The Chidham half marathon Sat 3rd February 2024, one of the West Sussex UK Running Events trail series.
I had always wanted to run the Chidham half marathon after my first ever race/event at nearby Thorney Island back in May 2022. I knew it would be flat and I had hopes of a good time. However, it wasn’t clear what the weather would be doing. I came prepared but my trusty hat proved too hot even in the overcast foggy conditions. I dressed for cold and ended up being a tad too hot.
I had been suffering 2 to 3 second stabbing pain headaches aches for about four days. My GP said he would prefer it if I didn’t run the half the following day, but reassured me he thought it unlikely I had a stroke.
I started middle of the pack and let those wanting to speed off, pass. I settled into a comfortable pace shadowing younger runners as pacers. I found the ground very uneven in parts. We ran on a beach section at low water which was either large flint or mud. There were also a few obstacles to navigate during the 13-mile course.
It was caincross for 15km distance, but many were either running far earlier than their start time or had brought their dog for the half marathon. I think for those wanting to run with their dog, should have their own separate events. During this event it was impossible for most to avoid unwelcome dog contact and their owners using the dog to bully past runners in front.
As always there was plenty of encouragement from the marshals: "you’re doing well, not far to go now" and water stops with jelly babies
At the end a nice medal. A bit disappointing it wasn’t a half marathon medal as RunRebel appeared this time, to give out the same medal for each of the trail run distances. My time of 2 hours 19mins 39secs was a slight improvement on my last half South Downs in November.
