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LAC Runners Shine at Bewl 15 Despite Rain
Congratulations to LAC runners Helen Bowman, Libby West, Gerard Dummet, Kate Seymour, Sarah Robinson and Bob Hughes who participated in the Bewl 15 run on Sunday 7th, July.
The Bewl 15 is a popular event on the Sussex Grand Prix calendar. The course takes runners mainly off-road on gently undulating hills around Bewl Water.
Event organisers describe the route as challenging, but runners of all standards who are not taking part in the Sussex Grand Prix are welcome.
“The beauty of the Sussex Grand Prix is its range of events and differing challenges,” said Bob. “Helen Bowman and I took part in this event to gain our SGP points!”
How to train to run 15 miles
LAC Run Leader Kate said, “Anyone who comes along to our regular Tuesday 6-mile runs already has a fantastic base fitness, so it’s a question of slowly and steadily increasing weekly mileage. Adding in a short midweek run helps. In addition, I increased my mileage by a mile or two each Sunday morning. Before I knew it, I ran 12+ miles, which gave me the confidence to manage long runs.
Longer trail runs are kind … walking up hills and going at the best pace conditions allow rather than full out! I trained to be a leader to force me to run in all weather. It certainly toughened me up this winter! Finally, I entered a few WSFRL races to get used to racing conditions, which are, in fact, relaxed and friendly. Also, you will benefit from some adrenaline on race day!”
Conversely, LAC’s Libby West told us, “I didn’t need to do much training for this event, as I’ve been trying to run a 1/2 marathon every month this year. So, one event is my training for the next event.
Hills are good!
“Past runners warned about hills and a route that would take me away from Bewl water, but I found it a spectacular route!” Said Libby. “Let’s face it: I didn’t need to see more water, as there had been so much rain. Despite the horrid conditions, cheerful marshals encouraged us all the way.”
Kate agreed, “The Bewl marshals were very friendly and encouraging. If you wear your club vest, as I did, you get the bonus of spectators shouting, ‘Come on, Lewes!’ which can be a lovely boost!”
She added. “It’s an easy, attractive course, close to home, and with enough mileage to make it a tough but attainable challenge for anyone who comes along on a Tuesday night.”
The difference running with friends makes
“Running in the good company of Kate Seymour and Sarah Robinson was lovely,” remarked Libby. “Also, seeing familiar LAC faces at the start and finish was lovely.”
She added, “I must thank poor Kate Seymour for having to put on her Run Leader hat. With her help, I felt like I had a rope pulling us around the course… to get the job done.”
Looking forward to next year
All our Bewl 15 runners plan to return to the event next year.
Kate said, “If you want to do Bewl 15 next year, let me know, as I will definitely do it for the third time. I’m happy to do some longer training runs together, especially if you want to be held accountable to someone!”
How can you resist?
The next Sussex Grand Prix event is the Phoenix 10k, which takes place on Wednesday, July 17th. It is an out-and-back fast, well-marshalled course that runs west towards Shoreham on the promenade. Check out our calendar for all Sussex Grand Prix Events. For more information about joining this individual and team competition, talk to Bob Hughes, our Sussex Grand Prix representative.