Winter Bradfield Day 2023 once again featured the two iconic cross-country runs of the Huxham V and the Huxham X. For those who have yet to experience the delights either run, both courses start on the same route that takes the path across past the New Ground pitches before starting a long climb that takes runners up along the tree-lined route of Great House walk, through the woods and over the motorway bridge to a small grouping of houses. At this point the Huxham V loops back on itself and returns down the hill, leaving the Huxham X to continue up into the woods of Ashampstead Common for an extended loop that takes the course to a distance of 10.6 miles. Fortunately for the Huxham V runners, the considerable amount of rain before the event didn't have too much of an impact on their largely track-based course but mud-clogged trainers and splattered legs were par for the course.

The run is as competitve as runners wish to make it, some people go out to test themselves, some go out for steady run and there are always a few dogs taken around for their Sunday exercise, all comers are very much welcome. 22 participated this year, including several interprid parent-pupil running pairs namely Phil Murphy and Elliott (A10), Matt Everett and Barnaby (LF), Julia Godfrey and Sam (G11), Oliver Browett and Rory (A10), in addition to pupils, alumni, staff and a couple of dogs. A special mention should also go out to current parent Jessica Raphael who also ran the course for the 9th time!

This year the speed demons on the course were Phil and Elliott with timings of 34 minutes and 36 minutes respectively... maybe next time Elliot!

'I really enjoyed taking part in the Huxham V for the first time this year, such a beautiful run up through the woods and of course also great to be able to run with my son'. Phil Murphy

Matt and Barnaby also took part with their dogs Willow and Inca, 'It was a nice run out with my dad and the dogs' Barnaby.

As an extra incentive, pupils who participate in the Huxham V are also awarded points towards their Bradfield Diploma.

If you are interested in taking part in the Huxham V next year, look out for registration as part of Winter Bradfield Day 2024. Before then there are several other opportunities for pupils and parents to team up at Bradfield Society events, including the Family Foursomes Golf in April and Give it your Max Tennis in June in addition to as part of a team in the 'Hockey for Mossy' Mixed 7-a-side tournament also on Winter Bradfield Day. Click the link to view all forthcoming events.