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ByAdrienne Olszewska

Hitting the Mark

Another action packed roundup for you this week! A win at the Bolton Abbey Trail Half Marathon for Richard Stevenson, great placings for Chris Holdsworth and Amanda Duffy and PBs all over the place. A sign of even greater things to come for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers this year.

Saturday 27 February

Blackpool Stanley Park 10K

Four Clayton-le-Moors Harriers took part in the first of two 10K races in Stanley Park Blackpool over the weekend. Christopher Holdsworth held up for a 3rd place finish despite struggling with a calf niggle over the last couple of weeks. He said that the weather was pretty perfect with a slight cool breeze and was delighted to see some fast times posted over this, at times, tricky two lap course.

Report from Dan Plant

After last week’s weather at the Great North Western Half Marathon, all week I was wondering which way the weather would go on this one. This was my first ever race 3 years ago to the day and has been an ever-present since then. As we got to Blackpool, the weather seemed perfect.

Dan Plant at the Blackpool Stanley Park 10K

The race had a very fast start in my standards and I really wanted the PB I have been chasing for so long. As we got halfway round I took a glance at the big timer and really thought it was achievable so I gave it everything I had. I smashed the PB by half a minute. Just so happy it was this course!

Report from Carl Carey

Perfect weather, although slightly windy on the long straights, coupled with beautiful scenery and a great atmosphere to run in. Together with Chris, Donna and Dan, we were the sole Clayton representatives today as people would be doing it tomorrow instead no doubt. This would be my only second 10k race since the Pennine 10k last year, and went to Stanley Park with one goal: to beat my previous PB of 53 minutes!

Please with his result, Carl Carey at the Blackpool Stanley Park 10K

Please with his result, Carl Carey at the Blackpool Stanley Park 10K

At the start, we were informed not to trust the clock tower for the time as it was 2 minutes out, and then we were off. Getting caught in a crowd of slower runners meant I had to go round the outside and speed up which didn’t help but I then tried to stay in a steady rhythm, which was difficult with the speedy Donna Airey in front of me. Strangely the mile and km markers didn’t match up with my Garmin but I wasn’t going to argue so ran to the finish, gratefully appreciating the water and banana at the end! A great race, with a great atmosphere. The only disappointment was that it wasn’t chip timing but let’s not take it away from the organisers. Oh, and I got my new PB of 48:58, so a successful day!

Pos Name Cat Time
3 Christopher Holdsworth M 32:30.4
23 Daniel Plant M 39:29.5
83 Donna Airey LV35 47:38.7
96 Carl Carey MV45 48:58.0

Full Results

Bolton Abbey Trail Half Marathon

Report From Richard Stevenson

Richard Stevenson winner of the Bolton Abbey Trail Half Marathon. Photo by Deborah Stevenson

On Saturday I headed over to Bolton Abbey for a trail half marathon but wasn’t sure what to expect it was organised by a company called It’s Grim Up North Running and this was it’s first ever event, what I found was a nice little very relaxed race set in a beautiful area.

After a quick brew in the cafe amongst the dozens of cyclists who had stopped off here it was time to get ready and head to start. There was only about 75 of us at the start which was the race limit and it was easy to see why when a lot of the course was on narrow paths with long drops to river on one side.

The course was mainly out and back up and down either side of the river with a lap or 2 around the priory. I set off steadily and soon found myself out in front leading the race which meant I had to negotiate the many obstacles of the general public who were using the paths as well.

By the time I was on the second lap, my feet were taking a battering on the hard trails and the legs were beginning to tire but I knew I had a good lead over the guy in 2nd place so I kept pushing on through to the finish to take the win.

On finishing I was given a goody bag with a medal, chocolate and a bottle of beer all for the entry price of £14 which I thought was great value, I’d definitely look at doing some of their other races that they have planned later this year.

High Cup Nick Fell Race

Report from Martin Brady

High Cup Nick Fell Race 9.3 mile 1600 feet climbing (I measured it at 1800 feet)

I decided to have a run at the High Cup Nick Fell Race after the Pendle Parkun on Saturday. I found the race challenging but well worth the effort.

There is a bit of a climb to begin with along a road\track, then the majestic view of High Cup Gill opens up before you . The race runs at the bottom of the gill leading up to High Cup Nick. There is a steep climb out at the top end where the views are stunning. Then there is the four mile descent to the finish at Dufton. It almost felt like it was an English championship race with the top quality field assembled. I think they were all getting ready for the championship race at Black Coomb in two weeks time. Unfortunately I was the only Clayton runner there which really surprised me as it is such a brilliant race (too far to travel from home???).

PS My time was about 1 hour 39 (approx.)

Awaiting Official Results

Midgley Moor Fell Race

Report from Chris Paul

Chris Paul at the Midgley Moor Fell Race. Photo by Woodentops

Chris Paul at the Midgley Moor Fell Race. Photo by Woodentops

Having a rare Saturday morning off work I decided to increase my fell running experience and compete in the Midgley Moor fell race. Being the only Clayton member there felt quite intimidating when surrounded by a lot of entries from Barlick and Calder Valley but everyone was friendly and I chatted to a few as we got ready at the start.

The race itself was short and sweet but had a bit of everything. A steady climb from the start and over a few styles led us to the first trig point and a nice run across through some heather to the second trig point. Then a nice fast decent where I managed to gain some places back led to the bottom of “that field”. This is where I was met with another climb, so with John Roche’s voice in my head I kept going to the top and of course making sure I was actually running this time when Woodentops were taking pictures! I managed to get a few a more places back as we started the decent back down through the heather where we then headed back to field where we started.

I finished 50th overall out of 104 but I really enjoyed it and will certainly be entering as many fell races like this as I can in the future….hopefully with a few more Clayton members to keep me company!

Full Results

Sunday 28 February

Asics Oulton Park 10K

Report From Amanda Duffy

We had an early start on Sunday morning to set off for the Asics oulton park 10k. We certainly had the weather on our side this weekend! It was a 3 lap course of the race track which was a little undulating in places although it was perfect to run on.

Amanda Duffy on the podium as 3rd lady in the Oulton Park 10K

Amanda Duffy on the podium as 3rd lady in the Oulton Park 10K

Very well organised race and we received a nice medal and t shirt at the finish plus Lee got his sub 50 and I had the bonus of finishing 3rd lady.

Lee Moore and Amanda Duffy at the Oulton Park 10K

Lee Moore and Amanda Duffy at the Oulton Park 10K

A perfect end to the week

Pos Name Time Cat Time
46 Amanda DUFFY 00:45:40 V35 00:45:36
88 Lee MOORE 00:49:16 V35 00:49:11

Full Results

Blackpool Stanley Park 10K

A trio of club members took part in the second of the weekend’s 10K races at Stanley park in Blackpool. Matthew Duckworth was first Clayton finisher and 11th place overall with a time of 38:22. Brian Wildman finished next in 47:10 with Bianca Bennett out first lady in 64th place overall and a time of 48:03. Bianca said it was a beautiful day for a fast 10K in a lovely park with a great atmosphere topped off with a PB!

Pos Name Category Time
11 Matthew Duckworth M 38:22.0
53 Brian Wildman MV50 47:10.2
64 Bianca Bennett L 48:03.3

Full Results

Harewood House Half Marathon

Report from Phil Michael

As part of Mrs Naylor’s marathon training we signed up for the Harewood House half marathon . Set in the grounds of the beautiful country house dating back to the 1700s , the run was a combination of trails and cross country . Parts of the estate looked very familiar on the way round and I was told its used as the setting for Emmerdales village in the popular soap. The weather was kind on the day and the freezing temperatures lifted by the sun shining down on us .

Harewood House Half Marathon

Harewood House Half Marathon

The course was undulating with some climbs and some fantastic fell like descents where we free wheeled happily through the fields . As the relative beginner , I managed to take 5 minutes off my previous half marathon best and recorded 2 25 . Much more work to do to get to my 2 05 target for the year but I’m keeping working ! Thanks to all involved for a friendly , brilliantly organised event.

Phil Naylor at the Harwood House Half Marathon

Phil Naylor at the Harwood House Half Marathon

Well done Philip on completing the 2016 BHF Harewood House Half in a time of 2:25:35

Full Results

Malta Half Marathon

Report from James Boult

James Boult crossing the finish line at the Malta Half Marathon

On the afternoon of April 9th 1942, during the middle of the Second World War, an SC500 kg Luftwaffe bomb pierced the roof of the Mosta Rotunda during an afternoon air raid and fell among a congregation of over 300 people awaiting evening mass. After bouncing down the isle of the church, it came to rest. The bomb did not explode. At the back of this church a replica of that bomb is now on display under the words Il-Miraklu tal-Bomba. The Bomb Miracle.

Looking on at that Rotunda from the bastions of the walled city of Mdina at the start of the 2016 Malta Half Marathon, I paused to remember that story, told to me by many people during my visits to this place. I am not religious in the slightest, but this island is watched over by someone not of human hand and is blessed beyond comprehension. As a Maltese man said to me the other day, “there’s no place quite like Malta,” and he is right.

Running, I guess, is part enjoyment, part desire and part madness. You have to enjoy what you’re doing otherwise it’s pointless, right? And you have to be mad enough to brave the elements in the first place. After all, who in their right mind decides to run a half marathon, his first half marathon too, 2,000 miles away in a country with temperatures exceeding 25 Celsius in February?

