I was looking for an opportunity to get some additional training for the London Marathon under my humps, so chose to do the Maidenhead 10 mile race on Good Friday.

What are these people doing? Where's my friend Humphrey?

The course was lovely and rural (with plenty of grazing potential). The start was very well organised but found myself at the back of the pack when the gun went off with so many places to make up. Not to worry I told myself there is 10 miles ahead. I started out at a steady 9 minute mile pace and quickly settled into a rhythm. At the 4 mile mark I was feeling strong and decided to pick it up a bit. I went through 5 miles in 45 minutes and was enjoying the fresh air and friendly marshals. They really looked out for me and warned me about the moss and narrow gates. There was a short stretch where we ran on the pavement which made overtaking a bit tricky and I nearly got my humps rapped around a lamp post! Whilst running down a narrow track I got one of my ears stuck in the hedge. I was quickly set free and continued at a relentless pace. I am still getting used to this whole running shoe business and had to stop to tie the jolly laces (a little tricky for me).

With two miles to go I stepped on the gas and was slipped a lucozade by one of my lovely supporters which kept me going. I took a final dash around the round about and headed for home, only 1 mile to go. The vocal crowd cheered me down the home straight and I went into full sprint mode trying to pip a few determined runners on the line....phew I managed 1:27:41 in 669th (and 670th place). Thats a PB for me! I was well pleased with the performance.

Well done to all the competitors (there was such good banter) and spectators who cheered us on. To those I passed, don't worry there is no shame in being beaten by a camel...remember you are all winners...well done to all! 

A big thank you to the race organisers and marshals for putting on such a great event and looking after me out there...I'll be back

Big Camel Hugs, Humphrey x

Links: Maidenhead Athletic Club, ProSportPhotos - Official Race Photo's

A few photo's taken by one of my fans, Chris Peters

The Start

Humphrey and his belly dancers

Give me a few more miles, he'll soon tire!

Final dash down the last mile