If you've signed up for a spring marathon in 2024 and need to get a long run (or two) in beforehand then a 20 miler is a fantastic way to test yourself. The Harry Gamble-Thompson 20Ten (17 March) is just such an event and ably organised by New Marske Harriers.

Harry Gamble-Thompson passed away on the eve of the 2019 20Ten race. Harry became a member of New Marske Harriers not long after it was formed in 1986 and was well known on the North East road running scene. His time of 2:32:10 at London Marathon 1982 ranks him 10th in All Time UK Vet 50 for the marathon. A spokesperson from the club says: "He probably ran faster than that - there was no chip timing in those days!"

Of the races organised by New Marske Harriers, the 20Ten was the one nearest in distance to his beloved marathon, that combined with its proximity to his passing made it an obvious tribute to re-name it in his honour.

Speaking about the event, organisers told us: "This race has previously sold out long before the closing date, however we are aware of other multi-lap 20 mile events now being held in the area. Please do remember that this is the original 20 lap race and like other NMH races, is not held for private commercial gain. Any profit is reinvested into our sport and/or the community!"

Those who have completed the race before will be interested to know that organisers have had work done to replace the 'hairpin' bend with a much smoother couple of left hand turns. The event is one of multiple laps, which may not be everyone's cup of tea, but organisers stress the advantages: "Each lap (mile) is exactly the same so you can practise your even pace or negative splits. You pass toilets and a water station once a mile, and if you have someone supporting they can shout you on once or twice each lap."

This is essentially a 20 mile race with a 10 mile option. The default entry is for 20 Miles, however runners can only change your entry to 10 miles on the day. This can be done any time up to 9.9 miles, but if you pull out after 10 miles you will considered a DNF.

If you'd like to know more, visit the event entry page here.

Image: New Marske Harriers Facebook