My Event Ratings

Overall score		60%
Would you do it again?		Yes
Details:
Scenery		40%
PB potential		100%
Atmosphere		60%
Organisation		80%
Value		80%
Beginner-friendliness		80%

In short: They don't get much flatter than this but ....
In full: A flat course with not even the slightest gradient, though not particularly scenic or interesting. Not sure I liked the two out-and-back sections where you double-back on yourself and get to see how far you are behind the front runners. While without doubt a very flat course, it does quickly run into completely open and unsheltered countryside, once you're clear of the village, and if there's a strong wind (and today it was a belter!) you get the full brunt of it and significantly slowed by it - just look at the winning times ! - I myself was about 3 mins outside my current capability. Well organized, marshalled and a very friendly (almost homely) atmosphere. The Thorney club and villagers clearly put a lot of effort into this event. On a calm, warm day this would make terrific PB potential. Overall a well run event that deserves good support. Shame about that damn wind !
Date of review: March 28, 2010

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Overall score		80%
Would you do it again?		Yes
Details:
Scenery		80%
PB potential		40%
Atmosphere		60%
Organisation		80%
Value		100%
Beginner-friendliness		60%

In short: Tough (with those two monster hills) but very scenic and rewarding run
In full: This is not a PB type of course (those two killer hills will see off many valiant attempts) but who wants to run flat courses ALL THE TIME ? - sometimes it's just nice to run a race that's a little more challenging with interesting scenery, character, a friendly atmosphere and good organization. The Fraction has those things in spades. A great course that has you running along the canal towpath for 3 miles of it and journeys through some nice villages. Very well marshalled throughout with a great olympic-style finish running a lap and a bit around the stadium track (complete with applauding spectators) just when you need that final push. All round great race for all levels of ability, though beginners might find it a baptism of fire. Definitely want to repeat this one.
Date of review: March 7, 2010

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

In short: Moderately tough half, not particularly scenic and some tricky off-road sections. Excellent organisation and very friendly.
In full: We were unfortunate enough to catch the tailend of a nasty storm that battered France overnight. This made it a cold, damp and windy outing. Consequently the off-road sections, in particular the viking way, which is tricky to negotiate at the best of times, was made even harder going - very muddy, slippy and uneven for a good 1.5 miles - in true cross-country style. Route is mostly road and has a fair few long modest gradients, though nothing seriously tough, but a tad monotonous for my money. Start and finish sections (about half a mile) also on grass, which was a bit slippy. Very friendly, encouraging support and particularly well organized with generous goody bag and t-shirt. Decent parking though limited changing and toilet facilities. Not ideal PB material but would be worth the effort in good weather.
Date of review: February 28, 2010

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