THE annual Chilly Hilly race — its eighth edition — more than lived up to its slightly off-putting name as biting winds, cold temperatures, thick mud and the challenge of Tennyson Down, provided the perfect winter cross-country experience.

Hundreds of runners from across the Isle of Wight, combined with members of running groups across the region, competed — many of them embracing the festive theme of the event.

An instant hit during the Isle of Wight Festival of Running in June, live tracking of the Chilly Hilly runners’ progress could be followed by family, friends and other supporters, in the comfort of the West Wight Sports and Community Centre in Freshwater.

First home was Joe Driscoll, of Winchester Athletic Club, in an impressive 1hr 3mins 45secs — but just four seconds ahead of Newport man, Gary Marshall, who was representing the Ryde Harriers.

Isle of Wight County Press: From left, Joe Driscoll, who won the event, with Gary Marshall second and Luke Levine third.From left, Joe Driscoll, who won the event, with Gary Marshall second and Luke Levine third. (Image: Contributed)

Meanwhile, Helen Sceales (Highgate Harriers) won the ladies’ race in 1.14.50, followed by Natalie Green (Hardley Runners) in 1.20.01.

The fastest Island woman was Nadia Lele, of Wight Tri, in 1.24.24, to finish third.

Don Powell (Basingstoke and Mid Hants AC) completed the course in 1.28.32, to win the men’s veterans 70+ class.

Isle of Wight County Press: Sue Cullum with daughter, Laura Cullum, had fun on the run.Sue Cullum with daughter, Laura Cullum, had fun on the run. (Image: Contributed)

The event was sponsored by Island running shop, Love Running, who were well represented on the course, which included several members of the Love Running Tuesday Nighters club, who took on the Chilly Hilly for the first time.

There were 13 members of Wight Tri participating — their first man to finish being Dean Pike, who came eighth overall in 1.12.19.

The increasing popularity and success of community running groups on the Isle of Wight was evident, with runners representing the likes of the Wootton Bridge Runners, the West Wight Community Runners, the Ventnor Sloggers and the Cowes Women’s Running Group.

Isle of Wight County Press: Caroline Littleton gave the eighth annual Chilly Hilly the thumbs up.Caroline Littleton gave the eighth annual Chilly Hilly the thumbs up. (Image: Contributed)

Chilly Hilly event director, Clare Griffin, said: “We’re delighted the Chilly Hilly has become a popular winter event on the South Coast running calendar.

“We are looking forward to developing the event further in future years.

“As our largest winter fundraising event, we are grateful to all the local businesses who have supported us, such as Tapnell Farm, Co-operative Food, David Williams and Love Running.”

  • The Isle of Wight Festival of Running 2023 will take place from June 4-11, with an exciting calendar of events being planned.
  • Early bird entry to the annual Needles Half Marathon, which takes place on Sunday, June 11, is now open.