BUCS 2025

Phil O'Dell | Monday, February 3rd, 2025

Two nights before – no sleep, just excitement and nerves

The anticipation started long before we even set afoot on the course. 2 nights before, no sleep, not for lack of trying but because of sheer excitement and nerves. I knew we had a great team with fantastic people, but after Varsity, my confidence as a coach and process had taken a knock. Can we rise the occasion? Could we prove ourselves again? Birmingham, Loughborough, Oxford, and the rest. These questions kept my mind ticking.

The journey – a relaxing but long trip

By 2pm on Friday, we went on the coach to Cardiff. It was a long journey but thankfully I had a good seat (though it was stolen on the return trip). The atmosphere amongst the team was excellent and there was a sense of quiet confidence. Conversations were positive, John was a calming presence as always. We discussed our plans in detail, making sure everyone knew their role and race strategy. Later, we relayed these plans, both individually and as a group, ensuring everyone was focused and prepared.

Hotel shenanigans – excited, nervous and noisy

The hotel was great (thanks Maia) but once again, sleep eluded me. The mix of excitement, nerves and let’s be honest, the noise from the room above me made sure of it. I’m convinced it was Dugre and Rob perfecting their afterparty dance moves. If that was the case, it didn’t affect their racing one bit, as they both put in stellar performances the next day.

Race morning – a tough blow for Tom

Race day started on a tough note. Tom’s knee injury had flared up and John had to have the discussion that it would not be wise to race. Seeing how gutted he was reminded me of one of the hardest parts of coaching – watching a dedicated athlete like Tom forced to sit out due to injury. But I know Tom, he’ll bounce back stronger.

The races – a day to remember

1) Short Course Women – a spirited start

The team spirit was incredible. The energy, the friendship and determination – it was all that, and the performance matched the mood. Aimi ran an unbelievable race, finishing 8th, and setting the tone for what would be a historic day.

2) Short Course Men – fighting to the finish

Up against a seriously high standard of competition, the men ran solidly, in fact better than solid. I haven’t seen the results yet, but I saw Alex sprinting to the line, while Lawrence sliced through the field like a knife. Tim and Elliot – so strong, exactly what we needed to build the momentum.

3) Long Course Women – WHAT A RACE!

The A team didn’t just compete for a medal, they WON! A BUCS title, a moment of history, Milly is still crying and so am I. Remember these names: Niamh, Bea, Poppy (Capt) and Milly. These names will be talked about in 20 years time.

4) Long Course Men – a massive step forward

After Varsity, I wasn’t sure what to expect. What am I talking about? I know we have good runners, but the improvement from Varsity was immense. Old Joe and Dugre put in special performances, leading a brilliantly executed team effort. The squad packed well, maybe 4th or 5th team. Excellent result.

Overall – a podium finish for the Club (if there was one)

Looking at the final results, we finished 3rd best Uni at BUCS. A remarkable achievement. Well done everyone! The celebration – a well deserved evening. After the day we had, there was only one thing to do: celebrate. I had a lovely dinner, went to the pub and then I went back to the hotel to watch Match of the Day, relive the highlights and enjoy the moment.

Sunday – a stroll through Cardiff

A perfect way to end the weekend – a relaxed Sunday morning walk, popped into Wetherspoons to say hello to some of the team, and visited the Cardiff Castle. A moment to reflect on what the team had achieved before heading home.

Final thoughts 

The weekend was everything the Harey’s BUCS Trip should be – team spirit, gutsy racing, and lots of fun. I had doubts after Varsity but this team and the weekend reminded me why I love coaching. Bring it on! My thanks to all the team who helped organise this weekend: Maia, Poppy, Max, Dugre etc…