A busy week ahead…
Once again, training is affected by other responsibilities.
The impending fielding of a fixture in the local league that brings all the clubs in the Bridgend area together was the focus. Preparations build in the final days up to the midweek event. A huge commitment for those devoting a great deal of time to organise. A huge commitment for those giving their time during the day and on the night to make sure things run smoothly. A huge commitment from the captains to organise a team from those who remain. A huge commitment from the runners to perform for the club and gain crucial points after an admiral performance in the first fixture.
Mother natures was on our side despite the forecast. The old adage “Proper prior preparation prevents poor performance” was observed to great effect. 261 runners started and 261 runners finished. Despite our commitments to organising and volunteering, the runners did us proud with incredible individual performances for a fantastic team score!
A very worthy hashtag for a job well done.
#proudPhoenix
Training resumes as a calmness descends. Smaller numbers attend as The Beast of Blackmill takes a toll on legs.
This doesn’t stop some attending other races as a couple travel to the capital to complete the next event in an increasingly popular series.
The pride from an incredible week is heightened by one of our number receiving another Welsh Athletics medal through the post for an admiral performance. Phoenix flying very high, again!
Friday night.
Lights out.
Saturday morning.
Wakey, wakey.
Alarms not required as body clocks detect the impending trip to a parkrun.
Home or away? That is the question…
Home for many. On the seafront and up the valley we get to start lines in numbers. Milestones were clocked up in number with celebrations all round.
Away locations attract others. Within our borders and “across the pond”.
All getting their 5k completed.
Clouds part and the sun pokes through to appropriately reflect the season.
Phoenix in numbers head down to the local country estate to chase Rabbits. Bunnies and toddlers took to the stage before their parents joined others on the start line to tackle a trail event with a multitude of different terrain. Many Phoenix flew the flag on the tough course with many fantastic performances and club cameraderie worthy of note. Sand dune descents that led many to “release the inner 8 year old” as they “helter skeltered” to the bottom. Mud, grass, tarmac and sand in varying quantities challenged all, culminating in a river crossing that saw some fall foul of an uneven river bed producing spectacular photos as a result! Smiling faces from all told the story of a job well done!
As the light fades and a new day dawns a few head down the coast to the west to complete a number of distances. Wether 10k, marathon or more, all completed their target with admirable endeavour. Medals earned.
And while all this happens our heroes still turn up to continue their journey!
It’s been a busy one.
It’s been a tiring one.
But The Phoenix endured.
Resilience.
Endeavour.
Commitment.
Grit.
Determination.
Pride.
Phoenix pride.
Continue to fly!
#lovethisclub
#loveourclub