Seniors – Page 16 – Clayton-le-Moors Harriers

Towneley Park 10k 2014 & The Rest of the Weekend’s Action

Towneley Park 10k 2014

‘My decision to pace myself paid off as I knew that the small climb out towards Todmorden road was just the start. Upping my pace and trying not to lose my place within the pack I carelessly plodded along until it dawned on me what was coming next…’

A brief Introduction…

As one of Clayton’s newest recruits, I thought I’d give a little bit of a background story about myself and how I (Jacob Watson) became a member of this legendary running club.

Like all runners who positioned themselves at the top of the Avenue in Towneley Park, my journey to the start line didn’t begin on the morning of the 27^th of July. Mine started back in 2012 after a rather self-indulgent Holiday in America, when I realised that I’d inadvertently put on a few pounds. To remedy this I decided to make a change to my lifestyle and took up what I called ‘jogging’. Like most new runners I could barely run to the end of the street, however within a few weeks I was jogging up to 3 miles every few days.

2013 came about and at the end of July I signed up to my first parkrun. That was it, I was hooked! I’d noticed a few white and orange vest during my first few runs but didn’t think much of it at the time (other than noticing that they seemed to be winning a lot!)

2014 saw a few personal bests at Parkrun and I started paying more attention to these white and orange vests, so much so that in April I took the decision to join in on one of John Roche’s speed sessions. “Why didn’t I do this ages ago” I thought to myself! The experience was the polar opposite of the lonely evening runs I’d been doing and I was starting to enjoy running more than ever.

Months passed and after a few more club training sessions I took the plunge, filled in the application form, bought the club vest and I haven’t looked back! In my short time with the club I’ve met some great runners who have given me sterling advice. I’ve pushed myself much harder than I would have done running by myself and I’ve seen some huge improvements. Most importantly though is the fact that running has gone from something I’d do every few days to stay in shape and turned into something I genuinely enjoy and look forward too.

Race day!

Courtesy of Steve Bateson Photography

Fast forward to the present day and I’m stood in Towneley Park at the top of the Avenue waiting for the race to get underway. John Roche was on hand to give some words of advice about the changes to the route before handing over to the race starter. “Ready…. Go” and we were off! The temptation to go full pelt down towards the crossroads at the bottom of the hill was there, however I took the decision to hold back as I had an idea of some of the climbs to come. The downhill stretch from the Avenue was short-lived as we turned left and ran back up towards Towneley Hall followed by a right after Stables Café. My decision to pace myself paid off as I knew that the small climb out towards Todmorden road was just the start. Upping my pace and trying not to lose my place within the pack I carelessly plodded along until it dawned on me what was coming next.

Courtesy of Steve Bateson Photography

Turning left onto Mount Lane I thought to myself “This is a lot steeper than I remember”. A few words of encouragement from Kevin Davies gave me the motivation I would need to get myself up to the top. I knew it was a relatively long and steep climb, but I also knew it was pretty much all downhill from the top. The climb seemed to go on forever and my energy was waning as we turned left for the final part of the hill. Some of the runners I’d tried to keep pace with had left me for dust but I knew what was coming next.

Courtesy of Steve Bateson Photography

The final two miles were certainly the fastest and I was glad to have paced myself during the beginning of the run. I caught back up with the pack as we turned left off Red Lees road and back towards Towneley Park. Next was a much needed descent down past the golf course and towards the crossroads at the bottom of the Avenue.

Courtesy of Steve Bateson Photography

This felt good but I knew there was one last (relatively small) climb before the end. We turned off to the right at the crossroads and then back up to the final hill and I knew I had enough energy left in the tank to put in a good finish. We ran back down towards the crossroads one last time, turned right and the finish line was in sight! A few cheers from the crowd gave me the extra push I needed to put it all in and cross the line. I checked my Garmin and while it wasn’t my fastest time, I couldn’t have cared. I knew I’d ran well and most of all I enjoyed the experience. Towenely Park 10k will definitely be on my race calendar for 2015!

Courtesy of Steve Bateson Photography

Race results

Jonny McKenna was first Clayton vest over the line (and second overall) with a very impressive time of 34:52, followed by Christopher Holdsworth who managed to creep in at sub 36 with 35:59 to take 3rd. Jordan McDonald continues to shine after being first Clayton at Todmorden 5k on Thursday. He ran a very impressive time as first junior in 37:57. Well done Jordan!

Courtesy of Breton Holdsworth

Phil Hall managed an exceptional time of 38:15 as first M50 and Stephen Biscomb continues to impress as first in the M60 category with a fantastic time of 42:28.

Courtesy of Breton Holdsworth

Irene Roche claimed first finisher in the F55 category with a superb time of 47:41 and David Scott grabbed first M70 with a seriously quick 48:15. David was followed by Dawn Terry, who claimed first in the F50 category with a speedy 48:19, closely followed by Ted Orrel who bagged a fantastic time as first M75 with 51:50. Marion Wilkinson was first in the F70 category with a great time of 58:55. Good efforts all round! Clayton-le-Moors Harriers Results in Full:

