Dorking & Mole Valley AC 10 Mile Race Report

The race was held on the 2nd June 2019, start time was 09.00, and it incorporated the BMAF and SCVAC club championships, (British Masters Athletic Federation / Southern Counties Veteran Athletic Club) combined with the surrey championships for competitors born in the county. There was the option of entering a 10k event which started after the 10 mile event on a similar route.

The day started early leaving Margate at 05.45 to make sure that I could pick up my number and timing chip before the start, race HQ was at the “Dorking Rugby club” which was where the race finished, the start was at a delightful little village called Brockham about 10mins walk from the HQ, the start was on the village green which was bordered by the village pub, church and community centre, with open loos for competitors very thoughtful.

The race was held on open roads but didn’t prove to be a problem with traffic, even at the start when 700 runners hit the road it soon sorted itself out, the race route was a two loop circuit the first loop turning back towards the start at 3+ miles with a time limit set at 40 mins, if it wasn’t reached in that time the marshals would send you onto the second loop and no time recorded, it’s a bit lumpy around Dorking with two challenging hills at four and seven miles so not a recognised PB course you would think but looking at the results some very respectable times were recorded.

The day itself was very warm and humid but the route went through some very beautiful tree lined sections which made the effort a little less stressful, the event was well marshalled from start to finish so top marks to the organisers. I managed to struggle around in 1hour 12mins 20 secs chip time which was enough to get 1st V70 in the race plus 1st V70 in both the BMAF & SCVAC championships so can’t be too disappointed , I could thoroughly recommend this event which draws in some very accomplished competition.

Thanks Dave Winch.