Going the Distance: A Personal Journey with Hastings Half Marathon Champion Derek Stevens

The Hastings Half Marathon is more than just a race; it's a celebration of fitness, determination, and community. Derek Stevens, two-time winner of the event and former GB International Runner and Chief Executive of Rother District Council, knows a fair bit about this. I had the unique chance to sit down with Derek to explore his victories and the true essence of running, particularly in the context of the Hastings Half Marathon.

Derek Stevens winning the Hastings Half Marathon in 1985.

Big Results require Big Ambitions

Derek's running career began far from the limelight of the elite level racing. It started at grass roots with Bexhill Athletic Club and by his own admission, "we used to faff around, do some weights but never trained for it" (running). It was only after coming 6th in a local race held in Alexander Park that Derek began to wonder what he could achieve if he actually did some proper training?

At the relatively late age of 23, Derek joined Hastings AC and set himself the goal of becoming an International Runner over the course of the coming 5 years. For someone who had no previous athletic background, this was an ambitious challenge to say the least!

In early March 1982, just a month shy of the five-year deadline he had set for himself Derek received a call from his training partner, the legendary Steve Ovett, an 800m gold medallist from the 1980 Olympic Games. Derek's hard work and dedication to his training and racing caught the attention of selectors, including Andy Norman from UK Athletics, who had identified him to run a 10k event in Oslo for England. Initially, Derek was hesitant to accept the opportunity, as he was focused on the upcoming London Marathon scheduled for April. However, after a call with his coach, he realized this was his chance to make a mark on the global stage and decided to accept. Subsequently, Derek competed in a series of marathons and represented Great Britain in the years that followed. His time of 2:12:41 at Grandma's Marathon in the USA in 1984 still stands strong today, ranking as the 72nd fastest time in British men's history.

Derek crossing the line at Grandma's Marathon 1984 in a blistering time of 2:12:41.

Derek's accomplishments, including victories in the first edition of the Hastings Half Marathon in 1985 and again in 1986, showcase not only his dedication but also reflect the local spirit that defines this iconic event. The Hastings Half Marathon attracts a diverse group of around 3,000 runners each year. This event brings a vibrant energy to the town, bringing together participants and supporters.

Hastings Half Marathon starting line filled with enthusiastic participants.

Embracing the Community Spirit

The true charm of the Hastings Half Marathon lies in its strong sense of community. On race day where the town comes out in force, with supporters lining most of the race route. Live music and bands play giving proceedings a real carnival, party atmosphere.

Many children and young people who watch the event are inspired to participate in later years. This cycle of inspiration creates a lasting impact on the community, fostering a spirit of resilience and participation that benefits everyone involved. Additionally, the event raises thousands of pounds for local charities each year. Organised by the Hastings Lions Club, a charity that has raised over £5 million so far, the event raised an impressive £250,000 in 2024 alone for various local organisations, significantly impacting the lives of people in Hastings and the surrounding area.

During my conversation with Derek, I was struck by how important this race has become to the local community. Regardless of finishing times or placement in the results, all participants gain something meaningful from the experience, and each one is celebrated.

Derek's Top Tips for an Enjoyable Hastings Half

During our conversation, Derek shared preparation strategies and his best training tips for those preparing for the Hastings Half Marathon.

Consider following a training plan: If something is written down, you are more likely to stick to it. Derek highly recommends the free training plan, created by Eric Hardwick M.B.E, which can be found on the Hastings Half Marathon website.

Don't make any changes the week before the race: This is not the time to try a new diet or buy a new pair of running shoes! Make sure that any changes are made well before the big day. Don't do anything you wouldn't normally do the week before the event.

On the day, arrive in good time: Derek emphasises how important it is to arrive early. You will waste valuable energy jumping out of the car with 5 minutes to go until the gun goes off. Allow yourself time to park, walk to the event start and do a gentle warm up.

Get in the right starting block for your predicted finish time: This will help not only you, but also your fellow participants. If you think you will finish in 3 hours, make sure you are in the 3 hour starting block at the start of the race. If you go off too fast, you will pay for it later.

The Inaugural Hastings Half Marathon start line, 1985. To this day, the race still starts and finishes here at Grosvenor Gardens, St Leonards on Sea.

parkrun

Derek is an advocate for parkrun and recommends it to everyone. You can find details about your nearest parkrun on their website. It is free and volunteer led - all you need to do is remember your barcode on the day! Whether you walk or run, your participation will be celebrated.

3D Recruit & Education Futures Trust

Whether you are an experienced runner or a newcomer, there is a place for you on the 3D Recruit Run Team!

40 years after Derek broke the first ever finish-tape at the Hastings Half Marathon, 3D Recruit is proud to sponsor the 2025 edition of the race. We will be running for a local charity that is close to our hearts - Education Futures Trust (EFT). By joining our run team you will be directly helping EFT to deliver Literacy and Speech & Language support services within Primary Schools.

