It's been a wet and muddy today, slipping our way around 24.7miles of the Cotswold countryside, from Kemble to Lechlade.
We had an early start, with a 6.50am train from Sheffield, arriving into Kemble at 10am. Having read an article in the guardian (see here) about 3 Londoners running the Thames, I was rather apprehensive about finding the source of the Thames, a headstone in the corner of a field. Fortunately we had no problems; Pippa pointed out that this is likely due to the fact that we aren't those London types!!
There isn't any sign of the Thames at the source, but before long a small stream appeared. "Is that it?" Pippa exclaimed loudly. Yep, that's the start of the Thames! We've followed the Thames on and off through the Cotswold countryside, over many muddy fields and meadows, along bridalways, tracks and small country roads, plus a rather hair-raising 2km along the very busy A631!
We stopped for a quick lunch in Cricklade after 22km, in a quaint local cafe. After lunch we re-appeared into heavier rain with waterproofs on, ready to face the world and keep running! The mud certainly slowed us down, slipping and sliding across fields, following the river. We both chose to wear our road shoes. I had bought some trail shoes which might have been more preferable, but hadn't done enough mileage yet in them and didn't want to risk sore feet.
We rejoined the Thames just before Lechlade to find the river looking much bigger and muddier now. I could see the church spire in the distance and knew that our destination for the day wasn't far away! Phew! As my legs were feeling tired, I was slowing down and my right glut was feeling pretty tight!
We staggered into Lechlade after 4hr 32 of running, much quicker than I'd expected. It helps that Pippa is faster than me so I just followed behind, just keep on plodding! I've showered, cleaned some stuff, and stretched. Now it's time for dinner!
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