Yesterday I was official pacer for someone making their race debut. Luckily, despite slightly sore legs from a 14 mile run earlier in the day, I was able to fulfil my duties sufficiently to be awarded a post-race cuddle. I was even allowed to share some of her popcorn. My just-turned-four year old, dressed as a horsie (not a horse: important distinction, apparently) her older sister (pirate) and I (panda) all took part in the Trick or Treat run in Richmond Park.

There were a series of races through the day – a 10k in the morning, then 5k or 2k option in the afternoon. We opted for the 2k, and got to chose the trick or treat options at the end – two different finishing lines according to your tastes. Can’t say I saw anyone chose the trick one, but perhaps some of the older participants went for that. My girls were very excited that they got proper medals, in the shape of a pumpkin, which also, cunningly, turns into a badge. Oh, and that they beat Darth Vader.

The race had a wonderful family atmosphere, no one cared – or even knew – about times and the marshals were all brilliantly dressed up as zombies/pumpkins/misc scary creatures. The fog certainly added a touch of drama to the ghoulish costumes – and made the rest of my weekend running rather lovely too. I tried to do the most cross country route I could manage for my long run and it was wonderful crossing Wimbledon Common and Putney Heath in that eerie whiteness. If anything, the view from the offices in Kings Cross right now is even whiter, so I will be trying not to fall into the canal at lunchtime.

So as always, I wanted to hear about your weekend exploits. I can’t believe it’s a year since I did New York marathon – I know a few regulars were running it yesterday, let us know how you got on.

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