THE SPRINGTIDE 50k
The Springtide 50k, held along the South Downs Way, offered runners a chance to experience one of the most lovely parts of southern England. For Matt Biggin, competing in his first race of the new season, it was an opportunity to gauge how winter training had paid off. The weather was wonderful, the volunteers were amazing, and the scenery lived up to every expectation. The course, defined by its exceptional beauty and peaceful surroundings, provided a calm but challenging setting for the miles ahead.
Matt finished in 6 hours and 1 minute, feeling strong throughout the day and noting a distinct improvement on his last race. For him, training is clearly working. The 50k distance is the perfect step up for any marathon runner wanting to move into ultras, and the South Downs Way offers the ideal environment to test yourself on some challenging hills. With this performance behind him, Matt can look ahead to the rest of the season with real confidence.
SPANISH SUNSHINE
Swapping cold weather for sunshine, Bob Langley took part in the Elche Half Marathon on Spain’s Costa Blanca last Sunday. Around 4,000 runners lined up on a bright, sunny day to race through the streets of Elche, a course well known for passing through the city’s famous palm groves and offering a scenic and vibrant atmosphere.
Bob delivered a strong performance, finishing in 1:44:07 and securing 3rd place in the V70 category. A fantastic achievement in warm conditions, although it did leave him a little sunburnt by the end!
Great running Bob.
OAKLEY 20
The Oakley 20 is a well-established and popular road race, known for its friendly atmosphere, scenic rural course, and strong local support. It is widely regarded as an ideal event for runners preparing for spring marathons.
Nina Symington Smith completed the race in 2:55, running the first 15 miles alongside her sister before pushing on through the final five miles. She described it as a great race and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Well done Nina.
BLICKLING HALF MARATHON
Set in the beautiful grounds of Blickling Hall, the Blickling Half Marathon is a scenic, mostly off-road course that feels more like a trail run in places, always a great mix of views and challenge, usually with a bit of weather thrown in too!
Sunday was cold and windy but Caroliena Cameron kept things steady, managed the terrain, and enjoyed it.
She finished in a great time of 2:01. Well done Caroliena.