Darren Holloway (Pennine)

I knew Daz pretty well firstly as a fellow competitor, and then as a team-mate.

I remember one year at Ricky's race, Steph and I picked up his prize for him - a hamper of fruit. When I told him we'd got it and would he like me to bring it along to another race, he replied that I should give it to a local old person. That sums Daz up - always thinking of others.

In the last few years, his ability to reinvent himself as a top fellrunner in the V40 category was an inspiration to a lot of us. Naturally, we quizzed him about how he'd done it. Although it didn't come naturally to be talking about himself, he was always willing to answer my questions on the subject. He also gave a very worldly account of it, making it clear that the burden of all those additional hours' training has to be balanced against life commitments. Again, thinking about others.

I will remember him as a very honest and kind man.

When I first met Daz, I used to be amazed that a runner of his caliber would take the time to talk to, and encourage a very mediocre cloggy runner.
When I got to know him a bit better, I understood that that was just how he was. Passionate about the hills, gifted on the hills. Humble about his own achievements, generous with his advice, inspirational in his encouragements.

More recently, I often used to ask him for advice on some of the more 'interesting' sections of the lakes races.
The following is part of an exchange we had about the best line off Dale Head:

“Hanno what a lovely question and i hope like me you never find the answer. I still have not found the best line after 12 years of trying. Some things are best left as they are. In fellrunning there are things that remain magical and remain always a challenge.
I now always go left but hey whats a minute or two.
That is the beauty of the fells mate. You take care.”

Absolutely wonderful. What a guy.
A gent and a friend.

Rest in Peace Daz
My very best wishes to Amanda and Josh

Hanno – Pennine

Smiling at Wansfell

http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8177/8...bde22a58_b.jpg
R.I.P. Daz by Andy Holden, on Flickr

I didn’t know Daz other than by the forum, and seeing him disappear up the fell with the rest of the ‘quicks’. From reading this thread, and his blog, it is clear that he epitomised all that is good in fell running, and I hope that the universal affection and respect that have been shown for him can be of some comfort to his wife and child at this awful time.
R.I.P

I can't think of anything to add to all the thoughtful posts about Daz. I don't know how I did it but I never actually met him, I now wish I had. Been a bit numb, shocked, hardly believing since the news. Worried for Stevie K, it will have been especially shocking for him too. If I or anyone at Glossopdale can help please tell us how.

John S

It's taken a long time for me to summon up the courage to write something here, mainly because I simply don't have the words to describe how I'm feeling. Daz was such a good friend, I'm going to miss him terribly. I can't even begin to imagine how Amanda and Josh must be feeling.

The problem is, I don't do words. Daz did words, he did words very well, both spoken and written. The best thing I can do is provide yet another example of Daz's selflessness. This is an extract from an email he sent to a friend last year when I was struggling with an injury and it was looking like I wouldn't be able to run again:-

I've openly said I would trade all my 1st vet 40s, all my top tens etc etc etc just for Geoff to be able to run by the side of me in a race.

I always think of others, especially Pennine members.

That's just how he was - a perfect gentleman.

I was out last night with Stevie K. and he's, understandably, very shook up still.

As many others have said, Darren always supported those of us nearer the back of the pack. After the Lads Leap race earlier this year he replied to a post I had made on a blog that "the main aim of the day was to compete with like minded people in the hills that we love."

Never a truer word Darren & as has become clear from this forum, sometimes also with the people that we love.

I can't imagine standing on a start line without looking for you.

On behalf of Penistone Footpath Runners I would like to offer our condolences to family, friends and fellow club members of Darren in what we know will be a difficult time.
Our regards, thoughts and warm wishes to you all.
Simon R (Fell Secretary).

What is there to add to the growing list of glowing tributes to such a lovely, genuine person?
I only knew Daz through fell-running and like many others, was impressed by his unassuming and friendly nature, for such a competitive and impressive athlete. He was always happy to impart his knowledge and advice to anyone who sought it, whatever their ability (even a slow old git like me). My endearing memory was of a post-race discussion with Daz about descending: I admitted that I was rubbish and lacked confidence as soon as it got rocky after having suffered a bad fall in The Rhinogs a few years ago; to which Daz ernestly replied, with a gleam in his eye: "Oh, I can't resist pushing myself to the point of falling."

You will be remembered by many people for many things - all of them positive. How many people can say that of their lives?

