Combe Gibbet to Overton. A 16 mile point to point race over rolling English countryside and a race that super crew, Steve Bennett and Judy McCabe took on this year for a fourth time together.
Assembling at the finish line at Overton Primary School, Judy and Steve were transported via bus over to the start area at Combe Gibbet. With a lovely sunny day for it and a perfect temperature of 16 degrees our duo were ready to prove as always, that teamwork really does make the dream work.
On the Berkshire/Hampshire border, the gibbet was erected on the later named Gallows Down in 1676. Despite being replaced several times over the past 342 years, it only ever served its purpose for 2 souls over that time.
Serving only as a local landmark now, Steve and Judy set off from there on their 16.2 mile and 99% off road journey though the Hampshire hills down to Overton.
Heading out, the undulation was steady with equal amounts of ups and downs, covering bridle paths, foot paths and private estates as they made their way through Eastwick, along the Wayfarers Walk before skirting the Highclere Estate and taking in a beautiful view of Downton Abbey itself, otherwise known as Highclere Castle, and then finishing with the only noticeably short stretch of downhill to the village of Overton.
They ran the whole way together but in Steves words he was “admirably guided round by his ever attentive carer” and they crossed the line in 2:32:18 giving Judy 5th in her age category and Steve 9th in his.
“Not our fastest” said Steve “but not our slowest either. That’s was the year we were running through snow!”
“Overall, a recommended event.” says our chairman. So maybe we can get a few more of our trail loving Road Runners together for this one next year???………you know who you all are! 😉
Awesome running both of you and so good to see this great little team back running together and looking strong. Well done guys!
