nicholas rown
30 December, 2024
Sport

Westfield trail race a great success

Fifty runners enjoyed the inaugural Westfield Trail race 7.50kms on a misty Sunday afternoon, led home by cross country specialist Graeme McIntosh from Wadhurst Runners who made light work of the sticky, and in places boggy, conditions in a fast time of 30.31. 

And they're off

However he was pushed hard most of the way by runner-up Jack Davies (30.48) and 3rd placed Alfie Webb (31.17). 

First lady finisher was Caroline Williams in 41.28, followed in closely by Sabrina Holt (42.09) and Run Club Bexhill's Hannah Eyre-Weeks (44.48).

The very scenic race, which attracted a nice mix of club and non-club runners as well as many local Westfield residents, followed the 1066 Country Walk path from Westfield for the first 3k, going right past the Bayeux Tapestry inspired Farbanks Henge sculptures. 

The route then continued as far as Little Maxfield, before returning across country through Great Maxfield to finish on the track opposite The Plough. Runners enjoyed tea and cake afterwards at Westfield Community Hall.1066

Trail Series co-organiser Will Withecombe said: "The feedback from the runners was very encouraging, and we would especially like to thank all our marshals, as well as the farmers and landowners en route who were very accommodating."

Ten races are planned in 2025, starting with the Winchelsea Beach 10k trail race on Sunday, January 26. Please contact willnickraces@mail.com for further details.

Pre - race instructions, although it looks as if the runners are listening to an outdoor sermon!
Pre - race instructions, although it looks as if the runners are listening to an outdoor sermon! Credit: Lee Wright
The start in Fishponds Lane, Westfield
The start in Fishponds Lane, Westfield Credit: Lee Wright
Winner Graeme McIntosh already in the lead, crossing over the Hastings - Ashford rail line just before 3kms
Winner Graeme McIntosh already in the lead, crossing over the Hastings - Ashford rail line just before 3kms Credit: Darren Barzee
Cake maker supreme Kevin Blowers!
Cake maker supreme Kevin Blowers! Credit: Darren Barzee
Graeme Grass
Graeme Grass Credit: Darren Barzee
Ladies runner-up Sabrina Holt
Ladies runner-up Sabrina Holt Credit: Darren Barzee
Ladies 3rd place finisher, Hannah Eyre-Weeks
Ladies 3rd place finisher, Hannah Eyre-Weeks Credit: Darren Barzee
Race winner Graeme McIntosh, with just 300m to go!
Race winner Graeme McIntosh, with just 300m to go! Credit: Lee Wright