Farnham runner Ivan Chunnett completes gruelling North Downs Way 100

Farnham runner Ivan Chunnett has completed his toughest challenge yet after finishing the North Downs Way 100.

The North Downs Way 100 is a demanding ultra-distance race, organised by Centurion Running, which starts in Farnham and sends runners on a 103-mile journey across Surrey and Kent to the finish in Ashford.

Farnham resident Chunnett described it as the hardest challenge he has ever undertaken.

After 18 months of preparation, Chunnett completed the course in 23 hours, 53 minutes and 51 seconds, achieving his goal of finishing inside 24 hours and earning the coveted One Day buckle awarded to runners who complete the course in a single day.

From Farnham the route follows the North Downs Way through some of the most challenging terrain in southern England, including Box Hill.

While summer heat often plays a part, runners must also contend with relentless climbs, steep descents, stiles, gates and technical trails throughout the 103 miles.

Although the event is often seen as an individual challenge, Chunnett credits much of his success to crew members Craig Tate-Grimes and Candy Waller, who supported him throughout the day and night, providing food, equipment and encouragement at key points along the course.

“The North Downs Way 100 may be an individual race, but my result was a team achievement,” he said.

By the time Chunnett crossed the finish line in Ashford, he had covered 103 miles, climbed thousands of metres and moved from 99th position early in the race to finish 43rd overall.

Out of 250 entrants only 136 finished in the 30-hour cut-off, the high dropout rate driven by the heat on the day and the tough conditions.

As well as Chunnett, two other Farnham Runners took part in the North Downs Way 100 – Deena Jones who retired after 38 miles and Chris Raby who retired after 61 miles.