Ashford Striders Run Report 22nd June 2025

By Stephen Cartwright

On Saturday 50 Striders took on the challenge of Parkrun on the hottest day of the year so far!

34 runners braved the furnace at Ashford, while 16 went on tour.

Vicky Stevenson lit up the course with her incredible 250th Parkrun and let’s raise a cheer for Elle Weekes, who marked her 50th Parkrun in style!

A big shout out to this week’s volunteers of Jason Caldwell, Mark Niles, Terry (fred) Sellen, Hazel Turner, Lin West and Mat Norman who was the awesome run director. 

While others were chasing PBs on the Parkrun circuit, a fearless crew of Striders took on a different kind of challenge – The Cliff Top Challenge a sun-drenched 10-mile run from Dover to Deal!

Nicola Crawley, Nadine Golding, Mandy Watson, Sharon Gardner, Andrew Cornwell, and Victoria Shrubsole laced up and set off on a journey that was less about speed and more about sunshine, scenery, and sweet treats.

Strategic lolly stops were made, sunshine selfies were snapped and after 2 hours and 30 minutes, they arrived in Deal.

Two other Striders were winding through ancient paths, rolling hills, and breathtaking countryside, for the Pilgrims Way Challenge which is no ordinary trek. It’s a test of endurance, mindset, and sheer willpower — and this year, the course stretched beyond the advertised 55 km.

Rachel Tomsett led the charge with a phenomenal finish time of 11 hours, 48 minutes, setting a strong pace across the rugged terrain. Chloe Darling, with unwavering determination and a steady stride, completed the challenge in 12 hours, 29 minutes, and 28 seconds.

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