News

Nov. 18, 2006, Bulle, Switzerland

Electric atmosphere makes great race in Bulle

The small village of Bulle was lit up like a Christmas tree Saturday night; perhaps in part because the holidays are near, but the more likely answer is that it marked one of the town's biggest events of the year -- La Corrida Bulloise. An event that features 25 different races of various distances up to eight kilometres, all run right down the main street that is lined with hundreds of local fans.

Hilary took to the line with 30 other elite women for 10 laps of the 600m square course. Uncharacteristic of a small-town race, this one featured many top international runners, including some from Kenya, Ethiopia, Russia, Italy, Canada and Switzerland.

It was a Kenyan runner, Caroline Chepkwony, who controlled this 6km race right from the start, setting a very fast early pace. While two leaders broke away from the field, Hilary hung on to the second pack and the five of them battled it out for most of the race. The pack spread out a bit over the last kilometre, but Hilary held on the 7th place in a time of 20:21. Chepkwony, who has a 33:32 10km at altitude to her name, ended up winning the race by nearly 45 seconds. Yet, only 30 seconds separated 2nd through 7th place.

Hilary credits the vibrant crowd and electric atmosphere for her positive race. "This race in Bulle was a great experience for me. Eventhough the 10 laps were tough mentally, the crowd really helped me push through," said Hilary. "I was a bit disappointed to drop off that second pack, but I know I'm getting stronger and these longer races are only helping me. I still have the upcoming summer track season as my main focus and I hope to use these early endurance efforts to make me strong both physically and mentally."

Next up for Hilary is one of Switzerland's biggest road races, the Course de l'Escalade, a very hilly 4.7km race in Geneva. In past years it has featured some of the world's top endurance runners.

See full results here>>

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