Marathon Day 11, Saturday March 26th - Norwich, Eaton Park

I should have stayed in bed!!!!!

Up early (no change there then) and did second recon of the venue.  Eventually found it - one entrance suitable for large vehicles, one that was not. Guess which one we had to use!
Difficult narrow, angled entry with centrally located tree to avoid and tall fairly narrow wrought iron gates and tall brick pillars. Everything fine until rolled up awning cover along left hand edge of roofline caught (ever so slightly) on top overhanging capping on the left hand pillar. Slight damage to awning - close inspection revealed that it had already been patched on several previous occasions. Sorry - no photos - too embarrassed at the time!

First low point in the tour for me - must shake it off.

Andy was running the first 5k with over 200 fun runners as part of their organised event.

 Set up in the Park!

So we set up the as usual and for the first 35+ minutes, Andy had lots of company.

Pre-race address by Andy (it made him feel important!)

. . . . . and a close-up!

As the race started, Andy pleaded with the runners around him "please, don't tread on or kick my ankles". A clean start and a steady race followed for Andy.

The start - quite a difference!

The winner completed the course in 16mins 15secs, the last finished at 38mins and Andy did a sensible 31mins.

The Winner!

Andy carried on, ably accompanied by a fellow runner Chris Best from Otley Athletic Club and completed the run in 6hrs 53mins.

I should perhaps mention at this stage the additional duties that I am expected to perform!  Err, Ray - The Loo's blocked in the RV!!!

So I donned Sophie's blue marigolds and set to work with various implements to remove the blockage, caused , I believe by over zealous use of (the wrong type of) toilet tissue.

Finally succeeded in clearing it and specific instructions issued regarding future procedures. lol.

Just call me Dynorod Ray!!!

Packed up and exited park without incident and commenced our 40 mile journey to  Soham where we were staying the night.  All went well until I approached a major rbt on the A11 with the satnav telling me one thing and the signposts and  brain telling me another. Unfortunately, this confusion resulted in me crossing the path of a Vauxhall Astra and damaging the rear inside panel with a glancing blow from my bus! Damage to the offside front of the bus is minimal, requiring a little GRP work and repaint. Damage to the Astra was slightly more severe but was limited to the rear, nearside panel I believe.  However, everyone OK and with details exchanged, we proceeded on our way. God - I felt low - two in one day!!! 

When I arrived at our resting place for the night, I have to say that  Barry the Project Director was magnificent in his understanding and support (as were the rest of the team) and for that I am extremely grateful. Thanks Guys.

The day concluded with a a stir fry for everyone, prepared and cooked in the RV kitchen - quite a therapeutic exercise for me which took my mind off the events of the day.

The evening concluded with an early night, a bit of blogging with not even the boisterous smokers in the pub smoking area outside our rooms disturbing me - I slept well. 

Please God for a better day tomorrow!!

Benji's Blog

Daddy's in Norwich today, that's number 11 on your map.

I hope you're sticking the pins in the right place or else you might think I've got lost!

The weather has been very cold today and I had to wear lots of warm clothes. I wish I had brought my hat, scarf and gloves with me.

I hope tomorrow is warmer and I can wear my shorts again.

I know you have your party tomorrow - I hope you enjoy it.

Love you.

Daddy

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