Originally Posted by
Llani Boy
Today was my first run at this race. Organised by Meltham Athletic Club and based at the impressive Meltham Sports Centre. Six miles and 880 feet of mainly saturated fields, footpaths, a bit of muddy woodland and a few sections of tarmac to join the off road bits together. The climbs were not steep but tough in the underfoot conditions.
On filling in the entry form I noticed that the race incorporated the Yorkshire AAA Veteran Fell Championships which explained the higher than usual number of mature athletes milling about!
It felt chilly prior to the start but as I lined up with the other 189 starters it warmed up so there was a last minute removal of my base layer. I'm glad I removed it as I was plenty warm enough in just my vest.
The race was won by Nigel Hockin of Slaithwaite Striders in 39:15. The first lady was Katie Walshaw of Holmfirth Harriers, 11th overall in 44:46. a new record time.
I was 26th overall in 48:30 and first M65. If I was a resident of Ilkley I'd have won a cup!
A very well organised and enjoyable event with the bonus of hot showers at the end. Not a criticism of the event but I found it to be more of very tough XC rather than fell race but having said that would definitely do it again.
Thanks to all involved.
