Travelling 5 hours through snowstorms on our trip to North Devon did not augur well for the following day’s half marathon. Driving all that way on a Saturday afternoon for a race on Sunday morning and return that afternoon seemed slightly mad anyway! But the weather turned out to he beautiful, the course was an absolute joy and we were visiting Jane’s aunt at the same time.
The Bideford half marathon must be one of the most enjoyable races in the calendar. The Bideford AAC clubhouse, shared with the rowing club, is spacious with good facilities and the race starts right outside by the estuary.
Over 600 lined up for the start but with chip timing there was no rush to get across the line. The outward leg took you along the road that wound its way alongside the estuary. The sun shone brightly and, as you drifted along with the water flowing by your side, the race was half done before you knew it. Turn at the old railway station by the Puffin’ Billy then back along the Tarka Trail, the route of the old railway track. Cross the river by the weir and the images of otters playing along the bank clearly help identify how it got the name by which it is now known. The sound of runners making their way through the old tunnel adds to the tranquil atmosphere and you imagine standing to one side while a steaming locomotive sidles past. As you reach Bideford once more you’re greeted by a row of restored railway carriages, then over the ancient bridge for a finish once more by the clubhouse.
Jane was unfortunately handicapped by a thigh injury and almost didn’t make the start; however, she managed to potter round enjoying the scenery. Buoyed for once by the fact that he hadn’t played 90 minutes of football the day before, Phil ran his quickest for a while and even won a spot prize – what else but a flagon of Devon ale! But you just had to enjoy the occasion whatever.