The annual Belvoir Challenge took place on 28th February, around the Vale of Belvoir. After weeks of rain, it was always going to be a wet and muddy run. This was borne out when runners returned with mud up to their knees.
This year’s route followed a reversed version of previous courses with a few tweaks. The first checkpoint was at Goadby Marwood and marked the split between the 15 and 26 milers. The opening miles involved climbing the escarpment and crossing boggy fields where sudden deep patches of mud brought runners to a halt.
From Goadby Marwood, the 26-mile going became much easier when heading through Walton-on-the-Wolds across the tracks and grassy fields over to Croxton Kerrial. There were soggy areas within the fields but trying to avoid them was pointless so it was a case of just keep running through.
After reaching Woolsthorpe, we headed out towards Harston along fields, tracks then the disused railway to the next checkpoint. We then headed through another very boggy field and Belvoir Road towards Belvoir Castle. The varying terrain and constant mud started to take their toll and with the change in incline it was time to have a walk to conserve some energy towards the next checkpoint and Stathern.
The run into Stathern took in yet more muddy (but pretty) fields which slowed progress and the next few miles were gruelling with sloppy mud all the way to Harby and the village hall finish. We kept chugging to the finish which did allow some of the mud to drop off.
Each checkpoint offered a wide variety of food with Melton Mowbray pies a popular new option. Having taken gels to keep my energy levels up, I looked forward to some proper food with the traditional soup and pudding.
Grantham Running Club Finishers:
15 miles
Stefan Latter: 2:56:27
Stuart Reader – 3:25:27
26 miles
Caroline Davis – 5:31:35
Ross Warden – 6:05:38
Report by Caroline Davis