Sussex Obstacle Dash Success

Hundreds of runners completed a unique and tough new running event at the weekend at the South of England Centre in West Sussex.

The Sussex Obstacle Dash featured a cross country course made for horses and included over 20 obstacles. Runners negotiated water jumps, fences, rope netting and other challenges. The run offered a 5km and a 10km distance and has a strong link with the National Autistic Society.

Race Director, Dan James, said: “This race was such great fun to be involved with. The athletes got wet, tired, muddy and loved every minute of it. Some of the fancy dress outfits were hilarious. We had cows, devils and all sorts of creative dress on the course.”

The event also saw many athletes race as a team. This included a team of 7 prison breakers who were tied at the ankles and dressed in suitable prison break fancy dress. The team laboured hard to complete the course in 1 hour and 32 minutes.

Nikki Dow from Sussex completed the race and said: “This race was like a good horror movie with a surprise around every corner. Four legs would have definitely been more useful on this course though.”

The event raised thousands of pounds for the National Autistic Society (NAS). Steve Cheshire, NAS Director of Fundraising, said: “Autism is a serious, lifelong and disabling condition, but the right support at the right time can make an enormous difference to people’s lives. It is thanks to events like the Sussex Obstacle Dash, that we are able to provide valuable support and services to people with autism, their families and carers and raise awareness at the same time. It was great to see so many people going that extra (muddy!) mile for the NAS and we would like to thank everyone who took part!"

The 10km race was won by Andrew Douglas in a time of 42 minutes and 46 seconds. The first lady home was Rebecca Woodman in a time of 49 minutes and 42 seconds.

Organisers are hoping to gain permission for another event at the site next year and are already working on plans to add further obstacles. Details will be announced soon at www.urbanrace.co.uk.