Seven go (running) mad in Dorset

On an awfully cold and wet Friday evening Andrew, Catriona, Ellie, Johnny, Rebecca, Sarah and Will pitched their tents in a farmers field to create a GG H&F encampment at the East Farm White Star Running festival.

After lashings of ale and several games of Dobble in the event marquee (beer tent) followed by a chilly nights sleep, the happy campers awoke to a sunny Saturday morning. 9am saw the start of the marathon. 9.15am saw the start of the half marathon with Polly (wearing rather splendid Hen party attire), Will, Catriona and Andrew representing GG H&F. The four lap course comprised tough climbs and scenic farmers' fields. Meanwhile Sarah, Rebecca and Johnny headed off to run in the nearby parkrun in Blandford Forum.

The parkrun posse was back in time to see Paul Bown (GG trainer for Camden & Islington) win the half marathon and our Polly win the women's title. Andrew, Will and Catriona crossed the line soon after to claim their race goodies - race medal, beer and Dorset biscuits - and a well earned ice cream. After cheering on the remaining runners, the GGers headed off for a jolly good lunch at the local pub for lunch.

6.30pm marked the start of the 10km featuring Johnny, Rebecca, Ellie and Sarah. Johnny's rather cheeky shorts raised chortles from the spectators. All put in jolly good efforts to complete the two laps and collect their race goodies. The evening saw a most tasty BBQ and scrumptious cake for Sarah's birthday rounded off with more Dobble. Next morning the rain returned with a vengeance but this didn't stop GG West from completing 21 laps in the 12 hour Frolic event. Respect!

Whilst they didn't find any secret passages or smugglers, all agreed it was a positively ripping weekend and highly recommended for next year.

Report written by Sarah Wren and Johnny Wren (with apologies to Enid Blyton!)