However, Bromwyn lost James de Garis along the cliff path to Dixcart, and the eventual 5 minute gap between their finishing times was clearly assisted by de Garis involuntary spot of beach combing as he missed the valley marker and headed down to Dixcart beach. He still managed third over all and has promised to return next year for the cup. Visiting form Northern Ireland was Phelim McAllister who came second just 41 seconds ahead of de Garis. Pete Wickens had a good run, remarking at the end that it “does not get any easier”. At 55 years old Pete came 4th overall and also won the 1st supervet prize (which he sportingly gave over to fellow runner Brian Holden). Ian Ozanne and Tim Andrew also collected prizes for their strong finishes of 5th and 6th respectively. Chris de la Mare finished in 1.33.05 to take her usual prize of 1st super vet lady.

The traditional 5k race was reduced to 4k enabling all the runners to start together. Tom Swain was camping on Sark and finished first place with an impressive 15.50 time over rather bumpy terrain. Local boy Joel Armorgie thrashed his brother to take second in 16.15 whilst his brother Josh came fourth in 18.45. Third spot was taken by Jack Doyle (U17) who has come onto the running scene showing great promise.

The presentation took place in Sark’s community centre after which a few managed to make the Bel Air before departing on the 4 and 6 pm boats back across the Russel. All in all it was a good year with numbers starting to recover from last years extreme dip. The race is back to its normal May slot which is clearly more preferable. It was unfortunate that a contingent from Alderney had to cancel due to the strong wind but the Jersey boats did arrive with several runners. Next years event will be the 30th consecutive year and the race organisation team are planning a party at the hall after the race in celebration.