Seven Go To Bark Chip Heaven

That's two Wednesdays in a row now, where simply stunning sunsets have greeted us at our base. Maybe better than last week yesterday, as some almost edible pinks and peaches stretched through the sky above. Not long now until we're meeting in the dark, lets savour these sumptuous days.

We skipped the warm up this week, I wouldn't normally capitulate so easily, but then again, when you run 26.2 or 16 miles, you get to call some shots. We headed straight off to Manorfield, chatting away on route. This week's RWQ, well there was two actually, "what's your proudest sporting achievement?" turned out to be mostly last weekend's runs, as one would expect. Also threw in "if someone had a gun to your head and made you get a tattoo, what would you get?" Poppy, Canadian Maple Leaf and "I'd let them choose, because I'm too indecisive" were some of the answers.

Was a warm nostalgia getting back to Manorfield, I haven't been there since Jan '20. We caught up with the convivial caretaker, Andy. Then set about our task; filling up a few ballasts, then scattering wood chip around the garden. I think we were working for circa forty minutes, but we managed to do loads. Put down three whole tonne bags of wood chip, that's a fair amount, also wrapped up the ballasts in no time.

As I said, it's fantastic that we're back there now, I'm going to try and lock in a few more session this year with Paul. Next week we go to the young person's nature charity, Get Out, over in Newham Hamlets, as it's been coined. Sign up here for midweek fun.

Before I sign off, just want to say how impressed I am with all the long runs this weekend. When I first met some of you, I think you would've scoffed at the idea of running so long. What a remarkable transformation over the last few years, to now be able to run for 3 or 4 hours, that requires superb physical endurance, sure, but mentally; the grit and perseverance, the ability to withstand discomfort to reach your goal, that's not an easily picked up skill. It's been a real pleasure to witness that transition. Now book your next goal in - Hampstead Heath Parkrun, anyone?

Till next week

B