The fourth run of the Moyleman marathon took place yesterday on Sunday 18 March. The event is a challenging South Downs run, around the demanding hills that surround the town of Lewes. Named in remembrance of the Brighton runner Chris Moyle who inspired many with his love of tough down land runs and the joy of life, and who died aged just 41 in 2009.
This is a challenging off-road course starting and finishing in Lewes, going through remote areas across the South Downs experiencing all that the hills can throw at you! Starting from Landport Bottom on the western end of Lewes, the run takes in the peaks of Black Cap, Castle Hill, Firle Beacon, and Mt Caburn. With over 3,000 feet of climb, and some steep descents, this was a very hard run, in fact the toughest race I have done to date! The temperatures on the top of the downs hit -10 with fierce winds that knocked you off your feet and burnt your eyelids.
The run finishes fittingly for a Lewes run in Harvey’s Brewery Yard – and for all runners there is a celebratory pint, donated by the brewery and a free stone baked pizza I opted for a coffee and gave the well-deserved pint to my suffering hubby who once again kept me motivated with hot tea at various points along the route in sub-zero temperatures.
Results have not yet been published but I reckon it took me over 5hrs 15 min, by no means speedy, but was thrilled to finish.
Lesley Page