BUCS Cross-Country Championships, 3 Feb 2024

I can't really decide whether my feelings about this race are positive or negative. I went into it with months of interrupted and injury-ridden run training and the pressures of being on the A-team. I came 40th last year and thought I could push for a sub-50th this year under the circumstances, but trailed in at 74th. I never got into rhythm and the majority of the race was a big mental struggle to dig deep. I also lost a shoe on the first downhill which cost me 20 seconds (according to Strava). But, I also went out hard, something which I'm normally too conservative (scared) to do. The course was proper tough cross-country, full of hills, haybales and mud above the ankles, which normally plays to my advantage. It was lovely weather and the team atmosphere was incredible - not just among the Durham team but with all athletes cheering each other on around the course. I hope to be back to get revenge next year.

Ophelia Vesely