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Fancy a challenging start to the cross-country season?
I'd love to tell you that this was fast and flat but it's not. However it is run through scenic woodland and mainly off-road (just one short stretch of tarmac though even then you can run on the grass alongside).
A great way to start the cross-country season, or to challenge yourself with something a bit different after all those road races.
REGULARS PLEASE NOTE WE HAVE MOVED THE RACE TO SUNDAY MORNING!
Refreshments and changing facilities are available.
So come on then, who's going to make the trip to Croydon?
I'd love to tell you that this was fast and flat but it's not. However it is run through scenic woodland and mainly off-road (just one short stretch of tarmac though even then you can run on the grass alongside).
A great way to start the cross-country season, or to challenge yourself with something a bit different after all those road races.
REGULARS PLEASE NOTE WE HAVE MOVED THE RACE TO SUNDAY MORNING!
Refreshments and changing facilities are available.
So come on then, who's going to make the trip to Croydon?
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Comments
Scenic Woodland in Croydon? Gotta be worth doing just for that alone!!
Yes, come to Croydon so we can prove to you that there's more to it than concrete!
Details of the race have just been sent to you, thanks for adding to our listing!
Does no one believe me that there is scenic woodland in Croydon?
It is mostly off road either parkland or paths through woodlands with a small amount of road that links the park and woods.
I would be fibbing if I said it was an easy race but it is very rewarding (once you've finished) and road racing will see easy afterwards!
Go on give it a go!!
Do I need off road shoes? I'm guessing unless we get a lot of rain in the next three weeks the answer is no, but best to check.
I have run this race the last 2 years - I have no affiliation to Croydon Striders.
Superb race. Virtually all off road. Well organised. Somewhat hilly.
2 years ago - very hot. Last year - much milder, and I ran sub 40 minutes.
This is the kind of race you run once, and train on the race route for the next 12 months. ( And you wonder why more people don't do the same ! A jewel in Croydon's crown )
Matthew, thanks for your vote of confidence, glad you enjoy the route, surprised we have not bumped into you going around it. What do you feel about the fact we have changed it to a Sunday morning this year?
Last Saturday, I ran a race at 11am in Bucks, but generally I think people are more accustomed to a sunday morning race.
So, I hope that your move pays off !
It is a shame that more people in Croydon aren't aware of this route, despite your best efforts !
Are you running by the way?
Yep, I sent my entry off earlier in the week.
It certainly is one of my favourites.
The USP of this race is the terrain - Running the average 10k on concrete bares no comparison.
By the way, how much does a pint cost in the club house ?
Matt
I agree that the terrain is the best thing about this race, with a real mixture of surfaces, grass, little bit of tarmac, woodland paths with a climb up a stony hill. What more could you want!
You should try some of the cross country races we do, grat fun! However you do have to be a member of a club to take part.
£2.10 is a good price compared to £4 in France, and Sweden in the past fortnight. Very good price.
I am glad that you have drawn out the variety of this race - I ran part of the route this afternoon, and I think it is a smashing course.
How many pints do you need to drink to get your club membership fees back ? Can't be that many ?
I watched a race in Stockholm very recently with 30,000 runners ( women only ) - I think, judging by that, you can squeeze a few more in the Switchback.
30,000 women only runners in Sweden? Sounds like you're been drinking already Matt!!
I can back this up with some race results - Phenomenally well organised it was.
Stockholm was a pleasure !
Matt
Entries are building up! Even had 5 on line entries yesterday!
Confirmed last night that the bar will be open after the race! Woo hoo! Will need a pint once it's all finished.
Don't worry more than 50% of the course is flat or downhill!
........I'll get me coat and go order the Tequila!
You must be working in marketing to say " more than 50% of the course is flat or downhill! "
Tequila caught your drift - spot on. Suppose that the tip must be to go easy early on.
Factually, you are correct. Morally, another question. After all, what is a switchback ?
It is a challenge for sure !
Matt
'What is a Switchback?'
I'll ask or even answer that question Sunday Lunchtime but by then everyone who runs this race will know!
I'll be wearing a Reigate Priory running vest. I'll let you know what number i am when recd as I'm sure there will be other RPAC folk there who will be at half way much quicker than me!!
Matt - i guess it can't be worse than Hastings half which had a 3 mile uphill stretch! Or can it?!