I suppose, though, with the event being 2,000 miles away from home I was under no pressure to do anything other than finish. I was alone, and just had to enjoy it. I had John Roche’s words in my head as the countdown to the start ensued, “take the first 10k easy and then go for it.” But by the end I was not alone, having the absolute honour of finishing the race alongside two of the finest people I’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting. We called ourselves ‘Team Maria’, and the girls I met at the start were also running their first half marathon. Maria, a Maltese girl, and her friend Emily, an Oxford ex-pat studying Medicine at the University of Malta, were as innocent to the half marathon as I was, not knowing what to expect. They, though, had the added advantage of being accustomed to the Mediterranean climate. We talked, introduced and shared our trepidation. I echoed John’s words to them, and passed on some of my own (albeit limited) advice and we set off, alongside 4,000 strong competitors from both the Half and the Walkathon dead on 9:15am. From outside the bastions of Malta’s old capital, the walled city of Mdina we headed on through the main road of Rabat, down through Nigret and onto the Mtarfa by-pass to get to 6km mark in Ta’Qali.

Vodaphone (the sponsors of the Marathon) were live streaming all photographs taken throughout the event using a 4G service, which automatically logged the runners race number and uploaded the pictures to their Facebook account, creating a digital archive of the event. And with Powerade giving free drinks at stations throughout the event, it was more of a let’s get to the next station, thought process at times, as temperatures soared to high twenties and strong headwinds battered us when they could.

As we passed water stations and powerade stations and sponge stations for the small relief of coolness they provided, we carried on, Emily driving us on when Maria and I struggled. Cloudless and warm, visually stunning and sometimes breathless, we reached the 10km mark.

James Boult at the Malta Half Marathon

With Emily and Maria keeping me going as we battled beyond 10km, the route took us through Attard and the Mriehel Industrial Estate, before we joined the Mriehel bypass and the Hamrun/Marsa bypass heading into Marsa, and then Blata L-Bajda. The last 5km of the route passes along the Sa’ Maison, Pieta, Msida, Ta’ Xbiex and Gzira waterfronts up to the finish in Sliema. With tired legs, knees wanting to stop and heat battering us at every available chance, we plodded on towards Floriana and the final 4km.

I had recced the final 4km on Thursday after I had landed, and had found it to be the most visually stunning run I’d ever done, along the seafront marinas of Malta’s hidden treasures. But the second time, with Team Maria for company, it was beyond description. Bodies aching, we made the final 4km spot and battled through. We passed bodies lying on the curbs, with medics working on those who had foregone water stations and been hit by dehydration. And then, as we passed through Ta’ Xbiex and made the corner towards Sliema, with my honorary Clayton Harriers, Emily and Maria, in tow the view opened out and Valletta – the capital city described by Benjamin Disraeli in 1830 as “a city built by gentlemen for gentlemen,” and which “equals in its noble architecture, if it does not excel, any capital in Europe” – opened out as our backdrop as we neared the finish.

We started as a team and we finished as a team, never leaving anyone behind, and as we crossed the finish line hand-in-hand, the three strong team clocked a debut time of 2:17:37 and no thesaurus in the world would be enough to find superlatives that could accurately describe this event. Madness? Absolutely. Desire? Unquestioning. Enjoyment? If I ever leave cloud 9 then maybe I’ll be able to tell you.

Today I haven’t just run a half marathon. Today I’ve met, befriended and ran alongside the two most incredible runners, seen things people only dream of seeing, ran through a country that, to me, is home from home and today I’ve finally understood why that man said about this place, “there’s nowhere quite like Malta.”

To Emily and Maria I say this; thank you. For your friendliness and your unbelievable running and never giving up, even when it got tough. You should be so very proud of your achievements, and so very proud of yourself. And thank you for without your pushing and tireless running I may not have finished either.

To see a country is one thing, but no sightseeing tours in the world can show you better a place than you can see running through it. The streets filled with locals cheering you on, people leaving cars abandoned on the closed roads to support and cheer and watch, the sun beating down in endless, perennial golden rays and the friendliness of a country to be able to show itself off like this.

For any Clayton Harrier, whether you’re fell only or looking for a first marathon or half marathon to run, try the Malta marathon. You will end it speechless, breathless and you’ll be provided with vistas that make this special, blessed little place possibly the most beautiful country in the world. I challenge you, no, I dare you, to find an event more incredible and more beautiful than this one. Thank you, Team Maria. Thank you, Valletta. Thank you, Malta.

Full Results

Terry Nortley Radcliffe 10 Mile

Stephen Biscomb was our sole representative at this challenging 10 mile multi-terrain race taking in a semi-rural route from Radcliffe through the route of the Manchester, Bury and Rossendale railway line and through Philips Park.

Pos    Name    Cat    CatPos    Time   
78 Stephen Biscomb M60 (005/009) 01:19:26

Full Results

Parkrun roundup

53 Clayton-le-Moors Harriers parkrunning this weekend with some excellent finishing at Burnley where the sheer number of PBs in the top ten implies a bit of a racing battle going on there. Great results also at Pendle and Witton Parkrun. Some first time visits at Witton and Pendle an a whole host of PBs.

Bolton parkrun – A total of 263 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
77 Katy THOMPSON 25:57 VW60-64

Burnley parkrun – A total of 284 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
3 Jonathan PYE 17:44 SM25-29 New PB!
4 Andy LAYCOCK 17:52 SM20-24 New PB!
10 Gareth BERRY 19:13 VM35-39 New PB!
12 Jackson MCKAY 19:36 JM11-14
15 Simon WILSHAW 20:18 JM15-17
17 Kevin DAVIES 20:22 VM50-54
26 Richard BRISCOE 20:53 VM35-39
30 Reece Adam LAWRENCE 21:11 JM15-17 New PB!
34 Matthew DUCKWORTH 21:27 SM25-29
41 Robert MORRISON 21:49 VM40-44 New PB!
44 Donna RILEY 22:04 VW50-54
47 Robbie SMEDLEY 22:17 JM10
48 Lennon JACKSON 22:19 JM11-14
63 Sophie ASHWORTH 23:00 JW11-14
65 Julie DAWES 23:26 VW45-49
76 James HICKIE 24:02 VM55-59
79 Brian WILDMAN 24:07 VM50-54
82 Bianca BENNETT 24:15 SW25-29 New PB!
84 Ian HARGREAVES 24:19 VM50-54
91 Donna SCOTT 24:40 VW50-54
99 Lisa JOHNSON 25:17 VW40-44
100 Matthew JACKSON 25:23 JM10
108 Richard LAWSON 25:42 VM75-79
110 Annabel WILCOCK 25:46 JW15-17
111 John WILCOCK 25:48 VM50-54
115 Toby BIRTWISTLE 25:55 JM10 New PB!
116 Justin BIRTWISTLE 25:55 VM40-44 New PB!
132 Andrew WEBSTER 26:28 VM45-49
138 Ron CHAPPELL 26:41 VM65-69
157 Aaron LUNDIE 27:27 JM11-14
189 Stuart BARKER 29:05 VM45-49
204 Robert HIRST 29:58 VM65-69
223 Alan DORRINGTON 31:26 VM45-49
239 Nicola KAY 32:44 SW30-34
263 Valerie LAWSON 35:48 VW70-74
266 Philip NAYLOR 36:01 VM35-39

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 106 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
101 Robin PRICE 38:07 VM70-74

Pendle parkrun – A total of 74 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
1 Andrew STUBBS 18:23 VM45-49 First Timer!
5 John HARTLEY 21:03 VM55-59
16 Martin BRADY 23:55 VM50-54
17 Finley STUBBS 24:01 JM10
21 Barry MITCHELL 24:17 VM70-74
30 Millie STUBBS 25:59 JW11-14
41 Natasha OLSZEWSKA 28:17 JW11-14
46 Adrienne OLSZEWSKA 29:16 VW45-49 New PB!
57 Bronia OLSZEWSKA 32:15 JW11-14 First Timer!
61 Christine Jennifer EGERTON 33:25 VW65-69

Witton parkrun – A total of 93 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
2 Carl HELLIWELL 19:43 VM40-44 First Timer!
10 Michael CLARKE 21:46 VM40-44
47 Jude ASHWORTH 28:24 VW55-59

Woodbank parkrun – A total of 155 runners took part

Pos parkrunner Time Age Cat Note
120 Ron HILL 33:12 VM75-79

Woodhouse Moor parkrun – A total of 426 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
15 Colin SHUTTLEWORTH 18:54 VM55-59 New PB!

 

 

ByAdrienne Olszewska

It’s Character Building

Even with the most testing and extreme weather conditions you hardy Harriers have been out racing with gusto. There have been night time forays around the Darwen moorlands, fell racing in near biblical conditions, trail running on muddy tracks, and dodging monstrous waves in a coastal half marathon. Character building stuff indeed.

Friday 19 February

Mr Sparkle’s Dark ‘Un

Mr Sparkle’s Dark ‘Un is a night time fell race using head torches. It also includes a free chip butty at The Royal after! Runners can expect a couple of stiff climbs, open moorland, mud and a dash down to the finish.