Pos	Name	Category	Time
2	Jonny McKenna	M	34:52
3	Chris. Holdsworth	M	35:59
6	Breton Holdsworth	M	36:47
7	Jordan McDonald	MJ	37:57
10	Phil Hall	M50	38:15
13	Paul Hesketh	M45	38:52
16	Paul Brannon	M55	38:55
18	Jacob Watson	M	39:04
20	Dave Motley	M	39:23
25	Roger Brewster	M55	39:59
30	Russ Clarke	M	40:54
31	Carl Helliwell	M	41:03
34	Richard Briscoe	M	41:34
43	Stephen Biscomb	M60	42:28
48	Kenan Eti	MJ	43:02
53	Alan Clarkson	M55	43:34
57	Andy Bradley	M45	44:15
59	Andy Quinn	M40	44:47
67	Gordon Barrett	M50	45:35
71	Peter Browning	M55	46:48
79	Irene Roche	F55	47:41
85	David I Scott	M70	48:15
86	Dawn Terry	F50	48:19
90	Brian Wildman	M45	48:37
99	Martin Griffin	M50	49:32
102	Julia Rushton	F50	50:01
103	Lee Moore	M	50:05
109	Jean Knightley	F55	51:09
110	Tanya Bunkham	F	51:19
112	Ted Orrell	M75	51:50
117	Jackie Kershaw	F40	53:33
119	Richard Lawson	M70	53:43
121	Rachel Todd	F40	53:54
123	Ron Chappell	M65	55:17
125	Sarah Helliwell	F	55:29
129	Stuart Barker	M45	56:23
132	Robert Hirst	M60	57:28
133	Marion Wilkinson	F70	58:55
134	Michelle Butschok	F40	58:59
141	Andrew Brewster	M50	1:03:13
142	Christine Leathley	F65	1:04:14
145	Jack McGuire	M55	1:07:47

Thanks to Jacob Watson for the race report! Full results found here.

The Rest of the Weekend’s Action

With the race at Towneley being a Road Championship Race, as well as a Grand Prix race, this section will be slightly shorter than usual. That being said, we have a few exciting results to share! Clayton-le-Moors Harriers running couple, Nicholas and Adrienne Olszewski, took on the Lakeland 50, whilst Andrew Armstrong went a step further and tackled the Lakeland 100. The three lunatics all had fantastic outings. Nicholas finished just over the 12 hour mark in 12:03:24 and was also the 1st M54. Adrienne was able to keep going for a consecutive 16:13:51 hours. What an amazing effort from the Olszewski’s!

Courtesy of Nicholas Olszewski

In the 100 mile race, Andy Armstrong finished as the 4th man in the M45 category. His race lasted a whopping 32:32:29! Completing 100 miles in a week is quite the accomplishment, so for Andy to do it over the course of this weekend is one of the hardest feats out there! Well done all three of you!!

Our club seems to spawn the most resilient and faithful fell runners of all the clubs competing today. When the speedsters are done racing 10k’s, when the dreamers are done climbing miles of arduous mountains; there will always be the reliable few who come out of the woodwork to compete at our local fell races. Two of those are Ivan Whigham and Andrew Robinson, who ran at this years Turnslack Fell Race 2014. Andrew narrowly outran his fellow club member, finishing in 01:29:26, whereas Ivan finished in 01:30:00 exactly. Most importantly however, both men were able to take 1st prize in their respective age categories of V50 an V60. Great effort men!!

There, I think that’s enough padding for one weekend! Don’t forget to check out our training section, and come and join in!

ByChristopher Holdsworth

Kentmere Fell Race 2014 & The Rest of the Weekend’s Action

Kentmere Fell Race 2014 Competitor 88 – Peter Browning (V55)

‘The sweat poured off us in the high humidity, and the narrowness of the track through the ferns allowed no overtaking. I soon realised that immediately behind me was the redoubtable Wendy Dodds, covering my every move and ready to surge past as soon as the path widened..’

July 20^th saw the fourth of the six counting English Championship fell races of the 2014 season. On line race entries opened months ago, and it was said that up to 600 runners had signed up for it, and in the pre race information we were encouraged to get to registration early to avoid the queues. In the event, only 364 names appeared on the results list, so what happened to the other 236 entrants at £10.00 a go who didn’t show up? You do the math as the Americans say.

Courtesy of Garry Wilkinson

Leaving Clayton-le-Moors at around 10am, the day was cloudy and breezy and not that warm. However things had changed once we reached the Kentmere valley: the sun was out and it was much warmer, although the darker clouds to the north east threatened something worse. Six Clayton-le-Moors men and three women had made the trip north. Three of the men had not yet reached the veterans category which was good, but all three girls were over 60. Where are the youngsters?

Courtesy of Garry Wilkinson

Away we went on the 19.8km (how far?) route and as we climbed the Garburn track on our way to the fell, the heat was oppressive. After around fifteen minutes we headed up through the ferns towards the ridge and things got even hotter. The sweat poured off us in the high humidity, and the narrowness of the track through the ferns allowed no overtaking. I soon realised that immediately behind me was the redoubtable Wendy Dodds, covering my every move and ready to surge past as soon as the path widened. I congratulated her on her beating Ivan and Dobbo at the Wasdale Fell Race last week, and asked if she was still feeling a bit tired. “Yes a little” was her reply, giving me all the encouragement I needed.

Courtesy of Garry Wilkinson

Eventually we gained the ridge and thankfully things cooled down a little. Usually I am good in hot conditions but this was really hard work. The race follows the ridge via Ill Bell up onto High Street, before turning back south towards Kentmere Pike. Ahead of me, the other five Clayton-le-Moors lads were pushing ahead, but above the weather was changing. The black clouds had moved in, and the rain began to fall. I slipped on the wet grass and banged my elbow which immediately began to swell alarmingly, but what can you do other than get on with it? The rain increased in intensity bringing welcome relief to the heat, and fortunately there was no lightning, although the rain seemed to get harder and harder. Down from Kentmere Pike, across the valley floor, and back to a very soggy finish field. 2 hours 17 minutes, a personal worst, but happy to finish. Nurse Joanne Motley examined my elbow and in so many words, told me not to be so soft – no fracture and the swelling going down.

Courtesy of Garry Wilkinson

For the record, the results that mattered were as follows:

1) Tom Addison (Helm Hill) 1.27.55

49) Spencer Riley 1.47.29

50) Dave Nuttall 1.47.53

62) Helen Berry (Holmfirth 1^st lady) 1.50.20

86) Dave Motley 1.53.24

144) David Bagot 2.02.39

172) Lee Smith 2.05.56

173) Ryan Wilkinson 2.06.04

244) Peter Browning 2.17.05

254) Wendy Dodds (2^nd LV60) 2.20.34

318) Linda Lord (1^st LV65) 2.38.29

321) Katy Thompson (4^th LV60) 2.40.11

Thanks to Peter Browning for this weeks report! Full results can be found here.

