Madehurst 5/10k race report.

On Sunday 20 June, 11 Milers headed over to the hamlet of Madehurst, in the South Downs, near Arundel to take part in their 5 and 10k races. These races were held for the first time in 2019, with 2020 not going ahead due to circumstances we are all only too familiar with. Runners were pleased to be out competing again, with a larger entry for both the 5 and 10 k races, than in the previous year.

The race starts at the very picturesque Madehurst Cricket Club, with even this ground succumbing to the rolling nature of the South Downs. Although the day was damp and misty, it was quite warm, giving ideal conditions for running. Due to Covid restrictions, entrants could start their race at any time between 10.30 and 11.00. Chip timing ensured that runners times were accurately recorded.

The two races are predominantly off road, and are best described as hilly. Heading off on a small country lane, which soon turns into a track, the route heads ever upwards in the first half. Of course, what goes up, must come down, and runners are rewarded for their efforts with some nice downhill sections through glorious countryside. Both races have a sting in the tail, with tricky uphill sections just when you think all the hills are behind you.

The 10k race was won by Steven Amos in a time of 38.48, with only one other runner finishing in under 40 minutes, a testament to the tough nature of the race. First home for Midhurst Milers was Tina Denyer in 55.18, third in her category. After an injury blighted 2020, Tina is getting quicker and quicker. Next home was Andy Statham in 57.10, his first race in Milers colours. Andy was soon followed by Joe Vitagliano in 57.43, who summed up the race as “horrible”! Tabitha Trend, who set off intending to do the 5k, finished in 58.53. Tabby missed the 5k cut off and just kept going, not bad for her first ever distance race. Michelle Nutting was next back in 1.03.29, followed by Rob and Trudy Fumagall. Rob finished in 1.10.43. with Trudy not too far behind. Unfortunately Trudy’s time is not recorded at the time of writing.

The 5k started alongside the longer race and followed the same contours, but thankfully only half the distance. First home for the Milers was Nick Thorpe in a time of 32.30, followed by Naomi Webb in 34.57. Naomi is returning to running following the birth of a new baby. Sandra Thorpe finished in 37.30, followed by Jo Statham in 38.29. Nick, Naomi and Sandra all won their respective categories. Jo was second in her category, in her first race as a Midhurst Miler.

All finishers were presented with a nice medal at the end.

Well done to all that took part.