Runners at Mr Sparkle's Dark 'Un. Photo by Sue Eastham

Runners at Mr Sparkle’s Dark ‘Un. Photo by Sue Eastham

A trio of Clayton-le-Moors Harriers took part in this night time race organised by Darwen Dashers

Pos Name Cat Time
38 Geoff  Smith M40 00:52:16
42 Nerina  Gill F40 00:52:32
55 Marion  Dixon F40 00:59:44

Full Results

Saturday 20 February

Bleasdale Circle Fell Race

Report from Sarah Helliwell

I decided it was time to get back on the fells after completing a few XCs and Ralph now being 6 months old! Bleasdale Circle looked a good circular fell race with a good amount of climbing (381m) within its 5 miles. It was a very wet and windy Saturday with bad weather warnings. The organisers had taken extra precautions and had added extra markers around the course which was greatly need as visibility up on Parlick was no more than a few meters. We held a minute’s silence before we set off as unfortunately one of Bowland Fell Runners’ young members, Joe Smith, was killed up in Glencoe in January.

Runners paying their respects at the start of the Bleasdale Circle Fell Race. Photo by Carl Helliwell

Runners paying their respects at the start of the Bleasdale Circle Fell Race. Photo by Carl Helliwell

There were a good number of Clayton runners on the start line. My aim was to get round in one piece as Carl and the kids cheered us off. It was wet, boggy and leg sapping as we crossed the fields to the foot of Fair Snape Fell. As the climbing intensified so did the weather, wet and windy was an understatement! Comments for the conditions varied from “the weather was Biblical”, “character building”, “you could hardly stand” and that was “brilliant”.

After descending Parlick you made your way back over farmland to Bleasdale School where runners were greeted with hot soup and roll, and lots of cake.

Results are not out yet, however Peter Coates was the first male Clayton runner back, others included Ralph Baines, Mark Nutter, Ivan Whigham, Pete Browning, Doug Monroe and others!

We had three ladies with Katy Thompson first Clayton lady and winning the V60 prize with a 1:06, myself 1:08 and Karin Goss with a 1:13 to win the ladies team.

It’s definitely one I would do again but hopefully with better weather as the views are pretty impressive from Parlick.

Awaiting official results

Standish Hall Trail Race

Organised by Wigan Phoenix Running Club this approximately 10k trail race is completely off road on bridle paths and woodland trail. It was also the first race in our inaugural trail race series.

L-R Martin Brady, Dave Motley, Daniel Isherwood, Paul Wale,

L-R Martin Brady, Dave Motley, Daniel Isherwood, Paul Wale, Chris Paul and James Hickie at the Standish Hall trail race. Photo by Kath Brady

Report from Dave Motley

Looking at my annual planner for 2016 (geeky I know!) I knew I had to compete at Standish Trail race in order to complete 4 from 7 in the Clayton club trail championship. So myself and Paul Wale set off from Burnley for the 45 minute drive to Standish which actually took longer as we missed the junction on the M6 due to nattering like old women. Good job navigation would not be needed on this race. We signed up and bumped into a few Clayton members on the start line; a few being the word which was a little disappointing for the first race in this new series.

2.30pm came and we were off! The course effectively a large figure of 8, two lap course through wide trails in fields and a large section through woods, the main feature due to the recent bad weather being mud, mud and more mud. On a personal note, I felt I had an OK race finishing in 6th overall and 1st Clayton, although I was a bit disappointed with not getting sub 40 on this fast 10K trail course, must have been the mud.

Trail running good or bad? Having never really competed on the trails before, I really enjoyed the terrain. A real mix of fast runnable tracks which would be perfect for road runners wanting to get dirty and technical parts of the course which would suit the fell runners in the club. Hopefully next trail race we will see a few more competing.

Pos    Name    Cat    Time   
6 Dave Motley M 00:41:43
18 Daniel Isherwood M 00:44:22
57 Chris Paul M 00:48:26
76 Paul Wale M45 00:50:45
83 Martin Brady M50 00:51:41
93 J S Hickie M55 00:52:16

Full Results

Sunday 21 February

Cunswick Scar Fell Race

Well done to the 6 hardy Harriers who took part on a wet and windy day with tough and muddy conditions underfoot.

Just over 5 miles for the seniors with around 600′ of climbing. A fast undulating course across grassy Cunswick scar. The senior race starts with a small climb across fields, over the bypass and up to the large cairn on the Scar, over the top and along the edge. Follow the flags until you get to a sharp turn through a kissing gate to the right. Down a steep little path and through the woods…….out across the fields and back into more woods.

Senior Race

Wendy Dodds was our only senior race in this fell race. She finished in 94th place overall and was 1st LV60. 137 runners took part.

Pos    Name    Cat    Time   
94 Wendy Dodds LV60 48:40

Junior Races

Five junior members took part. Briony was our first finisher in the U14 race with Liberty Thompson in 18th place. Dexta finished in 4th place in the U12 race with Helena White and Kady Thomson in 37th and 44th place. A special well done to Helena who completed the course with one shoe missing.

Cunswick Scar

Briony Holt at the Cunswick Scar fell race.

Under 14 Race

Pos    Name    Time   
6 Briony Holt 16:44
18 Liberty Thompson 19:30

Under 12 Race

Helena White ready for her first fell race. Dad Colin is ready for the Great North West Half Marathon. Photo by Rachael White

Pos    Name    Time   
4 Dexta Thompson 9:17
37 Helena White 12:12
44 Kady Thompson 12:43

Full Results

Flower Scar Fell Race

Report from Sarah Helliwell

It was Carl’s turn to race on Sunday as he made his way to Todmorden. This was a first for him as well. Thankfully the weather was kinder on the Sunday with it being blustery on the tops but little rain. It started with a quick dash to some hay bales, to then scale a wall before climbing up onto the fells. Unfortunately, Carl got stuck in the scramble and had to slowly pick his way through the runners. He was happy with his run as he eventually finished 13th out of 120 runners with a time of 64:28 and a second V40. A number of other Clayton runners were spotted with Alan life sporting a fetching trenchcoat 😉 who were all rewarded with chili and rice at the end.

Pos    Name    Cat    Time   
13 Carl Helliwell M40 64:29
20 Peter Coates M 68:15
50 Alan Life M50 74:59
57 Chris Whiteoak M 76:56
97 Andrew Foster M 92:20

Awaiting Official Results

Great North West Half Marathon

Jon Cleaver reports on the wind and waves at the Great North West Half Marathon in Blackpool this weekend.

Jon Cleaver at the Great North West Half Marathon

Jon Cleaver at the Great North West Half Marathon

There was quite a crowd all huddled together underneath the promenade trying to keep from the elements before the start.

The first couple of short loops revealed what we had in store when were head on into the north westerly wind. On the flat heading north there were 20ft waves crashing against the sea wall and soaking anyone unlucky enough to get caught underneath. It was like you’d been on the log flume on the Pleasure Beach!

It was a fast pace to the northernmost turning point and then you got hammered by the wind for 2.5 miles on the way back. It was like having one foot on the accelerator and one on the brake; probably adding minimum of a minute a mile.

The turning point at 8 miles was heaven sent, you could get your pace up again and try and dodge the overhead crashing waves. And then the dreaded southern run into that headwind, the second seemed to get worse until you peeled off feeling sorry for those that still had another loop to do and onto the final push down the promenade. The wind didn’t let up all the way to the finish line.

I jogged back up to find Dan Plant who’d run really well taking out 2 people right at the line. Great finish!

Decent medal, shame there wasn’t the promised chip timing. Overall great prep for marathon training in character building conditions!

L-R Dan Plant, Jon Cleaver and Paul Hesketh at the Great North West Half Marathon

L-R Dan Plant, Jon Cleaver and Paul Hesketh at the Great North West Half Marathon

Pos Name Category Time
33 Jonathan Cleaver M 1:27:28.4
52 John Hartley MV55 1:30:17.6
55 Paul Hesketh MV50 1:30:53.0
67 Daniel Plant M 1:32:41.1
308 Robert Morrison MV40 1:48:12.4
310 Colin White MV40 1:48:37.3
385 Lynsey Birtwistle LV35 1:52:38.1
502 Ian Hargreaves MV50 1:57:53.9
584 Justin Birtwistle MV40 2:01:11.2
1085 Phil Naylor M 2:29:46.5

Full Results

Parkrun roundup

A bit of poor weather doesn’t stop our dedicated parkrunners who were out in force on Saturday at a range of events.

