (Mixed Vets) 1:38:11 23rd Claire writes: I ran this stage in 2007 so didn't have to spend days trying to work out the route, printing maps and generally stressing about getting lost. I had enlisted my heavily pregnant sister to do the driving and look after my daughter (now 2 - which I admit, was a little unfair) and so the three of us made it to a warm and sunny Hampton Court Palace. The palace makes a glorious back drop to the start before we run straight out into heavy traffic on the bridge. In 2007 we were set off at a gentle jog as the Marshalls took us over the bridge to the tow path but not this year, oh no, they shot off at great speed which I felt obliged to follow as they had stopped the traffic on the bridge, this was a little disconcerting for my planned ''let's start at nine minute miling and see how we go'' race tactic. We soon settled on to the Thames tow path to Staines which we left for a short diversion on to the road at about halfway. We were warned about people carrying boats across the path, and indeed they were, in fact there was a full blown rowing regatta type thing going on, with beer and BBQ which was very hard to run past. A little early for beer I admit, but with no small child in tow you tend to take these opportunities if they arise.. Anyway, I digress, the tow path is largely gravel and not too hard going but the section on tarmac was a relief for my tired legs, and of course the beauty of running by the river is that it is completely flat Although I thought I was fading I actually started to pass other runners from half way and made up about 8 places, and whilst my first couple of miles were 8 minute pace I ended with a 7.15 and a very disgruntled man behind me complaining that he couldn't possibly keep up that pace. (They don't like being overtaken, do they?) It was worth the pain, I finished 5 minutes up on my previous time, so very happy. Runner: Marlene Russell (Mixed) 1:53:46 37th  Marlene
writes: After a 4 1/2 hours sleep I got up at 6.30 to start my 1st ever Green
Belt Relay. I was feeling quite nervous since I didn’t think I’d put in enough
training for the event…however I wanted to do my best. I started the race
feeling good and with Claire within my sight for the 1st mile or so I was going
pretty ok. But the heat quickly got to me and my pace slowed and I thought I
really shouldn’t have worn that extra top under my Dulwich T-shirt! I managed to
keep on going none-the-less and at the 1/2 way mark was quite relieved that I’d
made it so far…just another 6.3 miles to go. I was told it’s a rather scenic leg
and I did notice a bit along the way but I was more concentrating on getting
through the race. Which was why when a runner passed me saying …”Just after that
Bridge we’ll have only 4 miles to go”…I thought right no one else will be
passing me because I will not settle for last place! So thank goodness that I
was 3rd from the last in the end.Back to top |
    Stage 2: Staines to Boveney Distance: 10.15 Miles Grade 6 Runner: Teresa Gaillard de Laubenque (Mixed Vets) 1:06:03 8th overall and 1st woman Teresa writes: A wicked trail route along da river… we left at 9.44 after the briefing- up and over the bridge and off along da towpath; maps in hand. The scenery was stunning and after a few miles, the route climbed up a hill past the JFK memorial… at which point I was convinced we were to make a right turn.. fortunately the 2 guys I was running with told me it was straight up (maybe it was wishful thinking on my part – the old “aversion to hills”). At the top of the hill we went off along some country roads along the crest of a hill. It was well marshalled, and although I couldn’t see the runners in front –we were quite spread out – I had one guy running alongside (fortunately, he was a better navigator! Phew). At the country park, Windsor castle and a beautiful view stretched out ahead; it was getting hot at this point, with little shade… but seeing the landmark ahead, we continued along. “The long walk” through the park leading up to the castle is a long stretch (cant get lost-phew!).. however, the Ranelagh Harrier running alongside remarked “is that castle getting any closer?!” –it didn’t seem to be. Arriving there and the section through Windsor where, Dulwich were marshalling – yeah! Thanks for the support! – we then headed along the river towpath for the final section… The Ranelagh chap started to take more of a lead (or maybe my pace dropped back in the heat) – and I finished in 66.03, the female stage winner. Was pleased with the goody bag there too – nice touch! Olga’s boyfriend, Ed, who’d driven us there was waiting at the finish scoffing a bacon butty. John T was also there taking piccies. My work colleague from West 4, Ali (not Ali G!) – finished a couple of minutes behind – despite “not having run for a couple of months!” – he would usually be faster if he was on form. Apparently only 2 runners went significantly off route on this leg- including the nun! Olga arrived too, with leg niggles – so she and Ed went for a walk over to Dorney lake where she decided to do some shopping at the triathlon taking place there. All in all a great introductory leg for a fabulous race! Runner: Olga Gillane (Mixed) 1:24:54 29th Olga writes: Another sunny Green belt and fortunately for both Teresa and me early runs were on the cards This is a great run, nearly all off road and only a few slight inclines early on!! The long walk with Windsor castle in the distance was spectacular before entering a very busy Windsor town and after Eton Bridge you soon get off road again! This leg had plenty of marshals to keep you on track but it was a fairly easy and straight forward 10 miles. Troubled by my calf’s after mile 7, with toe curling cramps at the end… humm!! Luckily bit of a tri event going on by lake at end of leg near Boveney Church and ended up purchasing some compression socks which were a blessing and got me through the next day.  Back to top |
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Stage 3: Boveney to Little Marlow Distance: 11 Miles Grade 5 Runner: Catherine Lee (Mixed) 1:20:37 14th Catherine writes: A combination of a beautiful riverside setting, a couple of quaint villages and very little map-reading required (the majority of the route is along the Thames Path) made this a really enjoyable start to the Green Belt Relay weekend. Setting out from Boveney (a stone’s throw from Eton College and Dorney Lake where a series of sprint triathlons were in full swing) the first three or four miles charted along peaceful trails to Maidenhead, before the course double-backed on itself briefly as we crossed the river to resume our journey west. After a somewhat conservative start, I soon settled into my stride and began to overtake those in front of me – all the while careful to keep some energy in reserve for a harder outing the following day. Negotiating our way through Cookham (much to the bafflement of those driving cars through the village centre) required the help of several well-positioned marshals, but after skirting several