MORE than 200 runners — the majority of them from the Isle of Wight — braved difficult weather conditions when they took on the ninth annual Chilly Hilly ten-mile multi-terrain race.

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In challenging conditions underfoot, with rain and strong gusty winds, runners were challenged with a course diverted this year due to flooding in Afton Marsh, plus damage to the sea wall at Colwell Bay.

Isle of Wight County Press: Uphill struggle with the elements.Uphill struggle with the elements. (Image: West Wight Sports)

A sprint finish by Chris Lucas, representing the Reading Road Runners, earned him victory in an impressive 1hr 9mins 7secs — pipping last year's winner to the finish line. 

Third home was Island athlete, Josh Price, who is a member of the Isle of Wight Road Runners running club.

Isle of Wight County Press: It was a long, uphill battle for runners.It was a long, uphill battle for runners. (Image: West Wight Sports)

Melanie Hyder, with the Chandlers Ford Swifts, led the ladies in with a time of 1.24.05, followed by England 'ultrarunner', Valeria Sesto, and local ironman competitor, Charis Jones, who finished in third.

All runners were awarded a festive medal, made by Island company, Meridian3, sponsored by Island Renewables.

Isle of Wight County Press: Conditions were tough for running.Conditions were tough for running. (Image: West Wight Sports)

Event sponsor, Island-based shop, Love Running, was well represented on the course, with several members of its Tuesday Nighters club taking on the event for the first time.

The event's director, Clare Griffin, of the West Wight Sports and Community Centre in Freshwater, said: “We were impressed by the fortitude of all the runners who embraced the spirit of the Chilly Hilly, in challenging conditions. 

Isle of Wight County Press:

"We are thrilled the race has become a popular event for locals and visitors alike.

“With it being our largest winter fundraising event, we are grateful to an army of volunteers — thanking them all for their generosity of time in such cold and wet conditions.”

Isle of Wight County Press: The finish line.The finish line. (Image: West Wight Sports)

The Isle of Wight Festival of Running 2024 will take place between June 2-9, with an exciting calendar of events being planned. 

'Early Bird' entry to the annual Needles Half Marathon, which will take place on June 9 is now open.