S.A.R.K. 10

This years Sark 10 got under way in blustery conditions that though suitable for runners made travel to Sark unpleasant for those that did not have solid sea legs. Regardless, 40 runners lines up for what was the 29th consecutive year of the Sark races. This years course was a repetition of the previous decades, a more or less one lap circumnavigation of Sark taking in as much of the surprisingly varied terrain as possible. There was no real surprise about this years overall winner, local resident Bromwyn Rodgers. Bromwyn has just earnt herself another championship spot in next years London Marathon having finished this years in 3 hours and one minute. At mile four coming back across the coupe from little Sark the leader was a strong looking James de Garis, but Bromwyn was in hot pursuit (see photo).

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.

S.A.R.K. 10 Running Race

The S.A.R.K. 10 race day is an enjoyable and healthy day out offering a chance to see beautiful Sark with a range of race options for either serious runners or casual joggers.
As a nonsponsored event the Sark 10 is organised purely for the pleasure of those wishing to take part and has been a great success for 28 consecutive years. The current course takes the runner right around the circumference of the island including crossing La Coupee to Little Sark before entering the shade of Dixcart woods. The views are simply spectacular and the multi terrain ever changing. Most runners finish somewhere between one and two hours though there is an option for runners to branch off from the main race and complete a 5 kilometer distance - which would take an average of 25 minutes.
Children of all ages will have the option of running 1 or 2.5 miles. These races truly cater for all participants whether interested in a personal challenge or seriously committed to sport.

The facilities are first class including modern changing rooms, showers and toilets.
There is also a licensed bar and very good hot and cold food served all day. Sark boasts a number of guest houses and hotels as well as a few interesting shops, public houses and a museum.
There are several sailings to and from Guernsey throughout the day and discounted fares are available.

Sark’s greatest attribute has to be its natural geographic and marine beauty. The people of the island warmly welcome visitors to come and enjoy the island at the annual Sark 10 races.