Five deckchairs travelled to a sun soaked Rye Harbour for the first installment of the Classic Summer Race Series. 103 completed the flat 10km run, an out n back course extending to Winchelsea Beach for the turn point.
This was my first outting at this fantastic low key event, chip timing and welcoming organisation offering great value for money.
The pace matched the evening temperature from starters orders and I charged off at a completely unsustainable effort. The guys at the front looked like they knew what they were doing. Turns out, I didn’t.
As the lead pack disappeared into the distance, I focused my remaining energy on not blowing catastrophically over the next 9km! I was isolated and felt the full effects of the headwind… It was either that, or I just didn’t have the legs!
I was passed at the turn by a Petts Wood Runner looking strong and clocked a chase group not far behind. Hang on in there Kieran! More fast feet passed me at the water station. I couldn’t find my mouth so ended up wearing most of the contents of my cup.
Glorious sunset on the return to Rye Harbour and I enjoyed a sense of euphoria that this ordeal in poor pacing was almost over. I crossed the line in 38.41, delighted with sub40 (don’t tell Dave French).
Results:
1st (32.50): Luke Fisher (Tonbridge AC)
7th (38.41): Kieran Fitzpatrick
17th (43.00): Chris Walmsley
18th (43.10): Sam Pryre (Rye AC)
19th (43.48): Hayley Larkin
22nd (44.24): Nicola Morris
23rd (44:27): Mark Taylor
Congratulations to Hayley and Nicola who secured 2nd and 3rd ladies home. Tunbridge Wells Harriers also added team prizes to the collection.
https://www.nice-work.org.uk/races/rye-summer-classic-jul/2018
Next event: Friday 3rd August
Kieran Fitzpatrick