Flew down solo and stayed at The Ferntree Motel. Good sleep and arrived at start at 8am.
I then went on a very pleasant walk for 5k through the local national park. I joined the start group at 9.20. There were quite a few formalities as we heard from the train driver (and booed him) and Mike Brady sang the National Anthem. There were probably about 2500 entrants all crowded into the Main Street of Belgrave for the downhill start. The event has a very local village fair feel to it.
I started about 5 rows back and as soon as we started runners were off like jackrabbits. I stayed with the pace and almost got knocked over by a runner who suddenly stepped sideways to avoid a road barrier.
The first three k is steep downhill and I can through 5k in 19.33 which is faster than Parkrun on Saturday.
The long long hill begins to Menzies station. Last year I bonked on top and had to walk. I slowed a bit but still made steady progress and started overtaking runners.
The downhill was steep and I couldn't. go flat out. Soon we were on the rise to the top points and I knew from past experience that it was essential to get to the top before the train. So I powered on and overtook a lot of runners. No sign of the train though. I think I went over the points at 10k in 42.30.
That left 3.5k to go. Mostly gently down hill with a couple of rises. I tried to just focus on form.
Eventually crossed the line in 56.25 so the last 3.5k were at 4min/k. This was 2 mins faster than last year but 4 mins slower than 2012. The winner did it in 42 mins.
Felt ok at the finish and after a brief rest and a chat I started jogging back. This is the best way to see the train because you can go right next to the track.
Caught up with some other returning runners and we kept a good pace from Menzies crossing.
Back at the car at Belgrave just before midday. 27k all up. Felt a bit sore but ok.
Got a coffee and drove back to the airport for a 3.30 flight. Great experience.
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