Home » Latest Club News »
A Big Round of Applause to All 2024 Masters Mantell Challenge Participants!
Congratulations to new club member Harry Letton for winning the 2024 Lewes Athletics Club Masters Mantell Challenge! Harry not only crossed the finish line first but finished 6 minutes and 12 seconds faster than his predicted time —a fantastic achievement.
Harry Letton wins the 2024 LAC Masters Mantell
Hats off to Peter Miller. He came second and finished 3 minutes and 50 seconds faster than his predicted time.
On his win, Harry said: “A huge thank you to all participances and volunteers for making a day I’ll never forget. I’m truly grateful and appreciate everyone’s efforts in this club and the community ethos. Well done to everyone for their parts in this.”
Kudos to Becci Walter, the first woman to cross the line. Becci finished 3 minutes and 20 seconds faster than her predicted time.
Also, Emma Rollings, the second woman to cross the line. Emma finished 2 minutes and 19 seconds faster than her predicted time.
Congratulations also to:
- Fasted overall time | Ben Pepler | 31 minutes and 20 seconds
- Second fastest overall time | George Stewart | 31 minutes and 40 seconds
- Fastest woman | Clare Martin | 39 minutes and 30 seconds
- Second fastest woman | Emma Rollings | 40 minutes and 31 seconds
- Best age grade | Chris Gilbert | 84.39%
- Second best age grade | Toby Meanwell | 84.19%
- Best woman age grade | Emma Rollings | 71.98%
- Second best woman age grade | Sally Norris | 71.5%
What is The Masters Mantell Challenge?
Runners enjoy the 2024 LAC Masters Mantell to Blackcap
The Masters Mantell Challenge, held annually, is a much-loved event for Lewes Athletics Club members of all standards and abilities.
Designed as a handicap race, it gives everyone a fair shot at victory by adjusting start times based on past performances. Slower runners get a head start, with faster athletes chasing them down, creating an exciting atmosphere where anyone can win.
This year, the race kicked off under a light shower, which soon gave way to beautiful late summer sunshine—perfect conditions for an out-and-back run to stunning Blackcap. Gerard Dummett, who marshalled at the Blackcap turn, summed it perfectly: “It’s lovely up here!”
Thanks to meticulous planning by our LAC spreadsheet wizard, Andrew Chitty, the playing field was truly level. By predicting finishing times, the race culminated in a thrilling dash to the line. The winner? The first to cross, no matter their start time.
Why You Should Take Part Next Year
The Masters Mantell Challenge isn’t just about running—it’s about community, motivation, and personal achievement. As new member Catriona Wheeler shared, “The race provided a wonderful experience for my first-ever club event and race. The marshals were so encouraging, and the finish was exhilarating!”
Returning to running after injury, recreational club runner Claire Hawes echoed this sentiment: “The format is really motivating. You run your own race in a beautiful location and strive for a personal best but with the added thrill of having an equal chance to win.”
A Race for Everyone
Whether you’re returning from injury, like Claire, or just looking for a supportive environment to push your limits, the Masters Mantell Challenge is the perfect race.
“The encouragement from my club buddies—both marshals and fellow runners—was incredible,” Claire added. “It boosted my confidence so much that I signed up for the next West Sussex Fun Run League fixture on the spot!”
Camaraderie and Celebration
This camaraderie continued at The Black Horse Inn, where we gathered for the trophy presentation and post-run celebrations.
After that, the post-run chat on our LAC WhatsApp Group buzzed excitedly, with participants sharing their experiences and celebrating each other’s achievements.
A Big Thank You
We owe a massive thank you to all the organisers and volunteers who made this race possible: Andy Perris, Anne Hagan, Beverley Sheridan, Carl Dowling, Claire Watson, David Foster, Ellen Brookes, Emma Gardner, Gerard Dummett, Hazel Bennington, Ian Fines, John Coleman, Matt Read, Mike Jones, Nick Williams, Pete Masters, Philip Westbury, Siobhan Boyer, Tony Deacon.
If you’ve yet to experience the Masters Mantell Challenge, do mark your calendar for next year. Whether you’re in it to win it or want to enjoy a great run in the spectacular South Downs that celebrates effort, camaraderie, and the joy of running, this event is not to be missed.
See you at the starting line in 2025!