Clayton junior runner Kady Thompson flying to a new PB at Burnley parkrun. Photo by Dave Belshaw

Clayton junior runner Kady Thompson flying to a new PB at Burnley parkrun. Photo by Dave Belshaw

Bolton parkrun – A total of 230 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
45 Nerina GILL 24:46 VW45-49

Burnley parkrun – A total of 230 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
3 Jacob WATSON 18:23 SM30-34
5 Richard STEVENSON 18:41 VM40-44
6 Jonathan PYE 18:55 SM25-29
9 Jackson MCKAY 19:44 JM11-14
11 Alan DORRINGTON 19:58 VM45-49
13 Matthew DUCKWORTH 20:26 SM25-29
14 Gareth BERRY 20:27 VM35-39
17 Stephen AINSWORTH 21:11 VM55-59
19 Reece Adam LAWRENCE 21:58 JM15-17
21 James BOULT 22:05 SM20-24
33 Simon WILSHAW 23:29 JM15-17
34 Sophie ASHWORTH 23:30 JW11-14
44 Julie DAWES 24:03 VW45-49
49 Lee MOORE 24:26 VM35-39
51 Carl CAREY 24:32 VM45-49
53 Charlie BIRTWISTLE 24:39 JM10
60 Jean KNIGHTLEY 25:19 VW55-59
62 Andrew WEBSTER 25:31 VM45-49
65 Lisa JOHNSON 25:35 VW40-44
72 Andrew TAYLOR 26:00 VM55-59
76 Annabel WILCOCK 26:19 JW15-17
77 John WILCOCK 26:22 VM50-54
92 Kady THOMPSON 27:05 JW10 New PB!
106 Ron CHAPPELL 27:34 VM65-69
117 Richard LAWSON 28:00 VM75-79
119 Philip NAYLOR 28:02 VM35-39
133 Donna SCOTT 28:51 VW50-54
135 Stuart BARKER 28:52 VM45-49
176 Christine Jennifer EGERTON 31:28 VW65-69
184 Judith CAREY 32:50 VW35-39
228 Diane ORRELL 41:55 SW30-34

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 158 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
154 Robin PRICE 39:07 VM70-74

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge – A total of 83 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
66 Eileen JONES 32:12 VW60-64

Pendle parkrun – A total of 61 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
5 John HARTLEY 21:54 VM55-59
6 Paul HESKETH 22:05 VM50-54
20 Martin BRADY 25:22 VM50-54
27 Finley STUBBS 25:38 JM10 New PB!
34 Dawn TERRY 28:02 VW50-54
40 Millie STUBBS 29:28 JW11-14

Rockingham (Australia) parkrun – A total of 253 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
14 Kieran CARR 22:25 VM70-74 New PB!

Skipton parkrun – A total of 142 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
1 Tom BREWSTER 17:41 SM25-29

Witton parkrun – A total of 61 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
45 Julie TOMAN 31:49 VW45-49

Woodbank parkrun – A total of 179 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
152 Ron HILL 33:27 VM75-79

Woodhouse Moor parkrun – A total of 423 runners took part

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
3 David BAGOT 17:37 SM20-24
14 Colin SHUTTLEWORTH 19:07 VM55-59 New PB!

 

ByAdrienne Olszewska

Up for a challenge

What an epic week it’s been! Whether you have been joining in with marathon challenges, tackling your first fell race or running much further than you ever thought possible, it’s been full on for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers. You have been racing in the hills, over the moors, on the coast and in the parks.

Tuesday 9 February

401 Challenge

On September 1st 2015 Ben Smith embarked on a challenge of a lifetime which will see him run 401 marathons in 401 consecutive days around 309 different locations of the UK. The aim is to raise £250,000 for two fantastic charities, ‘Stonewall’ and ‘Kidscape’. Both these charities work tirelessly to combat bullying in our schools and society.

Day 162 was local to us so plenty of our members got involved and joined Ben on his marathon around the Burnley and Ribble Valley area. They even went over the Nick of Pendle.

Team Clayton supporters of the Ben Smith's 401 Marathon challenge. Photo by David Belshaw

Team Clayton supporters of the Ben Smith’s 401 Marathon challenge. Photo by David Belshaw

Ben said it was an epic day and all thanks to Garry (Wilkinson)! He helped round up people from all over, sorted out free meals, visits, planned the route and even gave me therapy, thank you mate! Thanks though to everyone else that was involved in whatever capacity, we had three new PBs today including a first time marathon runner, a great way to end day 162!

Saturday 13 February

Anglezarke Amble

A quartet of club members took part in this local challenge event organised by the Long Distance Walkers Association. There’s a choice of a long 24-mile route or a shorter 16-mile route. All four were tackling the long route that takes in many highlights of the West Pennine Moors.

Starting at Rivington Village Hall, you are straight into the climb up Rivington Pike and then onwards to Winter Hill, the highest point of the route. A lovely descent into Belmont follows before heading up and across the boggy moorland to reach Entwistle. From there you climb gradually along decent moorland tracks and paths to Darwen Tower before another welcome descent to Tockholes. There’s just the last muddy and energy sapping climb up and over Great Hill (a misnomer if ever there was one, it should definitely be Boggy Hill), down to White Coppice. A pleasant last few miles alongside the scenic Anglezarke, Yarrow and Rivington reservoirs and you are done.

Team Olszewksi. L-R Adrienne, Natasha and Nick. Photo by Nicholas Olszewski

Team Olszewksi. L-R Adrienne, Natasha and Nick. Photo by Nicholas Olszewski

Martin Brady was our first Harrier home finishing in 4 hours 57 minutes. Team Olszewski consisting of Nicholas, Adrienne and Natasha did the course together finishing in 6 hours 30. Very impressive considering that Natasha only turned 13 last week and the route was twice as far as she has ever been on her own two feet.

Natasha reports

I did the Anglezarke Amble because I wanted to test myself and see if I could do it and I am pleased to report that I DID IT! I got lots of fuss because of my age and because most people were surprised that I was doing the long route. A message to anyone who is thinking of doing it; let me tell you something, you’re gonna have some sore legs after climbing up Winter Hill!

Heading over the West Pennine Moors. Still going strong 10 miles in on the Anglezarke Amble. Photo by Nicholas Olszewski

Heading over the West Pennine Moors. Still going strong 10 miles in on the Anglezarke Amble. Photo by Nicholas Olszewski

Carnethy 5 Hill Race

Well done to Jack Holt who was our sole representative in this challenging Scottish race.

Harsh conditions for the runners at the Carnethy Hill Race. Photo by Matthew Curry

Harsh conditions for the runners at the Carnethy Hill Race. Photo by Matthew Curry

Conditions were decidedly wintry for the 499 runners with a snow covered course, poor visibility and cold winds.  Jack finished in 190th place with a time of 01:1:03.

Full Results

Mid Lancs Cross Country – Rossall School, Fleetwood

With the cross country season almost at an end, Christopher Holdsworth is the Men’s 2015 Club XC Champ and Helena Leathley is the Ladies Club XC Champ. Helena has also won the Ladies XC Palladium. Carl Helliwell and George Pier are fighting it out for the Palladium; Carl has 139 pts and George has 138 pts with one fixture remaining. Who will take the title?

In the Mid Lancs XC series the juniors are doing well.  Dexta Thompson and Ella Dorrington are handily placed for an award in the u11 boys and girls, so is Jackson McKay in U13 boys, Briony Holt in U15 Girls, Beth Quinn U20 Women, and Jordan McDonald and George Pier in the U20 Men.

Thanks to Cross Country Manager, Jason Pier, for the update on everyone’s performances.

Cross country captain Christopher Holdsworth reports; “Another good performance throughout all age groups from Clayton. Although the Senior men haven’t done enough to win Division 1 outright, we still need as many counters at Preston as possible to secure 2nd place overall. With how close we’ve come to winning the division this year, hopefully it will inspire more of our stronger male runners to help the team out and ease the pressure on the runners who turn up to each Mid-Lancs fixture.”

U11 Girls

Team Position 3rd (E Dorrington | H White | K Thompson)

Ella Dorrington at the Mid Lancs Cross Country at Rossall School. Photo by Margaret Levy

Ella Dorrington at the Mid Lancs Cross Country at Rossall School. Photo by Margaret Levy

Pos Name Time
3 Ella Dorrington 7:17
24 Helena White 8:37
30 Kady Thompson 8:57

U11 Boys

Team Position 1st (D Thompson | F Stubbs | J Bentham)

Pos Name Time
3 Dexta Thompson 6:48
9 Finley Stubbs 7:21
16 Jenson Bentham 7:33
29 Matthew Jackson 8:09
40 Josha McKay 9:06

U13 Girls

Team Position 5th (L Thompson | S Ashworth | C Bentham)

Pos Name Time
13 Liberty Thompson 9:39
19 Sophie Ashworth 9:51
25 Claudia Bentham 10:14
31 Roanna Holdsworth 11:38

U13 Boys

Team Position 3rd (J McKay | J Bowman | L Jackson)

Pos Name Time
7 Jackson McKay 10:07
19 Jay Bowman 11:31
20 Lennon Jackson 11:37

U15 Girls

Pos Name Time
2 Briony Holt 10:35

U17 Men

Team Position 2nd (C Holt | R Clarke | R Lawrence)

Pos Name Time
8 Curtis Holt 24:48
10 Ryan Clarke 26:47
11 Reece Lawrence 28:45

U20 Ladies

Pos Name Time
3 Bethany Quinn 31:00

U20 Men

Jordan McDonald at the Mid Lancs Cross Country at Rossall School. Photo by Sarah Helliwell

Jordan McDonald at the Mid Lancs Cross Country at Rossall School. Photo by Sarah Helliwell

Pos Name Time
2 Jordan McDonald 40:24
4 George Pier 42:00

Ladies Race

Team A Position 6th (L Powell Smith | H Leathley | B Quinn)

Team B Positon 17th (J Bennett | J Knightley | D Airey)

Over 35 Team 5th (L Powell Smith | J Bennett | J Knightley)

Over 45 Team 7th (J Bennett | J Knightley | K Goss)

Over 55 Team 1st (J Knightley | K Goss | S Allen)

Pos Name Cat Time
3 Lousia Powell Smith L35 24:53
20 Helena Leathley L 28:35
44 Bethany Quinn L20 31:00
49 Joanne Bennett L45 31:37
52 Jean Knightley L55 31:45
53 Donna Airey L 31:54
56 Bianca Bennett L 32:02
92 Sarah Helliwell L 36:50
103 Karin Goss L65 38:49
118 Susan Allen L55 42:19

Vet 70 Men

Pos Name Cat Time
1 Barry Mitchell V70 30:17
2 Richard Lawson V70 36:20

Senior Men

Editor’s note: Christopher Holdsworth is missing from the results. He finished in 2nd place so this will have a knock on effect to the team positions. Will update when amended results become available.

