Summer Races 2026
Apart from the Friday 5s held throughout the summer, Hadleigh Hares were also competing in several other races.
Nathalie Hooper and Jo Sargent headed over the border to take part in the Boxted 10K on 14th June. This well-attended race combines both trail and road sections, offering spectacular views across the Essex countryside from the tops of some very challenging hills.
Both runners were delighted to cross the finish line after tackling the demanding course and enjoyed soaking up the friendly party atmosphere in the finish area. And what better way to celebrate a successful run than with a well-earned ice cream?
Stuart Price, Nathalie Hooper and Jo Sargent have become so accustomed to racing on a Friday evening that they could not resist lining up for the Brantham 5 on 10th July. They were joined by Emma Calver, making her debut race in Hadleigh Hares colours, and Polly Price, representing the juniors.
This popular multi-terrain course proved a challenging test, with the final mile and a half climbing steadily uphill. Fortunately, once the runners reached the summit, it was all downhill to the finish.
Stuart was in outstanding form, breaking the 30-minute barrier, while Nathalie, Emma and Jo all produced strong performances to conquer the demanding course.
The region's biggest 10K race, the Ipswich Twilight, took place on 17th July, with James Woodley, Stuart Price, Kevin Long, Rob Taylor, Val Gladwell and Elaine Turner representing Hadleigh Hares. Starting and finishing at Portman Road, the race winds its way through Ipswich's bustling shopping streets and around the town's historic centre. Known for its electric atmosphere and fast course, the Twilight once again delivered some outstanding performances.
Leading the way was James Woodley, whose excellent form has continued throughout the season. James produced a superb run to finish ninth overall in an outstanding time of 32:26.
The men's team also impressed, with James, Stuart, Kevin and Rob all breaking the 40-minute barrier. Meanwhile, Val Gladwell claimed second place in her age category, while Elaine Turner finished a highly commendable sixth in hers.
The following weekend, on 26th July, Nathalie Hooper and Jo Sargent travelled to Essex to take part in the inaugural Layer Marney Tower Trail 10K, part of the British Landmark Events series held at iconic locations across the country.
With the magnificent Layer Marney Tower providing a spectacular backdrop, the route followed a mixture of trails around the estate and surrounding countryside. Although relatively flat, the uneven terrain, together with the hot and humid conditions, made for a tougher race than expected. Nathalie was rewarded with third place in her age category.
The stunning setting provided the perfect opportunity for a celebratory photograph in front of the tower at the finish.
An outstanding summer of running by all.
