Getting to Know… David Brighton – Edition 18 
Some rivalries are born on the track — others are settled in the mud at Oxshott Woods.
Ask anyone who was there in 2022 and they’ll tell you about that finish — a lung-busting dash through the trees where David Brighton got the better of James Gamble by a stride.
Gamble may still dispute the finish order, but the photo clearly proves David got there first. 
“I love competing for the club,” he says. “That Oxshott race was a classic — Gamble and I were shoulder-to-shoulder the whole way. I just managed to find one last kick at the end.”
And the story doesn’t end there. The rivalry continues this weekend as the Surrey XC League heads to Hurst Green — the latest instalment in a long-running Woking battle that’s become a crowd favourite. 
It’s moments like that which show how far David’s come since joining Woking AC in 2021.
He started running more regularly during lockdown — and on his 40th birthday decided to go big.
“At the height of lockdown, I set myself the challenge of running a sub-3 marathon. Twenty-one laps of a 2 km circuit around Hook Heath later, I crossed the line in 2:46 — staying very local!” 
Since then, with structured training and club support, David’s taken chunks off all his PBs from 5 k to marathon.
Cross country remains a favourite — especially for the camaraderie — but he’s also been known to try something a little more… bouncy.
“I’ve enjoyed dabbling in the steeplechase over the last couple of years. I’ve discovered I’m quite springy for a 44-year-old,” he laughs. “I’d like to focus more on that — but marathon training (and recovery) tend to get in the way.” 
Another highlight? A different kind of sprint — this time across Tower Bridge during the 2024 London Marathon.
“Running side-by-side with Gamble again, but on friendlier terms this time!”
Running’s also become a true family affair.
“My daughter, Alice, joined the club a couple of years ago, and I’ve since qualified as an Assistant Coach, helping at the Academy each week. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the kids and seeing them progress. My younger son, James, has just joined too — so there are now three Brightons in the club!”
(Editor’s note: A marathoner, steeplechaser, coach and dad — and, crucially, the man who tamed James Gamble in Oxshott. With the next chapter of their rivalry unfolding at Hurst Green, we’ll see if history repeats itself. David’s proof that Woking spirit runs deep — and apparently runs in the family. **)**
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Inspired by David’s story?
Whether you’re chasing PBs, building confidence, or just fancy joining a club where friendly rivalries make you faster, you’ll find your people at Woking AC.
Come and train, compete, and be part of a team that celebrates every finish line — from the track to Tower Bridge.
Interested? Email seniors@wokingac.com to find out more and get started.