Marathon action for Burgess Hill Runners

Nearby, after last year’s successful test event, the first official running of the Moyleman Marathon took place, starting in Lewes and following a very hilly Downland course including climbs up and over Black Cap, Castle Hill, Firle Beacon and then the somewhat brutal ascent and descent of Mount Caburn at 24 miles.

The race was organised by friends of the late Chris Moyle who was a keen Downland runner and proved a real hit with those who took part, perhaps influenced by the finish line at Harvey’s Brewery in Lewes where a free beer was waiting for the finishers.

Darren Chilcott completed the course in 4 hours 48 mins, closely followed by Neil Dawson (4.50) and then Nick Dawson and Philippe Ecaille (5.18).

Meanwhile, the Lavis family descended en masse to the Barcelona Marathon and came a way with some fabulous performances. Despite a trip, Jan Lavis finished in a quite superb 3.32.11 and a new PB. Daughter Claire Tucknott was next home in 4.19.26 in her first attempt at the distance, son Mark in 4.28.08, husband Jon also managed a massive new PB finishing in 4.29.35 with Hannah Brett claiming an excellent new PB too by 21 minutes in 4.29.35. Other notable performances at the weekend saw James Sorbie and Hannah Watkins complete their 50th parkrun at Clair Park in Haywards Heath.