Team A Position 4th (B Holdsworth | J McDonald | G Pier | C Helliwell | D Motley)

Team B Position 18th (K Davies | G Berry | A Life | B Horrocks | J Wilcock | A Quinn)

Over 40 Team Position 2nd (B Holdsworth | C Helliwell | R Stevenson | K Davies)

Over 50 Team Position 2nd (K Davies | A Life | B Horrocks)

Gareth Berry and Alan Life at the Mid Lancs Cross Country at Rossall School, Fleetwood. Photo by Sarah Helliwell

Pos Name Cat Time
22 Breton Holdsworth V40 39:54
25 Jordan McDonald U20 40:24
42 George Pier U20 42:00
46 Carl Helliwell V40 42:17
59 Richard Stevenson V40 43:00
66 Dave Motley 43:22
87 Kevin Davies V50 45:03
98 Gareth Berry 45:35
103 Alan Life V50 45:54
124 Brian Horrocks V50 47:24
140 John Wilcock V50 48:32
153 Andy Quinn V40 49:53
176 James Hickie V50 51:55
188 Andrew Howarth V50 52:46
200 Jason Pier V40 54:16
206 David Scott V70 55:28
218 David Horrocks V50 57:49

Valentines 10K

The Valentines 10km starts & finishes on the athletics track next to Salt Ayre. The route is out & back so you might get to see your loved ones on the way back! Flat, fast, traffic free and romantic… is how the race organisers, Lancaster Race Series, describe this duo of 10K races over the Valentines weekend.

93 runners took part in the Saturday 10K road race . Three of our club members were among them.  Laura Hesketh was our first finisher crossing the line in 11th place overall (3rd female) with a time of 38:31. Daniel Isherwood was next in 15th place in 39:34, followed by Stephen Biscomb in 23rd place (1st Vet 60) in 43:26.

Pos Name Cat Time
11 Laura Hesketh F 38:31
15 Daniel Isherwood M 39:34
23 Stephen Biscomb MV60 43:26

Full Results

Windy Hill Fell Race

Nine club members took part in this popular local fell race with three of them racing on the fells for the first time.

Report from James Boult at his first ever fell race.

James Boult at the Windy Hill Fell Race. Photo by Woodentops

James Boult at the Windy Hill Fell Race. Photo by Woodentops

206 runners from 56 different clubs descended on Hollingworth Lake for the Windy Hill Fell Race on Saturday, for an event described as ‘the fell runners favourite.’ As a first timer to fell running I decided to reserve judgement on that until I’d crossed the finish line. 9 members of the Clayton contingent made the trip over for the event, and several last minute gear changes in an attempt to judge the varying weather did little to alleviate the growing nerves that grew more prevalent as the crowds assembled on the start line. Starting from Littleborough RUFC, I tried to keep the words of advice in my head that had been echoed by several people in the build up to my first proper fell race; “Don’t go off to quick but don’t get stuck at the back.”

Almost immediately the course starts with an undulating, quickening pace which takes the runner along the Bridle Way Path and over the M62 Bridge. With no recce beforehand I was only to go off the website’s description of a ‘memorable climb’ as something to expect and as we reached said climb, the Old Roman Road at Blackstone Hedge, and the mass of people, some running, most walking, I realised my expectations were perhaps very much misguided and that my lack of fell racing was even more evident than before. Going off more beforehand advice (and something Michael Hogan had taught me at track a week before), the climb was duly tackled as the three-strong Clayton contingent of Chris, Orlaith and I spurred each other to the summit. The summit, named as the ‘kissing gate’ (where no such kissing took place) opened out onto a stunning highland-esq rockface, which provided some truly stunning scenery over the surrounding areas. Ice and snow clad, and some gusty winds that made me glad I’d followed Orlaith’s lead with wearing my waterproof, long legs were of little help as I seldom ran, more dancing across rock and stone towards a more defined path onto the Pennine Way. From there we crossed the motorway bridge and a very merry Marshall who told Orlaith and I that we were “having far too much fun,” as we flew past and onto the motorway footbridge.

Chris Paul and Orlaith O'Mahony at the Windy Hill fell race. Photo by Woodentops

Chris Paul and Orlaith O’Mahony at the Windy Hill fell race. Photo by Woodentops

Grey skies made way for sunshine and from the footbridge we headed up to the Windy Hill mast, which started a steady, speedy descent back towards the Bridle Way path and the start / finish line, (some of which I took on my side after losing footing!), with the final straight of thick mud one of the courses most testing parts. Predictably tough and indescribably brilliant, I’d completed my first fell race and had loved every second of it. Brimming with self-pride, and knowing full well I couldn’t have finished it without Orlaith pushing me on, I found myself agreeing with what the website. I can see why it is described as “the fell runners favourite.”

Chris Paul was also tackling the fells for the first time and said it was a good first fell race for him. He really enjoyed the atmosphere, everyone was friendly and one guy even helped him out of a deep bog when he lost his balance.

Orlaith O’Mahony was another first timer and she said that she adored it because it’s closest thing to flying you can get!

Pos Name Cat Cat Pos Time
13 Lee Smith Senior Men 9 01:06:59.0
21 Peter Coates Senior Men 14 01:09:48.6
32 Neil Hardiman Seniors M45 5 01:11:16.8
34 Matthew Duckworth Senior Men 22 01:11:40.4
57 Ivan Whigham Seniors M50 2 01:16:25.5
110 Chris Paul Senior Men 41 01:25:10.1
126 James Boult Male U23 2 01:26:20.1
132 Orlaith O’Mahoney Senior Women 7 01:27:14.4
160 Barbara Savage Seniors W50 2 01:32:30.4

Full Results

Parkrun roundup

A few new PBs, a parkrun debut and an antipodean run this week. Our dedicated parkrunners were out in force this weekend. Some warming up for weekend racing, some recovering from midweek distances but all having a great time.

Joanne Motley at Burnley parkrun. Photo by David Belshaw

Joanne Motley at Burnley parkrun. Photo by David Belshaw

Burnley parkrun – A total of 292 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
2 Jonathan PYE 18:17 SM25-29
3 Jacob WATSON 18:20 SM30-34
7 Paul BRANNON 19:50 VM55-59
11 Daniel PLANT 20:28 SM30-34
12 Michael CLARKE 20:33 VM40-44
17 Kevin DAVIES 21:25 VM50-54
28 Donna RILEY 22:24 VW50-54
29 Robert MORRISON 22:27 VM40-44
37 Andrew WEBSTER 22:54 VM45-49
45 Colin WHITE 23:26 VM40-44
54 Julie DAWES 23:42 VW45-49
56 Ian HARGREAVES 23:46 VM50-54 New PB!
67 Carl CAREY 24:18 VM45-49
68 Charlie BIRTWISTLE 24:28 JM10
88 Lisa JOHNSON 25:53 VW40-44
90 Jane HYLANDS 25:57 VW40-44 New PB!
99 Stuart HARTLEY 26:26 VM55-59
102 Toby BIRTWISTLE 26:33 JM10
104 Justin BIRTWISTLE 26:34 VM40-44
111 Annabel WILCOCK 26:44 JW15-17
112 John WILCOCK 26:46 VM50-54
122 Ron CHAPPELL 27:17 VM65-69
129 Julie TOMAN 27:38 VW45-49
142 Philip NAYLOR 28:13 VM35-39
150 Joanne MOTLEY 28:28 SW30-34
162 Robert HIRST 28:53 VM65-69
204 Judith CAREY 30:57 VW35-39 New PB!
276 Nicola KAY 37:44 SW30-34

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 95 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
93 Robin PRICE 39:28 VM70-74

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge – A total of 88 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
67 Eileen JONES 32:55 VW60-64

Pendle parkrun – A total of 57 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
13 John HARTLEY 23:48 VM55-59
51 Christine Jennifer EGERTON 33:57 VW65-69

Rockingham parkrun – A total of 265 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
14 Kieran CARR 22:41 VM70-74

Skipton parkrun – A total of 202 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
20 Roger James BREWSTER 21:22 VM60-64

Witton parkrun – A total of 81 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
19 Katy THOMPSON 26:35 VW60-64
24 Stephen FISH 27:40 VM60-64 First Timer!

Woodbank parkrun – A total of 169 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
143 Ron HILL 34:19 VM75-79

Woodhouse Moor parkrun – A total of 427 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
2 Jonny MCKENNA 16:19 SM25-29 New PB!
37 Colin SHUTTLEWORTH 19:34 VM55-59 First Timer!

