The eighth West Wight Chilly Hilly ten-mile multi-terrain race took place on Sunday 4th December.
Following its popularity at the Isle of Wight Festival of Running back in June, live tracking of the event was viewed in the warmth of the Sports Centre by supporters and family members, while the runners braved low temperatures, easterly winds, and muddy conditions along the course.
Top three men’s spots
First over the line was Joe Driscoll from Winchester AC, in an impressive time of 1:03:45, crossing the line just four seconds ahead of second place man, local Gary Marshall from Ryde Harriers.
Third man was Luke Levine in a time of 1:06:32.
Top three women’s spots
Helen Sceales from Highgate Harriers led the ladies in with a time of 1:14:50, followed by Natalie Green of Hardley Runners in 1:20:01.
Third lady finisher was local Nadia Lele from Wight Tri with a time of 1:24:24.
Vets
Don Powell, Basingstoke and Mid Hants AC completed the course in 1:28:32 to win the Men’s Veterans 70+ class.
Variety of clubs taking part
The event sponsor, local running store Love Running was well represented on the course, with several members of the Love Running Tuesday Nighters club taking on the event for the first time.
The increasing popularity and success of Isle of Wight community running groups was evident with runners representing Wootton Bridge Runners, West Wight Community Runners, Ventnor Sloggers and Cowes Women’s Running Group.
Griffin: Looking forward to growing the event further in future years
Clare Griffin, Event Director said,
“We are delighted that the West Wight Chilly Hilly has become a popular winter event on the South Coast running calendar.
“Thank you to runners for embracing the festive theme of the event and taking part in such a scenic event. We are looking forward to growing the event further in future years.”
Clare goes on to say,
“As our largest winter fundraising event, we are grateful to all the local businesses who have supported us, including Tapnell Farm, Co-operative Food, David Williams and Love Running. The event would not be possible without an army of volunteers and we thank them all for their generosity of time in such cold conditions!”
Isle of Wight Festival of Running 2023
The Isle of Wight Festival of Running 2023 will take place from 4th to 11th June next year, with an exciting calendar of events being planned.
Early Bird Entry to the annual Needles Half Marathon, taking place on Sunday 11th June at midday, is now open.
News shared by Clare on behalf of WWSC. Ed
Image: Joe Driscoll Gary Marshall Luke Levine
