The North Downs Run

29 June 2016
The North Downs Run

Kingsland Polymers sponsored the North Downs Run, for the fifth year in succession. Listed in the top 10 races in 2015 on Runnersworld.co.uk this is a local race with a national reputation organised by Istead & Ifield Harriers (Isteadandifield.org.uk). The challenging multi-terrain event of approximately 30K used established tracks and lanes over the beautiful North Downs.  Chip Timing, Technical T-shirt, Medal and a Goody Bag were handed out to all finishers. 

The route of the North Downs Run passes through some of the finest scenery in Southern England.    Starting at Cascades Leisure Centre, Thong Lane, Gravesend, runners threaded their way across farmland to Shorne village before descending gently southwards through Cobham Park into the Cuxton Valley and the steep drop down to Lower Bush.  A relentless climb to Holly Hill, was followed by the welcome descent into Great Buckland.  

The route crossed the fields to Luddesdown Court and over picturesque “Cricket Pitch Hill”. And following an 800 metre road section at Henley Street, through the historic village of Cobham, the Jeskyns Nature Reserve & Ashenbank Wood and through scenic Shorne Wood Country Park for a seriously challenging uphill section, runners emerged onto the Shorne Ifield Road and back across the fields to Cascades Leisure Centre for the finish. A great day was had by all.