Quote Originally Posted by Tindersticks View Post
Brown Wardle used to be a 'there and back' coming in at just under 2 miles but for the last two years an extended route has been adopted which measures in at just over 3 miles.....prompting the quirky name change: Brown Wardle (and a bit moor).

The race may still only be short but it contains 3 steep little climbs and given last nights humidity it certainly had us working up a sweat. In previous years I've raced in the nearby races of Hades Hill and Wardle Skyline, so parts of the course I was familiar with but in fairness it's so well flagged and marshalled route choice isn't an issue.....which is pleasing, as I went a wandering last time I was up here for Wardle Skyline.

Whilst stood on the start line we're informed by race organiser and seasoned fell runner Andy Lee that there are 38 of us. Typically as soon as I hear 38 my mind drifts to one of my other passions: rock music. And right from the off I'm singing in my head 'Hold on loosely' by 38 Special.

What a coincidence!



The chorus couldn't have been more appropriate as I try in vain to keep up with the lead runners-

Just hold on loosely
but don't let go
if you cling to tightly
you're gonna lose control

Truth be told, I couldn't hold on, loosely or not....and the fast start was paid for later in the race with the last climb feeling far harder than it should've.
Short fell races should never be underestimated, it's great to mix and match where racing is concerned. One week it could be a Lakeland classic where endurance is the main ingredient and then there's races like Brown Wardle where the tempo is technically known as 'balls out'.....not literally, but an airing would've been nice on such a warm evening.

The race finished at the end of a small cul-de-sac and it was uplifting to hear the local residents offering shouts of encouragement. I heard one of the locals say, "he's come all the way from Chorley"....I wasn't alone, three of us had made the relatively short journey over for what can almost be described as a local race in fellrunning terms. I suppose the general public don't realise the commitment us runners have towards this amazing sport.

I know I'm not just speaking for myself when I say the trip over for Brown Wardle was well worth the effort...my teammates Bill and Mark certainly thought so...they loved it.

Many thanks to Andy and all helpers...fingers crossed Brown Wardle (and a bit moor) gets 'a bit more' runners turning up in the future....it deserves to.

Reet...time for some 38 Special.
Great write-up Darren, glad you enjoyed it as much as I do. I will continue to promote this cracking little race also and hopefully swell the number for next year.