The South Downs Way 100 is delivering drama in abundance this weekend, with the leading pack across both categories now entering the crucial final quarter of this gruelling 100-mile challenge across one of England's most iconic trails.

Wave one got underway at 5:30am this morning, with wave two following an hour later at 6:30am, and after many hours of grit, sweat and stunning scenery, the race is truly reaching its defining moments.

In the women's race, it is former Isle of Man resident Sarah Webster who is putting on an absolute masterclass. The world record holder, who spent many years living on the island and remains a hugely respected figure in Manx running circles through her coaching work with Northern AC athletes, has built a staggering four-mile lead over her nearest rival. That is a remarkable buffer at this stage of the race and speaks volumes about the controlled, experienced performance Webster has delivered throughout the day. Maryline Nakache sits in second place and will be pushing hard to close the gap, while Robyn Cassidy rounds out the top three in third,no doubt drawing on every ounce of determination to hold her position through these closing miles. It seems she is still in third even though her tracker is stuck at a CP.

The men's race, meanwhile, could not be more different in terms of the margins involved. David Green, Hugh Tibbs and Henry Heart are locked in an extraordinary three-way battle, separated by what must feel like agonising inches after nearly a hundred miles of running. With all three firmly into the final quarter of the course, every footfall, every climb and every descent is important. It is impossible to call, and that is precisely what makes this so compelling.

The conditions are far from ideal with high temperatures which have been building throughout the day. Crews have been on ice and lollipop duty to help keep runners cool!

Stay with ESTR for live updates as the finishes approach. This one is far from over.