Set in the breathtaking natural beauty of the South Downs, just south of the village of Kingsclere, this race is one of the finest trail races on the running calendar. Spectacular views, the friendliest race marshals and the best food available at aid stations, this event is a must enter.

The Race Village was about 15 minutes walk from the centre of Kingsclere, the parking area for the race is a similar walking distance. Race pack collection is on the day and pick up was quick and easy. The number of toilets seemed adequate and there was a bag drop and race t shirt collection tent.

The timing chip was not built in to the race bib, instead it came as a separate tag with cable ties to be attached through your shoe laces.

The half marathon race route itself was challenging. The first half mile was a stop-start affair due to congestion and single file pathways. The key feature - and most difficult obstacle - of the race was the extraordinarily steep and high hill which was encountered  very early at the half mile point and then again on the downward slope, half a mile from the finish. Once this was overcome, the terrain was undulating and often narrow but the vistas across the South Downs were truly rewarding.

Each aid station had a choice of water and flat coke, the latter being most welcome indeed. At the 8 mile mark there was a veritable banquet of hula hoops, jelly babies and orange wedges with which to refuel.

The marshals for this race deserve special mention for being the most friendly, enthusiastic and helpful that I’ve personally encountered at an event. A quality that was certainly appreciated during some tough moments along the way.

It was a long straight run to the finish line, the Hoppit Bunny cheered us on about a 100 metres out. A respectable goody bag of various snacks, a branded half pint glass and decent medal that doubled as a bottle opener awaited us. A free pint - or several - was available at the beer tent for that post race celebration.