Strider Josh Rudd leads the field at the start of the race
Seaford Strider Stacy Bennett shares her experience of running the Eastbourne Half as part of a team.
The weather conditions were not looking great when I arrived in the car park at 9am, but as promised by 10am the rain had stopped. I got into position with the sub 2:15 pacers beside Hilary and Emma. We set off along Eastbourne seafront, and I managed to keep with the pacers until we hit the hill.
I had been told about “the hill” but I didn’t realise just how steep it was. But by mile four I was flying back down the hill! Once we hit the seafront again the sun was out and there seemed to be a bit of a sun trap. In the distance, I could see the sub 2:15 pacers and my aim was to catch up with them.
At mile seven Emma was with me but my legs just didn’t have it in them. To my disappointment, I was really struggling as we passed mile eight and I was grateful for a bottle of water but missed when I lurched for the jelly babies!
The sub 2:15 pacers were now out of sight. As we headed around Sovereign Harbour we were now and again getting blown by a blustery wind and rained on. Then I found a chap running at the same pace so we were side by side until mile 11 when I had to pull back.
I could see Emma up in front and she was running really well. A shout out from Martin towards the end spurred me on; I was nearly there and was really pleased when Hilary joined me for the last 400 metres. I could have cried but the pain was nearly over.
Having the support at the end from the Seaford Striders who had already crossed the line and who had waited around meant a lot. Thank you, what a great team to run for and well done to all those who got such amazing times. More training needed for me.
Congratulations to all the Striders who ran the Eastbourne Half! Official times are below:
Josh Rudd 1:22:18 8th overall, Course PB
Gareth Hutchinson 1:26:34 Third in age group
Scott Hitchcock 1:27:04 Course PB
Dave Dunstall 1:29:27 Second in age group
Luke Borland 1:30:28 Course PB
Phil Robinson 1:41:16
Claire Keith 1:43:58
Ben Shorer 1:48:13
Richard Honeyman 1:59:03
Hilary Humphreys 2:03:38 Second in age group
Emma Goodwin 2:17:22
Stacy Bennett 2:28:58
Trevor Jones 2:21:33