Seagrave Wolds Challenge

Seagrave Wolds Challenge, Seagrave, Leicestershire

Four members of Grantham Running Club made the short journey to Seagrave to take part in the Seagrave Wolds Challenge on Saturday 9 November 2013. The 15.7 mile course utilises footpaths, bridleways, farmland, private estates, canal paths, quiet country lanes and some sections on road as runners and walkers headed over mostly gently rolling countryside from Seagrave to the outskirts of Loughborough before heading back to Seagrave via Barrow-upon-Soar.  
The event, now in its seventh year, draws inspiration from similar walk / run / cycle events such as the Belvoir Challenge, Viking Challenge, Waltham Winder and Sherrard Stride. Recent heavy rainfall made the going tough on the off-road sections, with even trail shoe clad runners struggling for traction on sections of the course. Conditions were cloudy and cool but thankfully stayed dry with barely a breeze.
First home for Grantham was Matthew Kingston-Lee. Not renowned for his fondness of, or prowess on, muddy off-road conditions, Matthew made hay on the road and canal path sections whilst coping as best he could on the slippery stuff. He survived a late race stumble over a stile and a marauding herd of cattle to come home in a creditable tenth position, clocking 1:47:51. The winner of an event which saw over 500 entrants was Jake Harrison, who clocked 1:41:00.
Matthew was followed by Ben Hatherley, who had a strong run to finish 33rd in 2:01:58. Paul Reeves was next to cross the finish line, clocking 2:03:12 to claim 38th position. Ben Mason came home muddied but pleased to finish 82nd in 2:15:38.
In addition to feeding stations on course, the finish was awash with cakes, hot puddings, and soup for those who fancied something a little savoury. With a free T-Shirt and printed finish certificate, the event represented very good money for a well marshalled and signposted event