pubs and a graveyard, we soon emerged back by the water for a wide, open stretch along the south bank. A mile or so later, a narrow iron footbridge led us across the river to Bourne End Marina, over a level crossing and through fields and woodland to the finish. Panic took hold for just a couple of moments as I lost sight of the sawdust trail in this final stretch but thankfully, heading towards the distant cheers of the crowd gathered in Little Marlow to welcome runners home also worked a treat. Runner: Joe Brady (Mixed Vets 1:22:02 16th Joe writes: Starts near the Dorney lake boathouse (site of the Dorney 10K) which gives you access to portaloos , as a bike race was also taking place that day. Course is flat- flat -flat on towpath along Thames for the first half of the race. You cross a footbridge at about 4.5 miles but otherwise, its not really possible to get lost. In the last 3 miles, you have to contend with running through a church graveyard & some stiles. At 11.5 miles, it’s mostly along a gravelly path. Losing your way is not really likely. So long as you survive groups of ramblers and random dogs . Also good that you get quite a bit of tree shelter from the morning sun. I finished in 1 hr 22 mins. Better than expected. Back to top |
 Stage 4: Little Marlow to Great KingshillDistance: 12.2 Miles Grade 10 Runner: Charles Lound (Mixed Vets) 1:26:35 7th Charlie writes: This was tough: hilly and hot. Knowing in advance that it was tough, I set off fairly cautiously. After a couple of miles I settled in around sixth place and could see Jim from Beckenham (Tuesday night track regular) a little ahead. I gradually reeled him in and we remained together for most of the remainder, with me tending to lead up the hills and getting caught on the descents. There are some beautiful trails through bluebell woods in the Chilterns, but those were rather lost on me as the stage got tougher and I started to run out of steam and feel the calf niggle left over from the marathon. By nine miles, I was longing for the end so the last long climb was one too many for me and I lost around forty seconds on my running partner having been reduced to a jog. Unfortunately, when we closed in on the finish I had my head down and missed the last turn. Trying to recover, I stupidly tried a cul-de-sac, went back up the course a little and on again, eventually using my Garmin to steer towards the finish albeit arriving the wrong way round! I'd lost around three minutes, one place and the first vets position, so I was pretty fed up. To be fair, the GBR is a test of both running and being able to stay on route, especially when tired. A tough stage like this also needs better training in the build up. Runner: Ed Smyth (Mixed) 1:42:25 19th Ed writes: Having spent a large chunk of this year with an Achilles injury, which had prevented me from doing the London Marathon and stopped me from doing any long runs, I was quite apprehensive about my leg, as it was described as a hilly 12.2 miles. The map, which stretched across two pages, also had an alarming number of 'High Risks' designated on it, including horses, cattle grids, and concrete blocks in the path. With this in mind, and given the scorching midday sun, I took the first half steadily, but still found the second half a gruelling slog. Much of the leg was off-road, through woods and fields, and everybody was so spread out that I didn't catch sight of a single person ahead or behind me during the second half. On the way up, I heard a string of scary stories about people losing their way and missing their transport, etc, so I guess I should be thankful at least that none of that happened to me!  Back to top |
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Stage 5: Great Kingshill to Chipperfield Distance: 13.5 Miles Grade 10 Runner: Jose Barretta (Mixed) 1:35:01 10th Jose writes: Having been finally convinced by the sweet talking Caroline to do this, and knock a Christening on the head, I found that I had been given grade 10, and grade 6 legs. Oh well. We were “blessed” with fab weather again. I’d rather it be sunny than windy and cold / wet. Getting lost in the latter conditions would just make it a miserable experience. This leg wasn’t as tough I thought as the leg before it, which I did last year. The climbs were spaced out, and in general, not too steep, and fairly short. It was on the whole an easy leg to follow. I was glad I was with someone who had done it last year early on, as at one point, it would have been easy to go wrong if you hadn’t seen the direction others in front had taken. I found myself puffing like a train next to Mark Clayton who wasn’t even breathing, as he was anxious not to go wrong. He eventually got dropped by me and one other at about 10 miles, as his calf’s were tightening up by the look of it. Inevitably, I, and another guy went off course in the last mile or so. We missed some saw dust I guess. Knowing this would happen, I had two watches running. My Iron Man watch was the “point to point” time, and my Forerunner, was the time moving in the right direction – not including stopping with head scratching, and asking for directions. I added 3 mins to my time, about ¼ mile to the leg getting lost which wasn’t so bad. It was about 7 mins last year on the Little Marlow leg. Runner: Andy Murray (Mixed Vets) 1:42:39 20th Andy writes: There was a decent breeze at the start at Great Kingshill but we soon lost this and the sun became more of a problem. I started sensibly, with Jose several places ahead but decided to overtake a few on the first off-road section downhill , which had a good view of fields and woods but little shade. By the second off-road section I was suffering a bit from the heat and reduced to steady jogging as we passed a cricket pitch and out on to the road into Amersham. I walked a bit towards the top of the hill above the churchyard but then recovered a bit as we went through shady alleyways and eventually some woods with bluebells still out. A sharp downhill and right turn took us to Joseph and Catherine's marshalling point before the second hill, where I kept running and saw a Straggler (who had been giving me directions earlier) coming in from off course. The next bit was an un-shaded road between hills before we had to climb the right hand one up to Flaunden ( more walking here, overtaken by a DPR and another but I eventually caught them on the next downhill, where JT popped out with his camera). A cool wooded bit eventually led down to the bottom of the hill up to Chipperfield. I started walking but surprised myself and the DPR in front by getting running reasonably strongly through to the finish by the cricket green. Back to top |
