I've spent most of the week with my dad in Addenbrookes (the op went ok - thanks for all your good wishes) but sneaked out for some retail therapy in town and here's the result: Hoka Challenger Atr 4.
Having had a great experience at my local Up & Running I thought I'd check out the Cambridge store. Same scenario - dedicated staff who offer great advice & no hard sell. I went in my old Brooks and they had the measure of my gait, biometrics, running style & habits in minutes. When I put the Hokas on there was no contest, they were exactly what I was looking and hoping for.
So, next morning we went for a 5k around where I grew up. Out of a quiet suburban estate, over the railway line and down the Tins, a footpath by chalk pits where I used to go babysitting & get taken back home after on a Kawasaki 750 which I loved. Onto Snakey path by a brook. A little smile remembering often cycling along there on my way home from the pubs in town, rather tipsy, plastic pint in hand.
1km later diving off into Cherry Hinton hall where the folk festival takes place, snatches of songs of various artists over the years popping into my head. Past the house in the middle where my lovely mum went to nursery school in the '40s, where I met with friends for games of rounders in the summer, and where my fruit salad (home ec lesson) escaped from the back of my bike in the 2nd year. Last stretch by the duck pond, glancing at the big Oak on the other side where I used to secretly meet my boyfriend after school. Funny how I loathed doing cross country in this very place whilst at school but love running now.
The Hokas had been on concrete, shingle, dirt tracks, a wooden bridge & grass. I have been feeling every stone beneath my feet recently but this time it felt like I was running on marshmallows. My ankle and shins finished the run much happier too. Slightly weird walking in them with the low heel drop but I guess I'll get used to it.
A little self indulgent ramble but I loved seeing where I grew up from a different perspective.
Happy weekend runnings everyone!
PS - Simon in Up & Running says he's rather lonely - if there are any single runners in Cambridgeshire looking for company!
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Slinkymalinki
Graduate10
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Indeed - the only thing that made cross country more interesting is that at one time there was a spate of flashers so our teachers had to keep running on ahead to check the coast was clear whilst we sat down & had a good natter! They weren't impressed with our lack of dedication!
Thanks. He's had the edited version as he wasn't too keen on that particular boyfriend (long hair, hard rock fan) so it was easier to meet in secret & it can stay that way!!
What a great trip down memory lane slinkymalinki and what memories they were. It’s nice to clear your head with a run when other things are going on too. I’m glad to hear all is well with your Dad.
It sounds like your shopping exped was a successful one, thanks to Simon in Cambridgeshire . Happy running 🏃♀️👟😀
Thanks Dexy. Yes I needed that run, my dad is a grumpy patient! Thought it was great in the shop that a guy walked in with his CV asking if there were vacancies. First question: Are you a runner? Answer: Yes. Reply: Ah, that's ok then, we'll take a look at your CV! Good to know...
What a lovely writeup. I live out near St Ives(Cambs) now and originally from much further north, but did live in cherry hinton in my 20's and all round cambridge, my brother in law lives off worts causeway nr babraham rd and addenbrookes and I have been round those chalk pits a few times. My runs are all round the fens and have never really thought of running round there, but do have the cambridge town and gown run next month to do.
Any ways about these shoes.. I have looked at these and wondered whether although they must feel extremely comfortable when you try them in the shop as why wouldn't standing on a giant wedge of foam, does that translate into a better run? or is it just addressing peoples injury fears by over foaming. I get told off for having too many shoes as is, but would love to give these a try.
Hello Fenlander! I envy you having all those flat trails but imagine things must get a bit boggy later in the year.
Well, after doing all my On Clouds research and really fancying a pair, they felt comfortable but the Hokas offered more stability for me & are supposed to be better for swapping terrains on your run.
A guy came into the shop after me to replace his 4th pair of Hokas & was talking about his half marathons etc so a seasoned runner. He was certainly extolling their virtues & said I'd made a good choice so we shall see.
It will be interesting to see how they are (and how my ankles and shins are) in a few weeks. I made sure that I could bring them back if I didn't get on with them. Will let you know.
The town & gown run sounds fun - a great way to enjoy the sights as well as helping a charity. I'll be away then but would definitely consider it next year. Good luck!
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