RACE REPORT: Milkwood Half Marathon by Mark and Karen Jacobs

The year has kicked off with a number of official races, however this race (our first experience of the 21.1km) was closer to our heart inspiring us to do a short race report / experience.

The many 15km races in the weeks before put us in good stead to take up this half marathon challenge.

The registration and number collection experience were as smooth and efficient as you would get and a big thank you to the organisers and volunteers.

Back to race day, it was an early start as usual and the only plus being that the race was 10minutes from home saving some much needed sleep and avoiding the stupid O clock alarm.  😂

Car-pooling with our fellow club member Dominique, we arrived at the venue just before 6pm. Parking was in abundance however, it was a bit of a distance from race start. Sorry to hear that some people including a fellow FHAC members car was tampered with 😟.

The race started with a gees and it was wonderful to be part of the FHAC team who came out in abundance. The narrow exit from Soetwater did not dampen our and the runners spirits, notwithstanding that the weather played along as well.

Up Slankop was the usual struggle for us and most runners, but the hill preparation on all the club runs definitely paid off!

The first water station was a welcome relief after the 4km. The downhill into Misty Cliffs and Scarborough was a relief or an opportunity to make up some time 😂. The turnaround at Scarborough definitely came sooner than anticipated and it was great to see FHAC runners in the front runners pack. Kudos to the boys on winning the team award.

The second half of the race was a somewhat tough gradual uphill back which was eased by the spectacular views of the ocean and the mist haze on the mountain hence the name Misty Cliffs. On reaching the summit at Slangkop the race was nearly in the bag, the last leg into Soetwater should not be underestimated as it is an incline that asks questions. Thank goodness there was enough energy in our tanks to see us home strong 💪🏼

It was great to see the club Gazebo and indulge in the refreshments with fellow members.

Being back at Soetwater Resort triggered many a wonderful childhood camping memories. May this race be the first of many more memorable moments and experiences.

Thank you, Milkwood Run. See you next year!