Saab Salomon Forest Trail 10km
THE Saab Salomon Forest Trail 10km is a new race and possibly one of the more understated races on the south coast.
Based at Moors Valley Country Park near Ringwood, the Thursday evening race attracted 144 runners including a trio of Stubbies.
Among them was Paul Hailwood. “I got the impression that this was not a well thought of race, but I reckon it was one of the best,” he said. “Great trail route, with steady climbs and a long downhill finish. The forest running was very scenic with plenty of marshals, water and markers.
“It was also child-friendly with a well-organised 3km fun run. All in all, a relaxed and enjoyable evening, to be recommended.”
Paul knocked some two minutes off his 10km personal best to move out of the bottom half of the results. He clocked 47min 43sec for 38th place and fifth in the Vet45 category.
Also taking part were fellow Stubbies Jon Henderson and John Nicholson who ran together to clock 49.20 for the distance to finish 50th and 51st.
The race was won by Nick Baker from Denmead Striders in 33.40 and the first lady home was 14th-placed Georgie Reed with 43.33.