Introduction

I intend to put the race into "full production" in March/April 20XX but we will have a trial event to seek opinion on the actual course. The overall distance is around 8 miles and there will not be an official measurement as the terrain really prevents an accurate measurement.

(Thanks to John Burgess, HonitonRC & Chris from Blackheath & Bromley AC for the map)

The course is mostly off road, over a number of public footpaths, & bridleways, however there are three stretches of road (lanes), the most significant being the last mile which is on a slight uphill gradient but offers an opportunity to have a chance to make up ground and a fast finish. The roads will not be closed, so you might meet traffic during the run.

To be added to our information list, email Paul Lowman & enter GLOOPY in the subject field

Background

The inspiration for this run is the much lamented "Luppitt Lollop" which ended some 6-7 years ago. The terrain is similar and while there are no marshes (officially) most of the course can be VERY gloopy under foot. I have deliberately included a rather steep hill in the early stages to "thin out" the field, allowing those that want to enjoy the scenery the opportunity to do so. The average finish time should be around 60 minutes if you don't stop to look at the views.

So why wait until 20XX?

The footpaths & bridleways cross agricultural land and many fields have livestock in them, there are also many gates along the route. The allow a competitive event I want to keep gates open & marshalled, to achieve this I need to discuss the details with numerous landowners to minimise damage and reduce any distress to livestock. Whilst runners could just climb every gate the potential damage from a couple of hundred gate climbers, and ensuing problems, mean that a little negotiation may lead to a sustainable long term event and create some local goodwill.

And now a preview, I hope my presence doesn't ruin the view ;o)

You will be running up this!

And this . . .

And this, yup that's yours truly checking out the course & gates (notice the UP bit)

Did I mention UP?

& the paths (up again)

and, oh yes, finally some more UP!

Well, if you've got this far you must be slightly interested. When time permits I will get around to making the necessary arrangements. Thanks for visiting this page, check here periodically for any news.