Thanks to Gill for her Coastal Trail Half Marathon report:
Saturday 19th September – The day finally arrived, the weather was dry but very windy with strong gusts. I had persuaded 5 friends (Ceri, Sarah, Nicola, Angie & Mary) to run the half marathon with me. We all arrived at Morston and checked in for the bus back to the start. Unfortunately the bus was late, but it was not raining so not an issue, plenty of time to checkout the toilets!! After a fast ride in the bus to the start (bus driver took no prisoners) we proceeded to the start. After a briefing by Will & Andy we were off along the bank to the sand dunes with the wind behind with the odd gust trying to blow us off the path. The dreaded sand dunes were next with the strategy of walking up them and running down where possible. The fast marathon runners started to overtake us, but there is plenty of room so no problems. On to the path to the Lookout and Wells beach café with a short stop to get the sand out of shoes (we were enjoying the experience not trying for a fast time) The run from the beach to the sailing club water station was into the wind and hard work. We were now halfway and off to Stiffkey and the finish at Morston.
I really appreciated the support from the volunteers at the water stations and others on route. It was lovely to run with friends and appreciate their support as my legs & feet began to suffer.
I would recommend this race to anyone, as long as you are not going for a PB. The scenery organisation is first class. Thanks to everyone who helped.
