Shouldering Seaford and Eastbourne, this figure of eight course lies East of the South Downs National Park. Taking in the iconic white chalky cliffs of Beachy Head, these events are challenging.
Continuing their training for the London Marathon in April, super team Nick Kenney and Julie Rasmussen both selected the half marathon distance on Saturday, along side Nick’s brother Alex.
“I wish I’d looked at the course profile before I signed up!” Julie quips before the race.
But the rolling hills of the Sussex Coast weren’t the only thing they had to contend with on race day. The Beast from the East had sent in it’s little brother for a flying visit as strong winds brought with them snow showers and freezing conditions.
“Even standing in the start line the wind was beating against us” Julie said “All my extremities were numb”
But undeterred, they set off from the event HQ in Birling Gap, one of the few access points to the coastal path. Straight into a headwind, they headed out along Beachy Head Road and up Seven Sisters before turning toward Friston and East Dean.
A quick return back through Birling before they set off on the second and toughest loop of the course up Beachy Head along the exposed cliff path at the mercy of the elements before the turn at Holywell and the welcome return leg to the finish line.
“The route was as tough as I anticipated with numerous steep ascents. There was to be no shelter anywhere on the course. It really was a true test of sheer grit and determination to keep going in such testing conditions. I can only compare it to running up and down to Tennyson monument continuously for 13 miles”
Nick came over the line in 2.16.32, unfortunately for him, his legendary rivalry with his brother didn’t go his way this time as despite running the race together, Alex pipped Nick on chip time by 1 vital second.
Julie finished in 2.37.11, tired but triumphant“That was my slowest half but most definitely the most difficult one I’ve ever tackled”
Well done Julie and Nick (and Alex.. sorry Nick!)
A Club for all
