Okay, so not a traditional marathon this one. It is the marathon distance, just spred over three days in three locations across Sussex.Day 1 East Grinstead. 10 mile run this one. A nice trail run around the weir reservoir and surrounding countryside, taking in a bit if the forest way path.
The weathed was good, the recent ranfall though meant the pathways were extremely muddy in places. When I say muddy, I mean unavoidable mud which was not for the squeamish. A good turnout though and an enjoayable, if challenging fun.
Two points of criticism for other runners. 1. If you're going to overtake, pick a good time. I litedally got barged out by a runner squeezing to get through a narrow gate first. She had been behind for long enough to overtake on a wide path. 2. On an out and back please dont shout words of encouragement for thise going the otherway if you are ahead. It is quite patronising to hear from fasted runners.
Day 2 Hawards heath. Another 10 miler. This time two loops on a miture of road and track. Sunny and ckear with no mud or water to contend with. My favourite run of the three this one and a real challenge after the 10 miles the day before. Although the conditions were better there was some painful chaffing discovered in the shower afterwards.
Day 3 Burgess Hill. A shorter 10km or 6.2 mile run to complete the marathon distance. At this point I had no idea whether I had enough in the tank to complete. I didnt think about this too much as the heavens had opened and this looping run through fields was more wading than running. Once you get over the fact you are soaked through and just go with it, it was actually quite enjoyable.
Would I do these again, probably not. Not as a set. Although you can enter any day as an individual run, which I might do, the commitment required is too much for me to attempt again. Would I recommend? Absolutely!
Waterfront Marathon race report
Lisburn Half marathon race report; a new PB!
Manchester Marathon Race Report