 

ByAdrienne Olszewska

Hot Toddies, Winter Warmers and Bog Trogging

Well the weather was wet and wild yet again but no problem for our hardy members. You have been out competing in the muddy parks, boggy moors, and up the killer climbs of the Hot Toddy and Winter Warmer. Some great results from juniors to vets.

Saturday 6 February

Lancashire Schools Cross Country & BUCS Cross Country Championships

A huge well done to our junior runners who took part in the Lancashire Schools Cross Country Championships representing schools in the Blackburn, Pendle and Burnley areas.

They all put in great performances on a rather grim and miserable day at Witton Park in Blackburn with county vests going to Briony Holt.

Well done also to Jacob Boyle who competed for his university in the British Universities and Colleges Sports Cross Country Championships. He had a great time and was pleased with his result.

Lancashire Schools XC Results

BUCS XC Results

PFO Marsden Park

A small group of our club members took part in this orienteering event organised by Pendle Forest Orienteers in pretty dismal weather conditions.

Junior member Christopher Brown took part in the 1.2km Orange course finishing in second place with a time of 28:19

Senior members Mark Nutter, Jean Brown and Colin Woolford took part in the OLGGr course over 4.2km.

Full Results

Wadsworth Trog

Report from Alan Dorrington

The Calder Valley Fell Runners website describes the Trog as a ‘local classic’, enough of an indication that there is probably something fairly memorable about this race without someone helpfully telling me on race morning that it’s nickname is ‘The Beast’. As a first timer, not only to the race but to any fell race over about 10 miles, this did little to add to my mounting sense of trepidation. A forecast in mid to low single figure temps and heavy rain built on that further. A recce of the back section of the route the weekend before, with Andy Armstrong and Nick Olszewski kindly dispensing wisdom and tips, had confirmed that there were a few bogs and some very smelly mud to be enjoyed along the way.

Around 10 CLEM runners joined the waterproof clad field for the start at the Cricket Club, most avoiding going outside till the last minute as there would be plenty of time later to get soaked en-route. Climbing up onto the moor at the start, visibility was better than expected but was set to worsen on the northerly route over to Cock Hill, as were the bogs which increased in depth and intensity as we went on. I realised my long legs were an advantage here as I jumped a particularly deep trench, only to hear the much smaller runner behind go in, submerging to what looked like his waist. Help was on hand to pull him out from others behind him and we sploshed on toward Stairs Hill and Haworth Moor before the slabbed climb and descent up and past Withins Ruins.

Alan Dorrington (L), Andy Armstrong (Top), and Nick Olszewski at the Wadsworth Trog. Photos by Woodentops

Alan Dorrington (L), Andy Armstrong (Top), and Nick Olszewski at the Wadsworth Trog. Photos by Woodentops

Andy and Nick O had advised a steady start and I started to pull away from those around me on the climbs, picking up other runners who had started a little quicker. By the penultimate climb of High Brown Knoll I had caught more and more and was feeling surprisingly good but with the worst of the bogs and muddy trods to come before THAT climb to the finish. I caught Nick O coming off High Brown Knoll, a welcome boost of a friendly face in the worsening conditions and we plodded along in a small group through the wettest terrain I’ve ever run on. Nick found the pool, disguised as vegetation, that I had almost gone in the previous week and repeated the near-ducking I had escaped then. Dropping off the moors for the finish run-in, the Slurry Field of Doom ™ had been removed from the route at the last minute but there was still plenty of ‘questionable’ mud to run through as we headed for that infamous last climb back to the Cricket Club. It was predictably hard and introduced cramp into both upper legs and one calf but eventually after the longest lap of any cricket pitch, the finish was finally there. I had completed my first Long fell race, and I was happy that it had passed without a physical meltdown, and can definitely recommend it as one to do if you like that ‘local classic’ feel to your races…”

Pos Name Cat Time
15 Andrew Orr V40 3:15:14
24 Paul Hesketh V50 3:18:56
35 Martin Terry V50 3:26:24
41 Andrew Armstrong V40 3:31:33
51 Alan Dorrington V40 3:37:47
53 Nicholas Olszewska V50 3:38:15
62 Sean Clare V50 3:50:53
74 Ivan Wigham V50 3:57:15
104 Nigel Hodson V40 4:17:36
122 Andrew Foster V40 4:38:17

Full Results

Sunday 7 February

Blackburn Winter Warmer 10K

17 Clayton runners took part in this popular local 10K race. The race starts and finishes in Witton Park in Blackburn via a steep climb up Buncer Lane and then over the tops to Pleasington before heading back from the Cememtery side.

Danny Collinge was our first finisher and was third overall in the race. Another good result for Danny. Ryan Clarke was next in and was also 2nd Junior Male runner in the race. Our third finisher was Stephen Ainsworth who was also 1st M55.

Danny Collinge (L), Stephen Ainsworth (top) and Andy Quinn at the Blackburn Winter Warmer 10K. Photos by David Belshaw

Danny Collinge (L), Stephen Ainsworth (top) and Andy Quinn at the Blackburn Winter Warmer 10K. Photos by David Belshaw

Our first lady was Elizabeth Mullen. Amanda Duffy and Donna Airey were 1st and 2nd F35. Beth Quinn was 3rd Junior female.

L-R Michelle Butschock, Leanne Cottam, Helen Burnett, Nerina Gill and Julia Rushton (behind). | Ryan Clarke and Beth Quinn. Photos by David Belshaw

L-R Michelle Butschock, Leanne Cottam, Helen Burnett, Nerina Gill and Julia Rushton (behind). | Ryan Clarke and Beth Quinn. Photos by David Belshaw

Pos    Name Cat    Time
3 Danny Collinge M S 00:34:41
39 Ryan Clarke M J 00:42:08
60 Stephen Ainsworth M55 00:44:21
88 Andy Quinn M40 00:46:04
95 Elizabeth Mullan F S 00:46:32
113 Robert Morrison M40 00:47:32
118 Amanda Duffy F35 00:47:46
158 Julie Dawes F45 00:50:02
159 Nerina Gill F45 00:50:06
164 Donna Airey F35 00:50:33
191 Julia Rushton F50 00:52:09
192 Ian Hargreaves M50 00:52:05
194 Helen Burnett F40 00:52:18
213 Beth Quinn F J 00:53:41
230 Leanne Cottam F35 00:54:43
280 Stuart Barker M45 00:57:41
281 Michelle Butschok F40 00:57:52

Full Results

Blackburn Winter Warmer 2K

There was a good turnout of juniors at the Winter Warmer as it is the first of this year’s junior race series. Some great performances were to be seen with 4 of our juniors finishing in the top 10.

Clayton Juniors at the Blackburn Winter Warmer 2K race. Photo by David Belshaw

Clayton Juniors at the Blackburn Winter Warmer 2K race. Photo by David Belshaw

Lennon Jackson finished in 3rd place overall and 1st in his age group. Ella Dorrington was our first girl finisher, first girl in her age group and second girl overall in the race. Liberty Thompson was first in her age category ( F13).

Pos    Name    Cat    CatPos    Time   
3 Lennon Jackson M12 (001/006) 00:08:19
5 Robbie Smedley M10 (002/014) 00:08:25
7 Ella Dorrington F11 (001/016) 00:08:28
8 Finlay Testa M11 (002/015) 00:08:29
13 Matthew Jackson M12 (003/006) 00:08:47
14 Liberty Thompson F13 (001/002) 00:08:48
17 Jenson Bentham M9 (002/024) 00:08:54
19 Summer Hargreaves F16 (001/001) 00:09:06
29 Etienne Ward M10 (004/014) 00:09:35
34 Jake Anforth M9 (005/024) 00:09:51
37 Kady Thompson F9 (003/031) 00:10:00
42 Brayden Clarkson M7 (003/013) 00:10:16
43 Felix Thompson M6 (002/012) 00:10:16
52 Nicholas Ward M8 (003/018) 00:10:33
112 Tillie Ferguson F8 (004/014) 00:11:57

Full Results

Dewsbury 10K

Well done John Hartley who was our sole representative at the Dewsbury 10K. He finished in 158th place with a time of 39:32 in a field of 1081 runners. He was the 4th Vet55.

Full Results

Red Hot Toddy

This year’s Red Hot Toddy 10k was run with all profit going to the Community Foundation Flood Appeal to help local homes and businesses. Todmorden has been badly affected by the recent flooding.

The 10km course consists of two laps of tarmac park road on Centre Vale Park, followed by a single hilly lap of rural and town centre roads finishing back on the park road. The high point of the course is just before half way on Todmorden Edge, before the long descent down to Bacup Road and back into town along Rochdale Road. Total climbing is 219m.

Breton Holdsworth (L), Matthew Duckworth (Top) and Kieron Mitchell at the Red Hot Toddy. Photos by Woodentops

Breton Holdsworth (L), Matthew Duckworth (Top) and Kieron Mitchell at the Red Hot Toddy. Photos by Woodentops

194 runners took part in this charity event with Tom Cornthwaite taking the win. Breton Holdsworth was the first Clayton finisher in 6th place overall and 1st Male 40. Matthew Duckworth and Kevin Davies earned themselves top twenty finishes. Tracy Mitchell was our first lady finisher and was also 1st W40.

