The Sheperds Crook, Crowell - 5th May 2010 (Run 6)

Run Report by Martin


It was a cool but dry evening, and there was a certain note of excitement and anticipation in the air as we assembled outside a “new” pub, for a “new” run, designed by Neil. In the pre-run discussions somebody heard Neil say “There is one hill” tonight. This became a subject of debate later!

In attendance on this evening were Jerome, Fred and Lulu (the lab.), Selwyn, Steve, Kate, Neil, Jules, Amanda, Susie, Chris (Mr Bump), Mark and a special appearance from Aude.

To my surprise, the excitement and anticipation manifested itself in a series of false starts, leaving myself, Steve, Neil, Jules and Chris waiting patiently for the official start time of 1900 hrs BST. I panicked slightly at this point.

Soon enough we were all underway, and the group kind of got together on the climb up the gulley from the Ridgeway. This was a fairly good climb lasting about 10 minutes and required some special stretching at the top, advised by Neil (personal trainer). I’m sure he just wanted to see if the girls could get in those positions!

We then hit the road for a short spell towards Sprig’s Alley before turning into Sunley Wood. This started out as a pacy trot downwards, followed by a pleasant flat trail where we then stopped for a breather. It was now that we realised Neil had not been accurate when stating “There is one hill” tonight!

After re-grouping at the top and admiring the female mountain bikers’ lovely bike (Jules said it was carbon), we proceeded along Bledlow Ridge towards Chinnor Hill and re-grouped at the fitties/fatties split. At this point Aude had a dilemma. Should she enjoy the rare opportunity to run side by side with her husband and catch up on things, or should she stay with the girls and have a proper chat?

After a tricky decent, we ran back along the Ridgeway and finally turned back for the Pub. A welcome site indeed.

Conversations in the pub were many and varied. In between beer, wine and crisps there did seem to be a Garmin face-off. I think Jules won that! All in all, a very good evening.

Next week’s run is from the Bull and Butcher in Turville. 7pm kick off.I hope somebody knows the route?