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Stage 6: Chipperfield to St Albans Distance: 8.4 Miles Grade 3  Runner: Caroline Schurmann (Mixed) 1:21:32 28th Caroline writes: On the whole, a very scenic leg which I would recommend. It offers a great contrast between open fields and enclosed dark trail paths, at times a bit hard to manage, especially that long narrow path in the first half of the leg that gets you running under a fresh camouflage of trees and scrubs, and unfortunately also nettles which spiced up the run a little bit! And mind your feet so you don’t trip over some uncovered roots and fallen twigs! Much fun though. The cool there felt very much welcome also in what was another pretty hot GBR. Very little road section, if only to cross between two patches of green fields. One big tricky point though to be well noted and that sent a little group of runners off course is around mile 3. After having gone down a quite steep path, you arrive on a small but long lane and are presented with a choice of left and down, or right and up. Hopefully at that stage, you will have spotted the red letter box on the left at the bottom of that path you are about to leave onto that long lane, matched it with the risk marked at mile 3 and understood to go right from where the letter box is, ignoring the confusing instructions of the map that tell you that “Path comes out onto lane. Go left down lane then right at bottom (by red letter box) onto Hart Hall Lane (not signed)”. We did not quite read it right and as a result went down left only to have to run it up again where the letter box was finally spotted 5 minutes later. Another more minor difficult point is close to the end of the leg where at an unsigned Y junction, you ought to go up the path on top of which marshals should be waiting (but unfortunately a bit out of sight from down below) and not take the equally broad, but much flatter and thus appealing, path on the left. Runner: Jo Shelton (Mixed Vets) 1:25:08 30th Back to top |
 Stage 7: St Albans to Letty GreenDistance: 12.2 Miles Grade 7 Runner: Steve Williams (Mixed) 1:19:27 6th Runner: Tiarnan O'Clerigh (Mixed Vets) 1:29:16 18th Back to top |
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Stage 8: Letty Green to Dobbs Weir Distance: 10.6 Miles Grade 4 Runner: Andrea Pickup (Mixed) 1:11:31 9th Runner: Martin Morley (Mixed Vets) 1:24:16 17th Martin writes: Excuse first, I had an injury and on Friday not sure I could run day 1 yet alone day 2, still here I was on the GBR start line with 38 other mugs (sorry runners) This was clearly the hottest part of the hottest May day and I am supposed to race 10.65 miles, ha. Off we go and Andrea storms off and I decide to race at my pace and so I am in the second group of runners but there did seem to be a lot in the lead group. This is a nice flat and scenic leg and after 2 miles I can still feel some pain but I seem to be running OK. By 5 miles almost forgotten the pain and we come to a castle where the group I am leading get lost. We are told to go round the castle wall and this we do only to be confronted with the path splitting 3 ways with no saw dust or markers. After discussion we take the middle and this is the right choice. I start to pull away from the group and then Andy Clarke from Thrift Green Trotters catches me up. He had also got lost but went a bit further off route. I decide to try and keep with him and we work together for a couple of miles. Andy then slowed and the extra effort of catching us up takes it toll. I am now running on my own and feeling stronger than expected so I start enjoying running along the river and am speeding up ever so slowly and was able to complete the run in good heart. Pleased with run, and more confident about running tomorrow. Back to top |
 Stage 9: Dobbs Weir to High BeachDistance: 10.5 Miles Grade 7 Runner: Nick Brown (Mixed Vets) 1:08:40 6th Nick writes: Waiting on the start line by the canal towpath with temperatures soaring well into the 80s, I began to wonder what on earth I was doing in the Essex “chavs ville” Riviera when I could have been relaxing on a quiet beach near Rye with not a care in the world! After all I am not a natural long distance runner, and loathe running in hot conditions! Anyway the first 7 miles were relatively straightforward and, for Essex reasonably scenic!, as we ran alongside the River Lea navigation canal, pausing from time to time to swerve round bemused walkers and avoiding the odd cyclist. I was running alongside a Ranelagh AC runner for most of this time, and was finding it hard to decide whether he was my age group (M50) or possibly younger………not quite sure how you pose this question diplomatically! I was expecting to see my partner Helen at Waltham Lock, the halfway point, but no sign of her and then had to stop for water at Enfield Lock (7 miles into the stage) at which point the Ranelagh runner pulled well clear. At 8 miles we hit the dreaded climb, which got progressively steeper on the 1.50 mile ascent…..I have to confess that I walked for 50 yards at the top to give my hamstrings some much needed respite as they felt as if they had been tuned by Stradivarius! At that point Helen passed me in the car, leaning out the window to shout some much needed encouragement …”your directions at Waltham Abbey were pants! I couldn’t see anything of the race!” Pausing briefly to take some more swigs from the portable oxygen cylinder I replied that I had suggested she parked at the Abbey and then made her way down to the towpath. Totally unimpressed she then countered with “you don’t seem to have much spring left in your step!”, to which I replied that this had disappeared 20 mins into the run! Suitably chastised I picked up momentum as the hill levelled off, and enjoyed the final section finishing off across the green at High Beach. Finishing 6th I later discovered that I had broken the M50 course by over 2 mins 30 secs. We caught up with Mike Mann just before his stage started, and then had a drink with Marcus at the aptly named Last Post in Chingford, surrounded by the ubiquitous chavs!, where we dissected the race and England’s inevitable semi-final defeat on penalties in the World Cup! Runner: Marcus Dos Santos (Mixed) 1:16:48 17th Marcus writes: "Finally the Big day! I was looking forward to run the GBR. As agreed I met the minibus with some of our team mates in St. Albans. On the way I could meet Steve and Emma in the train from St. Pancras to St. Albans. Then the minibus dropped me off at Dobbs Weir, where I would start my race. It is a lovely area with an apparently nice pub (tempting for a pint........). I asked our team to do this leg because I sometimes run part of it as my weekly long run, more exactly between Waltham Abbey and Enfield Lock. I could also be there 2 days earlier to see how hard the hilly section on the last couple of miles would be. So I could show some pictures of the course saved in my mobile to Nick Brown, my fellow DR runner for this leg. So, the race started and immediately Nick jumped into the leaders' group. I carefully paced myself according to the warm day. The gravel/sand surface of the riverside path was not so helpful, making our effort harder. The scenery on the riverside is great, some pubs, pedal boats for hire and great country views making the race really enjoyable despite the burning sun. Marshals and water by the end of the first mile, the first 7 miles were and easy ride by the river. I could overtake some runners already suffering the effects of the warm day. I arrived at Enfield lock within a "PB" pace for the distance but the hardest was about to come: the Hill. Crossing the London loop was ok, the supportive marshals were well placed by the first bridge (the one not to be crossed). In that part of the race, when we crossed a common, I could see a couple of rabbits crossing our way. Then the road section and the hill started. I could now feel myself tired and could also feel blisters on my both feet. I had to slow down, but I could still run, while I saw another runner walking up there, finally I saw the finish line by the big oak in High Beech. Mission 1 complete! I met Nick and his family. the nice pub there was unfortunately closed for a private function. So Nick gave me a ride to Loughton and we stopped for a recovery drink: a pint of beer! Then Nick left me at the station for my way home... to rest for Day 2!" Back to top |
