The race full to the brim with camaraderie, where runners of all abilities come together for one brilliant weekend.
There aren’t many races that ask you to keep going for 24 hours, through the day and into the night, fuelled by determination, teamwork and the glow of a head torch. This unique endurance challenge, just outside London, can be tackled solo or in teams of two to eight runners. Starting at midday, each team sends out one runner at a time to complete the 5.75 mile lap before handing over to the next teammate. The cycle repeats without pause until midday the following day, testing not only speed and endurance, but also strategy, resilience and just how long your torch batteries can last.
HRR was out in force this year, with 20 runners taking on the challenge. Alongside them were friends and family who joined the teams, cheered from the sidelines and embraced the unique atmosphere that makes the Spitfire Scramble so special. Whether racing, supporting or simply soaking up the camaraderie, everyone played a part in making it a memorable weekend.
It certainly proved to be an eventful weekend. With temperatures soaring, the Race Director introduced a shorter 4.2 mile course between midday and 9pm to help keep runners safe. Then, at around 5pm, the event was paused due to field fires near the campsite and sections of the course. Fortunately, the pause was only brief before the race was able to continue. It all added another unexpected challenge to an already memorable weekend.
Our solo runners:
Steve May
13 laps, (62 miles/ 100k) in 18:58.34
Sam Wolton
10 laps (50 miles) in 23:45
Our Pairs:
Noush Springett and Rachael Roughan
21 laps in 24:21.36
Finishing 3rd place in female pairs category.
Bec Gilroy and Sam Hillyard
14 laps in 23:45.41
Ladies’ team of six:
Victoria Metson
Emily Bentley
Mandy Humm
Hannah Whale
Emma Healy
Sarah Waddington
25 laps in 23:23.06
Couch to Spitfire Team:
Katie De Bourcier
Gary Wiles
Rich Turner
Clare Taylor Green
Debi Sharpe
Nathan Roulson
Dan Roughan
Jess Thompson
24 laps in 24.03.52
A special mention goes to the eight runners who were taking on the Spitfire Scramble for the very first time. A huge well done to all of them for embracing the challenge, throwing themselves into the team spirit and making the most of such a unique event. We hope it’s the first of many!
