Serpie Planner - event reports
Nottingham Robin Hood Marathon (14 Sep 2003)
This years race took place on what was to become a very hot day. The organisation was excellent and the race was friendly, I was amazed by the amount of people shouting "Well Done Serpie!!" The only letdown was the heat, a shortage of water stations during the first half led to problems of dehydration later in the race and full sympathy goes out to the family and friends of the poor chap who collapsed and died at mile 9.
The race itself incorporates both the half and full marathons which did lead to quite a congested first 12 miles, although once the race split, you were basically on your own... A far cry from the city giants such as London!!
From the start the route is reasonably level along Bunbury Street, Meadow Way, Arkwright Road, Station Street and London Road. The course then climbs up to the town centre levelling out as you pass the Council House and the
Old Market Square. Another up hill section follows as the route climbs up Friar Lane towards Nottingham Castle (2 miles). Beyond the Castle there is a steep downhill
section into Nottingham Park Estate. Turning right into Lenton Boulevard the course rises and then turns left into Church Street (4 miles). The route avoids the steep climb up to Wollaton Hall using the lower path through. After exiting the park the course then climbs to Wollaton Village
Square. The route then returns to QMC roundabout initially climbing gently and then descending past QMC.
The race now heads out to the National Water sports Centre and remains almost completely flat for the rest of the race, give or take the odd bumpy track. Unfortunately, the race loops around a bit at the Water sports Centre which did feel a touch monotonous, however it gave me a short burst of energy when I heard my name mentioned on the PA system (well, for about 10m anyway) and it was great to see another Serpie a few miles ahead running for a pb!! The support from fellow club members at mile 25 certainly gave a much needed lift for the stagger to the finish. As a memento we received a lovely piece of Lace as a medal!!
report from Robin Gray - see also Nottm
Nottingham Robin Hood Marathon (13 Sep 2009)
Hendrik was 2nd over-all