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Rye Ancient Trails 2024 – Lewes AC Runners Take on a Scenic Sussex Challenge
The Rye Ancient Trails race, set against the beautiful backdrop of East Sussex, attracted three runners from Lewes Athletic Club this year: Amar Saggar, Sarah Robinson, and Libby West. Sarah and Libby tackled the 30k route, while Amar took on the 15k challenge.
Here’s a look at their experiences from the event.
A Race Day with Friends
Having Sarah and Libby at the race made the experience memorable for Amar. “I was at the start line with them, which was nice until they overtook me after 5k,” She admitted with a laugh.
Despite losing ground to her clubmates, Amar still appreciated seeing familiar faces on the course and enjoyed cheering them on at the finish. “They didn’t look like they’d just run 18 miles—so cool and collected!” she added, celebrating their first-place finishes in their respective age groups.
Amar also managed a third-place finish for her category, making it a successful outing for all.
Sarah echoed the sentiment, saying that having Libby by her side made all the difference. “I don’t think I could tackle an event without her!” she exclaimed. “Seeing Amar at the finish line with tea and cake was also a welcome sight. The support from fellow club members made the event feel even more like a team effort.”
Expectations and Highlights
Sarah and Libby had heard great things about the Rye Ancient Trails race from other Lewes AC members who ran it last year. The scenic route, relaxed atmosphere, and the race’s non-commercial nature all met their expectations.
Meanwhile, Amar came into the race with no specific expectations but found it well-organised for the most part, noting, “There were a few points where I wasn’t sure which way to turn, but luckily I had a Rye runner in front of me.”
One highlight for Sarah was the cheerful marshals, particularly with cheerleading pom-poms who danced just as they began to tire. The camaraderie among runners, especially during a narrow path section where they were good natured about giving way and cheered each other on, also stood out to her.
On the other hand, Amar enjoyed running through Rye’s ancient town and passing apple vineyards where runners could pick fruit along the way.
A Well-Organised Event with a Few Twists
Amar and Sarah appreciated the overall organisation of the event, though Amar noted some need for clarification about the route at specific points.
Sarah praised the frequent and well-marked signage and the friendly and helpful marshals, including local Girl Guides, Brownies, and cadets. With water and fuel stops every 5k, the runners were well-supported throughout.
Amar only regretted bringing her waterproof jacket, which she tied around her waist for the entire race, as it didn’t rain.
But she did appreciate wearing trail shoes. “The course was a bit muddy in places, so I appreciated my shoe’s grip.”
Sarah, wary of unpredictable weather after last year’s scorching heat, also kept a close eye on the forecast and delayed entering until just a week before the race.
A Race Worth Repeating
All three runners agreed to participate in the Rye Ancient Trails race again. Amar even suggested she might attempt the 30k next year for an extra challenge.
Sarah and Libby delighted in the scenic and varied route, which took them past oast houses, orchards, cottages, and churches, primarily off-road through woodland paths and over little bridges.
Sarah highly recommends this event for anyone looking for a step up from a half marathon or simply a beautiful run through the historic Rye. “It’s small, friendly, and reasonably priced,” she said, adding that the ability to choose between the 15k and 30k options on the day is a bonus for those undecided about the distance.
With stunning views, friendly marshals, and solid performances from Lewes AC runners, the Rye Ancient Trails race is one to mark on the calendar for next year.
Whether it’s the joy of finishing with clubmates or the satisfaction of exploring new trails, the race offered something special for each participant.