Four legs good, two legs also good at the Magnificent Eastnor Castle 7 (MAG7) on Sunday 19 March that lived up to its majestic title. A beautiful multi-terrain course, friendly, efficient marshals and plenty of cake made for a marvellous day for human and canine runners.

The Magnificent Eastnor Castle 7 was organised by Ledbury & District Harriers for runners of all abilities including man’s best friend! Canicross made its debut at the 2022 event to paws-itive reviews and returned this year where it sold out weeks in advance. A testament to its popularity.

This event was held at Eastnor Castle in Herefordshire, a 19th century fortified structure surrounded by a deer park, gardens and lake at the foot of the Malvern Hills. It’s only open to the public at certain times of the year and Ledbury Harriers acknowledged their good fortune in being able to stage this in a superb location.

The race started at 11am followed by canicross at 11.15am. Whilst this route went through parts of the Estate and Deer Park there was nothing stately about the pace. They completed 7 miles on trails, woodland paths, farm tracks and grass with a climb up to the Obelisk near the end then downhill to the finish. It was muddy good fun for many in a friendly, lively atmosphere.

Nick Drabble of Black Pear Joggers was first across the line in 44:07. Matt James of Hereford Couriers RC followed him in 45:03 with Thomas Kennedy third in 46:29.

Niki Morgan of Chepstow Harriers was the first lady in 54:09. Christina Plant of Hereford Couriers RC was second lady in 1:00:16 and teammate Abi Knight third lady in 1:00:45.

All the results are available to view via the runABC Midlands Race Listing page.

There were age category prizes courtesy of Westons cider which went down a treat: a memento for each finisher and homemade cakes and drinks from Eastnor School PTA – these also went down a treat! 

Proceeds from the event go to local charities.

The organisers thanked everyone who helped them deliver a successful event with these final words for runners and their pooches...”You were awesome." You could also say 'pawsome'...

Image courtesy of Builth and District Running Club.