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Originally Posted by GeoffB

It's taken a long time for me to summon up the courage to write something here, mainly because I simply don't have the words to describe how I'm feeling. Daz was such a good friend, I'm going to miss him terribly. I can't even begin to imagine how Amanda and Josh must be feeling.

The problem is, I don't do words. Daz did words, he did words very well, both spoken and written. The best thing I can do is provide yet another example of Daz's selflessness. This is an extract from an email he sent to a friend last year when I was struggling with an injury and it was looking like I wouldn't be able to run again:-

I've openly said I would trade all my 1st vet 40s, all my top tens etc etc etc just for Geoff to be able to run by the side of me in a race.

I always think of others, especially Pennine members.

That's just how he was - a perfect gentleman.

I was out last night with Stevie K. and he's, understandably, very shook up still.

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I've not been in Pennine long and I wish I had known Daz better. This has hit me harder than I would have ever expected. My thoughts are with Daz's family and close friends, especially those at Pennine who had the honour to count Daz as a close friend. As you can tell, I'm no good with words either so I'll leave it to Daz as well. It is posts like these (link below) that make Pennine such a close knit club and make me so proud to pull on the red, yellow and black vest.

http://penninefellrunners.co.uk/word...p=370#more-370

Daz has done the Anni Waltz for many years and there have been many entertaining momements.... The lady minding her own picnic on the side of Catbells who suddenly found Daz sat on her head.... the lost watch!! and more - many more. Every year he ordered a race mug, Well actually he ordered 2 on the grounds he would drop one... or both... I suspect he gave the other to someone he thought had had a good race. He was just that kind of bod.
Wings to your feet Daz - you'll be missed

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Originally Posted by GeoffB

It's taken a long time for me to summon up the courage to write something here, mainly because I simply don't have the words to describe how I'm feeling. Daz was such a good friend, I'm going to miss him terribly. I can't even begin to imagine how Amanda and Josh must be feeling.

The problem is, I don't do words. Daz did words, he did words very well, both spoken and written. The best thing I can do is provide yet another example of Daz's selflessness. This is an extract from an email he sent to a friend last year when I was struggling with an injury and it was looking like I wouldn't be able to run again:-

I've openly said I would trade all my 1st vet 40s, all my top tens etc etc etc just for Geoff to be able to run by the side of me in a race.

I always think of others, especially Pennine members.

That's just how he was - a perfect gentleman.

I was out last night with Stevie K. and he's, understandably, very shook up still.

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Best Wishes to you and Stevie K. Geoff. Daz wouldn't want to see you both hurting, or anyone else for that matter.

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Originally Posted by Joe

I first met Daz at the Kinder Trog in 2006 when he sought advice from a highly experienced and knowledgable fell runner......He'd never done a long race

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It didn't take Daz long to establish himself. By 2007 he finished 12th in the Windgather Race.

It was 5 years later (to the day) whilst we were holding this year's race that he lost his life. He packed a fair bit in to those few years didn't he!

Anyway, the proceeds from this years Windgather race will be going to Daz's two charities (£600 in total to be divided half each).

Please could someone PM me so that I can let the very fine people of Buxton Rotary club (who have agreed to this) know where to send each cheque

Word’s just don’t seem enough. I was fortunate to spend Daz’s last few hours with him. I can still hear him shouting back words of encouragement to me as I was climbing hart crag “come on, dig in Stevie” and I won’t forget the great banter and chats we had that morning. Daz told me we’d be fine as long I didn’t run a 6 minute mile at the start and that I could go a bit faster if I got a haircut!

I feel privileged to have been friends with Daz and to run as his partner was an honour. It’s hard to imagine the starting line without him.

Thank you for everyone who helped however they could on Sunday and thank you for all the messages I have received from my friends at Pennine and other clubs.

Thinking of Amanda and Josh at this sad time xx

Steve K

Steve I was looking forward to seeing the two of you at Hartsop Hall on Sunday. Alan B made us laugh when he told us you were wondering where we were but of course you had gone by the time we sauntered up there. I was flapping a bit but of course Dave S is nearly as laid back as Daz haha. Hope you are OK.

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Originally Posted by steviek

Word’s just don’t seem enough. I was fortunate to spend Daz’s last few hours with him. I can still hear him shouting back words of encouragement to me as I was climbing hart crag “come on, dig in Stevie” and I won’t forget the great banter and chats we had that morning. Daz told me we’d be fine as long I didn’t run a 6 minute mile at the start and that I could go a bit faster if I got a haircut!

I feel privileged to have been friends with Daz and to run as his partner was an honour. It’s hard to imagine the starting line without him.

