A little further afield than Darent five Harriers June Edwardes-Evans, Rosie Harris, Helen Jenkins, Catherine Kinder and I took part in the Pulborough Vineyard Half Marathon.
Catherine had persuaded us all to enter sometime ago under the premise that there was free cake and wine at the finish. Unfortunately none of us had really read the rest of the route description and thought through what an 8 lapped off road hilly half marathon might be like.
The day before we went for the unconventional race preparation of a 16.5 mile jaunt across the South Downs followed by a slap up pub meal washed down with fizz.
The route was definitely challenging with two steep hills, 2 stiles and a kissing gate per 1.6 mile lap. 16 stiles and 16 hills later we were all pleased to finish and happy with our times.
It was a scenic route and a small but well organised event although not sure any of us would run it again, but worth a go if you fancy something a bit different.
The field was tiny which meant I managed second lady home.
Jane Roome