The Rest of the Weekends Action

This weekend was most certainly for the fell runners – plenty of mountainous climbs, lengthy descents and stormy weather to traverse through. However! Our road contingent were still out in force as they took on the Blackpool Summer 10k. Jacob Watson, going by his pseudonym ‘Lesley‘, had an outstanding performance finishing in the top 10 for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers. He ran the course in 00:38:14, not bad for a V50!! Next across the finish was Terry O’Leary in 13th, managing a sub 40 time of 00:39:22, whilst Mick Hogan squeezed under the 20 counter, finishing 19th in 00:40:40. Road legend Stephen Biscomb continued his conquest for the Road Palladium, once again finishing as the 1st V60 in 00:43:09. Another dependable road runner, Martin Brady, finished the race in 00:45:35, whilst Lee Moore came through in 00:48:09. Well done chaps!!

Onto the other two of the three big fell races this weekend now. Firstly we head to the Yorkshire Dales, where four Clayton-le-Moors Harriers made the trip over to The Ingleborough Fell Race 2014. Ivan Whigham had an excellent race, finishing as the 1st MV50 in 01:03:53. The second Harrier through was Richard Briscoe, 42nd in 01:06:01. Peter Dugdale came in just above the century mark in 103rd place, achieving a time of 01:19:15, whilst MV70 John T Francis brought the race to a finish in 01:45:00.

The other big fell race of the weekend was The 2014 Snowdon Mountain Race. The fell running regulars were all taking part, with Neil Hardiman the first Harrier back in 01:02:16 – 5th in his age category! Next across the finish was Mark Taylor, who managed to claw back over 50 positions to finish in 328th and 01:14:21. Our third Harrier and first lady across the finish was Barbara Savage, who once again had an excellent race and finished as the 1st F50-54! Our next two Harriers to finish were Paul Wale and Andrew Dugdale. The completed the fell race in 01:19:34 and 01:19:46 respectively. Rounding of an excellent day for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers we had Nichola Horsfall, who had a superb race as she finished as the 4th F55-59! Well done to all who ran.

Special mention goes out to junior runner Briony Holt who ran at the English Fell Running Championships in Kendal. She earned herself joint 1st place in the U12’s category. Well done Briony!!

ByChristopher Holdsworth

Heptonstall Festival Race 2014 & The Rest of the Weekend’s Action

‘Le Grand Depart’

‘The opening stages of the race suited me and I seemed to be passing people for fun on the descent, however the hard part was still to come. We then ascended from Hardcastle Crags through field after field up a long runnable climb that seemed to go on forever and then onto the fells above Pecket Well’

The day started with the elite of cycling setting off in ‘Le Grande Depart Yorkshire’ from Leeds, the route taking in the best of the Yorkshire Dales. Looking at the Clayton-le-Moors feeds on both Facebook and Twitter, I think that most of Team Clayton-le-Moors were out in force supporting the cyclists along the way and to the finish at Harrogate.

Team Motley decided to take in Day 1 of Le Tour on the box and we headed to Heptonstall, which I must admit is an absolutely stunning village which is situated 1 mile from Hebden Bridge. Here we set up camp at the local bowling club and got ourselves comfy in front of the TV. In the evening Heptonstall hosted ‘Le Grand Depart Fell Race’ and it would have been rude not to take part. So after an afternoon of R&R with everybody on the site drinking, I put on the Innov 8’s and headed to race HQ where I bumped into fellow team mates Dave Bagot & Paul Thompson.

Photo courtesy of Woodentops

Allez Allez Allez Allez and we’re off. The race started quickly with a run up the cobbles of Heptonstall village before taking a right over 2 fields and then onto a technical descent through the woods into Hardcastle Crags. The opening stages of the race suited me and I seemed to be passing people for fun on the descent, however the hard part was still to come. We then ascended from Hardcastle Crags through field after field up a long runnable climb that seemed to go on forever and then onto the fells above Pecket Well. The climbing finally finished and by this time I was breathing hard and had lost my opening advantage dropping from 6^th or 7^th back to 15^th or so. We turned around the trig and followed the route back the way we came; so a long descent back to Hardcastle Crags followed by a very steep climb back to the finishing field in Heptonstall. However by now I had caught my breath back and was feeling strong overtaking a number of runners finally finishing in 13^thin a time of 00:56:00. This was my first experience of running in the fells around Heptonstall/Hebden Bridge, other than the Calderdale Relay and I will definitely be back for more. This race in my opinion is one of the toughest ‘A’ shorts on the calendar.

Photo courtesy of Woodentops

My fellow team mates finished as follows:

Dave Bagot – 23^rd – 58:38

Paul Thompson – 25^th – 58:47

Full results can be found here.

After the race I sampled a beer or 2, and of course a little something to soak it all up before spending the night in the tent. The next morning and the start of Day 2 of the Tour de France, which saw the cyclists go from York – Sheffield taking in probably all the toughest climbs in Yorkshire. Team Motley managed to watch the race on the ‘Cote de Cragg Vale’ where the memories of the crowd, atmosphere and the event itself will be something that stays with me for a long time. Unfortunately mini motley managed to fall asleep about 5 minutes before the cyclists came through and missed everything.

Thanks to Dave Motley For this weeks race report!

The Rest of the Weekends Action

With our attentions cast over to the Tour de France this weekend, there were few runners out and about. We’ll be back to business next week I’m sure!

