Ace

This Really is the End

These are the final ones, I think. The quality is lower on these. Do not adjust your eyes. Sorry that I used the event as an opportunity to experiment with my camera on manual. (Last year’s pictures were on auto settings.) Those who know me will know that when I get idea, no matter how inappropriate, I have to see it through.

I can’t speak for other teams, but I’ve been a Croups member for over 10 years now, and I still learn things about my team mates. Who knew that Yvonne Bullen would drag nine innocent men to a night club for a boogie? (OK, seven innocent men and Dai Lloyd and myself.) Or that London ever-present and Gwent League unbroken-series man Jeff Aston would actually pass up running for something so trivial as cartilage problem?

Well done to North Fylde for finding Navigation Park. Also to Serpies for all their help and support. And to Bridgend for draughting in 2:10 marathon runner Steve “Brace the Race” on Thursday.

I think the most embarrassing picture below is of Cheltenham’s Richard, which is only partly the fault of his tartan shorts. Still, it’s as much as he deserves for abandoning a perfectly potable pint of Marston’s Fever Pitch in the Bull’s Head in Brecon (one of the best pubs I’ve come across in Wales).

Thanks again to all who took part, especially those who marshalled and set up ad hoc water stations. These were much appreciated. Most of you understand that supporting rival teams is integral to the spirit of the event. Can I just remind the team on board the bus on Stage 14 which attempted twice to feed its runners on the move, that this is not allowed. It is dangerous for the runner, holds up following traffic, and, if you wish to give out water, please give it to everyone. Also, we expect participants to be fit and prepared; no one should need to be hydrated only two miles into a leg. If they do, they should carry their own water, or consider a less taxing sport, like lawn bowls. That aside, you were wonderful guests.

I can only apologise for the delay on the results. Clearly they have fallen prey to the classic ‘Bad Wolf’ scenario. Perhaps they’ve been … oh, what’s that word again? Made in Cardiff, you know.

June 13, 2005

I’ve had to delete the larger versions of these as were running out of space. Sorry.

Posted by Dave at June 13, 2005 08:23 PM