CHEPSTOW Harriers got into the spirit of the spooky season with some challenging races.

Jen Danger Harding, Rob Hook and Niki Morgan ventured over the water to take part in the Nightmare Nightingale 10k spook-fest in Bristol, on Sunday 30th October. They encountered zombies, skeletons, witches, and many more terrifying hazards whilst running through Leigh Woods. They were rewarded for their efforts with free brain and Frankenstein cakes. Even to reach race registration was a challenge as they ducked under spiders’ webs and stepped over body parts and coffins. The three Harriers survived, suffering only minor costume malfunctions and wilting make up.

On Saturday 29th October, eight Harriers ventured to north Wales to race in the Snowdonia Marathon, a tough, hilly 26.1 mile race, taking in spectacular views. Paul Lidgett was first Harrier home in an impressive time of 3:32. Next was Jame Boyle in 3:47. First Harrier lady home was Lisa Jeffrey in a great time of 3:55, closely followed by Tom Riddington and Maria Anthony also both under four hours. Gareth Jones and Karen Elvers followed, and Caroline Lidgett completed the event for the first time in 5:38.

On the fells, four Harriers – father and son Andy and Matt Stott, Paul Murrin and Niki Morgan took on the lung-busting, five mile Sugarloaf fell race. Paul Murrin came fourth overall and Niki was second female. Also in the mountains, Paul and Joc Dodd and Andy Creber took on the most challenging event of all – the OMM, Original Mountain Marathon in Glentrool in Scotland. Both parties were very highly placed in their respective classes on this gruelling two-day navigation event.