Oh, what a beautiful evening. As promised the rain had stopped ready for our run and task this Monday evening.

Joining us for their first GoodGym group run were Kike, Ameachi, Dan and Sarah. Wahoooooooo!

We had our briefing and tried to decide on a debate topic for the evening. Suggestions were "What sport are Japan not good at?" and "Who will win the rugby world cup?" Since we couldn't decide which one to debate we decided to debate which debate to have on the run up, then we would debate that debate on the way back. It was a lot easier when I just asked people whether they preferred cats or dogs.

Anyway, we were back at FROGG this week to meet Jessica and Sarah and continue the task of removing some stubborn bushes from the perimeter of the park. It was pretty dark when we arrived, but there were enough headtorches between us to light the way and we worked hard. Some on forks and spades loosening the ground and others lopping, chopping and pulling the bushes free. After half an hour there was a noticeable improvement and we'd started on the dreaded roots. Some readers may remember a few months back when we tackled the "root of all evil" at the same venue. I suspect next week when we return some serious effort may be in order. But we're well up for it.

This week's biscuit was chocolate fingers (Xavier: "can you just stick one in my mouth") We've never had them before and there are now about five different types available (praline, double chocolate etc.) so plenty of opportunity to revisit their delicious goodness. I hope Cadbury is reading this and sends me a giant box. It's for a good cause!

On the way home, Simon, Caroline and Kike took it nice and easy. We'd all been racing recently and needed the rest. Patrick L led a medium-paced group - who joined the slower group for a final blast up the hill to the fields, and Paul led a fast interval-style session on the way back. Feedback is that Paul is a slavedriver, initially evident by Nic's profanities as he crossed the line to finish the session. Love it.

We finished with stretch of the week from Caroline called "Roll stretch" or something like that. Anyway, it made everybody look like hypnotised zombies which can only be a good thing.

Opinions on who will win the rugby world cup?

Patrick M went for Ireland (just to be different). Richard reckoned it would be an unexpected result. A lot of votes for New Zealand, and a few wanted England to win, but most of us didn't care, but don't tell Emma.

And Steve's response isn't fit for publication.

Well done everybody. Back for a final "bush push" next week. Bring your muscles!

Simo

P.S. Starter Session! Starter Session!