Jim & LesleyIt was a perfect day for a long run (or walk), writes Jim Knight – clear, bright, & sunny. Cold but not bitter.

At 9 am 2300 runners, walkers and dogs set off up the hill from Eastbourne onto the South Downs.
It really is a beautiful route.
Great views in all directions from the top of the Downs.
Then down to the village of Jevington, and through colourful beech forest to Alfriston. Unfortunately, no time to stop in the pubs.
Then a big drag up Borstall Hill before coasting back down to West Dean checkpoint for tea and giant sausage rolls (perfect)
Endless steps follow, before a nice descent to Cuckmere Haven.
Then the Seven Sisters.
Beautiful views, but I still can’t believe how steep they are.
From there the marshals are shouting; “you’re nearly there”.
They lied.
It’s still a long way over the undulations to Birling Gap, up to the top of Beachy Head and down to the finish.

Our plan was to walk round, enjoy it and finish before the 9-hour cut-off.
We did exactly that, finishing in 8hrs25.
A really great day out.

Sylvia Lewis walked round with her son, Steve, beating us by 7 minutes.
Other SAC results were:
Graham Cook – 5.18
Bet Benn 6.00
Rob & Julie Carr 7.12

The full results are here.

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