Thank you for everyone who helped however they could on Sunday and thank you for all the messages I have received from my friends at Pennine and other clubs.

Thinking of Amanda and Josh at this sad time xx

Steve K

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Steve you have my sympathy too. It must have been an awful experience, remember you have suffered too and it may take a while for it to sink in properly. Take it easy and cherish the good times.

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Originally Posted by Grouse

Steve I was looking forward to seeing the two of you at Hartsop Hall on Sunday. Alan B made us laugh when he told us you were wondering where we were but of course you had gone by the time we sauntered up there. I was flapping a bit but of course Dave S is nearly as laid back as Daz haha. Hope you are OK.

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Hi grouse , we was wondering where you was at the
start of leg 4 but glad you got your numbers

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Originally Posted by Rob Furness

Steve you have my sympathy too. It must have been an awful experience, remember you have suffered too and it may take a while for it to sink in properly. Take it easy and cherish the good times.

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Thanks rob, I think it is going to take a while

I loved following Daz's blog and he was clearly a really great guy. It's very moving to see so much respect and love for him.

Stuart
Pensby Runners

Its been a while since I have been on the forum but like everyone else was shocked to hear the sad news about Daz. I didn’t know Daz other than by the forum. I hope that the universal affection and respect that have been shown for him can be of some comfort to his wife and child at this awful time. It's very moving to see so much respect and love for him.

Dave Pinno - Penny Lane Striders

Been away from here for a few days. This is really shocking. Sympathies to Darren's family and friends.

What a loss, I didn't know Daz well but over the last three years of taking photo's of fell races or running in them, Daz was often at the same races and was always one of the faces I would look out for with the camera. A true Gent and will be missed by all.

Dobo http://www.fellrunner.net Attachment 6423

Causeypike fellrace 2012

I didn't know Daz but I followed his blog and ran in the same race a long way behind him. You had to admire his attitude and he gave us insight into the world of the cyclist. His advice to Olympic wanna be cyclists: 'take lots of breaks and stop at a cafe or two'. Too, right, just get out there.

He gave some of us a look into life for a Pennine runner. Recently, he displayed a picture of a local fox that he often meets leaving the house in the early hours en route to a race in The Lakes. Makes you appreciate looking out of a Kendal the window to see how the weather's doing at gone eight on a race day.

Not least though, he encouraged the idea that improvement comes from a lot 'more training'.

A little tribute to him today

pic.twitter.com/h4Yq6eTy

Didn't know Daz in person except through this forum and once when shouting "come on Daz" at the end of the Three Peaks and he turned round and gave me a big smile and a wave though he didn't know me and must have been knackered, but always looked for his posts and followed his adventures with Badger on his blog, even from the "Getting a dog" thread on here. Such a wise, kind, fair, thoughtful, selfless and, yes quite mischevious bloke, and one of the few who was absolutely on the side of the angels. I can't believe he'll never post here again but what an inspiration, his positive attitude and love of life and the hills shone through. Love and strength to his family. Run well Daz, run forever.

Pennine Fellrunners will be out in force at the relay on Sunday as a tribute to Daz. We originally had 4 teams entered, but when a large number of our members showed an interest in turning out for our friend, the organisers very kindly allowed us 3 extra teams - thanks Mercia. Club captain, Dave Ward, has done a brilliant job rallying the troops and sorting out 7 teams. Not bad for a small club. Dave has also taken on the difficult task of running Daz's anchor leg - I know he won't let him down.

Wherever you look on Sunday the Shropshire Hills will be covered in Pennine vests - some of us won't be running too fast, but who cares? Please give us all a shout and a wave as you go past. I'm certain this is what Daz would've wanted. It's the least we can do.

See you all in Church Stretton.

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Originally Posted by GeoffB

Pennine Fellrunners will be out in force at the relay on Sunday as a tribute to Daz. We originally had 4 teams entered, but when a large number of our members showed an interest in turning out for our friend, the organisers very kindly allowed us 3 extra teams - thanks Mercia. Club captain, Dave Ward, has done a brilliant job rallying the troops and sorting out 7 teams. Not bad for a small club. Dave has also taken on the difficult task of running Daz's anchor leg - I know he won't let him down.

Wherever you look on Sunday the Shropshire Hills will be covered in Pennine vests - some of us won't be running too fast, but who cares? Please give us all a shout and a wave as you go past. I'm certain this is what Daz would've wanted. It's the least we can do.

