High-class field for Arundel 10k

The change of venue for events at Arundel Castle meant that the park route had to be revised and competitors entered and left the castle grounds via the gates at the top of the High Street.

This meant that the finish in the High Street was downhill rather than the traditional uphill grind, very welcome for many, but on the other hand, there was a short, steep climb shortly after the start, which certainly proved tough for a number of competitors.

The sight of the densely-packed snake of runners along the High Street on a glorious morning was quite striking.

Competition was extremely strong in both the men's and women's races in what were extremely good conditions for racing and Ashley Allen and Ali Smith from Aldershot and Farnham set a terrific pace in the men's race.

However, course knowledge and undoubted talent kept Chichester's James Baker within striking distance. He made his challenge at around halfway and soon established a commanding lead, which by the end led to a time of 34 minutes 22 seconds and a comfortable distance away from Smith (35-21) and Allen (36-55).

It was Baker's third win in the past six years.

In the women's race, first-time competitor Emily Nelson of Epsom and Ewell was well to the fore from the start and kept pace with the front-running men very well to be the first woman and 17th overall.

Her time of 39-36 was a new race record. Second woman was Karrie Blake (unattched) and her time of 40:50 would normally have been good enough to win the race, but on this occasion Emily was just too strong.

Third woman home and first in the very competitive women's veterans' class, was Sharon Harvey of Worthing and District Harriers.

The team competition was won by a very strong Tone Zone quartet of David Owens, James Harrison, Paul Foster and Paul Jarvis. The turn-out by members of this Aldingbourne-based club was excellent.

In second place were Steyning AC, comprising Simon James, Antony Bishop, Richard Pavitt and Mark Tyler. Third was David Barry, Grant Patterson, Sharon Harvey and Janice Jones of Worthing and District Harriers.

The first BN18 runner home, in eighth place, was David Tucker, in a time of 38:20.

The organisers would like to thank the Duke of Norfolk and the staff of Arundel Castle for allowing the race to use the castle and grounds for what is a unique event.