I’ve never stayed in Derbyshire, so last summer when the idea of the Monsal Trail was mooted, I thought I would join the HU gang and have a visit. As is often the case, things didn’t quite go to plan and my room mate couldn’t make it so hubby was substituted as travel companion (he was not particularly keen!). We had to wait until after the footie and arrived after dark, joining Sandie1961 and her hubby for dinner. Storm Kathleen arrived before dessert and as we were on a hilltop location, it was extremely wet and windy. We left our companions to their night in ‘the van’ and went in search of our accommodation. It was one of those ‘help yourself’ type B&Bs and we got soaked as we fiddled with the key code trying to get in. Soon dry and warm and snuggled in a cosy bed, we listened to the storm crashing about outside, hoped our friends survived the night and wished for better weather in the morning.
The morning was a little damp and a bit blustery, but on meeting up with fellow HU runners on the start line we were basking in sunshine. It was wonderful to put faces to names, particularly Oldfloss whose words of wisdom have encouraged and supported me on my running journey for several years. We were soon on our way and the route did not disappoint. The surface was even and firm (with only a few puddles) and the railway cuttings kept the wind to a minimum. I’m used to seeing Sandie disappear up the trail, but she was being sensible and keeping her pace steady as she is returning from injury, so it was with some surprise I found myself pulling away from her.
I’m used to ‘competition nerves’ as many years competing at national level with horses has taught me to keep nerves under control (otherwise the horse picks up on them and can get a bit daft), but for this event I had lost the art. I was in a bit of a state and had several visits to the loo before reaching the start line. My objective for this run was to run the 10k without any walk breaks and trotting along this wonderful trail, I was beginning to think I might be able to do it. However, it soon became apparent that, although my nerves had settled, I was going to need the loo before I finished the run. I thought there were toilets at the turn point in the tunnel so I hung on only to discover I had got it wrong (there are some at the HM turn). Looking out for and High-fiveing Sandie, Oldfloss and Bluebirdrunner as we passed took my mind off it for a while but at 8km I knew I was going to have to act. It is spring, the hedgerows are not particularly green yet so I selected a somewhat inadequate bush and dived behind it (well if it is good enough for the great Paula Radcliffe, it is good enough for me). I reemerged just as Sandie came trotting by, checked all was good with her and headed on to the finish. I completed the run still feeling strong and able to sprint for the line. No PB but around the 1;15, 1.17, or 1.18 mark (depending if you go from my garmin, chip time or gun time) and I ran every metre.
Mr Shakes was with Sandie’s hubby at the line. They had been occupying themselves with a coffee break and a special quest. Bakewell Pudding is very different to Bakewell Tart and has something of a reputation as a local delicacy. Mr Sandie is a Derbyshire man and knew just where to get the best Bakewell pudding and led Mr Shakes in search of the shop where several purchases were made.
With Sandie safely over the line, medals collected and stretches done, we headed back to the campsite and pub on the hill for a shower and a delicious Sunday lunch. The rain and wind returned while we munched our roast potatoes and soon it was time to head for home. Leaving Sandie and her hubby to another stormy night in the van we left Derbyshire, its beautiful scenery and friendly people. Later that evening we warmed our Bakewell Pudding and ate it with cream. It is manna from heaven, quite delicious. Hubby is looking forward to returning to Bakewell next time so he can get some more pudding!!
I may be a "lurker" nowadays, but I ran my first HM today!
My light bulb moment 💡.... It's time to stop and smell the roses (or sagebrush), feel the wind and sun on my face, and take in the scenery