This was our second year in charge of this race and it went really well. The weather was great for running – sunny patches but cool breeze on top. Despite this the times were on average a few percent slower than last year. The recent we weather made going underfoot a bit soft and squelchy.

The winner was the indefatigable Mark Palmer but it was Chepstow Harriers who gained the team prize with Paul Murrin (2nd ), Matt Stott (4th ) and James Blore (6th and first under 23).

Helen Bennett appeared surprised with her win in a good time. Others were perhaps not surprised with stories of hard training on foot and bike.

MDC were just beaten into 2nd ladies team by Mynydd Du – Angela Jones, Anne-Marie Harris and Naomi Law taking the honours.

The best performance on the day is arguably Steve Herington celebrating his 63rd birthday with a time of 66:38. Looking back over recent results he was faster than last year and 2 minutes faster than 2009.

The course records set in 1995 (Mark Kinch and Ann Buckley) still hold – looking like they need some serious competition to be bettered.

The great support from marshals ensured there were no problems on the day, though parking remains one of the main issues for this and the Mynydd Troed races.

See you all next year – but please share transport!

Best Regards      Gerry and Sue Ashton