Quote Originally Posted by Stick View Post
Gotta say though that I've never run the Ben just cos the top-lads are there and whoever mentioned this just before is either a darned sight more competitive and up-the-front than me, or hasn't run the race(?). It's great to line up with Ian, Simon and the rest but I'd be there whatever. It's big and tough enough to worry about on its own without thinking (too much) that I'm going trip one of the leaders up when I'm still struggling to get to see the top
I mentioned it and I'll still be in the last third of the field. I have run the "Ben" before and after the race said I wouldn't be doing that again! But I will be there this year. Races like the Ben are all about atmosphere, and brilliant venues with fantastic scenery and we continue to go back for all these things and more. (Best weekend away in the runners calendar) The top runners contribute as do the organisers with their slick organisation, venue etc etc. and the rousing send off from the pipe band is in a class of its own. But I still feel that if the elite runners are missing then part of that atmosphere is also missing.