By Sue Urwin

We all met in the Corner House to collect our race numbers and use the facilities. Not a drop of alcohol being purchased at this point by us athletes!

Then off we set to the start on Armstrong Bridge. Being called forward by the officials with five minutes to go, there was a sea of assorted club vests to behold, and the sound of happy chatter to be heard. We had one minute’s silence to remember Anita, who was a well loved Heaton Harrier.

There was a little breeze on the bridge, but perfect running conditions, so much better than the scorching temperatures of the previous year.

We were quickly sent on our way, firstly into Jesmond Dene, where we enjoyed the undulating terrain, woodland steps and a little dark tunnel. Although the Dene was challenging, this was nothing compared to the hill that was waiting for us in Heaton Park.

So over the bridge and into Heaton Park we went, hitting the hill almost immediately.

On and on it seemed to go, the effort made a little sweeter by the lovely supporters cheering us on along the way. I had only just started my hill climb, when, whoosh, the first runner passed on her way to the finish. It wasn’t long before she was followed by our lovely DVRC speedies. One thing about an out and back, is you see your club mates and get a shout from them to keep going up that hill.

Eventually, I made it to the top of said hill, and back down we went, retracing our steps.
I can’t lie, was lovely to see that bridge again, this time leading to the finish line. Such a buzz as always to finish a race, especially a fast one, (fast for me anyway)! Buzz was extended when offered chocolate from Heaton Harriers .

What was not to love? DVRC camaraderie, perfect running weather, chocolate, oh and a little run too.

Heaton Harriers, I will be back next year!