Harrier Mike Hughes tackled one of the toughest off road marathon courses and was first Harrier home on what was to be an ideal day for running.

Eight Harriers travelled to Eastbourne to take part in the Beachy Head Marathon. The  circular route follows part of the South Downs way and is a hilly and challenging course.

The Harriers based themselves at Ash Farm, a warm and welcoming B+B, and adjourned to the local Pub to discuss the next days event.  By a tragic coincidence it turned out that every Harrier except Mike, was carrying an injury which was to restrict them to walking the route and solace was sought in Pints of Old Speckled Hen for the injured, ( and Orange juice for Mike, because he was running.)

After a Hearty Full English Fry Up ( and scrambled egg on toast for Mike, because he was running ) we all ambled along to the start, and as Ros and Teresa ( and Mike, because he was running ) waved a tearful farewell, the Harriers Elite walking team headed up over the Hill and past the lone piper in the general direction of the first checkpoint, and nearest pub

Pausing only to cheer on Mike as he ran past, the Harriers Elite walkers pushed  themselves hard, surviving on a meagre diet of fruit cake, Mars bars, Hot Cross Buns, Soup, and bananas, all of which were available at the checkpoints, and the odd Pint in the occasional Pub, we all  crossed the finish line together ( except for Mike as he had been running )

Back at Ash Farm we all sat down to a magnificent  evening meal and several bottles of wine before falling asleep in front of match Of The Day.

A truly fun, enjoyable and rewarding week end away.