Andy Hawkins reports....
On Sunday 2nd April I travelled to the White Horse Half Marathon which is near Wantage, Oxfordshire. The race was started in windy but sunny weather. I started off at a good pace, the leader was well away from the start. As the race progressed the pack I was in which included the first lady got smaller and we were slowly picking off the 3-4 runners in front of us. From about 6 miles the wind was in our faces and it was certainly strong. Then the rain came at just after 8 miles which lasted for a good 10 minutes, the rain was bordering on hail as the temperature dropped and ferocity was intense. We got to 11 miles and I was now 2nd with the first lady on my shoulder. The third and fourth men were only just behind. I got to 12 and dug in again, we started to drop the 2 men. In the end the first lady out kicked me with about 15 metres to go. My finish time was 1:17:29 (the weather cost me at least 90secs). The leader won with a time of 1:13:43.
Overall the race is well organised with a great course to go with it. It is practically flat with only 2 small climbs of railway bridges to negotiate. It is a pity that the weather intervened and ruined any chance of a PB, which I know I am in. However I am in good shape and hope to go well in London in 3 weeks time, weather permitting. I would definitely recommend this race to anyone and I may do it again next year.