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Down Tow Up Flow
Sunday 24th July 2011
Julian H
What a splendid course! A point to point race from Marlow in Bucks to Windsorin Berks along the Thames Tow Path. The first three miles are spectacular - flat running next to the river as it curls around the high Chilterns escarpment known as Winter Hill. Then the route takes runners through the classic Thames-side village of Cookham, past the steep beech-covered cliffs of Cliveden Reach, through Maidenhead including running under Brunel's 'Rain, Steam, Speed' railway bridge, then through the flood plain of Bray and Windsor, past luxury homes with riverside frontages (including Rolf Harris's). Just when you are feeling you are out of steam Windsor Castle looms to put spring in your stride for the final furlong.
It was a hot day: the atmosphere was friendly; the river was beautiful. In spite of some kissing gates and steps at bridges, and some poor pacing (a big positive split), I got a PB of 1:40: 11. Unfortunately my brother-in-law had offered £100 to a charity of my choice if I broke 1:40. Next time perhaps....................
Julian Hardyman
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