This race review was written by the one and only Dave Kitching.
The Challenge of the Ryde 10
The Ryde 10 is a special event for me. I was born in St Helens on the IW and spent my childhood running and cycling in the area between Ryde and The Duver. So participating in this event is like going home.
It is a hilly and challenging race but that is part of its attraction.
It is held in early February so weather conditions can add to the challenge. In recent years the race has been held in favourable conditions.
Race Headquarters and Logistics
The race HQ for 2024 is in the Ryde Castle Hotel on Ryde seafront close to the Hovercraft terminal and the land end of Ryde Pier. (Group tickets and sometimes discounts are available to reduce the cost of crossing the Solent).
The start is at 11.00 but you need to catch the 9.15 Wightlink FastCat to be there on time.
The Hotel is a good Race HQ. Toilets, large bag drop, lots of room in the ballroom and bar, food and drink available too.
The Race Course Breakdown
Once you are ready the start is across the road in an area set aside near the small Ryde Harbour.
The Start: Ryde Seafront to East Hill Road
The first mile is flat along the seafront (can be windy!) and around the canoe lake then a left and up hill. East hill Road is a long drag about 1/2 mile long. It is busy with runners as it is close to the start. The hill serves to sift the runners. At the top there is another 1/2 mile this time flat.
The roads are not closed, and you run on the road in the company of traffic. This has not been a cause for concern as the islanders seem to welcome the runners.
Then a quick right left and the first decent. A few hundreds yards downhill through the trees. Then immediately up a short sharp incline. A quick right left at the top and again downhill. A longer decent past the Wishing Well Pub. As soon as you reach the bottom of the hill it is up again. A steep straight hill about 200 yards. A right turn at the top. About 25 yards flat then up again and into the village Nettlestone. There is a water station here. The water handed up in plastic cups. The another gentle rise to a row of cottages.
Mid-Race: Hills, Descents, and Scenic Views
Then you follow the road through a succession of right and left turns. You pass a Parish Church and large Oak tree, known as Fatty Oak. Down a steep but short hill and pass Nodes Point Holiday Park turn off. Then a 1/4 mile flattish bit into St Helens.
A left turn and down hill to the Duver. At the bottom of the hill a right turn for a flat run. After 1/2 miles a left turn across the sand dunes to the seawall. The 5 mile turn.
Along the seawall and into the camping field of Nodes Point Holiday Park. Another short sharp up hill bit. Left and then down. Now the steepest hill! 400 yards up through some holiday chalets (many will walk up this section!).
The Toughest Sections: Nodes Point to Seaview
Right through some old gates and onto Fir Tree Path. A narrow 1/2 mile sometimes muddy.
Then an undulating couple of miles through an estate of bungalows. The second water station.
Nearly back in Nettlestone then a right turn down Fairy Hill then a short rise before running down into Seaview. Down to the seafront and then towards Ryde.
The Final Push: Puckpool Park to the Finish
A mile at beach level along Springvale to Puckpool Park. Left at the Boat House Pub to the last uphill section. Puckpool is a long drag of a hill and is a test of determination. Right at the top and 1/2 mile of flat road. Then a a sharp right down a narrow lane. A short narrow path through the trees.
The last 1/4 mile is down a steep hill. At the bottom a sharp turn to the right then 50 yards to the finish. You will get a warm reception from the spectators and receive your medal.
A Friendly and Well Organised Event
Ryde Harriers, the organising club, are known for their friendliness and professionalism, ensuring a great event for all participants.
It is a hilly event with 8 ups and 7 downs in the 10 miles. Everyone had to run the same course. The Race HQ is a short flat walk from the finish.
The 2025 event is on Sunday 2nd February, the field is limited to 600 runners.
I urge all 545ers to consider this event next year and rise to the challenge of this run on the Isle of Wight. Ryde Harriers are a friendly run club and promote a great event. The Ryde 10!is an HRRL event.
I have run this event every year since 2017, so if you would like more information just ask.
