High Weald Challenge Half Marathon and Ultra 50km
Six Harriers took part in the High Weald Challenge, with Andy Howey in the Half Marathon distance and the rest in the 50km Ultra Marathon.
The hills of the High Weald provided a route full of character, engaging for both runners and roving spectators alike. Highlights included the seasonal Motts Mill scarecrows, Buckhurst Park estate, Royal Ashdown golf course on the way out to Forest Row, and the ever charming villages of Hartfield, Withyham and Fordcombe on the return legs. At the finish, the warm reception from the picnic en masse gathered at the rec and of course the friendly organisers, was a joy.
There were 88 finishers in the Ultra marathon, with all Harriers finishing well in the top half of the field. Individual results: 10th Richard Carter (04:57.27), 31st Guy Gracey (05:58.27), 32nd Derek Harrison (06:01.26), 39th Jenny Davidson (06:20.08), 41st David Vezey (06:21.30).
First male, Mark Denby, Surrey Walking Club (03:58.09), first female Helena Eames (05:07.55).
Living next door to the start must have helped Andy Howey’s race preparations as he powered home in a winning of 1:30:19, just missing out on sub 1:30 due to taking a wrong turn in the last few miles. There were 175 finishers in the Half Marathon.
Hospice in the Weald (Tunbridge Wells) 10K
The Hospice in the Weald 10K in Tunbridge Wells is a challenging hilly road 10k race with 90% of the entry fees going directly to support the Hospice.
The route is a loop out towards Langton Green and back past High Rocks and the energy sapping Hungershall Park before a brief chance to catch your breath on Major York’s before a “sprint” finish up Castle Road.
The race was won by Billy Hobbs in an excellent 35:07. Tunbridge Wells Harriers came in second and third, with Mike King (37:37) and James Sarre (38:56) respectively. First lady was Hannah Lunn in 43:49.
Dame Kelly Holmes started the race and handed out the medals.
