So it was fortold by one of the hounds as we pessimistically eyed the darkening clouds. So dark it was that several hounds took the precaution of wearing head torches. (Seriously; in August!)
After the usual pre-amble including an unanswered (and unremembered) GM's question, a plea from Doris for the last hare for September and the Hares' instructions we set off on our choice of the 5 long short splits.
Walkers went straight through the park while the rest of us took the long way round. Lord only knows where we went but it was very pretty, largely off road, dark in some places and ideal for afletes to stretch their legs in other places. The hares found the only hill in Bovey and proceded to march us up and down it as many times as they thought they'd get away with. The sweetie stop was found by some but not all. Those with a short cutting character missing out on some very chewy gums. Your correspondent found himself too easily encouraged to partake of the dreaded “3rd long”. It's a good long run coaxed Melon Picker, and I fell for it.
By this time the heavens had opened; an hour ahead of schedule. So the cooling rain was beneficial on my now burning legs.
On finding the sign for PARKE we were all cock-a-hoop to be inside the last mile. Changing in the light drizzle proved very refreshing.
Back in the pub there were down-downs as per hash photos. The hares were congratulated on another terrific trail and merryment commenced.
OnOn
George Dent
Our latest Hashers enjoying their first Trail plus No69
