Gales

[Tkaye]

Hi all, any advice on running in gales, I’ve got a 10k mostly beach run on Sunday in aid of our local hospice and the weather forecast is awful, strong winds (40) and rain. It’s called Christmas cracker and there will be bling and a mince pie at the end. All advice gratefully received.

[Grannyhugs Graduate10]

Yikes, and no protection on the beech. I'd go for fun, wear crazy fancy dress and sing cheesy Christmas songs so you cheer yourself up so much you're not aware of the weather. Good luck

[Tkaye Graduate10 in reply to Grannyhugs]

Thank you, yes cheesy Christmas songs sounds like a good plan.

[AlMorr Ambassador Graduate10 in reply to Tkaye]

Like 'running' in a winter wonderland.

[Elfe5 60minGraduate]

You might be glad of eye protection if the wind is whipping up the sand. You can get wind protection cycling glasses- they’re like “wrap around” sunglasses in clear plastic.

At least on the beach you don’t need to worry about falling branches! 😄

PS I’ve just noticed you said “rain” too - if it is raining hard too, you might not be sand blasted, but if it’s strong wind & dry, something with you to protect your eyes is probably wise.

[Tkaye Graduate10 in reply to Elfe5]

I did it! Thankfully no falling branches but I wasn’t prepared for the paddling on the beach! Was wonderful to cross the finish line, no where near my best time but honestly I don’t care, I did it! X

[Elfe5 60minGraduate in reply to Tkaye]

Good for you! That’s great! 😄

Yes paddling is all part of the beach experience! I love running on the beach beside the waves at low tide - although not generally during a gale. 😂

Sand + gale does not = PB. You did brilliantly! 😄

[Tkaye Graduate10 in reply to Elfe5]

Thank you. 😊

[ju-ju- Graduate10]

I may be a bit late.... I’ve been out by the sea in Cornwall in full on gales. Best advice is to wrap up warm, even cover your face if on sand as it feels like tiny bullets, go slowly, and stay away from the edge. I also found if I was running into the wind to turn my head to the side to breathe, as the force was too strong to take any air in. Oh, most of all enjoy it!

[Tkaye Graduate10 in reply to ju-ju-]

Thank you, I did it! Cant say it was fun but oh when I finished the elation I felt at not giving up, for that alone it was worth it. In the past I’d have struggled to get out of the door, here I am a year on among 2500 other runners dressed up as elves and Santa’s running in 40+ winds! Have to say I’m rather pleased. Thanks again.