It started in the Denbies wine estate with a mile and a bit uphill that, after a nice cross-country loop with great views, we retraced to the finish. The downhill end was unusual in that it had a view of the finish line from about a mile out and there was no denying that it was freefall all the way. Perhaps because of this, or maybe because someone told me that there was an uphill near the end and I’d been saving a bit of energy, I managed to overtake a small number of runners near the end. Satisfying because I overtook the person who went past about a third of the way round and whom I’d targetted – I often fix on someone ahead (as I guess everyone does), but I don’t usually catch them up. A great event with friendly people, and happy, talkative runners, even near the front.

On seeing my vest a Chichester runner (Neil, I think) asked if I knew Dave Arnold. Famous far and wide. [is there a missing “in” there before the “famous”? – Ed 😀 ]

The attached picture shows me making my effort near the end. Also pleased with the time (63m29s) and my placing (6th). I think there were nearly 300 entrants.

I entered as a tune-up for the three peaks fell race up in my home county, Yorkshire, which is this coming weekend. I was disappointed with my showing in the event last year, so I’m hoping to hold up better this time round – I’ve made it my target for the first half of the year. Training hasn’t gone as well as I’d have liked, but when does it ever? I’m really looking forward to it.

John Bateson