Groombridge Place High Weald Challenge 50km Ultra Trail 2015
Four intrepid Harriers took part in the Groombridge Place High Weald Challenge 50km Ultra Trail Race on Sunday 27th September. The race follows the long distance paths of the High Weald Landscape Trail, the Vanguard Way and the Wealdway. Starting in the East Sussex village of Groombridge and finishing within the impressive grounds of Groombridge Place, amongst the giant redwoods directly in front of the 17th Century Manor House.
David Barker was the first Harrier home, finishing an impressive 5th place in 4:23:27 after battling with Chris Nicholson who came in two minutes behind in 6th. Tara Taylor went even better by winning the senior women’s category in 5:03:04, finishing 19th overall. Lesley Mercer was 6th lady home, 36th overall in 5:33:20 and Guy Gracey came 74th in 6:35:44.
Barns Green Half Marathon
Also on Sunday, Richard Quartermaine ventured into West Sussex to run the 33rd Barns Green Half Marathon. Glorious conditions were in store for this undulating race through lovely country roads and the magnificent Christ’s Hospital school. It was very well organised, good support and complete with some useful stuff in the goodie bag too, it was definitely worth the trip west on a beautiful Autumn Sunday.
Richard managed an age PB of 1:38:40 in the V40 category. Almost 1100 completed the race with James Baker leading the men home in 1:11:08 and Amy Harris was the first woman to finish in 1:22:09.