Race date: 24/02/2018

Race report by Vincent Baker

Part of the Endurancelife CTS (Coastal Trail Series), this Northumberland event had options to run 10K, half, marathon or ultra distances (6.5/12.9/27.2/35.2 miles respectively). Ultras and marathon runners set off from Alnwick Castle, the half started just outside Craster, and the 10k from Beadnell Bay. All distances finished up a narrow sandy path and through the castle wall at Bamburgh and included a pre-race shuttle bus to the start.

We did the half with sections on mostly coastal paths, beaches and a small amount of road. The beach sections were a lot easier than anticipated, with the tide out (firm sand) and a strong tail wind. The miles seemed to disappear quickly as we took in the scenery and chatted along the route. We even celebrated by staying in Northumberland for the remainder of the weekend and even got engaged. (Editors note: Wow!)

The 2018 winner was Jack Brown in a time of 1:23:03 and first lady home was Fiona Belgian in a time of 1:37:50. Quite aptly, Vincent and new fiancé Sophie crossed the line together, either side of 2:03:03. Congratulations on a fantastic run and an even more fantastic news!

Results can be found online at https://www.endurancelife.com/northumberland