This morning was due to be a Magic Plan 9k, and I decided to try a new route involving hills, fields and forests.
While it was hard going at times (km 3 to 6 was all uphill, at respectively +43m, +62m, +48m, +46m, aargh), overall it was lovely. I managed not to get lost, and was treated to views, pine forest scents and shadows, and a young deer crossing my path a few metres ahead.
Boosted by all this, and the not-insignificant fact that almost all the second half was downhill on roads that I know, I ended up running 12.11k, 248m elevation gain, in 1:35:12, average pace 7:52/km.
I now have a gormless grin (and, despite lots of post-run stretching, a slight concern that I'll display all the grace of a baby elephant at my Renaissance group dance rehearsal tomorrow!)