Combe Gibbet to Overton
You know how it is; you get an injury and the physio tells you to rest, then slowly to build up strength in the injured part, and for your first race back pick a steady easy outing. Right then, that's sixteen miles cross country from Combe Gibbet to Overton.
This is a race I have done a couple of times previously and one that I enjoyed, so I was not to be put off by turning my ankle back in January at Rogate Common. Myself, Neil and Eric made the trip to Overton on Sunday through the multitude of Pompey fans on the motorway on their way to Wembley.
After a cup of tea it was onto the bus for the Police escorted trip to the start. Why an escort? I hear you ask, well the route to the Gibbet alongside the river Test is not really suitable for a bus - let alone four of them - so the Police ensured a hassle free trip. After an hour's sight seeing we arrived at a very windy but wonderfully scenic start; after the usual varied pre-race rituals, (predominantly it seemed finding a suitable bush), we were off.
The route is a mix of gravel tracks, grass fields, woodland trails and a small amount of tarmac. It has the usual topographic mix that you would expect over sixteen miles, with one hill just after half way that goes on for about a mile. With three evenly spaced water stations, helpful cheery marshals and the police encouraging you on, jelly babies towards the end and tea and cakes at the finish, it is a great way to spend a Sunday afternoon.
Well done to Overton Harriers for a well organised race.
First male and race winner: Graham Bungay of Totton RC. 1:41:50
First female: Frances Burge of Headington RR. 1:53:21
Stubbies.
62nd Paul Hammond. 2:08:28
85th Neil Jarvis. 2:13:57
117th Eric Beck. 2:29:37
There were 161 finishers.
Paul Hammond