In the absence of our race reporter (Ian A), the current crop of races are receiving a spread of reports covering the field. If Simon can forward some thoughts about the other placings and performances, we will have our race day trilogy pending the return of Ian.
Andy was quick out of the blocks in terms of report, while I waited for the results…Its harder to comment when some runners are many more minutes ahead!
This was the second year of the reincarnation of the Bosley Race. Tony ran it last year, it received "the stamp of approval". Based on comments received, it seems to have been enjoyed by many, aided by the sun and the fete itself.
For those unaccustomed to running in the hills, this was a good introduction. Not too much ascent and not too long. Some fell races are very technical, based on the terrain, the amount of ascent (both up and down) and the fast changing pattern of the terrain underfoot which force a constant change to running style. With the uneven terrain, the low profile of a fell shoe as opposed to a standard trail shoe also benefits…Ask Chris Grimes !!
Its a discipline that does not suit all, while others thrive.
The race winner Simon Bailey is an out and out fell runner, having won a variety of English Championships…Within 400 metres he had pulled away by some 60/70 metres from the chasing pack led by Rob.
While I enjoy the challenge and the benefits to be gained from fell running, it is not a discipline that suits me. As the race unfolded, the positions ahead looked as I might have expected. Rob has the natural ability to be succesful over most terrain and he hung to second place and 11 seconds ahead of third place. With Simon over three minutes ahead of Rob, this was very much a race within a race.
The battles between Andrew and Jim are becoming a regualr occurrence now…Over this terrain, it was tough to call the odds, but with Andrew being a Buxton boy and beating Jim at Buxworth, may be this would suit him…And so it turned out, finishing 6th (1st V40) and 32 seconds ahead of Jim in 8th.The last 6 months persistent training for Andrew is reaping its rewards.
Like me, Graham has had a chunk of running missed through injury but this is his terrain and he ran an impressive race to finish 12th in 33.41. Four places behind was Mike Hill in a time of 34.26…Another who is quickly recovering his fitness after a lengthy lay off…His racing flats were in need of a clean by the end !
For me, the one that impressed most was Allan…getting quicker all the time and clearly at home on this terrain…In the early stages Di lead Allan but once the climb started, Allan pulled away to finish 18th and almost a minute clear of Di (24th and 1st lady in 35.31).
Breaking the pair up was Mark Bale, and a welcome sight to see him racing. Mark overtook me in the first mile and I was able to watch him for most of the race. Mark benefits from an almost effortless style and thus expends minimal effort…Feel sure that with a few more miles in the bank, that he will be back running well as ever, if not already !
In 33rd was debutant Daniel Cronquist, followed by Craig in 37th (37.25). I know that Craig does not like this terrain but with family in tow, feel sure that it was a good day out.
Gareth seems to be benefitting from spring marathon miles now that he has his legs back to run well finishing 40th in 38.01.Louisa is another who is coming on in leaps and bound similar to the downhill technique of Chris Grimes…Incidentally, both Chrs G and Chris C ran 5k's in the morning !!
Andy has spoken of Louisa in his report but running seems to come naturally to her and with steday miles and age on her side, will continue to improve. One who does not appreciate her own ability enough !! Perhaps more now ?
Louisa finished 44th , six seconds ahead of Tony who thrives on this terrain, and two seconds ahead of Richard Lawson.
One who is posting a succession of both fast 5K's and PB's is mens captain Richard Hirons. Today was not Richards day but based on Carolyns comment, I feel sure that the fete and some real ale made up for any personal dissapointment.
Results :https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B1TAordePryFcXprNTRmQnBKNWM/edit?usp=sharing&pli=1
Elspeth is sort of ok, pride wounded, 2nd degree sprain and torn ligament. She had to be refrained from finishing by a marshal given her clear discomfort and pain. Get well soon Elspeth.
And so…Be it your bag or not, its a good workout and was certainly an enjoyable event.
Nick.