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Stage 10: High Beach to Toot Hill Distance: 9.75 Miles Grade 8  Runner: Mike Mann (Mixed Vets) 1:07:20 12thMike writes: Having done this stage last year, navigation was not a problem for me, and with some last minute sawdusting most runners managed to find their way on this rather tricky route. However the stage winner, who has the most difficult task, went adrift briefly, which cost him the stage record by 2 seconds. I decided to run the first half of the leg hard, because although undulating, almost like a rollercoaster in places, the surface of the path was sound. I managed to pass several other competitors on this section. There then followed a twiddly bit through Epping, ably supported by our Marshalls. The rest of the leg contained some pretty dreadful surfaces in places, with one section particularly bad with mud churned up by horses. On this ankle turning territory I decided to peg back a bit, but maintained my position throughout the second half. At one point at the side of a field there was a spotting of Kev Wood with camera, though he had been earlier distracted by the sight of a fox with its evening meal in its mouth (a rabbit). In the final part of the leg, still on rather poor surfaces, I started making some inroads on the 4 runners in front of me, but the finish came too soon for that, but not too soon for my stomach which by then was in a dreadful state. Unlike the previous stage when the runners suffered from exposure to the hot sun, this stage was cool and shady. My time was down on last year by about half a minute.  Runner: Chris Morgan (Mixed) 1:11:19 15thChris writes: After an afternoon spent people-watching in deepest Essex it was finally time to race. Many runners had said that this was the best leg of the whole weekend and it seemed apt at the beginning. The cover of Epping Forest was a welcome break from a day in the sun, although the undulating rollercoaster like paths did come as a surprise. After a few miles the field seemed to settle and I found myself running alone - until I went off track. After a shout from behind I was back on course minus some time. The short run intervals were a great opportunity to raise the speed, however they were few and far between. After managing to find the only significant puddle on the whole course the sight of the water-tower and the finish line quickly came into view. The finish seemed to take an eternity to reach up a long finishing hill. The end was finally reached and a fair time was the remedy for a struggling final 1/3. Back to top |
  Stage 11: Toot Hill to BlackmoreDistance: 7.6 Miles Grade 7 Runner: Emma Ibell (Mixed Vets) 54:15 10th Emma writes: On what was billed the hottest weekend of the year so far (and breaking May records) I set off to St Albans to meet the minibus at 2pm – nice and early for my leg, the last of the day. Starting just before 7pm. We meet the minibus and then drove to Dobbs Weir to drop off Marcus and then headed for Epping Forest. It was a beautiful setting but unfortunately slightly spoilt by Chav blokes riding hairdryer powered motorbikes. We had to sit and listen to them roar their big powerful engines (not) before doing wheelies down the road with their helmets half on. But I digress. We used this opportunity to grab a cup of tea or in my case make numerous visits to the public loos that rapidly deteriorated as the day wore on and the users increased. Thank God I remembered my loo roll!! Definitely a point to remember for anyone doing this next year! Then onto my leg at Toot Hill via John T’s car with Matthew and Caroline. There was a lovely atmosphere at the start as the heat of the day had subsided and it was a beautiful evening. At 6:58pm we were off, and I was quickly running with a group of 4 girls. After about 2 miles and a few fields, the girl in front fell over as we clambered over a small crossing. She was OK but a little shaken and we ploughed on. Once through Chipping Ongar the group broke up and I was running 20 sec’s behind the lead woman who seemed to know where she was going – so I stuck closely by. Across many fields with hard rutted soil which played havoc with my ankles and then we went wrong, back down a path and the chasing runners were on our tail. Managed to put another spurt in and briefly I am the leading lady! Shock horror!! Only to go round a corner of a field instead of across it! Hear a girl yell “it’s this way” and damn we change positions and I am second again! Try hard to catch her but the field is really rutted and not suited to all out sprinting. Over a small crossing and I realize we are near the finish as all of a sudden there are lots of people around! Managed a sprint finish for second lady. Unfortunately we had to get a move on as it was getting late – I really could have stayed for a pint in the little pub. Lovely run and completely what I am not used to – very different to the south circular! Runner: Matthew Johnson (Mixed) 1:01:26 24th Back to top |