You can secure your place on our team for just £20.00, a saving of over 50%. 3D Recruit will match this and donate the full entry fee to Education Futures Trust (EFT). 

Other benefits include:

• Free premium quality 3D Recruit & EFT Run Team vest;

• Free water bottle;

• Training advice and support from a qualified England Athletics Endurance Coach;

• The 5 runners will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 Sports Shoes Voucher.

You can read more about EFT in last week's blog here.

Join in, raise money for Literacy and Speech & Language support in Schools, and discover the hero within you!

Join the 3D Recruit Run Team here: https://www.3drecruit.com/runwithus

You can view the whole interview with Derek here:

Derek Steven's chats with Katie from 3D Recruit about the Hastings Half Marathon and his memories of International distance running racing and training.

Hastings Half Marathon 2025. Join our Run Team supporting Education Futures Trust!

Run the Hastings Half Marathon

We are excited to be a Hastings Half Marathon 2025 sponsor and will be supporting Education Futures Trust (EFT), a local charity whose work benefits local children and their families. By participating in this event, you will be directly contributing to programmes that provide essential Literacy and Speech & Language support within local primary schools. EFT is dedicated to ensuring that every child has the opportunity to develop communication skills that will serve them throughout their lives.

The team at EFT create educational resources and provide specialist support to deliver high-quality literacy and language interventions. These efforts help to bridge the gap for children who might otherwise struggle to keep up with their peers.

How Your Participation Changes Lives

When you lace up your running shoes and take part in the Hastings Half Marathon 3D Recruit & EFT Run Team, you are doing much more than just running 13.1 miles. Each step you take helps to raise funds that will enable the charity to expand its reach and impact. Your participation will help provide literacy equipment, resources and fund EFT educators to deliver their support services to schools that do not a provision to provide this internally. 

Not only that, your effort will contribute to early intervention programmes that can identify and address speech and language difficulties before they become significant barriers to learning. Together, we can create a community where every child has the tools they need to succeed.

If you don't fancy taking on a Half Marathon but would like to support EFT, you can donate directly via their website here.

3D Recruit & EFT Run Team: Join Us!

As part of our sponsorship package, the Hastings Half Marathon has awarded 3D Recruit five complimentary places at this years event, each worth a standard entry fee of £41.59. You can secure your place on our team for just £20.00, a saving of over 50%. 3D Recruit will match this and donate the full entry fee to EFT.

Other benefits of joining our team are:

• Free premium quality 3D Recruit & EFT Run Team vest;

• Free water bottle;

• Training advice and support from a qualified England Athletics Endurance Coach;

•  Our 5 runners will automatically be entered into a prize draw to win a £50 SportsShoes Voucher.

Join the team here!

The 2025 edition of the Hastings Half Marathon is organised by Hastings Lions Club and Nice Work

Training Tips for the Half Marathon

Preparing for a half marathon requires dedication and the right approach. Here are some tips to help you on your journey:

1. If the shoe fits: Invest in a good pair of running shoes that provide the necessary support and comfort. This can significantly enhance your running experience and reduce the risk of injury. It is recommended to "size up" when buying running shoes. Depending on the brand this could be a half, or even a whole size, bigger than your everyday shoe. The online shop SportsShoes stocks a very comprehensive range of shoes and clothing.

2. Gradual Progression: Increase your mileage gradually to build endurance without overloading your body. Follow a structured training plan that includes a mix of long runs, speed work, and rest days. As a rule of thumb, use the 10% rule: each week increase your weekly distance by no more than 10%. You can download free training plans from Runners World.

3. Nutrition and Hydration: Fuel your body with a balanced diet rich in carbohydrates, proteins, and healthy fats. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your runs.

4. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to any signs of discomfort or fatigue. Rest and recovery are just as important as the training itself to prevent injuries and ensure consistent progress.

Refer a Friend: Double the Impact

Do you know someone who would love to join you in this rewarding challenge? 

This is a fantastic way to build a sense of community and camaraderie while making a significant difference in the lives of local primary school children. Spread the word and let's make this event bigger and better together.

Do you know someone who is a Social Work, Education or Healthcare worker who could benefit from the 3D Recruit service? Refer a friend to us and reap even more rewards! Click here to complete our quick and easy referral form.

Join Us Today and Make a Difference

Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of an event that combines fitness, community, and charity. Join the Half Marathon 3D Recruit & EFT Run Team today and start training for a race that will not only challenge you but also bring about positive change in our local schools.

Every mile you run and every pound you raise will contribute to a brighter future for children in our community. Together, we can make a lasting impact. Join us, and let's run for a cause that truly matters. Join the team here!

Hastings Half Marathon 2025 (And How 3D Recruit Are Bringing It To Life)

We are excited to announce our sponsorship of the Hastings Half Marathon 2025, supporting Education Futures Trust (EFT) in Hastings.

Hastings Half Marathon returns for its 41st edition on Sunday March 23rd 2025.

