The nineth Dirt Half Challenge took place on Saturday 17 November 2018. Once again, the race was a sell out. Beautiful sunshine and cool temperatures made for idyllic running conditions. Some runners achieved personal bests despite the challenging nature of the course, with a killer hill about half way through the race before entering beautiful woodland trails.
The race was won by Genci Pepaj of Redway Runners in a time of 01:16:51, which is also a new course record. Second runner home was Stephen Buckle from St Albans Striders in 01:17:30 followed by Jamie Farmer of Redway Runners in 1:17:50. Mens Vet categories were won by: Genci Pepaj MV40, Greg Spellman MV50, Christopher Leach MV60 and Bob Austin MV70.
First Lady was Marion Buggins with an impressive time of 1:28:01 followed by Dawn Godwin of Windle Valley Runners in 01:33:18 and Jennifer Sangster of Redway Runners in 1:35:23. Female Vet prizes were won by: Jennifer Sangster FV35, Dawn Godwin FV45, Lesley Jenkinson FV55 and Diana Braverman FV65.
The team prize went to the Leighton Buzzard Athletics Club: Peter Mackrell, Andy Inchley, Chris George, Adam Haylock and Michael Furness.
Feedback from the runners regarding the course, the support from the marshals and the organisation of the event was once again outstanding with many runners vowing they would be back next year. A word of advice: enter early! https://dirtrunning.org.uk
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