Gosport Half Marathon is always a big occasion in the Crusaders’ running calendar – so what better way to reflect than with a Captain’s thoughts from after the race!
Hi again everyone
I’m writing this with a huge sense of pride after today’s 30th Gosport Half Marathon. It’s yet another day when I feel so honoured to know and be involved with such a group of inspirational and awesome people.
I’d like to start off by saying a huge ‘Thank You!’ to Gosport Road Runners, the race organisers and all their marshals today. They were a constant source of support and shout outs for Crusaders and all the other local clubs. It was also great to see so many Crusaders helping out on the lead bikes – well done all for giving up your time on such a horrible, windy day.
Another massive Thanks! to all the Crusaders, family & friends who came out to support us today. I really can’t express how much we all appreciated having you dotted around the route to cheer us on.
There was so much talk about the weather before today’s race. It was forecast to be gusts of up to 50 mph. The elements didn’t disappoint and lived up to their billing in gale force style. A minor detail in the grand scheme of things as so many Crusaders overcame this to demolish PBs. Brilliant stuff everyone! A special mention to Michelle Edmundson who knocked 27 minutes off her previous best, all after running a Brutal race 24 hours beforehand & well done to those who ran their first ever 1/2. Be proud of your achievements!
Everywhere you looked today there were Crusaders, all with a supportive shout, a wave or a friendly smile. It really does make such a difference to know we are all there for each other especially when we need to dig deep mid race.
As if 13.1 miles isn’t enough, there was a small band of merry Crusaders who ran to and from Gosport to complete a round trip of 24 miles. Great work ladies – all good preparation for the Portsmouth Coastal Ultra next month which promises to be another memorable day.
If people ever think running is a solitary hobby they are so mistaken and it’s days like today that show just how much team spirit and teamwork is involved in helping us achieve our goals. I don’t think a lot of people understand the concept of ‘Running Family’ but we all know exactly what it means and today it was perfectly exemplified by us all!
I’ve been looking forward to today for so long and it didn’t disappoint. To have so many Crusader PBs and the first 9 men breaking 90 minutes is a sign that things are going in the right direction for the club and for individuals and I have to thank all of our run leaders and coaches in helping us progress and smash our targets as a team.
I’m sure there will be many more PBs and good times throughout the year ahead. Victory 5 is next on the 6.12.15 – a lovely flat and thankfully much shorter race!
See you all there…
Happy running
Neil