My Event Ratings

Overall score		40%
Would you do it again?		Maybe
Details:
Scenery		60%
PB potential		40%
Atmosphere		40%
Organisation		60%
Value		80%
Beginner-friendliness		80%

In short: Horrid weather dampened an otherwise straightforward 2-lap race
In full: Rain is never good news for any race, and so too for the debut year of Stevenage's new 2-lap course. Race HQ was cramped and services were overwhelmed, especially at the bag drop-off as everyone braved the rain at exactly the same time.
The starting-line gymnastics, combined with more than a handful of sharp, awkward turns throughout the course, were the only real negatives of an otherwise straightforward run.
The 2005 weather conditions made this an incredibly difficult course for a PB, but I'd hazard that there would be more personal victories if the weather was more accomodating.
This is not a terribly scenic race, and what you see the first time around makes a comeback on your second lap. There are some pretty patches, including a lake-side path which afforded a pretty panorama of the distant hills, compromised somewhat by an enormous factory with smokestacks in the foreground. Otherwise, the paths are good for running.
The race organisers put in a great effort, and deserve high marks for their spirit and endurance through the gales and drenching rain. It's one thing to be running through the weather; it's quite another to stand and get soaked by it whilst maintaining a smiling face.
Overall, not a particularly memorable run, but a fine way to spend a Sunday or get in some training.

Date of review: November 6, 2005

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Overall score		60%
Would you do it again?		No
Details:
Scenery		80%
PB potential		20%
Atmosphere		40%
Organisation		60%
Value		60%
Beginner-friendliness		40%

In short: A slog through tough countryside - don't be fooled by the track runner foto on the brochure!
In full: The 2004 race was dogged by bad weather, but it was always going to be a battle against the elements with this race. If you're out for a PB or even just a solid road race, this is definitely NOT the run for you: It's hilly, full of stiles, and very muddy if it's been raining. If getting down and dirty off the road is your sort of thing, then this give Clarendon a go.
Date of review: September 24, 2005

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