With Beachy Head planned as my 25th (and possibly final) marathon I needed one more local race.  Hever Castle was just 30 minutes away so ideal.  The event had loads of parking, a swift efficient registration process and fantastic start outside the castle.  

Although the course pacing warns that competitors should allow an extra 30 minutes to their road (flat course) time, I didn't consider it to be too hilly at all.  The terrain was lovely and even though this is a four lap course it is still far better than most of the much larger, and massively over-rated city runs.  Brighton, Manchester, are single lap but just plain boring courses.  This event is not, and I loved it.  Although there aren't masses of spectators those that were there were brilliant, again a positive point on a multi lap course is that you start to build a rapport with some.

It was a hot day, a very hot day, but there were enough well stocked feed stations that had coke, isotonic drinks and water, plus water buckets with sponges that enabled competitors to cool down.  The feed stations alos had lots of sweets, cake etc. for those needing solids.

The course passes a lovely pub in Chillingstone that became my motivator for finishing, the thought and reward of a cold Guiness, which I sipped while being able to sit and cheer on the Iron Men who were still competing and chat to other competitors who had finished.

So as a competitor this event is a massive hit... But what about the spectators?  I'm pleased to say that my wife had a lovely day, the event village with live band and food outlest, lots of seats, a tour around the castle and gardens and so many events taking place meant the day flew by.  Again a really huge plus point for this event.  

Both my wife and I are signing up for next year, and will be looking at other events by this organisor.  We have also posted positive reviews on our club website so expect to see more Orpington Road Runners in the future.