Running wild

WHETHER YOU’RE a seasoned runner looking for a new challenge or you’ve taken up jogging to get fit for 2023, losing yourself in the great British countryside has never been easier –with zero risk of ever getting lost (even in the dark).

From the North and South Downs across Hampshire, Bucks, Kent and further afield, trail running is gathering pace, attracting competitors locally and from London (as well as their canine companions) to bolt for the hills.

Trail running takes you away from the monotony of the treadmill or the tarmac and enables you to explore spectacular routes through some of the UK’s most scenic beauty spots.

In its infancy just a few years ago, participation in trail running events has grown exponentially, thanks in part to trailblazer Maverick Race, founded in 2015 by Ben MacWilliam and Justin Bufton.

The pair met while working for a wellknown cycling events company and hit it off thanks to a shared love of the outdoors and running. Realising that there was a gap in the market for trail running events, they decided to swap wheels for running shoes and set up their own business.

“It was a bit daunting for us, as we both had young families to support, but since our first race at Polesden Lacey in Surrey eight seasons ago, we’ve never looked back.

“We learned a lot from that event; it was a tough day but it went really well. We had all the events experience, so it was simply a transition from cycling to running,” explained Ben.

Ben & Justin, Maverick Race

From 99 runners at that launch event, Maverick has seen participation rise year on year, with 750 competing in an upcoming New Forest race, where wider paths and tracks allow for a greater number of entrants. The number of races has also jumped – from seven in 2015 to 25 in 2023. The average age of competitors is 25–50, but there are runners of all ages from eight to 80, as there are no age limits.

Not that Ben and Justin are seeking to run mass participation events. “We have always wanted to keep it relatively small and personal. We both attend every race and people know us – it’s never been a hard-sell business.

“We just wanted to try and get people to explore the great outdoors and all the amazing places on everyone’s doorsteps,” said Ben.

“Running in the countryside on paths and trails is so much more enjoyable than running on roads. You can get away from everything and it gives you time to think. Plus running off road is less strenuous on the knees. It’s the most accessible form of exercise you can do, you don’t need anything other than a pair of running shoes,” he added.

As well as showcasing the hills, valleys, fields, meadows, ancient woodlands and hamlets of rural Blighty during daytime events, Maverick also organises events at night for those who want to experience the adventure of running in the dark.

“Running in the dark is very different and great fun. The events are held in similar locations but running at night is more social, more for enjoyment and to try something new.

“Most people don’t run in the dark – especially on their own – so this is a great way to experience it. There’s a lot more pre- and post-event eating, drinking and chatting – and sitting around the fire pits –that’s all very much part of it,” said Ben.

With Maverick Race, there’s no loneliness involved in being a long-distance runner –whatever your ability, from 5 to 55K, you’re welcomed as part of a community. There’s support in the run-up to a race with training plans and tips and all you could need on the day itself, including on-course hydration and nutrition outposts, helpful marshals, finishers’ medals, individual race timings and hot and cold refreshments at the finishing post.

In fact, community is very important to the Maverick team, who have built up a very large, loyal following of runners at their races. To cater for growing demand and encourage people to meet, run and socialise in smaller groups more frequently all across the UK, Maverick has established the Run Project, a running club with satellite hubs across the country.

“We wanted to continue growing our Maverick community of fierce trail runners away from the big Maverick Race events with the view of making this whole trail running ‘thing’ as sociable and accessible as it possibly could be,” explained Ben.

“It means that runners can get together once or twice a week rather than having to wait for a Maverick race in their area once or twice a year.

“The great thing is that a real bond is built between the runners – they can be sure of running with like-minded people, on trails on a regular basis – for free,” he added.

For more information or to book a Maverick race near you, visit www.maverick-race.com.

I love to run cross-country events with Maverick for the glorious scenery that they take the competitors on. These well organised events have a high number of participants whose enthusiasm encourages you to keep going to the end. The finish is exciting with cowbells, cheering and clapping, together with medals and treats as you cross the line. Even though I might be one of the slowest I still get rewarded…

David Carter house. Partnership

Hampshire

Charles Chute joined house. Partnership in 2021 to build the business in Hampshire, where he was brought up and returned to after living in London. Having completed a Real Estate degree at university, he started his career working for Hamptons in Winchester for over two years before moving to London where he worked at Savills. Charles stayed at Savills for 14 years, spending the majority of his time in the Country House Department dealing with prime country sales.

cchute@housepartnership.co.uk

COSÍ FAN TUTTE

ORFEO ED EURIDICE

THE QUEEN OF SPADES

ELLINGTON: FROM STRIDE TO STRINGS JAZZ@THEGRANGE

Chichester And South Downs

Felicity Chetwood joined house. Partnership in 2018 as Regional Partner, and, over 30 years, Felicity has developed an enviable knowledge of the property market. She began her career in property as a Saturday Viewings Assistant which eventually led her to becoming a Director of Hamptons International, then was headhunted by Strutt and Parker to open their office in Chichester as a Partner. Felicity loves the special combination of the beautiful South Downs, the Harbour and the renowned beaches that her area includes.

fchetwood@housepartnership.co.uk