See you all in Church Stretton.

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wow what a great tribute. see you all on Sunday

Quote:

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Originally Posted by GeoffB

Pennine Fellrunners will be out in force at the relay on Sunday as a tribute to Daz. We originally had 4 teams entered, but when a large number of our members showed an interest in turning out for our friend, the organisers very kindly allowed us 3 extra teams - thanks Mercia. Club captain, Dave Ward, has done a brilliant job rallying the troops and sorting out 7 teams. Not bad for a small club. Dave has also taken on the difficult task of running Daz's anchor leg - I know he won't let him down.

Wherever you look on Sunday the Shropshire Hills will be covered in Pennine vests - some of us won't be running too fast, but who cares? Please give us all a shout and a wave as you go past. I'm certain this is what Daz would've wanted. It's the least we can do.

See you all in Church Stretton.

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Have a good un Pennine, nice touch by Mercia:)

I'm really looking forward to sunday, lets all get out there and run as hard as we can and enjoy the fells as a tribute to him, I'm sure thats what Daz would want!

I didn't know Daz but he had a great presence on these forums, he always seemed like a really decent guy with a massive interest in people and this wonderful sport that we love. Praying for comfort for his family in their sadness.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by GeoffB

Pennine Fellrunners will be out in force at the relay on Sunday as a tribute to Daz. We originally had 4 teams entered, but when a large number of our members showed an interest in turning out for our friend, the organisers very kindly allowed us 3 extra teams - thanks Mercia. Club captain, Dave Ward, has done a brilliant job rallying the troops and sorting out 7 teams. Not bad for a small club. Dave has also taken on the difficult task of running Daz's anchor leg - I know he won't let him down.

Wherever you look on Sunday the Shropshire Hills will be covered in Pennine vests - some of us won't be running too fast, but who cares? Please give us all a shout and a wave as you go past. I'm certain this is what Daz would've wanted. It's the least we can do.

See you all in Church Stretton.

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Have a good run all.

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Originally Posted by OneHillWonder

Have a good run all.

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gutted will not be there, daughters birthday party - Altincham Ice Rink

A lot of us went up to Mermaids Pool last night, good to be together.

Attachment 6426

This is Darren at Edale Skyline 2007 when everyone else was wrapped up like Scott of the Antarctic and Darren was bombing along in shorts. It was so windy that day I had to lie down along the ridge near Mam Torr. Tough guy who will be sorely missed

Been away from the forum this week and so only just heard this terrible news. Like many others I only knew daz h via this forum. Always seemed such a nice bloke, he only recently sent me a PM offering advice and support, not for the first time either. Can't believe what's happened. My heartfelt sympathy to his family and friends. Don't know what else to say. RIP daz h.

Ewan MacColl’s song “The Joy of Living” seems to sum up alot of the feelings expressed above. Fellrunners will appreciate the pictures on this youtube clip too. Skip the ad.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sseyUtOvetA

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Originally Posted by Rev Richard

Ewan MacColl’s song “The Joy of Living” seems to sum up alot of the feelings expressed above. Fellrunners will appreciate the pictures on this youtube clip too. Skip the ad.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sseyUtOvetA

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Aye, he would have enjoyed that Rev. Would have been trying to name all the views in the vid.
Thanks.

http://farm2.staticflickr.com/1204/5...1d48166d_z.jpg

Daz at Great Whernside 2010. The weather was foul and freezing but Daz was still in shorts and vest!

Like many others here I only knew Daz through these Forums but he seemed a great bloke - condolences to his family and friends. There was a minute's silence for him at Langdale today. I see the donations to the two charities are well beyond their targets.

Today I went to see my bro, and my sister-in-law said "Did you hear about that runner who died...it's in the paper". So I had a look...
Absolutely stunned.
Only got to know him at races. but he always had time for a word afterwards.
Such a nice bloke and totally dedicated to his running.
Only 42.

Better start thinking about what really matters...
He was a just... such a nice bloke. A runner.

I've hung back from writing here simply because I really didn't / don't know Daz at all. I've noted the occasional post, no more than that. But I have read this thread, looked up his blog and the guy was clearly one of the good guys. Seems a real saddness to go so young and so full of life. However I was watching a programme on George Harrison today and one thing made me thing of DazH. A story was being related by Harrison's wife and she was saying that the one thing he wanted was for the manner of his passing to be as he hoped it would be, that his release from his body would be, in effect, a happy one. Again, not knowing DazH at all, I think it may have so in this case.