Race Report: St Ives Bay 10k
On the 11th July four intrepid STARCies ventured west for the St Ives Bay 10k. The race had been billed as a testing all off-road beach and dunes 10k, so after battling the traffic we were all excited for the challenges ahead. The rain held off and although a bit blustery at times, the sun shone on the assembled 123 eager participants.
Beckie Shore
11 July 2023
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At 7pm we were off, along the golden sands that stretched far into the distance, plenty of time to enjoy the views, we soon gained our rhythm as we headed towards Godrevy Lighthouse. Nearly 3 miles later a right turn took us up onto the Towans. The water stop around mile 3 signified we were about half way. The undulating twisting mostly sandy paths of the Towans provided a welcome change of scene especially when the large number of marshalls in their brightly coloured vests marked every twist and turn providing a running "dot to dot" across the terrain. With the final turn the infamous Dune of Doom appeared. A steep sandy incline the energy sapping dune was summited (no problem for STARCies after the steps at Porthpean/Pentewan), then down the deep soft sand and back onto the beach for the last 1.25 miles. The sand now seemed wetter and more rippled making running more draining. The finishing tent in the distance seemed like a mirage. 70 metres shouted the Marshall but felt more like 700 but we crossed the line, medal gained. Now to the conveniently located Cove Café. Excellent results with James Youlden coming in 3rd in 42:07, Tom Halton 47:45 and Emma and I in a respectable 1:12:48 and 1:14:46. A great race in a stunning location. Hayle Runners were excellent supportive hosts. Definitely one for the diary next year.