 Stage 12: Blackmore to Thorndon ParkDistance: 10.9 Miles Grade 6 Runner: Teresa Gaillard de Laubenque (Mixed Vets) 1:08:39 7th and 1st woman + STAGE RECORD! Teresa writes: Nice early 8am start – this time it was Ed and I running for Dulwich, with Jo S as our driver; slight mishap when Jo asked me if Id got the key for her car, - to which I replied that I had (but it was in my rucksack in the car – for some reason I thought she’d be meeting us at the end of our leg!?!? Note to self: when internet access at home isn’t working – do your darndest to fully read all the instructions!!!!) I’d only realised 2 days before that I’d been switched onto this leg from leg 14…. with the heat, I thought it was a blessing (and the night before had realised I had a chance for the women’s course record). We set off along undulating country lanes and past varying landmarks (the windmill and a water tower). Ed was up with the leading men at the start, despite saying he still had a niggle and wasn’t fit.. However, within a mile we were running at a similar pace.. until on a downhill section I suddenly could no longer hear his steps close by (I turned around – as I’d wondered if he’d had to pull over – but he seemed ok – just going more steadily). We ran through a couple of villages (well marshalled at the key points) but then the point we’d all been warned about, near the church – where every year some runners get lost… Essentially there are some trails through overgrown woods/and then the route goes onto a mud camber at the side of a rape-seed field. Along the sawdust marked trail, we continued – at this point, there were 2 guys running nearby which helped with the navigation. Across undulating trails and through another village, before going alongside a golf course and into the country park. Again, my navigational skills were lacking, when, having seen no Marshalls or sawdust (and with the map mentioning to take care you get the right trail by the golf course) – I did a quick “Radcliffe” desperate for a pit stop – and then waited 20secs or so for the next runner – eventually a runner in a green shirt (who said he knew the route as it was his local Sunday run!) appeared and directed me in to the finish. He bombed ahead, but I was content to know that I took the women’s course record by close to 4 minutes… from 72.12 (set in 1999) to 68.38. Delighted with that and being the female stage winner (T-shirt number two!) Runner: Ed Smyth (Mixed) 1:12:02 11th Ed writes: I got up at 5.30am for this leg! Sore and covered with blisters, when I got out of Jo's car in the morning it felt like I could barely walk and I wondered how on earth I was going to manage another 10.8 miles. Perhaps unwisely, I thought I would take the bit between my teeth and start the race really fast, at just outside 6-minute mile pace. I didn't keep that up for long! Teresa came past me after about 3 miles, and I tried to stay with her for another mile or so, but then she soon disappeared off into the distance. Luckily this leg was largely on roads and was more or less flat, so I found it much more to my liking than the previous day (but even with the 8 o'clock start, it was still a boiling-hot run). And although my lack of fitness showed in the second half, I managed to have a better run and was reasonably satisfied with the 67:53 Garmin time for 10 miles. We had a bit of a scare when we realised after the run that Teresa had left the car keys behind, but with a little bit of frantic phone calling and a whole lot of good luck, we managed to avoid a long run to go and collect them! This was my first time doing the Green Belt Relay and I really enjoyed it, and thanks must go to the organising committee for making everything happen! Back to top |
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Stage 13: Thorndon Park to Thames Chase Distance: 6.9 Miles Grade 4 Runner: Joe Brady (Mixed Vets) 50:25 16th Joe writes: The lush Thorndon park at the start is a showcase for the greener part of Essex. We arrived early giving us time for a nice walk among the woods ending at the visitor centre. The course is a bit twisty & mostly along wood trails or around fields . It’s either flat or downhill. Still the second day of running was taking its toll & my legs struggled to hold a 7.5 min mile pace. At 4 miles there was a long open stretch alongside the M25 which seemed to on a bit. Only to turn onto a golf course which signalled that the end of the race was near. A nice, short, not too taxing route. A great leg to do on your second day of racing. Visitor’s centre with drinks & snacks at the end. Runner: Olga Gillane (Mixed) 57:04 25th Olga writes: Was unfashionably early for this race… could have had an extra 30 minutes in bed! This Leg start has a lovely setting in the park and both Joe and I had a little warm up in amongst the bluebells. Got off to a good start and found this run very enjoyable, lots of up and downs in the woods away from the sunshine. You do have to cross the M25 however and run along some dusty roads but it is still a lovely run! I would happily do this one again. It was nice to see runners I ran alongside the previous day and previous years, both Stragglers. Slightly poor signage into golf course at end but otherwise well marshalled and nearly always another runner in site!! I got lucky this year, only lost a minute with signage rather than gaining a mile in previous years. Fun weekend and definitely enjoyed by a fairly relaxed runner!! Back to top |
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Stage 14: Thames Chase to Davy Down Distance: 8 Miles Grade 5 Runner: Jo Shelton (Mixed Vets) 1:14:02 32nd Runner: Caroline Schurmann (Mixed) 1:14:19 33rd Caroline writes: No such canopy of green wigs to keep you cool in this leg, and an even hotter day in what was still though an early morning. First half was as expected, green and nice paths. I got lost again though in this section of the leg, failing to realise there were no red arrows to look for, only sporadically spaced white sawdust spots at our feet. In the second half, coming out of nowhere and landing on a golf course came a bit as a surprise, especially for the golfers whom I tried not to disturb, almost tip-toeing on the green, which wasn’t hard as I felt pretty tired. A very pretty sight which changes quickly and goes onto a lane and over a small highly arched bridge before going through a residential area for a little while only, before finally getting into the final long stretch of some horsing training ground. I was a bit confused when spotting a luminous yellow bib which I took for a race marshal who happened to be a horse instructor who had definitively no idea where we where in the leg, really (I had not my Garmin with me)!! The leg ends in an opened clearing. In the whole, I performed even slower on that second leg. Got a nice sun-kissed look though and had much fun in the process so I don’t regret having run it. Back to top |
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Stage 15: QEII Bridge to Lullingstone Park Distance: 9.2 Miles Grade 6  Runner: Charles Lound (Mixed Vets) 1:01:08 2ndCharlie writes: After struggling on the first day I had modest targets for my second stage, just hoping to get round in one piece and on track. One runner - the eventual winner by over four minutes - set off at around 5.5 minute miles, so we 'decided' to let him go. I got in with a group of three, including one guy who narrowly beat me at the London Marathon. Fortunately, given my navigation skills, the other two knew the course and we pretty much had me pacing and them calling out the turns. (It's great to see competitors willing to work together on the GBR.) After an initial long descent, aside from a couple of sharpish rises, the course is fairly flat and runs along a track by the Darent river through woods and pretty villages, making it an enjoyable Sunday run. Towards the last couple of miles, I started to find it a bit harder to hold the pace, but was pushed on by seeing I was losing the other two. I finished a clear second on the leg and with a new (pretty soft) vets' record for this leg.
