Chichester's 10k goes in a new direction

Entries have opened for the new-look Chichester Priory 10k '“ to be based at Goodwood '“ which will take place on Sunday, February 5.
Action from the 2016 Chi 10k / Picture by Kate ShemiltAction from the 2016 Chi 10k / Picture by Kate Shemilt
Action from the 2016 Chi 10k / Picture by Kate Shemilt

There will be a 10am start for the 26th running of the race, which is moving to a new HQ at the iconic Goodwood motor circuit.

It will consist of a 6k route over traffic-free public roads through the West Sussex countryside finishing with a complete lap of the motor circuit, finishing in front of the pits.

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Race headquarters, safe storage, toilets, medical, catering and all other facilities required for a quality event will be provided inside the motor circuit grounds, where there will be ample free parking for runners and spectators.

The race will start at the entrance to the motor circuit in Claypit Lane, pass the Rolls Royce factory, along the historic Roman road, Stane Street, through beautiful Strettington village and back along New Road, entering the motor circuit at the main entrance on Claypit Lane and finishing on the pits after a complete lap of the circuit.

The country roads are undulating and all hard-surfaced as is the complete lap of the motor circuit.

A number of ‘road closures’ will be in place to assure the safety of runners.

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Unfortunately, the route is not suitable for wheelchairs or other wheeled vehicles.
Organisers are confident the new course – chosen after difficulties began to surface with road closures needed for the old race – will prove as challenging and interesting as the previous course and will provide a safe, high-quality race environment.

It is the first major local running event in the new year and gives entrants an early assessment of their post-Christmas fitness.

The race will be limited to 2,000 entries. You can enter online or download an entry form at www.chichester10k.com

You can obtain a postal entry form by calling 07813 137837. Entries are £20 each with a reduced fee of £18 for runners affiliated to UKAthletics or runbritain.

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This well-established race is very popular and it is expected that entrants from all over the UK will take part. It is hoped many of the faithful supporters will return, as well as new entrants, so that the 2,000 limit will be reached.

For the past few years this race has been over-subscribed and entries have closed in early January, so get in as soon as you can.

It is organised by the Rotary Club of Chichester Priory, who use it to raise money for many deserving causes. The Chestnut Tree House hospice is the headline charity this time.

Organisers have secured significant sponsorship this year from Wannops LLP solicitors, Portfield Cars and a new sponsor, The Run Company.

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The race attracts a wide range of abilities from new entrants who will experience the Chichester race for the first time to those who know a personal best is attainable on such a flat, fast course.

There will be many runners looking to challenge for the main prizes and set course records. Local clubs are expected to enter strong teams.

The race features in the Harvey Curtiss 10k Road Race Challenge series, so expect some of the best runners in Sussex to attend plus plenty from Hampshire, Surrey and beyond.

Spectators will be welcome to see the runners head off along Claypit Lane, watch them turn into the motor circuit at the 6k mark and view the last kilometre and finish from the roof of the pits and from the elevated embankments close by.

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The leading runners will be back at the motor circuit in about 20 minutes and at the finish in around 30 to 31 minutes but for the next 45 minutes expect to see large groups of runners crossing the line.

Full coverage will again be provided by the Observer – in the paper and at www.chichester.co.uk

BOB SYME

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