Seaside success in Eastbourne for distance runner Billy Mead

Leighton Buzzard AC athlete wins half marathon in personal best time
Billy MeadBilly Mead
Billy Mead

Talented athlete Billy Mead improved from last year’s third place finish to win the Eastbourne Half Marathon earlier this month.

The Leighton Buzzard Athletic Club runner beat his previous fastest time for the 13.1 mile distance, to cross the line in a personal best of 1 hour 16 minutes and 50 seconds.

“The race this year was very windy, which was a particular issue from around mile 10 as we turned and were running into a headwind for the final three miles,” said the 25-year-old.

Billy MeadBilly Mead
Billy Mead

“There was also a large hill between miles two and three, which was pretty tough. Other than that it’s a really pleasant race along the seafront, with lots of spectators and entertainment that make it more enjoyable.”

Billy has running competitively for the club for about ten years.

“My favourite races tend to be cross-country, which take place over winter, so that season has just ended,” he explained.

“However, I also enjoy road races and generally do at least a few each year.”

Billy MeadBilly Mead
Billy Mead

Billy had entered into the Leighton Buzzard 10k in April, however in the current coronavirus situation races throughout the country are on hold.

“I recently came second in the Royal Navy Cross-Country Championships, and then placed 16th in the Inter-Service Cross-Country,” added Billy, who has been in the Royal Navy for almost two years.

“I’ve not been running for the Navy for very long, but it’s something that I hope to continue throughout my career.”