Liverpool 8: A Holy Row

Date: 20 April 2006

In an attempt to shoe-horn some marathon training into the remaing couple of weeks before the London Marathon, Steve took to the streets of Seville during the Liverpool 8 training camp. Deciding that early morning was the best option to avoid the bustle of the daytime crowds, he set off in his attempt to add some much-needed miles to his running total.

Just getting into his stride, Steve looked into the distance and was somewhat intrigued to see a group of spires seemingly moving towards him. Squinting to get a better view, alarm took hold as the picture took shape. A large group of cone-shaped hoods atop full length white robes were all marching intently in his direction.

Transfixed, Steve watched as one group after another appeared over the horizon, identical in every way except colour, all equally intent on their quest. Soon the road ahead was transformed into a stream of religious fervour.

After initiallly wondering if he had been chosen to bear witness to an alien invasion of the roads of Seville, Steve remembered that this was Holy Week. These were just a few of the thousands of church members that would parade their way to the Cathedral for the celebrations. Somewhat relieved, Steve continued with his morning exercise!

Back at the training camp, the Liverpool 8 teams were quite taken with their new environment with the most common request of the week being, "Can we do all our training here?"

Preparing for the Nottingham City Regatta, the teams were concentrating on speed and distance. Having acclimatised to their new surroundings, everyone made good progress and looked forward to the next challenge.

With the training complete, the Regatta offered the chance for the teams to measure their progress. It also allowed the Liverpool 8 to preview the teams that will be competing with them at the qualifying stages of the Henley Royal Regatta.

Entered into various categories over the course of the weekend, the teams did well and came in at 50th at the 8th head of the river, which, Steve reports, is good and bodes well for their next challenge.

Jacqueline Alexander

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