September training camp 2013: a message from the Honorary Secretary
When is it?
Sunday 22nd September to Sunday 29th September 2013.
Where is it?
Basehead Lodge, Minehead, Devon Minehead is a reasonably large town (compared to most places we stay on training camp) and has shops, pubs, a beach etc. The area is great for running.
What is it?
A training camp prior to Michaelmas Term to kick off a top cross-country season for you and for Cambridge (i.e. one in which we take Oxford to the cleaners at Varsity). CUH&H organize two training camps a year, one in September (this one unsurprisingly) and one in January, in various locations around the UK. It'll be one of the cheapest and best weeks of your Cambridge career. If you want any recommendations, ask anyone who has ever been on a CUH&H training camp! The majority of people come for all, or nearly all of the week, but some people come for only part.
Typical training camp activities include: running (unsurprisingly), cooking, eating, sensible training, stupid runs (aka beast runs), silly games, speed scrabble (if your name is Pete or Polly), and some people have a drink or two, or nine. Given we're returning to Devon, I suspect there will be some surfing, and other beach activities. Basically, it's a week with the Hare and Hounds, what more do you want?
One thing I would like to highlight, is that training camp is for ALL abilities. For some reason, the name "training camp" and tales of the hundred point challenge have instilled a belief that training camp is only for guys churning out hundred mile weeks. In fact, I didn't actually run a step at January training camp, and I still had a great time (although admittedly, it would have been even better if I could have run as well...).
How much will it cost?
This isn't entirely fixed, and does depend on numbers. The food and accommodation bill is split and worked out afterwards, and is likely to be around £80 this year. Alcohol consumption is worked out separately and individually added on, as is any meals out etc. There is a £25 deposit to secure your place.How do I get there?
We'll come to this a little nearer the time, unless you want to get rolling on it now! Several people will be driving and so I will attempt to organize shared transport nearer the time. In terms of public transport, the best route as far as I've investigated is to get to Tauton by coach or train, and from which there are hourly buses to Minehead on a Sunday.PLEASE NOTE
The Southern road relays are the weekend of the beginning of training camp, where there are likely to be a few Hareys, so you might find that you're travelling across from Aldershot, not home.
And most importantly, how do I sign up?
I have prepared the below form for this very purpose (how very organised of me). Places are more limited this year, so get signing up as soon as possible before it fills up! Link here
Yours in Sport, Paul Hodgson CUH&H Honorary Secretary 2013-2014