My Event Ratings

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

In short: Cheap n cheerful!
In full: This is a 'little race' with a big heart. I originally signed up for this as I couldn't make any local half-marathons in the spring. And in hindsight it was a great decision! Compared to the other big races I've attended in the past this was much more low key given the 500 or so field. Despite that it offers all the same amenities as a larger race but with a much warmer friendlier atmosphere. Highlights are the scenic towpath route, souvenier glass and excellent encouragement from the marshalls. A well organised race that is perfect for those who want to push on from a 10k.
Date of review: April 26, 2011

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

In short: My 1st GNR. I hope to come back again.
In full: Only my third half, but definately my favourite so far. The atmosphere at the start is amazing, and the support from the locals is a massive boost, everything from oranges and extra drinks to high-5s and hose-pipes. The route isn't the prettiest but that is more than made up for by the atmosphere and the organisation.

I'd have to agree with other posts that the course elevtion map seems tame on paper, but it really takes it out of you on the day, especially that last climb before the drop to the sea. That said, 45s off my PB (more if I deduct my 'pit-stop') so I was well chuffed.

My only gripe would be the unrealistic times people seemed to believe they would run. I'm no speed demon (green bib), but people allocated in my 'pen' were walking after 2 miles and really clogging up the road.
Date of review: September 22, 2010

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

In short: Weather and some poor organisation made this a race to get over and done with asap
In full: The build-up didn't start well when the route had be to changed due to safety concerns - a dissapointment as I was looking forward to a cliff-top run. As it turned out the weather meant that any delusions of taking in the scenery were put to bed swiftly. It was soon clear this was a race to get round asap and get out of the driving rain and winds. The dampening of the spirit was heightened by some aspects of poor organisation: most mile markers were absent, and the start/finish area was chaotic at best.
Date of review: February 27, 2010

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