Around 300 avid runners took on the 13th annual Baldock Beast Half Marathon on Sunday (February 25).
Participants enjoyed a sunny day, calm winds, and supportive crowds at the renowned community marathon which is warmly received by runners of all abilities.
The challenging hills were countered by level parts of the route, including through the villages of Wallington, Sandon, and Rush Green.
Volunteers from the area marshalled, provided refreshments, entertainment, and heartfelt encouragement to the marathon participants.
Richard Harbon, race organiser, said: "This event is one of the best around with amazing support from all the communities in and around Baldock.
"The weather helped bring out the spectators on the course.
"This event wouldn’t happen without the Baldock Events Forum and I would like to pay tribute to Jim McNally, Carrie Dunne, and Claire Murphy who are standing down after supporting Baldock events for many years."
Josephine Edmunds from Royston Runners claimed victory in the women's category with a time of 1 hour 30 minutes, whereas Mohammed Elbayan from Stopsley Striders won the men's race finishing in 1 hour 11 minutes.
North Herts Road Runners saw remarkable runs, bagging both the women's and men's team awards.
Hertfordshire businesses continued their tradition of contributing to the event.
Notably, Kindlelight, Stevenage Leisure, Hollington Health, and the Baldock Scouts provided refreshments for the finishers of the race.
Profits from the Baldock Beast will be donated to beneficial causes within the town, making the event a win for all participants and non-participants alike.
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