Despite the tight deadline, the team pulled off the feat in time for race day, providing much-needed showers for competitors caked head to toe in mud.
“It went well,” said Paul, Solitaire’s Director.
“We’ve also learned a lot and we’re already planning bigger and better for next year.”
The atmosphere on the day was electric, with crowds flocking to watch the muddy spectacle.
“Maldon Prom was buzzing with people,” Paul added.
“It wasn’t easy keeping the spectators far enough away from the shower area – the wind was blowing the spray onto the sea wall!”
Sponsoring the event marked a proud moment for Solitaire who are commemorating a decade in business this year.
Feedback from organisers and participants was overwhelmingly positive.
“The organisers were really thankful. In previous years, contestants left a huge muddy mess on the walkway. This year, thanks to the showers, it was hardly anything.”
The team’s highlight was witnessing their hard work pay off as the first participants washed off the thick estuary mud. “We lost a lot of sleep worrying it wouldn’t work properly, so it was such a relief seeing it in action,” Paul admitted.
While Solitaire’s experts were pleased with how it went, they already have ideas for improvements: making the pre-shower area wider to reduce queues and adding another shower block with hot water.
The company hopes its sponsorship will help strengthen local connections. “It was a very proud day for us and we’re delighted to have been part of an event that so many charities will benefit from – we’re looking to sponsor other events in the future as we are active champions of the Maldon area and its community,” Paul shared.
In fact, they’re already eyeing upcoming opportunities, including Maldon’s Classic Car Show and the town’s firework display later this year.
And will the team be swapping shower hoses for running shoes next year? “Yes and no,” they laughed. “We’d love to take part in the race, but we had to be constantly on alert with the showers. I’m not sure how we could do both!”
As for the racers? “Seriously muddy,” they said with a grin. “Some more than others… I’d imagine they’re still finding mud in places now!”
