Sri Chinmoy 50 k

Post date: Dec 14, 2011 9:49:57 PM

As usual the Sri Chinmoy team had organised a tremendous event - the only thing they had forgotten to order was calm weather; the wind was 'Blusterly" to say the least.

By the time Val arrived at the Park the 100 km race was settling down. It was obvious to all watching that a race between two top athletes was unfolding, Malcolm Gamble (Australia) and Wayne Botha (New Zealand) were well in to their running and showing that they were organised, accomplished and determined. Malcolm was in the lead but Wayne was following along, both athletes were only concerned with themselves and were running well.

When the 50 km started Val raced off in to the lead and was never challenged, She was determined to beat her 2009 time of 4:22:34 but the wind was going to make this difficult- but not impossible.

Part way through her run her trustworthy crew (me) was enticed in to wobbling around the 2 k course for 5 laps to compete (complete) in the 10 km. During this time Val was ably looked after by Bryan McCorkindale another New Zealand 24 hour rep.

When her crew had recovered enough to take charge of the feeding station (I still haven't fully recovered) Val carried on running with dogged determination. Eyes set mouth closed no chat just running.

The 100 Km race was starting to get really interesting with Wayne slowly catching up to Malcolm and eventually passing him.

Val ran on - the wind strengthening so much it blew my chair over!

Clocks came out and Val ran to the finish

4:23:43 Just missed it but a good run never the less.

The Sri Chinmoy team gathered around Val and made her feel as if her efforts were all worth it.

The 100 km race continued to unfold but we had to return to Waikouaiti.

the results can be found here

http://nz.srichinmoyraces.org/chch_dec_11

aside.

If anyone is considering attempting to run a little farther than they are used to or even starting to run I strongly recommend any event that is organised by Sri Chinmoy - they leave nothing to chance and look after athletes they make every one feel special.