Last week we hosted runners from across the local area in an evening on the trails. The clear weather and dry conditions underfoot brought guests galore to our door, including large numbers from Watford Joggers, Leighton Buzzard AC, Bedfordshire Trail Runners, Gade Valley Harriers, and Shenley Striders, as well as some non-club members.
Despite no official count, it’s likely that over 100 set off, with many groups having about 1/3 haling from Tring RC. Groups had around 20-30 runners! This year’s Beacon Award winning member Brian (Ryan) led the “13s”, pictured here by the cricket club.
Departing from the clubhouse led to a Tring takeover on the streets before groups headed off-road to enjoy what remained of the sun and this year’s bluebells.
Most groups seemed to all set off in the same direction from the clubhouse and from there towards Dancersend and Wendover Woods. This led to a bit of “friendly” congestion on the shaded paths within Pavis Wood.
The zebra stripes were out in force and helped identify our members, who were fabulously outnumbered by guests. This group of “12s” got away from the hustle and bustle with what looks to be Hastoe Hill.
The “10s” included many a Jogger and a John fresh from Australia. Meanwhile, taking in the waters around the reservoirs away from the crowds were the “11s”.
Unable to avoid the crowds, the “8s” found gates to be particularly challenging at keeping the group together. 32 runners got so caught up in the beauty of the evening trails that at one point the group split in half and no one seemed to notice. It was fortunately reunited and no one was to blame.
As the sun set, the staggered return of groups to the cricket club helped to avoid lengthy queues at the bar, where plenty of people stayed for a post-run pint of Tring’s local beers or something just as refreshing.
Tring Running Club would like to thank everyone who joined us, all the members who led groups on well planned routes, and especially everyone who stayed for a chat afterwards. We look forward to seeing you soon at one of our events!