Moyleman 2015

[Sweder]

Moyleman 2015 - Race Report



On 15th March I took part in the inaugural running of "The Moyleman" Lewes Marathon, held in memory of local runner Chris Moyle who tragically passed away in 2009 aged only 42.



The event was devised by his running colleagues in the Lewes area and featured 80 marathon runners & 10 x 2 person half marathon relay teams.In bracing conditions (although thankfully the forecast rain held off) it was straight into a climb from the start at Landport Bottom as the route headed west to Blackcap, with the pay-off of a descent to the crossing of the A27 at 5 miles. More notable climbing to Castle Hill nature reserve, through a gorgeous valley and up again for stunning views before joining the South Downs Way and the welcome plunge down the "Yellow Brick Road".After crossing the C7 the halfway point is reached at Southease, featuring one of the many re-fuelling stops along the route, where you can gaze longingly at the daunting sight of the next climb, Itford Hill. 


From here along to Bo Peep was the only part I was familiar with and as the head wind started to take effect, it was a case of head down and plough on whilst taking the time to acknowledge former Strider Bill Young at the spot where he is fondly remembered.



Next it was the turn of the quads to take a pounding on the steep road descent of the Bostal before joining the Old Coach Road at another water station. This marked the 20 mile point where I started to tire and both hamstrings cramped up. The mind started wandering and despite the more than adequate signage, at one point I almost found myself in a cowshed! Worryingly, I was now starting to run/walk and promptly gave myself a good talking to. I wanted to get in under 5 hrs, which I'd hoped would be considered mildly respectable, so it was time to take 2 tablespoons of cement and harden the **** up.



I was glad to get off the Coach Road track, cross the A27 and reach Glynde. Mount Caburn comes next at 24 miles which although daunting is at least a consistent yomp. Downhill again into a valley before a sting in the tail with the last steep climb near the Golf course, where cramp set in again amid much nervous glancing at my watch. Finally a plummet down Chapel Hill, along Cliffe High Street and the finish in Harveys yard in 4.58.24. The complimentary pint & burger didn't touch the sides and the massage worked wonders.



Both Lewes runners Mike Ellicock triumphed in, to me, an unbelievable 2.59.43 with Chris Gilbert 3.00.34 in his first marathon. 



Spectacular route, wonderfully marshalled (take a bow Tom Roper), the whole thing was quite frankly, faultless. A fitting tribute to Chris Moyle, it had a real feel of being organised by runners, for runners, and Race Director Ash Head said this is the way it shall remain.



Chris Wrathall