There were a few Harriers running this race on Sunday. It was my third time, so it goes without saying that I really enjoy this event, the friendly organisation, and the great mugs they give every finisher instead of a t-shirt. The free tea / coffee and cake to go with the mugs is also very welcome.
I got a lift to the race start from David Milloy (thanks) and was quickly registered. At the briefing Stuart Mills (RD) informed us that the route was fully marked, which was a relief, and we headed off to the start at 08:00. I bumped into Rob Jones and we chatted for the first couple of miles in perfect running conditions.
The trail was almost entirely dry, although a number of sections were getting a little overgrown with nettles, but the fantastic route and scenery more than made up for it. Later on it did start to get quite warm, but the aid stations were well stocked with water and food and there were plenty of shady sections to cool down in.
I finished in 10th place in 4:41 after a sprint finish along the final road section.
Winner: Juhana Kirk 4:04:25 Lingfield RC
10th: David Barker 4:41:39
13= and joint winners in the womens race: Karla Borland & Miriam Jones-Walters 4:50:49 Southampton AC
40th David Milloy 5:20:28
60th Rob Jones 5:43:49
113 Peter Lyus 6:15:13
133 Jenny Davidson 6:31:39
David Barker