21 September 2014
All excited (like I am before any O event!) I embarked on my journey to London for the annual City of London race. I had decided not to compete at Guildford due to injury and age!
We (Stephen Mallison, Andy McNally and I) were lucky enough to book into Wellington Barracks on the Saturday night which meant I could open my curtains and see 'Lizzy (aka - The Queen) from my dorm window on Sunday morning! The view was delightful, sunshine and the Palace, stunning.
After enjoying a lovely Chinese in Chinatown the night before I felt well prepared (I omit the four beers and red wine!) for the task in hand. We set off early to experience the great atmosphere that we always witness at these events. We were not disappointed - there were lots of WIM and WSX guys milling around the assembly and it was great to see everyone. I had an 1100 start and I set off eager to do well, after all, I had a second place title to defend from last year. Even more poignant was the fact that this year was my last in the WO race!
Part of the Women's Open course
I had a steady start which took me straight into the Barbican. I was nervous about this place after the horror stories from two years ago, but managed to hit my second control on the nail. This gave me huge confidence that I had this placed sussed out!!
I made my first 20 second mistake around St Pauls' choosing to head East around the building until I realised there was a tiny uncrossable wall. I recovered quickly and pushed through the streets with ease.
Forward planning, I could see the Barbican beckoned once again! Slowly, slowly I whispered to myself and luckily it paid off. Some sound route selection saw me land on my control number 16 with only a minor detour! My route selection to 18 was poor, probably costing me a minute, but it served well for a later route choice.
It was outside the Barbican that cost me the most. The North West area of the map caught me out costing me about 2 minutes - I was complacent! (When will I ever learn!).
As I made my way back into the Barbican I knew I must stay composed despite my fatigued body and mind!! I made a couple of wise decisions bringing me onto the final control in good order. The final sprint was epic! I ran my socks off.
I write this as I await the results of another brilliant London City Race. I left the event in second place but where will I end up?
I must now rest (yes, that means NO running) until I have recovered from my hamstring injury..........!!
Sally Calland
SLOW website - London City Race 2014
Chris Branford adds:
Having now looked at the results from the London Urban Race the following need to be congratulated on their results as there were about a thousand competitors taking part. They were among a large group of WIM members competing.
Sally Calland 4th Women's Open
Andy McNally 4th Men's Open
Kirsty Staunton 4th Women's Super Vets
Sue Hands 4th Women's Utra Vets