Richard McDowell's 2018 course record of 1:52:40 was never under serious threat on another warm day but the overnight drop of almost 10 degrees and a freshening breeze was welcomed by runners and race officials as the popular North Downs 30K hosted the British Masters Multi-Terrain Championships for the fourth time.

Taking her fifth consecutive overall win in the race from Cascades Leisure Centre, Gravesend was W35 Amy Clements (Kent AC, 2:14:33) having made her debut with second place in 2014. Clements was followed by Christine Howard (Billericay Striders, 2:31:03) and Harriet Woolley (Tonbridge, 2:31:20), who had enjoyed a close tussle for the remaining podium places.

The men's race was far less clear cut as local favourite Ed Bovingdon (1:59:41) held off the combined challenge of Medway & Maidstone team mates Tom Collins (2:02:36) and Chris Rampling (2:02:51) to claim his maiden North Downs 30K victory.

The race route follows tracks, trails and quiet lanes through some of the finest scenery in Southern England and features the relentless climb to Holly Hill at almost 200 metres above sea level and some fabulous views across the North Downs.

Typical of the many compliments on social media was this post from first-timer Deborah Parris: “Such a brilliant event; well organised with lovely supportive marshals, great water stations (Prosecco at halfway was a welcome surprise) lovely scenery, great cakes at the finish and lovely entertainment and a fabulous goody bag and T-shirt. This was my first time running this race and I’d say it’s my favourite ever. I’ll be back next year for sure!”

Full results via runABC South race listings here

Image courtesy Istead and Ifield Harriers on Facebook