The New Forest 10 Mile Race on Sunday 27^th October, was a delightful event, offering runners a chance to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the New Forest. The race started and finished in New Park, Brockenhurst, and was hosted by the New Forest Runners. This race was also the third fixture in the Hampshire Road Race League (HRRL) for the 2024/25 season.

A total of 822 runners participated, including 25 from Alton Runners. Richard Webley was the first Alton Runner to finish, coming in 16^th overall. Samara Kelleher-Jacobs was the first female Alton Runner, finishing 58^th among the women.

The weather was perfect for running, with sunshine and comfortable temperatures. Runners were treated to views of wild ponies on the heathland. Some of the faster runners even saw the ponies gallop across the road, though they were calm by the time most runners passed. Steve Drysdale remarked, “I came for the running but stayed for the horses”, highlighting the unique charm of the event. The sight of these majestic creatures was a real neigh-sayer to any pre-race nerves.

The course was mostly flat with a few gentle hills and an ankle-deep ford crossing. Despite the mixed terrain, many runners enjoyed the trail sections, even if they usually prefer road running. Jane Scrase joked, “Should have worn my trail shoes! I think there was one and a half miles of road. I will pretend its cross country if I do it again.”

After the race, there was a great selection of food and drinks. The post-race feast was the perfect way to trot off the course and munch on some well-deserved treats.

Overall, the New Forest 10 Mile Race was a wonderful experience, combining the beauty of the New Forest with the joy of running. Each finisher received a Horse Brass medal, a lovely keepsake from a fantastic day. It was truly a mane event for all involved!

The next HRRL fixture is less than three weeks away (Sunday 17^th November), with the Gosport Half Marathon – and Alton Runners have a team of 14 already signed up.

Article by Lydia Andrews
Photos by Donna Mansfield and Richard Scrase
13/10/2024