The 2025 edition of the event will mark its 41st year, with runners making their way around a circular - and rather hilly! - route of the historic town of Hastings, East Sussex. What makes the Hastings Half Marathon so special is the local community who come out in force to support and celebrate the runners who take part, many of whom raise money for charities close to their hearts. 3D Recruit are very proud to be able to play a part in this.

What Is EFT?

This year, our focus is on raising funds for the Education Futures Trust (EFT) in Hastings, a remarkable charity dedicated to supporting and helping children and families. EFT run various projects and courses which improve life chances and build resilience and confidence. 

For children, EFT run forest schools, Shore Academy, after-school clubs and holiday activities. The holiday activities include arts and crafts, and a range of sports, wide-games and outdoor learning activities, predominantly at their Hastings site, The Firs.

For adults, EFT provide cooking courses, DIY, outdoor learning and wellbeing courses which help to improve confidence and develop skills. They also provide family learning courses as an opportunity for parents to learn new activities that they can get involved in with their children.  

Our Commitment to Community

At 3D Recruit, we believe in giving back to our local community. This is the first year that we have sponsored such a large event, and we are excited to be able to use it to make a positive impact locally.

Through our partnership with EFT, we are proud to support a local project that supports learning, well-being, and growth for young minds and their families in Hastings.

By participating in this event, 3D Recruit aims to contribute to EFT's Literacy ‘Talking in the Tipi’ and Speech & Language provision, which takes place within local primary schools. The requirement for additional support services for children with additional Literacy and Speech & Language needs has grown, however budget cuts within schools mean that it is very difficult to meet this demand. This is where EFT comes in. Through fundraising, they can send an experienced and skilled team who set up a Tipi in which Reception - Year 3 children work on speech and language in a quiet and fun environment. Children in Years 4,5 and 6 who need additional support can access it.

The cost of providing 'Talking in the Tipi' to support a group of 10 targeted children per term is £1,710 and £1,836 to support 6-8 targeted children one-to-one with Speech & Language.

A standard entry fee for the Hastings Half Marathon is £41.59 (including entry fees). This equates roughly to one 3 weeks Talking in the Tipi support for one child. As part of our sponsorship package, we receive 5 complimentary places for runners, (worth £207.95). This will fund one child for over a whole term.

The 3D Recruit Team meeting with EFT's CEO Zoe Jackson on January 6th 2025.

A Local Legacy

It was 25 years ago that Ben Arnold established Amicus Recruit, today 3D Recruit, in Hastings Town Centre. His move from the recruitment hub of central London was a bold one and the odds were very much stacked against it.

Hastings has long been one of the most deprived towns in the country, with high levels of deprivation in several areas including income, unemployment and health. Alongside this, half of the concentric circle in which you can recruit from is the English Channel. The road links to this part of the country are not fast, with single carriages and rush hour traffic congestion.

Despite these challenges, the business grew. 25 years later, 3D Recruit employs 25 people, 20 of whom are from the Hastings and Rother areas. One of the things that makes this region so special is the sense of community and this is something that 3D Recruit has incorporated into its ethos. What makes us is our people and their indominable spirit.

Meet the 3D Recruit Team Runners

We are proud to have several members of the 3D Recruit team lacing up their running shoes and participating in the Hastings Half Marathon. Our runners are not only representing our company but are also running to raise funds and awareness for EFT.

Stay tuned for more updates and meet the dedicated individuals from our team who are taking on this challenge for a great cause!

How Your Participation Makes a Difference

Your participation in the 3D Recruit Run Team at the Hastings Half Marathon can make a significant difference in the lives of children and families in Hastings and Rother. By joining us in this event, you are helping to raise vital funds that will go directly towards the provision of Literacy and Speech and Language services in local primary schools. 

Each step you take and every contribution you make helps us move closer to delivering essential Literacy and Speech and Language support services to the community.

Ways to Get Involved

• Register for the Event: Lace up your running shoes and take part!

• Join the 3D Run Team: Run on the 3D Recruit Run Team for half the standard entry cost (£41.50) and receive a free premium run vest, water bottle and training tips and support from an England Athletics Endurance Coach. 3D Recruit will make up the remaining £20.75 and the full standard entry fee will be donated directly to EFT.

• Donate Directly: Contribute to EFT and their vital programs.

Event Details and How to Get Involved

Hastings Half Marathon 2025

·       Date: Sunday, 23rd March 2025

·       Location: Grosvenor Gardens, St Leonards on Sea, East Sussex. TN38 0BX

·       Start Time: 10:30am

Join the 3D Recruit Run Team in Supporting Education Futures Trust!

Whether you’re a seasoned runner or a beginner, we encourage everyone to participate and support this worthy cause. To participate, visit the official Hastings Half Marathon website or follow our social media channels and subscribe to our weekly blog for the chance to secure a place on the 3D Recruit Run Team!

For more information please email: katiea@3drecruit.com

Together, let’s make a difference for children and families in Hastings!