A challenging run around Mapledurham, partly on country roads, partly through trails. Lots of mud and hills, so be prepared for a slippery course - trail running shoes are preferable. I wore some waterproof trail runners and managed to keep my feet dry. Race starts in a field around the Mapledurham house estate. The route takes a figure of eight course out through the country side to the east, back to the start, then out to the countryside to the west. Spectators emerge at the half way point, which is pretty much where you start from. The terrain was muddy and water-logged through out due to the amount of rain we'd had, plus it rained during the race which made it even more slippery. For the 10 mile course, there were 2 water stations serving water from plastic cups. Could have probably done with a 3rd station, but I can appreciate the logistical problems with the route. Finish is back at the start, good medals given out to the finishers (chunky, nice design, no expense spared!) and then it's off to the refreshments tent for the free mince pie and mulled wine. If it starts getting more popular I can see there being problems with some sections of the route where woodland trails restrict you to single file running - there will be an upper limit of the amount of runners the course can take I think... Overall a brilliant race, really well organised and plenty of marshalls out marking the route and directing runners, many thanks to all of them!