Malvern Trails Half Marathon – 20th April 2024

Report by Clare Thompson

 

 

Having not run more than around 10k for several years due to various injuries thwarting my training, it was with some trepidation that I signed up to run the  Malvern Trails Half Marathon on Sat 20th April. The promise of fizzy wine and a hot tub in our accommodation after the event sweetened the deal as did the assurance that it was a fun, rather than particularly competitive event with no cut off time and plenty of walkers. I figured I should be able to safely get round with a walk/jog strategy.
I joined Steel City Striders at the beginning of February to help motivate me to get out a couple of times a week and have found everyone to be very supportive and friendly.
 The main goal of training was to arrive at the start line uninjured and despite only having managed 8 miles in training, my base fitness has definitely improved over the last couple of months.
With around 775m of ascent up and down the ridgeline of the Malvern Hills, this Half Marathon has a rather undulating but well marked course with a couple of aid stations on route. The first half winds through fields and pretty bluebell woodlands crossing multiple stiles before heading up on to the ridge line to tackle the steepest climbs of the day and the most spectacular views across Worcestershire and Hertfordshire. The last downhill mile is a steep quadbuster but a nice change after the hands on thighs uphill slogging.
The winner Ralph Skrimshire- Dark Peak Fell Runners (who also walked the steep bits) got round in 1:43:57 and first lady Rin Passmore in 2:06:2.
 I managed a much more sedate 2:41 but most importantly had a fun day and remained injury free.
Striders Results
Position Name Time Age Category
115 Clare Thompson 2.41.07 F45
Full results: here
Organised by Dave Talbot Events this is not a fast, flat half for a PB but it is a well organised, friendly event in a beautifully scenic location. We were very lucky with the sunny spring weather which made for some nice race photos which are included in the entry fee along with a medal and T-shirt.
Next years event is on Sat 26th April 2025.
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