Bianca Bennett (L) and Tracy Mitchell at the Hot Toddy. Photos by Woodentops

Bianca Bennett (L) and Tracy Mitchell at the Hot Toddy. Photos by Woodentops

Pos Name Cat Time
6 Breton Holdsworth M40 38:11
16 Matthew Duckworth M 41:55
17 Kevin Davies M50 42:09
29 Kieron Mitchell M40 44:19
40 Tracy Mitchell W40 46:09
90 Bianca Bennet W 52:14
113 Rachel Todd W40 54:38
146 Julie Toman W45 61:24
161 Robert Hirst M65 63:30
162 Phil Naylor M 63:48

Full Results

Parkrun roundup

Some PBs, some volunteering and some antipodean parkruns this weekend.

Bolton parkrun – A total of 314 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
314 Julia RUSHTON 48:17 VW50-54

Burnley parkrun – A total of 267 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
4 Jonathan PYE 18:30 SM25-29
5 Richard STEVENSON 18:45 VM40-44
8 Gareth BERRY 20:04 VM35-39
12 Simon WILSHAW 20:59 JM15-17
18 Susan BURNS 21:23 VW55-59
19 Matthew DUCKWORTH 21:41 SM25-29
22 Robbie SMEDLEY 22:09 JM10
26 Michael CLARKE 22:22 VM40-44
27 Reece Adam LAWRENCE 22:50 JM15-17
31 Donna RILEY 23:06 VW50-54
32 James BOULT 23:14 SM20-24
37 Matthew JACKSON 23:44 JM10
38 Charlie BIRTWISTLE 23:45 JM10 New PB!
41 Julie DAWES 24:00 VW45-49
46 Ian HARGREAVES 24:12 VM50-54
64 Andy QUINN 25:10 VM40-44
73 Andrew WEBSTER 25:19 VM45-49
75 Andrew TAYLOR 25:29 VM55-59
89 Aaron LUNDIE 26:12 JM11-14 New PB!
90 Toby BIRTWISTLE 26:17 JM10 New PB!
91 Justin BIRTWISTLE 26:17 VM40-44 New PB!
104 Stuart HARTLEY 27:23 VM55-59
113 Robert MORRISON 28:08 VM40-44
114 Heidi KEWIN 28:10 JW11-14
119 Yvonne WICKHAM 28:22 VW50-54
120 Ron CHAPPELL 28:22 VM65-69
159 Carl CAREY 29:51 VM45-49
163 Robert HIRST 30:01 VM65-69
205 Diane ORRELL 32:22 SW30-34

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 86 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
83 Robin PRICE 38:36 VM70-74

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge – A total of 89 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
17 Martin BRADY 23:50 VM50-54

Heaton parkrun – A total of 533 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
275 Julie TOMAN 28:13 VW45-49
337 Eileen JONES 30:07 VW60-64

Lloyd parkrun, Croydon – A total of 202 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
79 Katy THOMPSON 27:26 VW60-64 First Timer!

Pendle parkrun – A total of 70 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
4 Paul BRANNON 21:32 VM55-59
7 John HARTLEY 22:37 VM55-59
19 Barry MITCHELL 24:59 VM70-74

Rockingham (Perth, Australia) parkrun – A total of 246 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
30 Kieran CARR 22:38 VM70-74 First Timer!

 

 

ByAdrienne Olszewska

Chills and thrills

On yet another cold and stormy weekend you have all been out and about as ever. There was a good turnout of members at the Northern Cross Country Championships and you have also been out on the fells during the day and through the night as well. Chilly it may be but not much chilling out going on for us!

Saturday 30 January

Hoofstones Fell Race

Seven Clayton-le-Moors Harriers took part in the Hoofstones fell race; a navigational challenge which takes runners to the highest point around Todmorden – Hoofstones Heights Trig Point.

Pos Name Cat Time
4 Neil Hardiman MV40 1:16:09
21 Chris Whiteoak MSEN 1:25:11
26 Andrew McFarlane MV40 1:31:11
27 Mark Nutter MV50 1:32:07
41 Barbara Savage FV50 1:39:55
45 Linda Lord FV60 1:55:49
46 Martin O’Rourke MV50 1:57:29

Marmot Dark Mountains

Marmot Dark Mountains takes the classic two-day mountain marathon format and gives it a new… darker twist. Rather than two days of running with an overnight camp in between,they pack everything into one winter’s night!

Trophy for Jean Brown and her team mate at the Marmot Dark Mountains event

Trophy for Jean Brown and her team mate at the Marmot Dark Mountains event

Congratulations to Club member Jean Brown, who took part in the elite course with Kirsty Hewitson and finished in 3rd place (1st ladies team).

Full Results

Northern Athletics Cross Country Championships

Very well done to all club members who braved harsh conditions to take part in the Northern Athletics Cross Country Championships. Despite the weather, this was a well attended event with some of the best runners in the North vying for the win. A real opportunity for club members to pit themselves against some truly stiff completion.

U13 Girls

Liberty Thompson and Sophie Ashworth at the Northern Athletics XC Championships. Photo by David Belshaw

Liberty Thompson and Sophie Ashworth at the Northern Athletics XC Championships. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos Name Time
112 Liberty Thompson 16:22
129 Sophie Ashworth 16:41
165 Natasha Olszewska 17:37
176 Roanna Holdsworth 18:00
177 Claudia Bentham 18:17
192 Keira Stevenson 19:59

U13 Boys

Jackson McKay in the U13 boys race at the Northern Athletics XC Championships. Photo by Woodentops

Jackson McKay in the U13 boys race at the Northern Athletics XC Championships. Photo by Woodentops

Pos Name Time
47 Jackson McKay 13:49
171 Lennon Jackson 15:58
187 Adam Stevenson 16:33

U15 Girls

Pos Name Time
53 Briony Holt 18:56
113 Eleanor Root 20:43

U17 Men

Curtis Holt at the Northern Athletics XC Championships. Photo by David Belshaw

Curtis Holt at the Northern Athletics XC Championships. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos Name Time
76 Curtis Holt 23:29

U20 Women

Pos Name Time
44 Bethany Quinn 31:59

U20 Men

Pos Name Time
37 Jordan McDonald 30:28
55 George Pier 33:03

Senior Women

Laura Hesketh battling the elements at the Northern XC Championships. Photo by Bryn Barnes

Laura Hesketh battling the elements at the Northern XC Championships. Photo by Bryn Barnes

Pos Name Time
42 Laura Hesketh 35:31
69 Helena Leathley 36:59
175 Orlaith O’Mahony 41:59
190 Angela Shian 42:56
191 Elizabeth Mullan 42:58
225 Helen Burnett 44:50
229 Donna Airey 44:57
236 Bianca Bennett 45:21
260 Julie Dawes 46:57
316 Sarah Helliwell 52:09
339 Susan Allen 56:07

Senior Men

The unmissable Breton Holdsworth at the Northern Athletics Cross Country Championships. Photo by Woodentops

The unmissable Breton Holdsworth at the Northern Athletics Cross Country Championships. Photo by Woodentops

Pos Name Time
136 Breton Holdsworth 52:29
209 Carl Helliwell 55:29
291 Jonathan Cleaver 58:40
300 Richard Stevenson 59:04
359 Chris Snell 1:01:42
372 Matthew Duckworth 1:02:42
466 John Wilcock 1:05:41
482 Gareth Berry 1:06:30
547 James Hickie 1:09:33
606 Peter Browning 1:13:34
716 Stuart Barker 1:49:04

Full Results

Sunday 31January

Birkrigg Fell Race

No results as yet for the latest race in the Kendal Winter Series to report on.

That’s Lyth

No results available for this but I know at least one or two of our members took part in this challenge event organised by the Long Distance Walkers Association.

Parkrun roundup

Bolton parkrun – A total of 250 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
56 Nerina GILL 25:04 VW45-49

Burnley parkrun – A total of 293 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
3 Jonathan PYE 18:57 SM25-29
9 Daniel PLANT 20:26 SM30-34
11 James BOULT 20:39 SM20-24 New PB!
12 Michael CLARKE 20:39 VM40-44
26 Simon WILSHAW 22:10 JM15-17
32 Robbie SMEDLEY 22:43 JM10
47 Colin WHITE 23:33 VM40-44
56 Helana WHITE 23:58 JW10
60 Julie DAWES 24:23 VW45-49
67 Ian HARGREAVES 24:42 VM50-54
88 Stephen GREEN 26:02 VM60-64
108 Annabel WILCOCK 26:50 JW15-17
109 John WILCOCK 26:52 VM50-54
110 Aaron LUNDIE 26:52 JM11-14
111 Stuart HARTLEY 26:52 VM55-59
112 Toby BIRTWISTLE 26:55 JM10
113 Justin BIRTWISTLE 26:57 VM40-44
125 Paul Laurence WALSH 27:43 VM60-64
141 Ron CHAPPELL 28:29 VM65-69
148 Robert MORRISON 28:52 VM40-44
179 Lucy STEVENSON 30:13 JW11-14
203 Christine Jennifer EGERTON 31:00 VW65-69
210 Rachel STEVENSON 31:17 JW10
217 Donna SCOTT 31:39 VW50-54
267 Philip NAYLOR 37:45 VM35-39

Dewsbury parkrun -A total of 122 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
118 Robin PRICE 38:42 VM70-74

Pendle parkrun – A total of 75 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
3 Paul BRANNON 21:33 VM55-59
4 John HARTLEY 21:37 VM55-59
17 Barry MITCHELL 24:42 VM70-74
21 Andy QUINN 25:39 VM40-44
22 Martin BRADY 25:46 VM50-54

Preston parkrun – A total of 252 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
71 Katy THOMPSON 24:52 VW60-64

Tooting Common parkrun – A total of 200 runners took part. Inaugural run

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
162 Eileen JONES 30:20 VW60-64 First Timer!

