NWFPAC ‘Michael Page’ Championship 2023 – Race 3: Brun Valley Trail 10k

A beautiful Sunday morning welcomed the NWFPAC faithful to Brun Valley, Burnley. It was a tough race for ‘The Gaffer’ Simmons as his allegiances were split. For the first time ever (including work functions) I saw him without his NWFPAC vest on! Instead he wore his Prestwich Athletic Club one but don’t worry, he still had the green hoody of dreams on so people could recognise him as he patrolled the 3 mile long queue to get your race number.

All made it to the start on time apart from Mike, who would’ve finished 3rd were it not for his late start running back to the car after collecting his number. That being said, it did mean he could avoid the toilets of death and lapped up the luxury at the Premier Inn, so don’t feel too sorry for him.

He was not the only one with sat nav issues. I was just simply delighted to see my car still with wheels on after the race after parking in the middle of a slightly dodgy looking estate. £2.50 saved and once again us wealth managers locate excellent value – ps Dave said he would refund everyone who paid £2.50 the 50p from his false car park advertising; what a guy!

I thought it was a good course, apart from the longest hill being on a road with a very narrow pavement that was persistently blocked by a 40 year old PE teacher from Burnley who was determined to sprint then walk in perpetuity. I mean, I am an average at best runner, but even I know that is not a good idea! I was happy to beat him in my first ever ‘I am going to beat that person if it is the last thing I do’ moment in a race.

Some excellent performances from everyone, including an overall 3rd from Steven Henderson. Charles ‘Consistency’ Singlehurst snatched an overall 6th, with Sam Vincent completing the podium with an overall 12th. Great effort all.

Special mention to Sian as the only female participant from the group and also Aid Rogers who I was just glad to see again after his Thursday night Schloss then Friday morning 60 mile cycle double of death.

Well done everyone!