Maldon Mud Race boss hails ‘best ever’ event for 50th anniversary – PICTURES

By Ben Shahrabi

Hundreds raced across 400 metres of thick mud, in aid of charity. (Credit: Jake Burton and Ben Shahrabi)

Maldon saw the “best” Mud Race event in its 50-year history as more than 300 people took on the “gruelling” challenge, the organiser has said.

Around 15,000 people watched hundreds of brave souls race along the 400-metre course across the River Chelmer and the mudflats. Some dressed as gorillas, gnomes, and superheroes - while one wore nothing at all.

Regular competitor Joel Hicks came from Leicester to take part. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

Brian Farrington, Chairman of the Maldon Mud Race, has praised the competitors and volunteers for their efforts this year.

Competitors dressed in a wide range of costumes - from superheroes to gnomes. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

He told Caroline Coastal: “The anniversary race was probably our best yet, with a massive crowd and great weather. Well done to all who completed the course.

Many competitors struggled to stay on their feet in the thick mud. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

“Big thanks to all our sponsors and to Maldon District Council for their help. And well done to the small team of volunteers who made this happen.”

Mud Race Chairman Brian Farrington described this year's event as 'the best yet'. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

Plume Academy teacher Peter Carlsson came first in the race, finishing in three minutes and 36 seconds. Kylie Whitlocke was the first woman to finish the race, with a time of four minutes and 40 seconds.

Competitors who found themselves stuck in the mud were helped by race staff. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

Among the famous faces taking part was former Olympic rower James Cracknell and Times picture editor Andrew Hepburn. Former paralympic world record sprinter Danny Crates officially commenced the race.

Caked - the Mud Race lived up to its name. (Credit: Jake Burton)

The first official Maldon Mud Race was held in 1974, when it is believed a pubgoer was challenged to serve a meal on the riverbank, dressed in a dinner jacket. Last year, the event raised more than £35,000 for charity.

A variety of amusements were on offer. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

This year’s winner was presented with an award by the Maldon Carnival Court, as Queen Brianne made her debut public speech.

Live bands and entertainment were enjoyed throughout the day on the Mud Race stage. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

A spokesperson for Maldon Carnival said: “The new Carnival Court had an absolute blast at the 50th Maldon Mud Race. With perfect weather and tons of fun, it was an amazing day for all.

Maldon Carnival Court - Queen Brianne was joined by Junior Queen Jessica, Rosebud Queen Emily, Junior Princesses Ayla and Lydia, and Senior Princesses Mia and Amy.

“Queen Brianne was elegantly escorted by her full court: Junior Queen Jessica, Rosebud Queen Emily, Senior Princesses Amy and Mia, and Junior Princesses Ayla and Lydia. The court even debuted the new curtsy for 2024 for all the Mud Race guests and contestants.

Caroline Coastal meets BBC Essex - Ben Shahrabi and Sadie Nine. (Credit: Jake Burton)

“After the formalities, the girls hit the dance area for a boogie, spreading joy and laughter.”

Charity representatives met the crowds - including from the Tom Bowdidge Foundation. (Credit: Ben Shahrabi)

After a year-long hiatus, the carnival parade is set to return on August 3.