Sunday 14th September 2025

After weeks of anticipation, and a Saturday of relentless downpours ☔️ the skies finally cleared over the Sussex coast to welcome the very first Eastbourne 5K and Mini Mile organised by local runners and event organisers ‘Eastbourne Runs’ (Sue Fry and Liz Lumber)

What unfolded on Sunday morning along the town’s prom was nothing short of a success: fast times, community spirit, local charity fundraising and a glimpse of a race with staying power.

The route was simple.  Runners set off from the Holywell Tea Chalet, dashing eastwards along the seafront, past the bandstand and pier, before swinging around near the Gelato Famoso Café 🍦 and powering back to Holywell.  Flat, fast, and framed by sea views, it was a course built for speed and the weather was perfect ☀️

The race combined slick logistics with a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Cheerful and friendly volunteers marshalled, supported and manned the water stations, ensuring everything ran smoothly. Proceeds supported Adi’s Sunshine Fund, adding purpose to performance.  Just over £1000 was raised for this rare condition STXBP1 in children.

Seven Harriers flew our black and red flag 🖤♥️, all running swift performances.  First Harrier home saw Chris D 🚀, 5th overall in 16:14, followed by Los Jellybaby 👶🏼 running his fastest 5K since 2023 in 19:03.  Hot on his heels flew Gary Crossan🌟 also running a lifetime PB of 19:25.

Oli P 💰 determined as ever raced his heart out (paced by team mate, friend and official sub 20 pacer Ads 🦈) to lock in a new PB of 19:34.

Leeland 🚴‍♀️ also shone brightly, crossing the finish line in a seasons best of 22:01 whilst Claire Shilling 🪙 after her hard work and commitment of late finished all smiles in 22:45 securing a lifetime PB.

Nemo 🐠 completed the sensational and strong Harriers team, finishing just shy of her PB in 25:14, just in front of sub 26 pacer, Tracy 🐶.

It was a day though for the youth to shine as Fin Lumber-Fry, just 15 years old stormed to victory in an electrifying 15 minutes 36 seconds. Controlling the race from the gun, he looked untouchable 🙌 – hugest congratulations Fin.

In the women’s contest, Freda Pearce also of Eastbourne Rovers stole the show with a crisp 17:44, her power setting her apart from the competition.

Earlier, the Mini Mile brought energy and excitement as younger runners had their moment in the spotlight. Cobey Buckley raced to victory in 5:24, while Emily Petrova took the girls’ title in 6:07.

Special youth awards 🏆 went to Jonah Messer and Poppy Charlwood, ensuring the day celebrated not only today’s winners but tomorrow’s prospects too.

From the Sea Cadets 🌊 handing out water to spectators lining the promenade, the sense of local pride was palpable. Much praise went to the volunteers for without their dedication, the event wouldn’t have been possible ⭐️

The verdict from athletes, clubs, and spectators was unanimous: the Eastbourne 5K is here to stay.

“Flat, fast, and friendly—what more could you want?”

Well done Sue and Liz ☺️