There are days when I really need a sign. A great big sign that says “I know that a Camelbak and energy gels are overkill for a parkrun, but I’ve got a 13 mile run home”.
There are also days when I really need a miracle outer layer. One that keeps me warm on a frosty morning when I have 58 minutes to kill before the parkrun starts (the train timetable was obviously not devised by a parkrun tourist) but that is as light as a feather and folds up into the size of a postage stamp.
Today I needed both, but alas had neither. Goodness only knows what the other runners made of the inappropriately dressed tourist with the chattering teeth.
Despite the inauspicious start, my run was great. My toes thawed out by the end of the first undulating lap and were positively toasty by the finishing funnel*. The directions for the run home that fell out of my pack on lap one were still there on lap two, and between them and the Capital Ring waymarking signs, I managed to run all the way from Crystal Palace to Wimbledon Common without getting lost.
So, all in all, I’m counting the run as a success. But if you know where I can get hold of the sign or the miracle outer layer, then please let me know!
*Buggy note: The buggy beat me. In fact, the buggy would have beaten me even if I’d run a PB. If you’re comfortable pushing a buggy up a hill, then this is a buggy friendly course, with wide, well maintained paths.
abradypus 
Well done you!
Correct me if I’m wrong but you seem to spend a large proportion of you life with your teeth chattering – I’m sure it can’t be good for you! Fantastic effort though, well done!
I can’t bear being too hot, so always err on the side of too few layers. And once I started running, I was fine. So all I need is the miracle outer layer and I’m sorted!
very well done!!! http://www.sportsshoes.com/product/MON159/montane-lady-atomic-dt-jacket/
Nice find Alma. Great run Louise – maybe you need to invest in a backpack with it printed on… http://www.yoursurprise.co.uk/bag/backpack
Brilliant! I really like the look of this one http://www.workplay-bags.com/Online-Shop/c1/p30/fleetfoot-II-Running-Waist-Bag-for-Women—black-and-reflect/product_info.html
A nice man in Sweatshop recommended Montane when I was looking for a half-zip jacket for Ginge last Christmas (I was most impressed that he recommended a brand that they don’t sell – definitely not just after the commission). I got one from Sports Direct (I love him, but ultimately I’m a cheapskate) and it seems good – he says it’s very waterproof and keeps him warm.
I can heartily recommend the magical UnderArmour 1/4 zip long-sleeved top (http://www.underarmour.com/shop/uk/en/womens-ua-escape-lightweight-zip-ii/pid1232817-462 – which I got from the absolutely fabulous Sport Pursuit – http://www.sportpursuit.com/join/TOTKat – who are lovely if you plan ahead and don’t need instant gratification) with thumb holes. It’s fluffy on the inside, well-fitted and light. Not quite postage stamp when folded, but pretty small and, in fact, works well as the only layer. I’ve used it for the last two parkruns and not over-heated during or got all that cold before or after.