Marlborough Downs Challenge Trail Race 33m 15 May 2010 Claire Waters reports: This was a great experience - predictably lovely scenery, including the white horses, Avebury rings, the Avon canal, and forests of bluebells and wild garlic. The route can be muddy but this year was the opposite - the ground being very hard and rutted in places which was hard going on the ankles! The first 20 miles were great and I loved it, the next 5 were progressively more painful, and then 25-30 were very uncomfortable. This stretch was largely uphill (or at least it felt like it!), and I was beginning to lag. Trying to climb metal stiles on uneven ground with legs that were no longer under my control was a challenge, and I did once end up on my face! Fortunately the only witnesses were a herd of cattle. The last couple of miles were easier, and it was bliss to reach the finish. Overall a very well organised race, there were checkpoints with drinks and food, and the route wasn't too difficult to follow - I could generally see a couple of other runners to help me know I was on the correct track. Definately to be recommended to those who like the off road races.