On Saturday 26th May the Dupain-clan headed up the coast to Sidmouth to take part in the Sidmouth R.C. organised 'Little Long Run'. The twee oxymoronic name in fact beguiles the difficulty of the challenge that the race presents to participants. It may only be 3.8 miles long but it is a category B fell race involving some very steep sections of ascent. Further, the route represents something of an obstacle course with lots of things to jump (logs), avoid (nettles) and cross (rivers).
It was the first staging of the race and with just 44 finishers it was, in the true manner of fell running, a low-key but friendly affair. The Dupains were out in force and all of them had strong races, imposing themselves upon the overall results by all finishing in the top 50% of the field.
Chris was the the first Dupain and the first Harrier home in 11th place overall in a time of 40.44; this was after overtaking Ben White (an honorary Dupain, in the capacity of Emma's boyfriend!) when Ben went the wrong way! Ben finished in 44.14 which gave him a creditable 13th place. If he brushes up on his navigation, that could be a top ten placing next time! ;-)
Hannah Bown, née Dupain, came in as 2nd lady, finishing just one place and less than 2 minutes behind the first lady in 44.15. This have her 15th place overall; quite an achievement considering that being so petite the river was a lot higher on her than on most of the other competitors!!
Nigel 'Pops' Dupain had a good run finishing in 47.10 for 18th place. Emma rounded up the team in 21st place and 4th lady with a time of 49.10. She was pleased just to be back running and to finish comfortably in this, her first race since her accident that led to a few cracked ribs. Good to see you on the mend in time for the summer season, Emma!
The race was won by Chris Gill of Tiverton Harriers in a nimble 32:31.
All involved enjoyed the atmosphere of the event and the course, which was tough but interesting. Hopefully the event will grow and grow and gain further Harriers' support next year!
Exe-rated runners!
The successful Harriers team, en masse, at the Erme Valley Relays, July 2013
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