Steppingly Step Trail Marathon
3rd November 2013

Race Report - Steppingly Step Trail Marathon

The Steppingly Step is a very versatile trail run or walk covering 12, 18 or 26.2 miles (you choose) and goes through Sharpenhoe, Harlington, Westoning, Flitwick, Ampthill, and Greenfield (I think that's all of them!)

A beautiful sunny but blustery day meant that Noel, Bec and I had a fairly grippy trail which was great, especially as the first few miles took us up Sharpenhoe Clappers, a series of serious steps straight up a massive hill, this was a marathon with a difference.

We had been instructed to arrive with a cup and a compass (thanks to Alex Rothwell for lending me his!)  which meant it was the first time I had run with a backpack, almost straight away I was trying to adjust it to stop it rubbing on my neck, I never really got it right so something I need to work on there.

The scenery was stunning on most of the route, and we were running at a 'chatting' pace which isn't always a good thing when you are supposed to be reading a map!

The first checkpoint at 5 miles was a sign of things to come, a group of lovely ladies serving up tuna wraps, cake (of course) tea and squash and rice pudding and peaches. It was tempting to dig in but then you remember you are supposed to be running - I think this kind of food was more aimed at walkers - we did have a little go though.

As we got to each checkpoint the food got better and better, malt loaf, crisps, sandwiches, it was like a tea party, lots of jelly too.

Anyway, we picked up the pace a bit on the second half and were soon at the new Centre Parc perimeter, a huge site and our first look at it, a few lodges and some cranes so far, it looks far from ready.

Soon we were at the final checkpoint and only three miles to go, all flat so we pushed it a bit harder and maintained a reasonable pace until I tripped and fell at about 25 miles, on the mud though so the only damage was to my pride!

Arriving back at Barton Village Hall we were welcomed with yet more food, bean on toast, cake, mince pies and custard, and a wealth of other goodies (all I wanted was a cup of tea by this time!!)

A pretty tough run rewarded with some stunning views, fabulous food, lovely people and great company. Highly recommended at just £6 to enter (I don't know how they do it!)

Garmin running time 5,20 LDWA time 5,55 (included stops)

Sarah W