Lewes AC battle elements at Seaford Head in East Sussex Cross Country League
Thirty-seven members of Lewes AC braved cold, windy and wet conditions to compete in the fourth fixture of the 2025/26 East Sussex Sunday Cross Country League, held on a tough new course at Seaford Head.
The relentlessly hilly route featured an anticlockwise lap of Martello East Field before heading onto the Esplanade and climbing Seaford Head.
Runners tackled exposed, muddy trails, steep ascents and descents alongside the golf course and near the iconic coastguard cottages. With 660ft of elevation gain and a maximum height of 275ft, the course proved a test of strength, balance and resilience.
Despite conditions, Lewes AC produced a series of strong performances, reinforcing their status as defending league champions. After four of six fixtures, the club sit third overall, well placed heading into the final stages of the season.
Leading finishers included Teo van Well (M45), the club’s first man home in 7th place in 32:02, followed by Julian Good (M40) in 9th (32:13) and Adam Vaughan (M45, 33:10). Izzy Bradford (F35) led the women with a time of 33:05, ahead of Emily Hague (41:12) and Sally Norris (F45, 41:49).
Lewes AC athletes also continue to feature prominently in the cumulative league standings, with notable positions across senior and veteran categories. Highlights include Stephanie Crespin sitting 2nd in the F50 category, Karin Divall 3rd in F65, Gerard Dummett 3rd in M65, and Bob Hughes 3rd in M70.
Team Captain Sally Norris said,“Seaford Head was a really tough course, especially in those conditions, but everyone gave it their all. What stood out most was the marshals and runners from all team’s support for one another. Lewes AC were all smiles as they devoured my post-run cake.”
The next East Sussex Sunday Cross Country League fixture takes place on Sunday, February 8, hosted by Run Wednesdays.