North Downs 30k – race report

Today over 300 runners graced the trails of the North Downs Way. This race has been on my list for a few years since becoming really interested in trail running. It has previously been a club championship race but with it clashing this year with the Sandwich 10k just myself, Pam Philpot and John Hunt were taking on the 18 mile trail race.

The race takes you through beautiful woodland, farmland, vineyards and country roads. A really runnable trail race and I would recommend it to anyone! There were some naughty hills to contend with including the infamous Cricket Pitch Hill which required some power hiking on my part.

It was certainly a competitive field with the winning time being 1:56:42 and also being part of the British Masters championships. I found myself between packs having to set my sights on runners in the distance to try and pick off. With a spot of cramp at mile 14 which I managed to run through I was very happy with the result on the day. 18 miles on the trails is a difficult one to plan for. It really was a case of setting out at not a too crazy pace and letting the terrain dictate the pace.

I’m so glad I could finally experience the race 

Myself, Jordan Gilbert 2:16:35 (25th)

John Hunt 3:28:47

Pam Philpot 3:40:45

Well done to Jordan, John and Pam and a big thanks to Jordan for the race report.  As someone who has run this a few times before I can certainly vouch for how tough it is !!