I’m always a little nervous venturing out of gods own county but a trip to Cumbria for the Coniston 14 miler was well worth the trip.
A 14 mile road race round Coniston Water taking in some lovely down and up’s and offering some great views – an undulating course. Normally there are a few Harriers doing this one, but this year I was on my own…luckily Auntie Carole had coerced her daughter into running it too so at least I knew a friendly face.
The course is undulating with a fast first 7 miles and then it gets a little more challenging, but nothing major as long as you go steady. A steady stream of runners and times ranging from 1.16 to 4.28 so it’s a run for all abilities.
A band was playing some cracking tunes as we set off in the sunshine….nice gradual start and then into our stride. Water stops were tricky with cups – but with 4 on the course practice makes perfect!. Before we knew it, we were running down into Coniston….Uncle Jay was giving us his usual encouragement drinking a pint of ale.
Amazing views of snow topped peaks, glorious sunshine, plenty of water stops and lovely slate coaster as a memento.
Make a weekend of it and stay over in Coniston and take in the delicious fudge, local beer and Cumbrian lamb 🙂
Written by Martyn Hewitt