However! There were a few who made it out this weekend. The first Harrier I’d like to mention is Nikki Kay, who put in a tremendous effort at this years Southport Half Marathon. Nikki completed the 13 mile race in 02:17:21 – Brilliant effort!

Our next solo Harrier is Alan Clarkson who travelled over to Preston for the Catforth Cantor 5k. Alan finished as the 3rd MV55, finishing the course in 00:20:13. Good stuff Alan!

In North Yorkshire, Martin Brady and Kevin O’Brien competed at the Bentham Beagles Bash 10k. Martin put in a great shift, finishing in 00:48:20 and 23rd overall, whilst Kevin finished as the 2nd V70 in 01:02:47. Well done chaps!

And that’s it for this week! (Unless I’ve missed any of you out, in which case do let me know) Plenty of races going on this weekend, all of which can be found on our new and improved fixtures page.

I hope to be writing about a lot more of you this weekend, now that silly sport has left town! Have a good weekends racing!!

Photos from Woodentops: http://woodentops.org.uk/index.php?topic=home

ByPeter Booth

July Newsletter

The July Harrier is here – sorry for the late arrival; I’ve been a bit busy! The Newsletter includes El P’s report on the Boulder 10K, Tom Brewster’s on Hendon Brook Half Marathon and mine about my Challenge, as well as the usual features, fixtures and a bumper list of results. July Newsletter 2014

ByChristopher Holdsworth

Witton Park Relays & The Rest of the Weekend’s Action

Witton Park Relays 2014

Report to follow, full results here.

The Rest of the Weekend’s Action

The fell running ladies of Clayton-le-Moors Harriers took on their third British Championship race this weekend. The hardy contingent traveled to Scotland to compete at the 2014 Dollar Hill Fell Race. Jean Brown was the 1st Harrier lady around the course in 01:42:35, finishing 8th in her heavily contended age category overall. The next of our ladies through the finish was Wendy Dodds, who once again manages to astound us all by finishing as the 1st in the FV60+ Category. Next up was Barbara Savage, who ran the course in 01:55:45 and achieving an 11th placed finish in her category. Rounding off the day was Katy Thompson, who also put in a great effort and finished 3rd in her age category. Great effort ladies!

This week, instead of solo runners we seem to have packs of fours! as Alan Life, Chris Funnell, Andrew Dugdale and Nicholm Horsfall all made their way over to The Settle Hills Fell Race 2014. In recent weeks Alan Life has certainly been making his presence known, with this weekend being his biggest statement yet. He managed a 4th placed finish in 01:00:43 and the 1st in the MV40 age category. Brilliant stuff! Our second runner through was Chris Funnell, who finished home in 01:10:14 and in 32nd place overall. Next was consistent fell runner Andrew Dugdale who finished the race in 01:20:04. We also had a Nicholm running for the ladies, who squeezed in under the century mark in 99th place, as well as finishing as the 3rd in her age category. Well done all!

Oh, what do we have here? Four more Harriers competing at a race! This time it was for a flat Sotos 10k Road Race in Fleetwood. Mike O’Hara, our first Harrier through the finish, managed a speedy time of 00:47:28. Next was Brian Wildman just 7 seconds behind in 00:47:35. The third Harrier through the finish was Christine Egerton who was the 67th female around the course, as well as the 3rd in the V60 age category. Finishing off the day was Kevin O’Brien managing to complete the race under the sub hour mark in 00:59:34 – a great effort from the V70!!

Lastly, it wasn’t four runners, but almost 10x that number as 39 Harriers took to shortened course at the Burnley Boys 5k 2014. Christopher Holdsworth and Tom Brewster revived their Grand Prix battle and pushed each other further than ever before. After a tough battle, the hungover Holdsworth ran back in 3rd in a time of 00:16:32, with Tom shortly behind in 00:16:41. The ever increasingly impressive Lee Smith ran home as the third Clayton-le-Moors Harrier, scoring a PB time of 00:17:41. For the ladies, junior Alice Pier had a spectacular race by finishing in a time of 00:21:06 – which was of course also the 1st in here age category. Irene Roche was the next lady through in 00:22:14 and also finished as the 2nd F55. The third Lady Harrier through was the 2nd FJ, Bethany Quinn in 24:09. What a great effort from veteran and junior ladies alike!

Courtesy of CSHoldsworth Art & Race Photography

As there are 39 runners overall, I’m sorry I can’t mention you all. Special mention has to go once again to junior Jordan McDonald, who by this point is completely dominating most of the seniors – a fact proven by his 11th placed finish. What a talented set of juniors we have!

Well done to all who ran this week!

ByChristopher Holdsworth

Pennine Lancashire 10k & The Rest Of The Weekend’s Action

Pennine Lancashire 10k

‘Wherever you were on the winding roads though, there was always a group of people cheering you on as the residents of Burnley came out in full force to support the runners’

The sun rose on another morning as runners assembled once again in the heart of Burnley. Not only in the heart but also in the heat as at the start line, many were glancing up nervously, water in hand, correctly guessing that it was going to be a very warm Pennine Lancashire 10k. Clearly a day for running with a fridge attached to your back.

Courtesy of Christopher Holdsworth

The route, which takes in a surprising amount of Burnley, is a tricky one, with plenty of uphill and downhill. The initial burst through the Town Centre gives way to a gradual incline to Queen’s Park before weaving round to Rowley Lake. Journeying up one side the course lands you at the top of Brunshaw with a welcome downhill stretch into the leafy surroundings of Towneley Park with a final 2K back past Turf Moor to finish where you started. Wherever you were on the winding roads though, there was always a group of people cheering you on as the residents of Burnley came out in full force to support the runners.

