Over 130 Hastings Runners took part in the 39th staging of the town’s Half Marathon on Sunday. The constant rainfall and East Sussex Council’s reluctance to repair the worst potholes in the UK, couldn’t discourage us from taking to the streets and completing the 13.1 undulating miles in determined fashion.

The annual pre race photo lifted spirits but left us soaked before the race even began. The entrance to Race HQ was even muddier than Tim’s farm for the Pett XC a few weeks earlier. At the top of the field we were missing some of our strongest runners due to injury and other commitments, but as a club we represent more than just race times. Hastings Runners is about inclusivity across all abilities and age groups, something that was celebrated this weekend.

A special mention for Darren Barzee and Sylvia Huggett who have now completed 39 consecutive Hastings Half Marathons. Only 7 other runners can claim this amazing achievement. We had age category wins for Sally Grainger in the FV60 and Yockie Richardson in the FV75.

And what about Eric Hardwick? He received an MBE for his decades of commitment and hard work in organising the race. This year he passed on the baton to local race organiser Nice Work and ran the route himself, finishing 2nd in the MV80 category. We love you Eric.

In the junior race, Lewis Betts overcame some early obstacles to finish in 5th place in a fantastic time of 6 minutes and 56 seconds.

Back to the main event, new member Matt Draper was the first Hastings Runner across the line in a superb time of 1:17:49 to break into the Top 20. Adam Weller 1:21:57, Kieran Price 1:27:07 (PB), Bob Russell 1:27:12 and Paul Lambert 1:27:59 (PB), made up the Top 5 club finishers with some superb performances.

On the female side Zoe Fairclough produced a brilliant run to come home in 1:31:48. In 2nd place was Denise White in 1:45:46 and Jacqueline Mannering produced a PB of 1:47:09.

The club also filled all 4 of the pacer slots. Simon Linklater (I had to give myself a mention somewhere) 1:49:17, Sarah Bendle 1:58:18, Charles Bowley 2:10:05 and Jessica Cull 2:29:23, did a stellar job in providing support for fellow runners.

Let’s take a moment to show gratitude for all of the spectators that came out to support this amazing event, despite the inclement weather. I think as a club we should take some pride in this with the efforts we contribute to the race, notably our leaflet distributing, thank you to Mike Hall for organising that.

If anyone ran a half marathon PB then let me know and I will give you a mention. Full results to follow.

Thank you to Vinny Read for the photos.