RUNNERS from far and wide travelled to Kingsclere to take part in this year’s Hampshire Hoppit Trail Marathon and Half.

More than 750 participants, some from as far away as Boston, Massachusetts, ventured to Park House Stables on June 17 to take part in the trail running challenge along sections of the Wayfarers Walk and Harrow Way.

Now in its third year, the Hampshire Hoppit, organised by the Basingstoke and Mid Hants Athletics Club (BMHAC) saw runners take in countryside views, including Watership Down, as they were cheered on by more than 70 volunteer marshals along the half and full marathon courses.

Each runner who crossed the finish line was presented with a medal displaying the challenging route and a commemorative half or pint glass filled with Hoppit Ale, courtesy of race sponsor Loddon Brewery.

Race director Tim Fowler said: “It was a fantastic day for everyone and we are extremely grateful for the support we received from our runners, volunteers and spectators.

“We are truly overwhelmed by how popular our race has become and how far people are prepared to travel to take part. This year we had people taking part in their first marathon and we had one entrant taking part in their 400th marathon.”

He added: “This race puts Kingsclere and all the beautiful countryside around it on the map. A huge thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and runners for making this year’s event a tremendous success and we look forward to planning next year’s Hampshire Hoppit.”

As well as regular keen runners, this year’s Hoppit event saw a hen party take on the trail as well as BBC sports reporter Vassos Alexander competing.

There was local success on the podium too with BMHAC runner Andy Goddard crossing the line first in the half marathon to win the men’s race and fellow BMHAC runner Alastair Bridgman taking the men’s marathon title. The women’s half marathon was won by Ruth Churchill and the marathon by Farnham Runner Sarah Hill who finished second overall, just 13 seconds behind the men’s winner.

All proceeds will go towards BMHAC’s track improvement fund for Down Grange Sports Complex.

For more information and full race results visit hampshiretrailmarathon.co.uk.