Courtesy of Christopher Holdsworth

After a quick start the front pack began to spread out, with it being obvious that Matt Lalor and Christopher Holdsworth were vying for first position. With no last-minute arrivals from Salford (for those of us who remember last year) to spoil the party, Matt, who came second last year, ran a superb race, clinching victory with a time of 34 minutes dead. However, for Clayton, all the plaudits must go to Christopher, who came in second with a time of 35:13. Not only did Chris clinch silver, he also knocked 5 minutes off his time last year. It was an excellent run and Chris should be proud of a super performance.

Courtesy of Christopher Holdsworth

Not to be undone, other Harriers were out in full force. Following Chris there were some great performances from Terry O’Leary (39:06), Jordan McDonald (39:44) with myself (Jonathan Pye) not far behind on 40:42, not to mention Steve Bicsomb who just snuck into the top 50.

Courtesy of Christopher Holdsworth

Richard Briscoe, Kenan Eti and Alan Clarkson also put in strong performances to round off a good day for the club with the orange stripe flashing regularly in the morning sunshine. Four Ladies also had a good showing with Jackie Kershaw leading home the ladies in 54:24. Amanda Duffy followed next in 56:51, with Marion Wilkinson and Sophie McIntosh following in 59:24 and 1:04:22

Courtesy of Christopher Holdsworth

The event itself is gaining popularity; the hushed whispers that over 2500 people might be turning out was a bit of an exaggeration but the overall attendance 1660 people shows that The Pennine 10k is very much here to stay.

Courtesy of Christopher Holdsworth

The future’s bright…

Thanks to Jonathan Pye for this weeks race report! Full results here.

The Rest Of The Weekends Action

Lots of results this week.. Only seven days after taking on the 2014 Hendon Brook, Johnny McKenna raced at another half marathon – this time Freckleton. Carrying on his excellent result from last week, he finished the race in 01:17:11 and achieved 6th place. Roger Brewster also competed, finishing in a brilliant time of 01:29:36.

There was three soloists this week. Of course, there is the one man band Breton Holdsworth, this time taking on the 3 Lakes Classic Race. The next runner was Stephen Breckell, racing at The Great Hill Fell Race in Brinscall. Lastly, Richard Stevenson ventured over the border to compete at the Wales Trail Marathon 2014. It was well worth the travel as Richard finished 63rd out of over 300 runners, in a time of 04:13:03. At The Great Hill Fell Race, Stephen finished as the 3rd VM60 with a time of 00:51:23, whilst Breton increased on last weeks rankings by one place, finishing 6th in the multi-terrain 15 mile race.

David Bagot had a storming race over at Buckden Pike Fell Race, finishing as the 1st Clayton-le-Moors Harrier in 00:47:34. Ian Robinson also had a brilliant race finishing as the 2nd MV60 and in 00:48:48. Nigel Weaver and Mark Taylor were next across the finish line, in 00:48:57 and 00:52:12. Andrew and Peter Dugdale brought in the men in 00:52:31 and 00:57:41. For the ladies, Linda Bostock completed the race as the 2nd LV50 in 00:56:05, whilst Nichola Horsfall was the 3rd LV50 in 01:02:23.

The short and sharp Brown Wardle Fell Race took place this weekend. Rick Moore finished in 7th and as 2nd V50 in 00:22:55. The second Harrier across the finish was Stephen Fish, who also finished 2nd in his age category, with a time of 00:24:14. As the only lady entrant, Yvonne Wickham fought for her gender’s corner, finishing in under the 30 minute mark at 00:29:29.

Three Clayton-le-Moors Harriers competed at the Timothy Taylor’s Tom Tittiman Fell Race. Alan Life continued his strong run of form, finishing 20th overall. Geoff Smith was next to complete the route in 00:42:54, and Geoff Laycock finished in 00:46:15. The three Harriers also managed to finish at the 5th mens team. Well done!

There were some terrific performances from the ladies over at Reservoir Bogs this weekend. Not only did Vicky Heys finish as the 1st Clayton-le-Moors Lady, she finished 1st in her age category as well as the 1st Harrier overall! She was followed by Angela Shian, following through the finish just 2 seconds behind in 01:32:08. Adrienne Olszewska also had a cracking run, scraping in under the 2 hour mark at 01:59:52. This time, Geoff Smith fights alone in his genders corner, completing the race in 45th position and 01:33:26.

There was also a Junior Reservior Bogs Race, where there were some fantastic performances! 18 juniors turned up in total, which once again is an outstanding turnout.

Some stand out performances were:

– Finlay Stubbs setting a new course record and finishing in 1st in the U8 race

– Jackson McKay finishing in 4th for the U10’s race

– Millie Stubbs finishing as the 1st girl and 2nd overall for the U12’s race

– Ryan Clarke was the 1st boy, whilst Alice Pier was the 1st girl in the u14’s category

– Beth Quinn finished the course in 39:26 in the U16’s category

– George Pier finished in 33:03 in the U18’s category

Sorry I can’t mention you all! All your times were spectacularly fast. Keep up the good work!

Lastly, congratulations to Katy Thompson on completing her Joss Naylor challenge in 16:13:00, well inside her allowed time of 18 hours. Well done Katy!

Well done again to everyone who ran this weekend. Next weeks race report will be from Candice Heys, detailing our exploits at the Witton Park Relays. See you all there!!

———————————

RIP Ken Heaton

Ken Heaton (right)

Clayton-le-Moors Harriers are sad to learn of the passing of former member and 24h Lakeland Record holder Ken Heaton. Service will be held at Burnley Crematorium this Wednesday on the 25th, 11.20am

Ken Heaton (left)

ByChristopher Holdsworth

Hendon Brook 2014 & The Rest Of The Weekends Action

Hendon Brook 2014

‘The thought that 26 years prior my Dad will have already finished the race and claimed his long standing record passed through my mind but as I glanced ahead, I thought that I was making progress on Buttery and dug deep to find the resolve needed to overcome the mammoth hill…’

The Hendon Brook Half Marathon; some say it’s the toughest half in the country… Those people are probably telling the truth! Having not run a half marathon before I was unsure what to expect. With my usual distance being 5k/10k, I started the morning with my standard fast-paced warmup (and having learnt a painful lesson from the Calderdale relay, substantial Vaseline application to my torso!) before Coach Roche threw some valuable advice my way and told me to take it steady as I’d need all my energy for the slog to come!

