"Split Rock", Cootamundra. M55AS / Course 17: 3.9km, +100m, 10c. 1st/15 (1:29 ahead of David Jenkins ACT). Third national title for the year to go with the Middle (M45AS) and 3-Day (M55AS) wins from April in WA. A bit of a runners' course, so it suited me. Nearly blew the race on #5. Poor plan. 18°C. TE 3.4.
#1 - From fence corner dropped down to WC then followed to top. Spotted clearing and rocks just beyond. #2 - Straight just over ridge. #3 - Fast. Followed fence to obvious open area. Distracted by other runners and drifted a bit left and below control (lost 1:15). #4 - Straight. #5 - Drifted left across the open area and misread which bare rock I was on. (Kangaroo!) Relocated from track behind control (-4'). #6 - End of narrow open area. #7 - Traverse then descent to edge of boulder area. #8 - Fast. Skirted foot of hill. #9 - Fast. Track to gate then straight to boulders above waterhole. #10 - Fast. Followed tracks. #F - Fast uphill (sub 3 min/km). Best legs: #1-3, 6, 8-9, F (1st/15). Led at every control, although only 8s up at #5.
Relive:
https://www.relive.cc/view/v36ArrJDKZq