Stubbington Green Runners

Stubbies Down-under

WHERE: Canberra, Australia

WHEN: Monday 3rd October 2011 

THE RACE. Out and back scenic course along surprisingly undulating footpaths beside Lake Burley Griffin.

RUNNERS.  Total finishers 134 (69 Men, 65 Women)

FIRST MAN:  Stuart Grey 35:37

FIRST WOMAN:  Kim Wilmshurst 41:48

STUBBIES:  John Fairhurst: 51:29 (2nd MV 60 – 69)
          Anne Fairhurst: 1-13:05 (2nd FV 60 – 69)

Slowest finishing time 1-15:55

Comment.

While folk in England were enjoying an Indian Summer, we were having an unseasonal cold snap. It had been –2ºC the night before and a dusting of fresh snow lay on the distant Brinbabella Range. Although it was sunny, there was a cold biting wind which we had not come prepared for as we stood in the queue for our numbers dressed in our summer running gear plus borrowed fleeces. Next to us were a couple of recent emigrants from Whiteley.

Having reluctantly taken our warm fleeces off we lined up for the start, the hooter sounded and we set off following the directions of the various signs and marshals. It was a pleasant course and we warmed up during the race but soon felt chilly when we stopped. The finish was made all the more welcome by the pieces of water-melon and oranges but most of all by the copious supplies of hot scrumptious pancakes with the choice of honey, maple syrup, golden syrup, treacle and Nutella toppings. Despite the cold it was an enjoyable race, well organised and with friendly marshals.