Everyone had said to watch the fast start, to even take it easy until after the climb at Thursden Valley, as were were set off I elected to start slow and see where it took me…Running well off the leading pace set by Marc Hartley and Jimmy Craig as we made it round the school I felt to be almost dawdling so notched the speed up to more familiar territory… Although no sooner had I increased my speed doubt started to set in… everyone had said to start slow but my impatience got the better of me – had I compromised the rest of my race? Would I find myself dropping a chunk of places to the more experienced and seasoned long distance runners in the latter half of the race? I’d have to deal with that later as running up the first major hill to the Shooters pub I closed on ‘cannonball’ John Lloyd, keeping pace till I managed to pass him on the pull out of Catlow Bottom.

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Photo Courtesy of Andy Holden

Heeding the advice of my fellow captains and spurred on by the encouraging words of former record holder Roger Brewster I started to put some work in after the Thursden climb while still trying to stay at sensible pace! Andy Buttery of Blackburn slowly came into view infront and gave me a target to work towards as we tackled what seemed an endless number of fiercely steep climbs, each followed by a similarly unforgiving descent.

The climb up Carry lane hurt then running through Colne I steeled myself for the last climb; The Legendary Lenches. Truly it is a killer of a climb, doubt once again settled in as I began the climb; how close behind were the chasing pack? Did I have enough left in the tank to keep plugging away? The thought that 26 years prior my Dad will have already finished the race and claimed his long standing record passed through my mind but as I glanced ahead, I thought that I was making progress on Buttery and dug deep to find the resolve needed to overcome the mammoth hill.

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Photo Courtesy of Andy Holden

Reaching the top, Garry Wilkinson assured me I had no one behind within sight and with that worry taken off my mind I set about seeing what I could do to catch 5th place Andy Buttery – the last mile was tough running to the finish but the superb encouragement from marshals and spectators helped me onto the welcome sight of the finish line, crossing it in 1 hour 30 mins and claiming 6th place.

I don’t know why I’ve never done a half marathon before now, I certainly can’t explain why I chose the legendary Hendon Brook for my first but I it was certainly a baptism of fire (as well as a relief to finish with both nipples fully intact!). I have to say a massive thanks to the organisers, marshals, water station attendants and spectators for their cheers of encouragement as they definitely make all the difference when attempting a challenge like Hendon Brook – for my first effort I’m happy with my time and position and look forward to taking the challenge again next year!

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Photo Courtesy of Andy Holden

Thanks to Tom Brewster for this weeks race report! Full results can be found here.

Full Clayton-le-Moors Harriers Results:

3 McKenna Jonny 01:25:05 M Clayton Le Moors Harriers

6 Brewster Thomas 01:30:24 M Clayton Le Moors Harriers

16 Motley Dave 01:36:43 M Clayton Le Moors Harriers

19 Bagot David 01:37:21 M Clayton Le Moors Harriers

21 Hesketh Paul 01:37:30 M45 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

22 Hartley John 01:37:56 M55 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

27 Davies Kevin 01:38:30 M50 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

30 O’donnell Michael 01:40:53 M Clayton Le Moors Harriers

40 Duckworth Avril 01:44:04 F50 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

41 Biscomb Stephen 01:44:36 M60 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

51 Clarkson Alan 01:48:51 M55 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

55 Bradley Andy 01:50:43 M45 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

71 Roche Irene 01:56:12 F55 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

77 Heys Vicky 01:59:21 F40 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

78 Shian Angela 01:59:23 F35 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

88 Smith Geoffrey 02:03:13 M Clayton Le Moors Harriers

90 Pickup Jeffrey 02:03:45 M60 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

91 Brady Martin 02:04:02 M50 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

96 Rushton Julia 02:07:41 F50 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

98 Griffin Martin 02:08:22 M50 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

105 Proctor Stuart 02:12:45 M Clayton Le Moors Harriers

107 Orrell Ted 02:14:23 M75 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

117 Egerton Christine 02:23:16 F60 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

123 Allan Sue 02:50:33 F50 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

124 Leathley Christine 02:51:40 F65 Clayton Le Moors Harriers

The Rest Of The Weekends Action

On Saturday, two Harriers made the trip to the lengthy Howtown Fell Race 2014. ‘Iuan’ Whigham was the first of our members across the finish, with a time of 02:48:26 and 18th overall. Not far behind was another fell regular Mick Dobson, who crossed the line in 02:50:25. Well done men!

‘Billy No Mates’ Breton Holdsworth took on another fast paced trail race outside of Lancashire and yonder. He attended his annual Fathers Day race at Castle Howard 10k, getting back on form with a 7th placed finish and scraping under the 40 minute mark in 00:38:58.

Jacob Boyle’s star continues to grow, as he represented Clayton-le-Moors Harriers at the European Championships (Up & Down) in Whinlatter Forest, Cumbria. He finished his race in 00:39:33 and 8th place overall. Keep up the good work!

We had five Clayton-le-Moors Harriers race at the Blue Light 5 Miles Race 2014. Once again, Jordan McDonald continues to impress by having another excellent race – finishing 11th (joint 10th) overall. He also finished as the 2nd U20 and achieved a speedy time of 00:31:11. Another junior to impress was Ryan Clarke! Finishing as the 1st U20 and in 21st place. Lee Moore also had a great race finishing in a time of 00:39:08, as did Keith O’Brien for finishing as the 2nd V70. However, my performance of the weekend goes to Jackie Kershaw for not only breaking her PB, but also posting a brilliant time of 00:40:45. Well done Jackie!

