Hill Running at Harting Down

All my recent running has been on the road on the flat. While I find this to be the most effective style of training, it's not as much fun as hill running. I love running fast downhill - especially when it's muddy and slippery.

So, this weekend, I went up to Harting Down and ran along the South Downs Way and up and down some of the steeper sections of the escarpment. It had finally stopped raining after three days of downpours, so the ground was nice and muddy. Unfortunately, it was also quite misty, so the usual fine views weren't there.

I ran seven miles with over 550 metres of ascent. Those of you who have followed my running for a while will know that a recurring feature is falling-off-toenails. I'm pleased to report that the nail on my right big toe was severely damaged by today's hill running at Harting Down, so it should fall off in the next few days. I'll be sure to post a video when it does...stay tuned!