Langsett Reservoir in South Yorkshire is wonderfully scenic in the summertime, the sun glistening off the crystal clear and tranquil water, paths meandering through gorgeous forest glades, a gentle hike up to the high ridge overlooking the reservoir with a panoramic vista of the beautiful surrounding countryside.

In the dark, wet, and cold depths of Winter, though, it is a haven for marauding gangs of bloodthirsty zombies, picking off poor unsuspecting visitors who dare to brave the harsh elements alone, or in bite sized groups of 2 or 3.

My first race of 2020, and 49th in total, was a battle of survival over 5 laps of the Langsett reservoir. It was cold and raining at the start with over 300 runners aiming to make it intact through 26 miles to claim a medal, chocolate, and beer as their rich reward.

Lap 1 was a sighting lap to survey the course and any potential zombie traps. The first mile or so was a gentle climb along soft trails before heading down several hundred metres of thick gloopy mud to the foot of the hill. 

The remains of some unfortunate souls was a sobering reminder of what awaited those who stumbled and sank into its boggy grip. Bordering this swamp, dense blankets of razor sharp thistles trapped the nervous who tried to tiptoe down along the edge. The only sensible approach was heads down kamikaze straight through the middle, kicking aside any flailing hands that emerged from the mud trying desperately to pull you down to a early grave. 

Click the link below to continue reading.. if you dare!