I love some trail running but rarely go on my own as I have a reputation for getting lost with a very poor sense of direction.  Trail race events are perfect for me as I can trust there will always be a marshal, sign or random bit of ribbon reassuring me that I’m still on the right track.  And when I saw the club champs race for November 2025 also promised some Strava art I didn’t think twice before signing up.  As it seems did many Porties with over twenty of us there on the day.

The race morning arrived with bright but cold weather.  A car share with Chris & Alastair meant no worrying about directions and good company right from the start. Thank you Chris for your expert driving and allowing me to be a ‘Passenger Princess’ for the day.

Event registration was excellent with a friendly welcome in a warm school gym hall and a race buff that made for some perfect incognito pre-race photos.  The hall had plenty of space to gather and chat to other runners, including one lady who travels from Doncaster for the race every year.  Her only advice for me: “just take it all in, you’ll love it.”  My anticipation of a great event was increasing by the minute.

We joined the stream of runners heading downhill to the start area.  There was a great atmosphere of anticipation with lots of laughter, colour and fancy dress.  A tent was set up with tasters of various chilli based sauces.  I wasn’t brave enough to try any but did wonder if they would be adding extra fire to other runners races.

It was great to stand at the start line with so many other Porties.  Many of whom were perhaps weighing up the competition as this was the last of the 2025 Club Champs races and the winners were still to be decided.  In my own age category the ones to watch were Shona and Sarah who were neck & neck going into the race.  I knew I couldn’t overtake them on points so had already decided to focus on enjoying the trail.

And I certainly managed that – this was fun!

A narrow first section meant a more leisurely start uphill and more good chat with other Porty runners.  I wondered if the others had managed to get in good positions ahead of the pack.

Then the trail opened out to some terrific challenges through bog, mud and beautiful nature.  Not too technical but enough to ensure flailing arms were needed at times to stay upright.  The marshalls directed us perfectly throughout and encouraged us up the hills.  By which time we were thoroughly warmed up and I was beginning to look forward to cooling my feet in the burn crossing.

I love a river crossing, it makes me feel like a child again and with added ‘Day of the Dead’ decorations that feeling was heightened. With encouragement from the marshall, I leapt in with delight…..and immediately sank up to my thighs.  I’m not tall but it didn’t look that deep!  I clambered out and splashed more cautiously through the second crossing.  There was definitely more laughter than running happening at this stage.

The rest of the race was amazing and I felt total contentment as we passed through the incredible scenery.  Easing downhill through the woods was idyllic and I didn’t want it to end.

But the end was soon in sight.  One last field to zig zag through, thankfully staying upright on the tight turns, then a sprint finish across the grass to a finish line surrounded by cheers. The race medal is my favourite ever – unique for a special race.

There was support for every Porty as they crossed the line before we headed for lunch together.  Thanks to Aly for suggesting and organising the after party.  Over food there was plenty of chat about how much we had all enjoyed the route.  But the one question everyone wanted to know – who had taken the Club Champs victories?

Perhaps Shona or Sarah will one day share their epic tale of a 10k battle uphill, downhill, through mud, tree roots and water to end with a sprint finish and identical chip times. Some terrific competitiveness on display.

For me, this race was a winner.  I loved every second of the day and signed up as soon as spaces were open for 2026.  I can’t wait to go back to the Chilli 💙💛