Well done to all who tackled this years Hendon Brook, as well as everyone else who ran this weekend. On Thursday is the next Clayton-le-Moors Harriers Fell Championship Race Aggies Staircase starting at 7:15pm.

Photo’s courtesy of Andy Holden: https://www.flickr.com/photos/wharfee/

ByChristopher Holdsworth

Ennerdale Fell Race 2014 & The Rest of the Weekends Action

Ennerdale Fell Race 2014

‘Within half an hour however the mood at registration was very different – the sky had darkened, clouds thickened and thunder was forecast…’

Arriving early at the race after staying over at nearby Lamplugh campsite, I met up with Ryan Belshaw and Spencer Riley and we had a wander along to check out the start and get some photos of the lake. At this point the skies were clear and the mountains surrounding the lake looked a very enticing challenge, we could understand exactly why this was regarded as a Lakeland classic. Within half an hour however the mood at registration was very different – the sky had darkened, clouds thickened and thunder was forecast.

This left the race organiser with little option but to change the route, and so within half an hour of this being announced, a new route had been mapped out and runners crowded round to edit where the new checkpoints were on their maps. This seemed the sensible decision, although initially many were disappointed, especially as many hours had been spent recce’ing the route and training for the climbs, as this English and British Championship counter was a significant date in many a runner’s season.

Thanks to Racing Snakes for the photo.

Before long we were underway.The pace was very fast along the flat gravel path that took us around the bottom edge of Ennerdale lake and it seemed some runners had let some of the disgruntled murmurings such as ‘this is a trail race’ and ‘its flat’ go to their head. I hung back and paced my first mile alongside Neil Hardiman, who had wisely pointed out at the start that the route still involved around 20 miles and a significant chunk of climbs.

Instead of climbing Great Borne and along the ridges that surrounded Ennerdale, we were took on gradual climb over Floutern Pass and dropped down into the next valley. We then had a long flat section that took us alongside Crummock Water and Buttermere. We then climbed over Scarth Gap Pass, before dropping back into the Ennerdale Valley by Black Sail Hut.

Thanks to Racing Snakes for the photo.

The route immediately took us on another gradual climb before circling below Great Gable and Kirk Fell. We then headed on a steep decent back down to the foot of the valley and after dibbing in at checkpoint 7, manned by the legendary Joss Naylor, we were left with a long flat run back to the finish. I made good pace and managed to stick to a 6.30-7 minute mile pace as I gradually reeled in other competitors.

We then circled left around the lake, on a very tricky path. The concentration required to not to trip distracted me from my tiring legs, and glancing up every now and then I could see I was closing in on Ryan Belshaw. I pushed on hoping to claim my first victory over Ryan, and despite catching the majority of the runners in the pack just behind him, Ryan’s strength and power won through as he pulled away again in the final mile.

Unfortunately I haven’t seen the race results yet although Spencer Riley was the first Clayton-le-Moors Harrier back, followed by Ryan Belshaw and then myself, with Neil Hardiman and Jean Brown not far behind. Jean did manage to secure the 2nd LV45, Whilst Wendy Dodds finished as the 1st LV60. Katy Thomson also had a great performance, managing to finish as the 2nd LV60. At the finish line there were many comments on how tough the changed route was and although it had less than a third of the climbing of the original route and was slightly shorter, the large amount of runable sections had created a fast paced race and meant many runners had pushed hard all the way round.

At the finish the rain was powering down and it now definitely seemed right to do have done an alternative route, that had still provided some stunning Lake District views and challenging running.

Thanks to David Bagot for this weeks race report! Full Ennerdale Fell Race 2014 results found through the link.

The Rest of the Weekends Action

Another Saturday 2 o’clock start brought us midway through the Pendle & Burnley Grand Prix calendar, with a massive twenty two Clayton-le-Moors Harriers attending Weets Fell Race 2014. Conditions were torrential before the race, though it marginally brightened up once the race got underway.

Thanks to Andy Holden for the photo.

The race was tough, but it brought out a lot of impressive performances from our runners, with Christopher Holdsworth securing 2nd place ahead of 3rd placed Harrogate Harrier Chris Miller. Tom Brewster was the next through with another mighty performance finishing in 7th – and even managing to pip fell captain Dave Motley! Who also had a solid effort, finishing in 10th and as the 3rd Clayton-le-Moors Harrier through the finish. Elsewhere in the race, Jeffery Pickup managed to collect the 1st V60 prize, whilst Ron Chappell came through as the second V65.

Thanks to Andy Holden for the photo.

Over in Yorkshire, five Harriers took to the Penyghent Fell Race 2014. Mark Nutter lead the way, finishing in 01:02:59. Club mascot Richard Briscoe also had a fantastic race, coming through the finish as the second Harrier, in a time of 01:04:16. The third harrier to conquer the mountain was Mark Taylor in 01:11:36. Rounding off the day were Andre and Peter Dugdale in 77th and 87th respectively.

At the Morecambe 10k 2014 race, Michael Hogan represented Clayton-le-Moors Harriers achieving an excellent result, finishing the course in 00:41:16. Another sole representative of the Harrier flag, a man who often attends 10k races, was Stephen Biscomb at the Fleetwood Rotary 2014 10k. Once again he put in an excellent shift on the road, finishing the race in 9th place with a time of 00:42:13.

Don’t forget to attend our training sessions to improve those times! Senior training times can be found here, whilst junior training times can be found here. See you all there!

