Another excellent event from the Brutal Team. This was much more of cross-country run then any sort of OCR or extreme Mud run.

Very easy to find and parking was a plenty on a mix of hard standing / gravel so no issues there. Registration was easy and flowed well with no major queues, although there was a bit of a queue for the loos just before the race as there wasn’t many of them so get in line early.

This is only my second Brutal event but the pre-race brief and warm up had them same issues regarding sound. The microphone and speakers don’t seem to work well together and if you aren’t right at the front you just can’t hear them. Ok, this isn’t a major issue really, but you may miss something you later need to know out on course.

There were 3 choices out on course 5k, 10k and 21k. I entered the 10k and loved it. Much faster paced than expected and a great mixture of terrain. Two small water crossings neither of which are to deep but a great way to cool off if a bit warm. Two water stops out on course were perfectly placed and just when needed.

I found this race a lot easier going than my previous Brutal experience (Longmoor) It is a great introduction to off road running and a good event for all abilities. The medals and t-shirts are cool too.

A very authentic race. Staff were pleasant and there was a great atmosphere. The route was challenging and fun, well marshalled. Really disappointed that there was no finisher medal at the end and think its definitely worth considering for the future. 

All in all had a great day and now looking at the others in the race series. 

This was my first time running a Brutal 10 race and I will definitely be back for more.

The course was challenging with steep climbs and river crossings, very well marked up, with marshalls at key points, excellent organisation, and extremely friendly throughout.

All in all a very positive and enjoyable experience while pushing me very hard.

Whilst it was a very scenic 5k, it certainly didn't live up to it's name!  Disappointing that there was no water included in the 5k route. 

Also very long queues for the toilets before the start.  

Well organised, well signed and well supported - just not as challenging as I was hoping for lol

The race course was never boring. It was a constant running up and down the soft trail tracks. The three river crossings was the highlight of the race. It could have been made more interesting if there was an obstacle or a boat on the river so that runners have to swim under it. 

Due to lack of rain, not much mud on the trail, which some might count as a blessing while some more hardcore runners might not find it challenging enough. Yeah, those insane mofos.

All in all, the race was extremely well managed, well sign posted, helpful marshalls, lovely trail tracks with some steep hills and the entry fee cost only a few shekels which will not burn a deep hole in your pocket. 

Verdict: A brilliant trail race for beginners and more experienced runners alike. A strong thumbs up from me. 

When I originally planned to sign up to this event it was a 2 lap route up the road. I had it in my head that I wanted to race it, always having run  with friends before. So this new 5km route down the road was not the same, and not as brutal as I believe the 10km was, but it was a lovely run in the woods, some fast sections and some watch your feet sections and a few hills thrown in. Raced it i did, and only went a came in as the first female!! 

I love the Windmill Hill Brutal event. If you want deep mud this isn't the Brutal you're looking for as this one is fast and dry on twisty technical wooded trail (mind those roots!) with a seemingly endless series of short sharp hills - up and down and up and down like a roller coaster. The only respite from this is a flat 1/2km along the edge of the canal at the half-way point but then just when you think you've recovered enough to finish the race it's in and out of the chest-deep water three times to really drain your energy reserves for the final few kilometers.

Organisation was impeccable as always. Finding and collecting your number is quick and easy, with free key and bag drop. The end of the race brings the customary reward of a Battle Oats bar, a banana and cup of water or squash. No medals at Brutal - with off-road running this good you don't need them (and remember how cheap Brutal is compared with other off-road/OCR events).