Ashbridge Trail Half Marathon
7th June
2015

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Official Results

Ian Hammett 1.30.28 2nd Man

Race Report:

 

A beautiful trail race starting at Ashridge House and covering a mixture of terrain through the scenic countryside surrounding Tring, Berkhamstead, and Ivinghoe. A low key event that is smoothly organised, well marshalled and signposted that follows tracks and footpaths with the occasional small section on road made it is one of the best routes that I have ever run and is right on our doorstep.

 

Certainly not flat, and a little more than undulating the course is challenging with over 300m of climb, including tackling Ivinghoe Beacon amongst other hills. However the stunning views and good support distract you from the inevitable burn that you will feel in your legs.

 

The first four or five miles wind their way through the woods of the Ashridge Estate, taking in a couple of the local farmsteads as you drop down into a valley. Then comes the inevitable climb as you head back towards the Monument, before heading out once again into the Forest and then onto the ridge which leads you to the Beacon. Ivinghoe Beacon provided a challenging double climb to reach the summit and then it was a downhill stretch that provided some rest bite for the legs.

 

With the Beacon out of the way, you'd be forgiven for thinking that was the worst of it however some nice route planner had decided it would be fun to have to traverse a steep stair case cut into the side of the forest trail to climb back out of the valley. This stair case was the subject of much post race debate, especially from one competitor who had been informed by a marshall just prior to it 'that it was all downhill from here'... poor chap.

 

Following the 'Stairway to Heaven' thankfully it was pretty much flat or downhill to the finish, and there was a good chance to stretch the legs out as you headed for home alongside the golf course... with the exception of one cheeky little incline back up to Ashridge but in comparison this was a mere molehill.


 

All in all it was an excellent event and one that I would highly recommend to everyone. Happy Trails..