Can You Surmount Farley Mount?
The hills are 'rolling' at the Winchester Trail Run...
Winchester Trail Run, on Saturday 20 January 2024, is among several eye-catching events listed in runABC South's comprehensive race calendar this weekend. Part of the Run Rebel Trail Run Series, this off-road half marathon is set in the beautiful Hampshire countryside just outside Winchester, on the stunning tracks, bridleways, and footpaths surrounding the famous Farley Mount Monument – one of the highest points in Hampshire at 174m.
This local landmark in Farley Mount Country Park is the jewel in the crown of this rewarding trail run. Starting from the well-equipped Sparsholt College, there is plentiful hard-standing car parking and the picturesque and unspoiled route has two distances on offer – 21K and 14.5K – with separate starts and an entry limit of 700 runners.
The undulating route is described by organisers UK Running Events as: "Rolling rather than hilly, so will ease you into your new year of running. The route consists of visually rewarding tree-lined sections and spectacular vistas over the Hampshire countryside and a little climb up to Farley Mount on the 21K route."
The 21K course climbs 296m while the lighter option of 14.5K gains 200m, with the two routes diverging in Ashmore Hill Copse. The area is also used for the Hampshire Cross Country League so is well known to local runners. Take a look at this short video to get a feel for the terrain...
The extensive list of items covered in the entry fees – £35/£40 according to distance – includes socks, neck buff, personalised certificate and finisher's medal in addition to the usual chip timing, water stations, first aid cover, and the fully marked and marshalled course.
For further information and late entries click on the Winchester Trail Run website here.
Results will be available via the runABC South race listing here.
Photo courtesy My Sport Photos for UK Running Events