STORMING THE FRONT

RUNNERS AT THE VITALITY BRIGHTON HALF-MARATHON DIDN’T LET DORIS DAMPEN THEIR SPIRITS

BRIGHTON HALF-MARATHON

WORDS: TINA CHANTREY

You know you’re in for a tough race when there’s a Met Office warning for wind on race day. Driving at dawn along the coast towards Brighton on race morning involved rain, very thick fog and, yes, a stiff breeze in the tree-tops.

Over the last few years of this event, however, race day has been surprisingly serene. Winds have dropped, almost as if by order, and racing conditions have been perfect for PBs – and, just as important, for enjoyment. I truly believed, up until the moment I stepped off the Park and Ride bus, that the weather would settle in time for the 9am start. Brighton Half is always sunny. But within one step, a gust of wind hit me, making it incredibly clear: conditions weren’t ideal. It was winter after all (the race is at the end of February), so running on the coast would be hit and miss – at least here, thousands of runners have to face the same conditions. You know you are not alone.