Runner: Chris Morgan (Mixed) 1:23:40 24th |
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Stage 16: Lullingstone Park to Tatsfield Distance: 13.3 Miles Grade 10 Runner: Catherine Lee (Mixed) 1:50:02 25th Catherine writes: The sun was already high in the sky as Martin and I clambered over the stile to the start of the infamous Lullingstone Park-Tatsfield stretch but thankfully, the first few miles proved a gentle introduction to an otherwise taxing leg. Running beside Darent Valley golf course and then through the villages of Shoreham and Otford, it was hard not to envy those basking in the sunshine with beers in hand, especially as the heat off the roads (in particular as we crossed the M25) soon began to take its toll. Approaching Chevening Church (a notorious spot for mis-reading the route map) I was quick to keep sight of the two runners in front and with Martin in close pursuit, embarked on the first notable ascent of the leg. Resorting to a hands-on-knees power-walk at times, I struggled up to the crest of the climb, grateful for the shade provided by the woodland at the top. Yet the respite was short-lived - within minutes, I was flying back down the steep face of the North Downs to the start of the Pilgrims Way, and an energy-sapping three-mile stretch in the heat of the midday sun. I’d long ago lost sight of Martin and with no water stops or marshal points between there and the next main crossroads at Westerham Hill, it was a somewhat lonely slog between Miles 8 and 11. Occasionally one of the many cyclists whipping past offered words of encouragement – although one did use the term mad – and I don’t think I’ve ever been so grateful to see a water station as I was as I branched off left to rejoin the North Downs Way, knowing only two more climbs lay between me and the finish. Special thanks go to Kev for throwing water over my head too – although I maintain my view that taking photos at that point was nothing if not cruel! With the remainder of the leg being largely in the shade, it became easier and easier to visualise reaching the finish and as I started the last ascent (still no sign of Martin behind me), it even crossed my mind to put my foot on the gas for a final triumphant sprint. Sadly though, where the head was willing, the legs were weak so I contented myself with slumping onto the shady village green outside the pub instead (big thank you to Joe B and Rachael who were quick to furnish me with a suitably cold pint for my efforts). We soon got word that Martin had taken a “little detour” en route - so that was why he was so far behind... Runner: Martin Morley (Mixed Vets) 2:10:10 33rd Martin writes: Arrived at the start feeling more confident than yesterday and was clear that I was not going to start too quickly as it was a tough leg and very hot. Tucked in just behind Catherine and first few miles were fine and although starting near the back after only 2 miles started passing other runners with Catherine creeping away a little. This was across fields and golf course and some of the path was very uneven and hard to run on. Along the river and into and out of Shoreham which is stunning with 4 good pubs, but no time to stop and then the first road bit with the heat reflecting off the road. Strangely at this point the Stock exchange runner came flying pass me but had been late at the start and then shortly afterwards the Millennium lady also flew past who was also a late starter. I hoped I would catch them a lot later as they seem to be running far too quickly to sustain the pace in the heat. We were then headed for Chevening and thankful off the road and on footpaths. By this point I was just beginning to gain on Catherine and there were four runners between us. I followed the sawdust trail past the first of 2 cattle grids and decided we were at halfway and time for an energy gel. Crossing over the 2nd cattle grid and following the sawdust I looked up and no-one in sight. There was a short downhill and bend so thought the runners in front had speeded up around the corner so on I carried only to reach a large electronically controlled gate and no markers. Guessed I had gone wrong and so decided to ask way and only house with life showing had Mum and daughter who both surprisingly had not a clue where Tatsfield was or how to get there, great. I decided to carry on along the road I was on as I was sure I could quickly get back on route, even though it would add time and miles. Suddenly met 2 runners from the opposite direction and after a short chat decided that they would follow me. We ran to the end of the lane and I knew we were on the old route and would soon be back on track, 15 minutes + lost and about 1.5 miles extra, hey ho. John McGlashan who had been supporting Catherine and me on the leg popped up yet again to let me know quite a few had got lost and I had a big gap to the next runner. I was now on the Pilgrims Way which is exposed and very hot so just maintained best pace I could leaving the other 2 runners behind. At the end of Pilgrims way Kev was still supporting with camera, (not sure I want to see that picture!!) We then had a slight change to route and climbed uphill on unmade road in the shade. A welcome relief as we still had the last very tough mile to go. Caught a runner up and pushed onto the by now a quite finish area. Pleased to complete the run but very disappointed in getting lost. Only good thing is that we lost time but this had no effects on final team places. Thanks to all that supported and waited for me. PS. One of the runners that was lost with me had a worse run as he was later hit by a van and knocked on his behind. Bruised bum and elbow only fortunately, but the van driver did not even stop!!! He did complete the leg, well done to him. Back to top |
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Stage 17: Tatsfield to Merstham Distance: 10.5 Miles Grade 7 Runner: Tiarnan O'Clerigh (Mixed Vets) 1:23:21 25th Runner: Marlene Russell (Mixed) 1:34:39 34th Marlene writes: Surprisingly I felt better going into this race on Sunday. It may be because this was a shorter leg (10.5miles) or because I had a good rest the night before or because I did shed that extra top! Even though the race started at 12.54 on the hottest day of the year so far I tried not to let that overshadow my run. The shaded trees along the route were welcome relief as well as seeing Barry D and the other Dulwich runners who were marshalling the race. So I kept going and at the 3/4 way mark I took the wrong turn and was quite lucky that someone from another team (those guys wearing the gold star trek suite) saw and shouted to me to turn back! He finished just ahead of me because I thought I should not overtake him…even though I could have…as a show of appreciation. Overall a very memorable weekend indeed! I must say the event was well organised and many thanks to Martin, Mike, Caroline, Barry D and all others for making the event enjoyable for us! Back to top |
