By Colleen Finn

THE third race of the 2024/25 Cornish Multi-Terrain Race Series – the Bude Pirate Run – returned on Sunday, September 8 with a challenging eight-mile course that tested runners' endurance and determination. 

Despite a gloomy forecast, a fantastic turnout of 155 participants braved the elements to tackle the muddy terrain.

The recent torrential rain had left the course extremely wet and slippery, making the run even more challenging. However, the rain held off until lunchtime, allowing runners to stay relatively dry throughout the race.

Steve Reynolds from Truro Running Club emerged as the overall winner with an impressive time of 52 minutes and 31 seconds. His victory was particularly remarkable considering the difficult conditions.

Steve Reynolds, Truro Running Club, Bude Pirate Run.
Truro Running Club's Steve Reynolds was the winner in a time of 52 minutes and 31 seconds. Picture: Bude RATs (Bude RATs)

The Bude RATs also had a strong showing, with Morgan Craig finishing fourth overall in 57 minutes and 48 seconds. Chloe Constantine, meanwhile, secured third place in the women's race with a time of 1:11:14.

Chloe Constantine, Bude RATs
Competitors faced some interesting challenges across the race. Left is Bude's Chloe Constantine who was the third lady to finish, while right: Lois Munkanta dressed for the occasion. Picture: Bude RATs (Bude RATs)

Over 30 running clubs from across the South West were represented at the event, with Truro Running Club boasting the largest contingent. 

The positive feedback received since the race has been overwhelming, with participants praising the friendly marshals, delicious pasties from Pengenna, the helpful 1st Bude Scouts, and the challenging, yet rewarding course.

The marshals played a crucial role in the success of the event, providing unwavering support and encouragement to runners throughout the race. Their dedication was particularly commendable given the conditions.

The Bude Pirate Run committee and volunteers worked tirelessly to organise the event, setting up the course, distributing equipment, and assisting at the finish line. The 1st Bude Scouts provided invaluable support, helping to hand out pasties, medals and water; clean ankle tags; and pack away equipment.

Pengenna pasties were a welcome treat for runners after the race, providing a much-needed energy boost. The event also benefited from the support of local photographers from Bude Photography Club who captured the action on the course. Ashley Starr from Bradworthy Runners, provide a time-lapse video of the race which was well received.

The National Trust generously allowed the use of their land for the race, providing a stunning backdrop for the event. The Bude Life Saving Club also played a vital role, providing a warm and welcoming space for participants before and after the race.

The voice of the race, Sean Jack of HPT Sports, kept the crowd entertained with his commentary and enthusiasm. Sarah Miller offered post-race massages to help runners recover from the gruelling course.

Many thanks go to Crooklets Cafe, the event's sponsor, who provided discounted food and drink to the participants.

Any leftover pasties were donated to the Bude Food Bank, ensuring that they did not go to waste.

The Bude Pirate Run was a resounding success, and organisers are already looking forward to welcoming runners back next year.

The winners of each category were as follows: Female Under 35: Josie Lewis – 1:11:40; F35-39: Helen Morse – 1:13:55; F40-44: Ellie Jameson – 1:10:55; F45-49: Jo Biederman – 1:20:03; F50-54: Emma Stepto – 1:09:15; F55-59: Gail Aspden – 1:12:30; F60-64: Liz Perry – 1:46:42; F65-69: Judy Jameson – 2:03:32; Female 70+: Janet Watson – 1:51:58. Male Under 35: David Starley – 55:35; M35-39: Steve Reynolds – 52:31; Brett Jackson – 1:07:52; M45-49: Morgan Craig – 57:48; M50-54: Ian Gooding – 58:14; M55-59: Adrian Ball – 1:03:17; Jon Eldon – 1:09:10; M65-69: Simon Oliver – 1:23:22; Male 70+: Peter Brockenhurst – 1:21:00.

Bude RATs, Launceston Road Runners and Bradworthy Runners were all represented at the event with their times as follows:

Bude RATs: Morgan Craig – 57:48 (fourth overall and first in M45-49 age group); Chloe Constantine – 1:11:14 (third women overall and second in the F50-54 age group); Ben Hockridge – 1:12:03; James Dean – 1:17:48; Lee Parton – 1:21:38; Dave Cook – 1:28:36; Ben Rogers – 1:30:06; Nicola Emmett – 1:31:00; Rob Petrie – 1:38:57; Paula Wilkinson – 1:38:58; Rachel Penn – 1:55:54.

Launceston Road Runners: David Starley – 55:35 (second overall and fastest Male Under 35); Joe Thomson (1:01:29; Adam Blacher – 1:22:55; Ian Grimes – 1:34:43; Elaine Hill – 1:54:26.

Bradworthy Runners: Ian Blythe – 1:08:31; Sarah Richardson – 1:43:06; Debbie Stokes – 2:03:18.