"Eleven people turned up at Winston’s Bar on Saturday evening for a meal.  Kate had her newly purchased whoopee cushion to keep people amused .
One Carn Runner and Uncle Robert and his Bitton Road Runners.  Some of these like our own Carn Runners had wimped out!
After not too many pints, everybody headed for bed.

Sunday morning was sunny with very little wind.  After a full English breakfast we headed for the Hook & Parrott, not for a pint but to start the race.  After a 15 minute aerobic warm up we were off and on to the beach.  Running down to the River Axe and back though the start, the snake started to weave its way towards Beer where we would face the first big climb. 

We were passing many runners puffing like they were about to finish the race not starting it!

Down into Beer where a good crowd cheered us on and up towards Branscombe and the Scotsman playing his bagpipes on top of the hill.  There was still a lovely view across the bay and the broken up ship, the Napoli.

As we turned inland, Sue, Kate and the Bitton lot were there handing out jelly babies for one and all.  Their next move was tea and cake in the café and await our return. 

The first bog loomed and the Dungbeetle had been at work because it was very deep and sticky this year. Some of the nimble footed lot were trying to go around the outside but in the true sprit of the event they were unfortunately nudged into the deep parts!

Out of the top and onwards towards the next climb, the question came “Is this the Stairway to Heaven?”  No, save a bit for that later was the reply.  Up to the Barn where the drums were pounding. 

By now the rain had started.  No worries for us we were in a heavily wooded part by then, but oh those poor ones out in the open!

A lovely downhill stretch to the second bog and the climb out to pass the Fountains Head pub.  Do we stop for a pint and listen to the band? Well, no, it’s a gel and water from the drink station and onward up the hill.

Back towards Branscombe and more jelly babies from Kate and a few comments like “You’re not even sweating!”  Then it was along the beach to face the Stairway to Heaven up the cliff side. There was many a poor mortal bent over in despair at various points on the way up. A sign that says ‘Smile at the top’ We must be nearly there.  Passing people with various amounts of ease as some were stopped having a rest.

Having finally got to the top there was a nice long downhill back to Beer and one last climb to do.  With that out of the way it was downwards and back onto the beach.  Nearly there.  A long slow trudge along the beach and a sprint for the finish or what ever you want to call it.

A hose down and a wash off in the sea whilst watching the long snake of finishers come over the line.

A glorious run and the supporters are happy because the weather held out.  My finishing time was 3:03:17 and 153rd in the race.  Uncle Robert beat me again in 2:56 and 102nd.  Maybe next year??!!"

George.