The annual Hadleigh Hares 10 mile, 5 miles and junior 2km races were held on 25th November starting from Hadleigh United FC in Tinkers Lane. A very blustery day welcomed our athletes on arrival, setting the pattern for what would be a demanding windy run ahead. Once again, the event proved to be very popular with all the races selling out before race day. leaving a waiting list of disappointed runners who just left it too late.
For those who did make it to the start line, the junior 2 kilometre race based around the Hadleigh river walk was first off. This year, to make it a bit more inclusive for the competitors, we used a new route, starting and finishing at race HO. This did require a longer than usual closure of Toppesfield Bridge to ensure the childrens' safety, and we, as a
club are grateful for the patience and forbearance of the local community allowing us to achieve this. Despite a slight hold up due to an ambulance needing to get by, it all worked well and the runners had a great time. First boy home was Alfie Kelly in 7:02 and first girl was Amalle Twydellin 7:56.
In previous years the start of the adult races was notoriously crowded. so this year we split the starts with the 10 milers going off first followed by the S milers, 5 minutes later. Anyone who has run either of these courses will tel yo uthey are not easy with plenty of steep hills to contend with. With the added 'bonus' of winds up to 50mph, it became even tougher for our competitors who all, nevertheless, made it back to the finish tine to receive their special 40th anniversary Hadleigh Hares medals. First home in the John Chisnall 5 mile event was Brandon Barber in a brilliant 26:56, who was followed by Hadleigh girl Darcy Gladwell who set a new course record of 32:24. That record had lasted for ten years since 2014 so no mean feat, particularly in the conditions. Both the 10 mile winners successfully defended their titles from last year. Patrick Hannah finishing in 58:04 and Kate Creak in 1:04:56.
Hadleigh Hares would like to thank our main sponsors, M Chisnall and Sons and PlantParts Ltd for their continuing and generous sponsorship, and Bossbody, Huffers, Cobblers, Jet Lounge, Abbeycroft Leisure and Sweet Memories for kindly donating spot prizes to our finishers. Next year we will be holding the event on 23 November, so if you fancy it, best get training!
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