The Exmoor (A pupils insight)
By Arthur R. Yelics
Numerous students embarked on the Exmoor adventure with eagerness, prepared to trudge through 8 miles to reach the starting line. However, what awaited them can only be described as a series of unfortunate events. As they gathered at the start line, anticipation mixed with a hint of trepidation, only to be met with unexpected delays. The late start to the long run set the tone for what would become a challenging journey.
Navigating through the course proved to be no easy feat. Some of the hills were unexpectedly ploughed, presenting obstacles that tested the students' endurance and determination. Despite braving the rough conditions, their efforts seemed to be undervalued when they received tokens that failed to accurately represent their positions. The disparity between the rewards for long and short runners left many feeling disheartened and unfairly treated.
The long Exmoor route, comprising an 8-mile walk out followed by a 10-mile run back, demanded significant physical and mental resilience from the participants. However, any sense of accomplishment was overshadowed by the disappointments encountered along the way. With each setback, the runners persevered, hoping to at least enjoy the promised reward of free flapjacks upon completion.
Yet, to their dismay, the anticipated flapjacks were nowhere to be found. Despite scouring the vicinity of the school grounds, there was no sign of the promised treat. Instead, a conspicuous stall laden with food greeted them, albeit at a cost. This unexpected turn of events left the exhausted school children feeling disillusioned and disheartened.
In a move to validate the sentiments expressed, our student-led newspaper conducted a poll within the school community. The results were telling. The average rating for the Exmoor experience was 3.88 out of 5, indicating a mixed reception. Notably, 38% of respondents rated it a commendable 4 out of 5. However, a staggering 95% of participants voiced their dissatisfaction with the exorbitant 2 pound price tag attached to the flapjacks, emphasizing the expectation for complimentary treats at the race's conclusion.
Reflecting on the feedback received, several suggestions for improvement emerged from the students:
"Why was the long cut off time so early?!!! Ban the cleave!!!! More water stops on the way round would be good and a rule that walkers have to be on the outside of the path so runners can get through."
"more marshalls, free flapjacks, dont delay the startline"
"not make us run over a ploughed field i swear to god i was so close to snapping my lanky ankel in half. ww2 trenches were better"
"didn't even have food after, not paying for the food after running all that. also not told we'd have to pay. mugs not given out to volentary runners after having to pay and them getting wooden medals. basically making it a day to pay money for stuff that used to free and part of the day."
These insights serve as valuable guidance for future events, highlighting the importance of addressing concerns and ensuring a positive experience for all participants.
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Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the schools beliefs. This has not been endorsed by West Buckland and is an independent news paper.