I might've misheard but I'm almost certain somebody said over 400 runners turned up for today's race. When you consider the location of Penistone (not exactly the easiest place to get to) and Stoop being less than 5 miles, it really shows the fondness that people have for a Woodhead race. Then you look at the quality at the top end, how's this for the first 3- Rob Hope, Tom Adams and Simon Bailey....very impressive.
In the quarry before the start, Dave announces that the only compulsory kit requirement is that everybody runs in the Santa hat they were given at registration. Imagine the surprise when fellrunning great and winner of countless Stoop races, Ian Holmes steps forward and says he's forgotten his hat. Ian blames his forgetfulness on recently turning 50, Dave's having none of it and acquires a hat from a spectator for Ian to wear....after all it is compulsory on the Stoop!
It's the usual mad dash out of the quarry, down the car park, over the road, down the track....then try and get your breath back on the single file moor trods. It feels muddier than recent years and plenty of knee deep moments occurred, the descent off Stoop being particularly wet....fantastic fun.
Many thanks to the Woodheads and their many helpers for another flawless event.
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Originally Posted by Derby Tup