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Stage 18: Merstham to Box Hill Distance: 8.9 Miles Grade 6 Runner: Jose Barretta (Mixed) 57:02 8th  Jose
writes:
This leg looked dead easy to follow. We were warned about not missing the 2nd
left after a right turn at 4 miles. I missed the right turn. Even though I saw 4
miles on my Forerunner, I didn’t see the right turn direction, and carried on
going on auto pilot. After the initial climbing (struggling) to get up onto the
Downs – my legs protested at any sort of incline – it was a fairly flat and
straight run which I accidentally made straighter. I suppose I came over a bit
Forest Gump, and kept on running, as I was running rather well. Fortunately, the
route rejoined, or should I say, I rejoined the route about 1 ½ miles further on
as I was running parallel to it. But it was a dead easy leg to follow! The last
3 miles or so seemed interminable. I had actually made the route about ¼ mile
shorter, so that evens things up after the previous day!I think the combo of more biking & recent Duathlons, along with a proper recovery drink after each leg, as well as the usual food immediately after my legs helped my legs feel too whacked; on, and after the 2nd day. I still knew that a track session would have been futile, as it wasn’t ‘till Thursday that I felt the GBR was out of my legs. This is a fun event - and very well organised by Martin, Caroline, & Mike – in nice weather at least!  Runner: Mike Mann (Mixed Vets) 1:01:00 13th Mike writes: This was another stage which I had done before, albeit a few years ago. It contains some tough sections, but it is presumably graded a 6 because it is relatively short (just under 9 miles). Although it was the hottest part of the day, the route was around 50:50 sun and shade, with no unbroken exposure to the sun of more than 5 minutes at a time. As result I never felt unduly uncomfortable, though must have been quite warm as the water I poured over my head felt like it came from the hot tap. The first few miles involve a long but not unduly steep climb up to the top of the North Downs. By that time, I could feel the previous day's stage in my legs. This section along the top would normally be quite fast and contains some fantastic views to the south, while to the north the noise from the M25 can be heard. Later on, rather annoyingly the route takes you some way off the top of the North Downs, which have to be climbed once again. The last part up to the National Trust car park at Box Hill is on road, and although it involves a moderate climb in places, I found it difficult to get moving properly, and got passed by a Beckenham runner close to the end. Interestingly Jose, also doing this leg and running a fair way ahead of me, measured the course short on his Garmin. After some probing it emerged that he had gone off course, but unlike others who ended up running extra distance, had managed to achieve the rather unusual feat of finding a short cut which avoided two sides of a triangle. Back to top |
 Stage 19: Box Hill to West HangerDistance: 10.5 Miles Grade 9 Runner: Andrea Pickup (Mixed) 1:15:32 11th Runner: Emma Ibell (Mixed Vets) 1:27:07 19th Emma writes: Having got home on the Saturday at just after 10 pm after running the last relay leg of the day (thanks Jo for the drop off), bolting a large glass of red wine and a steak, funnily enough I didn’t sleep too well!! Luckily, as my leg was starting on the beautiful Box Hill and another glorious day was forecast, my husband was happy enough to make it a family day out. We drove up a very busy Zig Zag road to the National Trust Centre where the stage was due to start. It was rammed with cyclists, walkers and picnickers. We made the most of it and had a good nose round, especially at the viewing point 5 minutes walk away. I tried to stay in the shade as much as possible - it was very, very hot! Met up with Andrea and family and talked tactics - not going off too fast and how to stay as cool as possible. At the start, they had Marshall stopping traffic in both directions (people were giving us seriously odd looks). With my running hat on and map in hand we were off I took it easy for the 1.5m descent of ZigZag road - knew there were serious climbs up the North downs on the other side Through an underpass and up a small road past the Box Hill and Westhumble station, and then the hills began in earnest. I have to say I glanced briefly at the wonderful views but even the run through Denbies vineyard could not distract my mind and body from the ridiculous heat. I caught a group of 3 guys and tried to stay with them- thankfully it was not just me finding it tough! The run mainly followed the stunning North Downs Way, but in the baking heat I hated it! Even the flat bits of road were like running in an oven. At each water station I stopped to drink water and then caught up with the group, after one nasty long climb we turned a corner to find.... More hills. We all ground to a halt and then started walking!!!!!. Gradually starting again, until my legs just went and I walked again, 2 guys went on and 1 guy walked with me. Had a nice chat (as you do in the middle of a race) and then I suggested at the next bend in the path we start running again- I did but he didn’t! Head down, legs grinding on for (what felt like ages) and then all of a sudden (as if by magic) people began appearing at the edge of the path amongst the trees - I was near the finish. Saw both my children who were shouting loudly and gave me the extra spurt for the line!. I wish I could say I enjoyed it, wax lyrical about the views but to be honest it was one of the toughest runs I have done. The run itself would have been challenging, but coupled with the heat I really struggled. Would I do it again, definitely - if only to beat my dire time. Thanks to Martin and family for ferrying us around, Mike for driving back to London and Caroline too for organising what is a logistical nightmare of a race! Great fun.
