A Dance with the Devil – Lunacy Runs.

It’s Saturday morning as I prepare my breakfast for the day ahead with some good muscle food. My mind focused on tomorrow morning’s event the name is in the title. 16 miles of the lovely Lincolnshire countryside in a loaded March 30lbs men 20lbs women – Tab – Yomp – Rucking – Hike whatever you prefer to call it.

You have the option of 8 mile or 16 mile I went for the latter option as it’s a distance I’m comfortable with. I would recommend 8 mile for most if they’re just starting out at these type of Events. I have done some of the more popular mainstream events https://paras10.com/http://thefandancerace.com/. Both of these draw large crowds and are good challenges for both Male & Female competitors.

Lunacy Runs is a new one for me and I relish the challenge ahead tomorrow with excitement and pre event nerves. The Race Director – Ally has placed a cut off time of 2:15 mins for the first 8 miles. If I am not under that cut off time my race is over.

I am starting to get my fitness back after 2 months out with health issues, my cardio is good but I’m short with my strength work, that may prove an issue in the last 3 mile who knows. Soon find out that’s for sure!

A good turnout considering the time of year and weather to be honest, I was informed the Race Director had messages to say competitors couldn’t make it for reasons unbeknown. A very friendly bunch indeed and I was made to feel very welcome from the off. The weather was well typical for the time of year.

A short walk to the start point from the Blacksmiths Arms in Rothwell ( superb food by the way ). The Race Director gave the warning stand by then moments later go, boy what a start it was too. This guy took off I mean sprinting the first 200 – 300 metres – initial thoughts he’s tapped in the head ( found out he’s ex Royal Marine explains it ).

The route has everything you could want a little road and track but the majority of it was trails. Lincolnshire is known for being pretty flat but Lunacy Runs pulled out a blinder with this route. Over 1000 ft in elevation doing the 16 mile – the last 8 mile is a reverse of the first 8 but self navigating. You’re given a map and numbers for emergencies but thankfully I didn’t ring for directions.

The conditions underfoot were horrific on the first 8 but the return was grim I’m not going to lie. Even with boots I couldn’t keep a good grip in the mud and wet grass making it physically more demanding of a challenge. This event by Lunacy Runs is harder than the Paras’10 at Catterick by a country mile or two at just 8 miles.

Anna Warner was the first woman competitor back in the 8 mile race and well deserved win it was too. A very strong performance and didn’t get drawn in by the quick start. Anna pictured left of centre before the start. The race pacer who was outstanding in the luminous top Verne is a genuine top bloke too. Race Marshals were superb giving each competitor great encouragement as they passed.

I have competed in some events over the years https://www.facebook.com/Lunacy-Runs-816840855020478/ is up in the top 2 for the challenge and zero litter policy by the Race Director. Only one other events company I’ve had the pleasure to take part in there 50 mile Ultra – The Highlife http://punkpanther.co.uk/

Lunacy Runs – A Dance with the Devil 10/10

The food at the this countryside pub is top drawer too after a hard challenging day out https://blacksmithsrothwell.co.uk/ worth it.

Lincolnshire be very proud.