Hailsham Harriers show true grit at Stormy Beachy Head Weekend!

From glorious sunshine to driving rain and 40mph winds, Hailsham Harriers proved that determination, friendship and team spirit can conquer even the toughest conditions as 30 club runners tackled the iconic Beachy Head races over the weekend.

The famous Beachy Head running festival returned to Eastbourne on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th October, attracting runners from far and wide to take on the challenging South Downs terrain. With four distances on offer, the 10K, Marathon, Ultra and Half Marathon there was something for everyone, although Mother Nature certainly had a few surprises in store!

Saturday began with beautiful sunshine and relatively pleasant running conditions, but it wasn't long before the weather turned. Driving rain, powerful winds and exposed hillsides tested even the most experienced runners, making every finish line crossing a victory worth celebrating.

ULTRA MILES

Six Harriers took on the ultimate challenge of the Beachy Head Ultra, a demanding test of endurance over some of the South Downs' toughest terrain.

Chris Little led the Harriers home in an impressive 5:50:15, closely followed by Helen O'Sullivan in 5:50:44. Sarah Day completed her challenge in 5:59:16, with Darren Grice finishing in 6:44:45.

Stephanie Bassett battled through to finish in 7:09:28, while Darren Gillett showed tremendous determination to complete the distance in 8:40:33 raising funds for the Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance.

With the weather deteriorating throughout the day, these six demonstrated remarkable resilience, strength and mental toughness. A fantastic achievement by every one of them!

MARATHON MILES

Ten Harriers tackled the legendary Beachy Head Marathon, renowned for its relentless climbs, spectacular coastal scenery and famously challenging course.

Joe Le Borgne produced a superb performance to lead the club home in an impressive 4:06:45 finishing 64th overall, with Alice Denning leading the Harriers Ladies home in 4:10:05

Adam Davies followed in 4:28:34, with Ryan West 4:39:41, Men's Captain Gary Smith 4:49:24 and Mark Bassett in 4:55:10.

Nicola Twilley completed the course in 5:07:48 after receiving the entry as a birthday gift from a best friend, while Maria Stewart 6:40:19, Graham Purdye 6:41:32 and Annette Feakes 6:41:33 shared a memorable finish, both recording 6:44:07.

From the steep climbs to the exposed coastal paths, every mile demanded plenty of effort and a healthy dose of determination. Ten magnificent performances in challenging conditions!

10K DELIGHTS

Eleven Harriers took on the Beachy Head 10K, proving that a shorter distance certainly doesn't mean an easier race when the South Downs are involved!

David Garratt led the black and red home with an excellent 47:0706 finishing an impressive 20th overall.

Colin Underwood followed in 1:02:18, with Louisa Geer completing the course in 1:11:12 and Lindie Jooste 1:14:38

Mia Long joined her mum Charlie Long for her first 10K crossing the finish line together in 1:15:24, followed by Helen Greck in 1:21:35 and Nicola Sexton in 1:26:14.

Hannah Jarvis and Abbie Marsden also shared their finish in 1:27:20, while Shauni Hamling rounded off the Harriers' sensational performances running for the first time in the club's colours to finish in 21:58:23

A brilliant display of friendship and teamwork, with plenty of smiles and well-earned medals at the finish!

Half Marathon Heroes

Sunday brought a welcome return of beautiful sunshine for the Beachy Head Half Marathon, but the runners still had to contend with winds gusting around 40mph!

Six Harriers took on the spectacular but demanding 13.1-mile route, with Gary Woolven producing a superb performance to finish first for the club in 1:50:13.

Jo McGowan followed in 2:00:42, just ahead of Charlie Long in 2:01:47. Chris Findlay-Geer completed the course in 2:05:01, with Gemma Payne 2:09:15 and Jessica White showing fantastic strength to complete her first ever half marathon in 2:32:36.

With steep climbs, exposed trails and blustery coastal sections, these seven certainly earned their medals. A fantastic way to round off an extraordinary weekend!

Volunteers

While the runners were battling the elements, another equally important team of Harriers were working tirelessly behind the scenes.

Our wonderful volunteers gave up their time to help make the weekend possible, supporting runners, marshalling and offering much-needed encouragement in some truly testing conditions.

Standing out in driving rain and powerful winds takes dedication, and the club is immensely grateful to everyone who volunteered, cheered and helped keep spirits high.

Their contribution was every bit as valuable as the achievements on the course, and they deserve a huge round of applause.

For Hailsham Harriers, the Beachy Head weekend was about far more than finishing times and medals. It was a celebration of friendship, resilience and the incredible support that comes from being part of a team.

From those tackling new challenges to seasoned distance runners, from shared finish lines to volunteers braving the weather, every member played a part in making the weekend special.

The club couldn't be prouder of all 30 runners and its fantastic volunteers. Whatever the distance or finishing time, everyone demonstrated exactly what it means to wear the black and red.

Hailsham Harriers is a friendly, welcoming running club catering for all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced runners.

Senior training takes place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and alternate Wednesdays, with a varied programme including road running, track sessions, cross country and trails. The club also has a thriving junior section welcoming young runners aged eight and over.

Whether you're looking to improve your fitness, make new friends, build confidence or take on your next running challenge, there's something for everyone.