Oye! Oye! Oye! shouted the Rye Town before setting the scene for this picturesque and challenging event. There are, in fact, 2 races;15K and 30K. In a moment of madness, I had signed up for the latter but changed down midway and just about managed to complete the 15K. Though not quite on a par with the Marathon des Sables , there were certain similarities in that it was blisteringly hot and sunny with very little shade . The race was, as its name suggests mainly over (ancient) trails, through fields and along the occasional lane. It was well marshalled and there were well stocked water stops every 5 k. It was quite hilly.
I hadn’t run this one before and as it starts and finishes in a pleasant, historic town and passes through some top-class countryside, I was surprised to see only two other deckchair wearers, namely Lucille Joannes and Cordy Kent. They did the Harriers proud with times, in the 15K, of 01.39: 10 (Cordy, 64th) and 01.53:38 (Lucille,112th). I managed 01.35:25, 47th and 1st VM65 which I celebrated with a very nice pint and a porkpie. I think Lucille went off for a swim.
First male in the 30K was Tim Allen, Weald Tri Club , 02. 24:12. First Female was Amy Dixon, 02. 37:43.
In the 15K, first male was David Mayes, Hy Runners ,01.09:33 and first female, Rebecca Newbold, 01 16;38.
All best
Nick Pierce