Racing Snakes Photography: www.racingsnakes.com

Andy Holden Photography: www.flickr.com/photos/wharfee

ByChristopher Holdsworth

Kelbrook Fell Race 2014 & The Rest of the Weekends Action

Kelbrook Fell Race 2014

‘The early leaders were not the Grand Prix leaders, but John LLoyd and junior Jordan McDonald of Clayton-le-Moors Harriers. They held this lead until numpty here got giddy and went full steam ahead. I was eventually joined by the two Grand Prix table toppers, Jimmy Craig and Marc Hartley, where we stayed in our pack up the windy road towards the first descent before we tackled the summit’

Spending the week mulling over my last minute defeat to Tom Brewster at the Burnley Boys 10k had me in the sort of mood almost every runner finds themselves in. Toys were thrown so far my crib was but a distant blur. I was in quite the foul mood… ‘I don’t enjoy these Burnley & Pendle Grand Prix Races’ I half heartedly muttered under my breath to ~~everyone~~ anyone willing to listen. ‘They’re just too predictable’ I whined, ‘I shan’t be doing anymore!’

After a 20 minute sulk, I pulled it together and dragged myself to the Kelbrook Fell Race 2014.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

I arrived to the usual Grand Prix faces. My head was down, warm ups short and steady as I focussed on the race ahead. The runners gathered at the start line, all eager to get the race underway. A quick introduction to the health and safety, followed by a 3,2,1 got us all on our way, up the track and onto our first climb.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

The early leaders were not the Grand Prix regulars, but John Loyd and junior Jordan McDonald of Clayton-le-Moors Harriers. They held this lead until numpty here got giddy and went full steam ahead. I was eventually joined by the two Grand Prix table toppers, Jimmy Craig and Marc Hartley, where we stayed in our pack up the windy road towards the first descent before we tackled the summit.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

The first descent brought us to a stream, where Jimmy first took 1st position. This was short lived before Marc and I rejoined the forefront of the race. A sharp hill brought us back on ourselves where I was able to take a glimpse of the following heard. My Grand Prix nemesis Tom Brewster had shortened the gap between the front 3 and was steadily closing in. Jordan, while no longer at the front, was still putting in a monumental effort and keeping up in the second pack.

I knew I had to up my game, if ‘road’ is Tom’s thing, then ‘fell’, or at least ‘hills’ was surely mine..

As we hit the crevice before the notorious Kelbrook ‘hands on knees’ climb, I was confident that I could keep up with the two either side of me. ‘They’re just road runners’ I thought, ‘I’ve definitely got them here’.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

Nope. The usual gusto that greets me when my legs arrive at a hill were not there that day. So I walked. Luckily, I think pride got the better of the other two and they attempted to run the whole hill. This at times had me walking quicker than they could run.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

It mattered not – although we all arrived at the summit at the same time, they’re speed was my undoing. A race back to the finish allowed Jimmy Craig to finish over a minute in front, whereas I finished in 00:22:29. They’re won’t be any tantrums this week however, as I managed to finish over a minute in front of 4th placed Andy Buttery.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

I’m happy with my race, but there really were some brilliant efforts from Clayton-le-Moors Harriers throughout. To say Tom doesn’t usually race on fells, he had a stalwart effort that any ‘fell’ runner would be proud of, finishing in 6th with a time of 00:23:44. Alan Life also had a brilliant race, narrowly missing out on a top 10 position in 11th. Garry Wilkinson, who was recently quoted as saying ‘I think this is my bow with the seniors’ proved that there was still life in the old dog yet. He finished in 18th with an excellent time of 00:24:50.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

The performance of the day has to go to Jordan McDonald though. Not only did he finish as the first U18, he also bested over 100 seniors, finishing just over the 25 minute mark in 00:25:12.

Photo by Christopher Holdsworth

This weeks Race Report was by Christopher Holdsworth, full results found here.

The Rest of the Weekends Action

One of the other big races of the weekend brings us to Duddon Valley 2014, where eight Clayton-le-Moors Harriers competed. First around the course was David Naughton, speeding to the finish in 03:34:00. Next through the finish line was Mick Dobson in 04:04:32, closely followed by Ivan Whigam in 04:11:29. There was also great runs from Ralph Baines in 77th, John Russius in 83rd, Andrew Firth in 97th and David Nalor in 101st. Well done men!

Over at Edenfield, another eight Harriers competed in this fell race, with David Naughton racing once again. This time he finished as the 2nd Clayton-le-Moors Harrier, in a time of 00:54:40. This was narrowly behind the 1st Harrier home, Geoffrey Gough in 00:54:24. Mark Taylor was next through the finish in 01:05:03, who was then followed home by Andrew Dugdale and Stephen Fish for the men. There were also two ladies who had excellent races. Linda Bostock and Nichola Jane Horsfall put in brilliant performances, finishing in 01:09:27 and 01:13:28 respectively.

Competing at The Lakeland Trails in Stavely, Breton Holdsworth took on the 17km Kentmere Trail Race. Getting miles in the tank was more of a priority for Breton, though he still put in an excellent effort finishing in 11th with a time of 01:21:14.

Another solo Harrier ran at the BOFRA Coniston race, this time in the form of junior Briony Holt. Not only did she finish as the 1st girl, she managed a 4th placed finish overall! Brilliant effort!

Over in Preston, the inaugural Crazy Cow 10k took place. Three Clayton-le-Moors Harriers attended the race on a very hot Sunday Morning. Christopher Holdsworth managed to scoop 1st place, winning in 00:35:07 – a new PB for him. Another PB breaker was Clayton-le-Moors new boy Adam Hamer, in his first 10k for the club, finishing with a brilliant time of 00:59:26. Another great performance by Sophie McIntosh finishing the course in 01:05:59, rounded of a great weekend of results for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers!

Don’t forget to get involved with our training sessions.Visit our training section to find out all the details for the next coming months.

ByPeter Booth

June Newsletter

Here’s another 40 page bumper edition which contains a reports on the Calderdale Way Relay and the Fellsman ultra fell run, as well as how Linda Lord celebrated her 65th year. (Clue: she didn’t put her feet up!) With all the usual features, fixtures and results, just click the link and it’s all yours!

Category Archive Seniors