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Stage 20: West Hanger to Ripley Distance: 5.7 Miles Grade 1 Runner: Nick Brown (Mixed Vets) 33:14 4th Nick writes: I must admit to feeling hugely guilty having drawn the easiest leg of the whole relay, hearing tales of woe from the marshals who had been covering some of the longer legs during the day..,…sub 3 hour marathon runners reduced to walking apparently on some stages owing to the heat! Like everyone else my legs felt pulverized from the day before, but after a fast opening mile through some lovely countryside with superb views of the North Downs some feeling gradually began to return…however by then the eventual winner who broke the course record was a blur in the distance! I eased into 4th place at halfway, when we then had a lengthy off road section until reaching a lane from where we had just under a mile to go to the finish in Ripley. I had no idea what the M50 course record was for this stage, and frankly was too tired to speed up anyway in the closing stages! As it later transpired my time in finishing 4th was a mere 8 secs inside the previous record! It was nice to catch up with some of the Dulwich contingent that I hadn’t seen for a while such as Barry, Kev and Teresa, and nice to meet Caroline and Matthew for the first time. Runner: Matthew Johnson (Mixed) 45:39 27th  Back to top |
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Stage 21: Ripley to Walton Bridge Distance: 8.4 Miles Grade 2  Runner: Marcus Dos Santos (Mixed) 1:03:23 17thMarcus writes: After joining the minibus at Merstham, I went to our starting point at Ripley, after a stopover in Box Hill. I was expecting an easier stage today compared to yesterday's one. Now I would have a flat and shady course. I had to make some special arrangements for my blistered feet (plasters and trainers change). I met Claire Tinker at starting point and Martin Morley gave us a briefing about the stage, as he ran it last year; followed by the official briefing. The runners started so fast that I had a feeling I would finish among the last ones! but after the first mile I could already overtake some of them and pace myself within two other runners. I'd never been to this area before, it is a beautiful place, so nice to spend the day out. Lovely riverside, and nice pubs around. I was really pleased in running around stunning places very near home! After half of the race I had to run on my own as my pace mates got exhausted (Maybe I was too fast for them!) and had the impression I could be off course after the junction of the rivers, but Marshalls on the way were a sign that everything was under control. It was such a relief when I saw the Walton Bridge and then the finish line. Lots of nice support here. I could manage to finish in 63 minutes. Not bad, considering the tough race on Saturday and the burning sun on both days. Claire came less than a minute behind me as the second woman overall on the stage, well done Claire! She kindly dropped me off at the finish line and then I could join our DR heroes of this great weekend. Looking forward to GBR 2011. I won't miss it! Runner: Claire Tinker (Mixed Vets) 1:04:07 19th Claire writes: The only problem with running late in the day is that dear daughter likes to get up at 5am and cannot possibly enjoy the sunrise without me being conscious and preferably out of bed. She also decided that morning to get ill so we spent a hot stressful morning in paediatric A&E trying to get her fixed well enough for me to run (priorities - don't let the team down!). So, 11 long hours later I lay under a tree on Ripley common trying to gather some strength whilst still heavily pregnant sister drove a sleeping (dare I say, drugged?) child to meet me in Walton. This time they were joined by helpful brother-in-law who offered to cycle back along the route with energy drinks, which, given the scorching temperatures were much appreciated. Luckily this is another flat route along the Wey Navigation, and coincidentally also the stage I ran in 2007 so no stress once again on the navigation front. It is a picturesque run, with narrow boats and the most amazing houses to look at - if you are not staring fixedly at the path ahead trying to stay upright and moving forward that is. Starting the Sunday stage is always a shock to the legs and this was no exception. My quads were a little leaden from Saturdays effort so I regretted my enthusiastic and somewhat foolish 7.5 min mile start within the first mile. However, even though I slowed, there were plenty ahead who slowed even more and once again I caught and passed another 6 runners which was great for morale. During my ungainly jog along the final stretch to Walton Bridge I could just see Marcus ahead of me and was met with shouts of 'second woman' which was a surprise. I'd been chatting to Claire Pauzers at the start so no prizes for guessing who was first! Once again though, I was quicker than 2007 (but then I seem to remember doing a 2 hour bike ride before that one). Another fantastic weekend, can't wait for next year. Heavily pregnant sister wants to run 2010 so any childminders out there clear your diary. Back to top |
 Stage 22: Walton Bridge to Hawker CentreDistance: 9.25 Miles Grade 3 Runner: Steve Williams (Mixed) 58:24 8th Runner: Andy Murray (Mixed Vets) 1:07:34 19th Andy writes: After an enjoyable but hot day following the runners through Kent and then Surrey, I arrived at Walton in time to see the minibus almost attempt to get under the car park height barrier. Steve W and others ran off ahead along the river from the start as I settled in behind a another group of 5 with a few more ahead of them. Eventually most of these slowed and were able to be passed as I settled in behind a woman running for Millennium (fortunately not Sonia O'Sullivan this time). The heat and the gravelly surface were taking their toll and, despite a boost from a band playing at a cycle tour finish at 4 miles, I was slowing by the halfway point at Hampton Court Bridge. Fortunately there was more shade on the next part towards Kingston and I managed to at least hold position if not speed as the run (and relay) ended with a final mile up the river bank to the cheering crowd at the Hawker Centre. Back to top |