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Getting into the festive spirit whilst visiting my family in Hereford I
decided to take a break from the norm and don a Santa suit and run around
the streets and along the river of Hereford.
Arriving early to collect my costume, I certainly put the description 'one
size fits all' to the test however with the aid of several strategically
placed safety pins I managed to ensure that I would be able to run in the
full Santa regalia, beard and all!!.
A herd of Santa's gathered eagerly at the start line, with some doing the
2.3 mile fun run and the rest anticipating an undulating 10km that lay
ahead. At 1100 am the horn sounded and the stampede of Red and white began
as the citizens of Hereford clapped and cheered as over 200 Santa's (fun
run and 10km) raced down the high street.
The course took us down alongside the river for approx 2km and then out
through some undulating country lanes (6km), before looping back alongisde
the river and back into town. The last km was then through the gardens of
Hereford Cathedral and back into the high street.
The course was picturesque and the marshalls were excellent, although for
one out of towner with no one to follow (me) I almost went the wrong way
in the Cathedral grounds, thankfully at the last minute I spotted a
marshall and went the right way. Note to Santa he might need a sat nav
when delivering in Hereford.
With the finish line in sight, the Santa's in various states of undress by
now, were weaving in and out of the Christmas shoppers down the home
straight towards glory. All runners were rewarded with a goodie bag,
snowflake medal and most importantly you got to keep what you had left
of your Santa suit!!! Thankfully I managed to wear the whole outfit for
the full race distance and hence record my first fancy dress PB of
36:51.
There was a great atmosphere on the day and I would recommend taking part
in a similar event if you get the chance, although next year I may chose
one where you get free Christmas Pudding or Mince PIe's as I now have a
Santa Costume!!
Merry Christmas Everybody!
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