Fantastic to see these races seemingly thriving...

When I got into Fell running, it was the thought of competing in these races that really spurred me on. I share the same view as Graham, that these are the top of the tree when it comes to Fell racing (I can appreciate people having a different viewpoint though)...

My ambition was always to be strong enough to qualify for the trophy every year. For various reasons (a great love for the big Welsh races such as Peris/1000's, clashes with other races, longer-distance ambitions for the future), I've not done these races justice... A single dnf at Wasdale, 1 Buttermere, 2 Borrowdale, 1 Langdale, no Three Shires, Duddon or (unforgivably) Ennerdale.

It will be a couple of years until I've extinguished the ultra long distance bug, but in the words of that American general... "I shall return" and hopefully see myself on the Classics league table in future years. And I wouldn't miss the Buttermere champs race next year for anything....