Preparing for the National Event

This weekend sees the first national event of the year and being just south of London, it's fairly handy for SOC members. It's probably the first big event of the year for most people in the club and so one to get right.

How can you help yourself before you go?
Despite not running at the event (the bump is getting a bit too cumbersome these days!) I've dug out the maps from when Dave and I last ran there and had a think about how I would have prepared. So, here's a few ideas:

If you have an old map ...

• Highlight the index contours on an old map so that you can easily see the lie of the land. The contours look a bit confusing on this map so it will be worth having a feel for the ups and downs before you pick up the map in the start lane
• Look over your route choices from last time you were there and see if there's anything you can learn from them

And if you don't ...

• Take a look at the satellite photos of the area available on google maps.
  
• Be prepared to run up and down a few hills: the area is pretty undulating and, last time I ran there, had a fair amount of green forest, so could be quite tough on the quads!
  

Being prepared can save you a great deal of time so make sure you read the final details on Friday or Saturday evening and allow yourself plenty of time to get to the start, especially as they're operating buses.

Enjoy!
Christine