A raiding party from Horwich RMI swept all before them at the latest edition of Thieveley Pike fell race. With the winner and three other runners in the first five, it didn’t take long to work out that the team prize was going to Horwich. It turned out that winner, Joe Mercer and his cohorts were using the race as a trial for the upcoming October relays. I’m not sure whether he was in contention for the relays, but club mate, Peter Henegan won the MV70 award in a good time, with many younger runners in his wake.
Another super vet performance came from Bowland’s Rowena Browne who defeated all the young ‘uns to take the ladies’ prize, while Calder Valley took the ladies’ team prize. Twice former winner, Andy Wrench took the men’s vet prize and, keeping it in the family, Jamie Wrench was first MU18 finisher. Back to the vets, Mervyn Keys (Rossendale) was first MV50 in 14th place. MV60 winner, Jack Holt was the first Clayton man home, a feat replicated by Linda Lord, first FV60.
On a perfect day for running – bright and sunny, with a cooling breeze – over 140 runners enjoyed unusually dry conditions in the start field (thanks to new land owner, James Bracewell) and on the fell. It was pleasing to see so many runners, with competition from the first local cross country fixture and the English Championship Race at Edale Skyline on the same weekend.
It was great to see James had revived the traditional sheep dog trial and introduced a dog agility course. For me the only drawback was the smell of fried bacon emanating from the food stall sited about 10 metres from the finish line. Despite the distraction of a rumbling stomach, I managed to operate the timer without error, for a change!
My sincere thanks go to James and the other two landowners for allowing us to run across their land; also to my faithful band of helpers from Clayton Harriers who, once again, made sure that proceedings ran smoothly and safely.
Pete Booth
Results:TPFR 2013 Results
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