Sam was right and the hills until mile 15 are on a par with the Truro half.   However, the humour from the runners (especially the expletives that were uttered as some looked up and saw the next hill) together with the views across the moors and Coliford Lake - made it almost worthwhile!   I was relieved to get to mile 15 knowing that there was a flat 5 miles ahead and that I would soon see my children.  They were at mile 16 with supplies of gels and jelly babies and words of encouragement like ‘I hope you win’ and ‘run faster mummy’ – yeh right, I wish!    I saw them again at 18 and 21 before they headed off for the finish waving the ‘GO MUMMY’ flag out of the car window. 

 At mile 24 I hit the hideous hill, but surprisingly I still had something left to give so I gritted my teeth (which are now a couple of millimetres shorter!), put my head down and went for it.  I am sorry to say that I got quite a buzz from passing several runners who were struggling (which will probably be me next time!).  

 The finish was great – over half a mile downhill into Pensilva to the crowds that were waiting.  I had enough of my wits about me to see the finish line – unlike the Duchy where Mike had to escort me!  I was absolutely ecstatic finishing in 3.48 and next year I shall be wearing the 3.45 pace band.

 I was really impressed by the number of supporters out on the route – including many on bikes – words of encouragement do help to keep spirits and confidence high – so thanks!!

 Well done Dave, Steve and Graham - hopefully next year the Cornish will see a few more Carnies running!  Despite its reputation I would recommend giving it a go – it really isn’t that bad!

 A message for Steve who was playing it safe with bananas  – the lucozade tablets that I was trialling that day (yes I have read the books) did not give me the problems that you anticipated.  I munched through a packet and a half, four gel sachets, a packet of jelly tots and umpteen jelly babies!