Over 100 runners took on the challenging Imber Ultra Marathon earlier this month.
Runners set off on the 33.5-mile run from Leighton Recreation Centre in Westbury. The route took them to Bratton, Gore Cross, Tilshead, Chitterne and Scratchbury Farm outside Warminster before returning to the recreation centre.
“The first finisher, Tony Kiss, arrived back in an incredible time of 4 hours 35 minutes,” said Jon Street from the Rotary Club of Westbury, which organised the event alongside Avon Valley Runners.
“The first female runner, Helen Knight, came in in a very respectable 5 hours 8 minutes. The last few bedraggled, but remarkably happy, runners finished in a little over 7 hours; an achievement in itself!
“Rain was forecast for the whole of the event, but the running deities smiled upon us, and we enjoyed a nearly rain free event.
“We had over 30 volunteers, including some from Thoulstone parkrun, who provided marshalling, transport, refreshments and logistical support throughout the long day.”
Out of the 142 runners who started the ultra-marathon, 135 finished. Each runner received a hand thrown mug from White Horse Pottery and some fruit, chocolate and a bottle of water on completing the race.
All proceeds from the event will go to local charities.
The Imber Ultra will return next year on 7th March.
