Newcastle Town Moor Mooathon and Half Mooathon on 7 November 2021 - Pat Kelly

It has been a mixed few weeks.  On Tuesday I returned home after an unexpected overseas trip, and on Wednesday I received an email from the organisers of the Lanzarote Marathon due to be held in December 2021 that it was cancelled and they were refunding race entry fees. 
The unexpected overseas trip had also affected the training for the Lanzarote Marathon, so unsure if the cancellation was a blessing in disguise.  It was disappointing and a relief at the same time.
From a Facebook page, I noticed the North East Marathon Club had organised a Marathon/Half Marathon for Sunday 7 November on the town moor.  Preferring the training not going to waste, I entered the half marathon.  The last time I ran the race was in 2015 and this was ran in almost tropical conditions.  The 2021 race was the first race I have competed in the UK for some considerable time.
The weather on Sunday was totally different to 2015 and was certainly not the best running conditions.  The Town Moor was very cold and very windy.  I do not think there was anywhere on the course where the wind was not blowing in your face.  Certain parts of the course were blowing you off the paths that cross cross the Town Moor.  Dressed in a Birtley Vest and shorts, when all of the locals strolling on the moor were dressed as if they were going on an Antarctic expedition was a strange experience.
The race was three and a half laps of the Town Moor, following in part the Parkrun course.  It was well marshalled by volunteers from the NEMC and a local scout group.  The laps were chip timed so I look forward to seeing the splits.  The final lap was slower than the rest due to a combination of the cold and cramp.  I did not take any fluids on board during the entire race – very bad move.  Many thanks to all at the NEMC for making the race happen it was an enjoyable experience.
On finishing the race was given a medal – picture below.  I love it – totally original.  I was happy with the time to complete the half Marathon – it was where I expected it to be, with room for improvement.
 
On reflection was it the Town Moor Mooathon and half Mooathon?