23 HARDY Harriers braved deep, energy-sapping mud, lung-busting climbs and hair-raising descents at the Mayhill Massacre on Sunday 7th February.

The tough, 10 mile off-road race packed a mighty punch. The race kicked off with a two mile climb up to the top of May Hill near Huntley. Exhausted competitors then had a chance to recoup some energy on the plains before swooping down into the Huntley estate with some long stretches of mud so deep and cloying that it was a major effort just to stay upright. Thankfully the weather was sunny so those who hadn’t taken a tumble in the mud stayed dry.

Paul Murrin was Chepstow’s first man home, and was third overall in the race, winning a trophy. The next Harrier to finish was Niki Morgan, also in third gender position. James Boyle followed closely in her footsteps. Lisa Jeffrey was only a couple of minutes behind, taking the second veteran over 40 trophy. Joc Dodd was first super-veteran trophy winner.

Other Harriers taking part were Andy Creber, Rob Beves, Rob Hook, Tom Riddington, Steve Owen, Glen Meek, Berna Cantwell, Al Dobbs, Denise and Mike Evans, Karen Elvers, Gareth Jones, Jane and Geoff Bayliss, Jen Danger Harding, Tim, Brett and Andrew Oliver. The Harriers were supported out on the course by Paul Mayo and Paul Dodd.