Luke Ashton Ultra Marathon Runner: SPITFIRE SCRAMBLE 24 HOUR

'The Spitfire Scramble is a 24-hour multi-terrain relay or solo race. Held at Hornchurch Country Park, Havering.

During World War II it was Home of RAF Hornchurch, an airfield crucial to the RAF's Battle of Britain campaign and the launch site of many a Spitfire mission.

You can run on your own or in teams of two to eight runners. As you run through the night, the event will put your speed, endurance, torch batteries and teamwork to the test in the only event of its kind in the London area'

Supply tent and for some shut eye

This shall be year two for myself and Helen. We are participating as mixed pair aka 'Hare and the Tortoise'

Last year we completed the most laps in this team category coming in first position. With a few more teams and popularity, this year will be a tough act to follow to reclaim the trophy!

After we erect the tent to keep all our supplies in, Helen moves the car to the car park. I spot my 'crew mum' Alma who is running as part of a team this weekend. It is always good to see a friendly face and makes a change that we see each other at an event other than a Centurion Running one...

Briefing

I take a walk around the last section of the route as this year it has been moved to the field around the camp site, rather than using the footpath. It is rather lumpy in places but it looks a much better idea as to keep us away from the crossing to the food bar and toilets.

It all looks much neater this year.

Runners assemble for the midday start

Team Hare & Tortoise

RACE BRIEFING

After the race briefing we go back to the tent to get my kit ready and change, as I will be doing the starting lap first. Helen prefers this as she gets to nervous and excited...

Big turn out for the starting lap

THE START 12:00

As the clock reaches midday the mass of runners start and head on up to the pathway then back on down onto the grass towards the first pond. Solo, pairs, mixed team, male, female, young and older all charge at full pelt for the first mile.

I enjoy listening to the conversation and get settled into my pace enjoying the sunshine. It's not overly warm, just right.

Already a young girl nearby trips and twist her ankle. Other runners nearby stop to see she is ok. She is limping but in good hands.

We have only just reached the first mile marker further along and I can't help but think... is everyone prepared for this kind of event?

Hopefully she is part of a bigger team so someone can make up the laps later...

View after first mile

I find a comfortable pace and keep my distance between other runners. It won't be long before the groups dissperce along the way...

After the winding climb up to the highest point of the route I am reminded of the view out across to London. It is just about clear enough to see Canary Wharf in the distance.

Helen having way too much fun!

My favourite section has always been the last few miles. It is more sheltered and trail paths then onto fields and through wooded areas before emerging back at the playground and to the starting campsite.

This year we run around the field and all the campers so get a good cheer and support from all the other teams!

Helen is already at the ready in anticipation waiting for me. I slap the yellow strap on her wrist so she has her turn for a lap now.

She can't wait to get going...

Lap Two finished

I take the time whilst Helen is out on her lap to have some water and chat to other teams and Alma who is running later with her team. As Helen is pacing slower, I have more time than she does between each lap that we do.

Like last year I may do a few doubles if she needs longer to rest or eat.

This is just the start of the event so come tonight who knows how things will go...

This is the highest point on the route

Plenty of gravel paths by the second mile

Helen off for another lap

Grassy tracks by the third mile

View into the fourth mile

The best part through the woods and the last mile

18:00

By now we have managed a fair few laps between us as the evening gets closer.

It is much cooler but the sun is getting low and is quite bright still. Plenty of daylight left before we need head torches

Helen finishing her lap in the evening sunshine

Sun setting over Hornchurch Country Park

Looking to London before the night section

Trying to play catch up with the other mixed pair team

MIDNIGHT

After 12 hours of the event and nine laps in total between us, we are still feeling focused and strong. As Helen leaves for her next lap, I change into another layer and refuel before getting settled in the sleeping bag to relax. Not so tired to sleep yet but will be taking power naps probably after my next lap...

06:00