 

ByAdrienne Olszewska

Triumphant torchlight and trails

Wow! Two wins in a week for Danny Collinge at the Torchlight 5K and also at the East Lancs Hospice 10K – he’s on fire at the moment. Large turnouts of our club members at these events secured more wins across all age categories as well. Briony Holt is enjoying a return to form as she won her race at Whitestones this week. The future is looking bright for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers

Wednesday 20 January

Towneley Torchlight 5K

200 runners turned out on a very cold and frosty evening to take part in the Towneley Torchlight 5k to help raise money for Pendleside Hospice in memory of local runner and photographer Pete Hartley, organised by our coach John Roche. The route was marked out with glow sticks and most runners donned head torches and reflective gear – there was even someone with fairy lights. The sparkle from the frosty evening added an extra touch of shimmer to a great event enjoyed by all the participants.

L-R Leanne Cottam, Helen Burnett, James Boult, Carl Carey, Judith Carey. Photo by David Belshaw

L-R Leanne Cottam, Helen Burnett, James Boult, Carl Carey, Judith Carey. Photo by David Belshaw

53 Clayton-le-Moors Harriers ventured into the darkness to take part. Danny Collinge flew round the course to take the win in a time of 16:10 with Tom Brewster, George Pier, Jonathan Pye, Louisa Powell-Smith and Sean Clare all finishing in the top 10. Louisa was the first lady finisher and George Pier was the first Junior Male. Sean Clare was 1st Vet 50, Roger Brewster was 1st Vet 60, Julie Dawes was 1st lady Vet 45, Helen Burnett was 1st lady Vet 40, Jean Knightley was 1st lady Vet 55, and Anita Jones was 1st lady Vet 60.

Clayton Juniors at the Torchlight 5K, a trail of headtorches behind them. Photo by David Belshaw

Clayton Juniors at the Torchlight 5K. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos    Name    Cat    CatPos    Time   
1 Danny Collinge M (001/033) 00:16:10
3 Tom Brewster M (003/033) 00:17:34
4 George Pier MJ (001/014) 00:18:09
5 Jonathan Pye M (004/033) 00:18:39
6 Louisa Powell-Smith F35 (001/022) 00:19:00
9 Sean Clare M50 (001/013) 00:20:08
11 John Wilcock M50 (003/013) 00:20:48
13 Roger Brewster M60 (001/002) 00:21:09
14 Robert Kay M45 (002/009) 00:21:13
16 James Boult M (006/033) 00:21:39
17 Chris Paul M (007/033) 00:21:40
19 Reece Lawrence MJ (004/014) 00:22:08
20 Matthew Jackson MJ (005/014) 00:22:13
21 Jackson McKay MJ (006/014) 00:22:14
28 Robert Morrison M40 (002/011) 00:22:53
31 Darren Rushton M45 (004/009) 00:23:02
32 Amanda Duffy F35 (002/022) 00:23:08
34 Helen O’Rourke F (002/030) 00:24:10
35 Orlaith O’Mahoney F (003/030) 00:24:12
38 Lynsey Birtwistle F35 (003/022) 00:24:23
40 Carl Carey M (014/033) 00:24:26
42 Julie Dawes F45 (001/022) 00:24:27
46 Bianca Bennett F (004/030) 00:24:46
47 Liberty Thompson FJ (003/013) 00:24:47
48 Lennon Jackson MJ (008/014) 00:24:54
49 Sophie Ashworth FJ (004/013) 00:24:57
50 Natasha Olszewska FJ (005/013) 00:24:59
51 Andrew Taylor M55 (002/005) 00:25:06
54 Ian Hargreaves M50 (005/013) 00:25:15
55 Helen Burnett F40 (001/015) 00:25:16
56 Helana White FJ (006/013) 00:25:16
57 Colin White M40 (005/011) 00:25:17
59 Martin O’Rourke M55 (003/005) 00:25:30
60 Jean Knightley F55 (001/003) 00:25:31
63 Donna Airey F35 (004/022) 00:25:39
71 Justin Birtwistle M40 (006/011) 00:26:15
77 Joanne Bennett F45 (005/022) 00:26:40
78 Janine Pollard F45 (006/022) 00:26:40
80 Keiran Rigby M (020/033) 00:27:10
87 Paul Walsh M60 (002/002) 00:27:34
90 Tony Pilling M50 (011/013) 00:27:44
91 Danny Pilkington M (022/033) 00:27:47
94 Deborah Greenwood F45 (007/022) 00:27:59
99 Leanne Cottam F35 (008/022) 00:28:30
103 Philip Naylor M (024/033) 00:28:41
106 Natasha Newell F40 (004/015) 00:29:01
109 Julie Toman F45 (008/022) 00:29:03
120 Anita Jones F60 (001/002) 00:30:06
151 Sharon Wilson F40 (009/015) 00:32:10
159 Judith Carey F35 (019/022) 00:32:47
161 Bronia Olszewska FJ (012/013) 00:32:50
162 Adrienne Olszewska F45 (014/022) 00:32:57
170 Jane Pier F45 (016/022) 00:33:20

Full Results

Saturday 23 January

Blakes Heaven Fell Race

Fell captain Dave Motley had a solo run in this 4.4mile race with 1463ft of ascent. He finished in 16th place with a time of 39:55 in a field of 99 runners.

Full Results

PFO Orienteering

Well done to junior member Christopher Brown who took part in the Pendle Forest Orienteers event finishing in 5th place in the Park Score event.

Full Results

Sunday 24 January

East Lancashire Hospice 10K

There was a whopping turnout of 47 Clayton-le-Moors Harriers at this popular local fundraising 10K. 19 junior runners and 28 seniors took part.

Danny Collinge leading from the start at the East Lancashire Hospice 10K. Photo by Adrienne Olszewska

Danny Collinge leading from the start at the East Lancashire Hospice 10K. Photo by Adrienne Olszewska

Junior Race

There was some fabulous running from our juniors who had a blast on the two lap course. Age category wins for Dexta Thompson, Jenson Bentham, and Lucy Stevenson and a team prize for the boys.

Clayton Juniors with honorary junior Jack Maguire at the East Lancs Hospice 2K race. Photo by Adrienne Olszewska

Clayton Juniors with honorary junior Jack Maguire at the East Lancs Hospice 2K race. Photo by Adrienne Olszewska

Pos Name Cat Cat Pos Time
1 Dexta Thompson (male) U12 1 06:48.8
4 Lennon Jackson (male) U14 1 07:23.3
5 Lee Bentham (Jenson) (male) U10 1 07:31.8
7 Ella Dorrington (female) U12 2 07:37.4
8 Sophie Ashworth (female) U14 2 07:47.3
11 Natasha Olszewska (female) U14 3 07:52.0
12 Matthew Jackson (male) U10 3 07:52.9
13 Summer Hargreaves (female) U12 3 07:57.9
14 Helana White (female) U 10 1 07:58.9
15 Charlie Birtwistle (male) U12 3 07:59.0
16 Liberty Thompson (female) U14 4 07:59.1
22 Keira Stevenson (female) U12 6 09:02.0
24 Jake Anforth (male) U10 7 09:05.4
30 Lucy Stevenson (female) U16 1 09:52.9
31 Rachel Stevenson (female) U12 8 10:10.3
32 Bronia Olszewska (female) U12 9 10:10.8
40* Adam Stevenson (male) U14 6 55:19.4

* Looks like an error with the chip timer. This is clearly a 10K time and not 2K. Photos taken on the day towards the end of the course suggest that Adam was in between Ella Dorrington and Sophie Ashworth.

Senior Race

Over 450 runners took part in the 10K race. The Clayton men had a really strong performance with Danny Collinge leading throughout and finishing with a clear 30 second lead over second place runner Philip Eccleston from Burden Road Runners. After a sizeable gap the leading pack began to reach the finish with top ten finishes for Jordan McDonald and Jacob Watson giving our men’s team a first place finish (D Collinge, J McDonald, J Watson).

The U23 team at the East Lancs Hospice 10K. L-R Danny Collinge, George Pier, Jordan McDonald. Photo courtesy of Jason Pier

The winning U23 team at the East Lancs Hospice 10K. L-R Danny Collinge, George Pier, Jordan McDonald. Photo courtesy of Jason Pier

Richard Stevenson was our next man in and took the 1st V40 position as well. John Hartley was 1st Vet55 and Stephen Ainsworth was 1st Vet 60.

East Lancs 10K

Team Clayton in action. L-R Robert Morrison, Amanda Duffy and Colin White

Our first lady finisher was Helen O’Rourke who was 90th postion overall, 10th lady, with a time of 46:32.8. Our ladies team (H O’Rourke, A Duffy, A Shian) finished in 3rd place.

Pos Name Cat Cat Pos Time
1 Danny Collinge MU23 1 34:20.4
8 Jordan McDonald MU23 2 37:19.8
9 Jacob Watson M 6 37:26.0
15 Richard Stevenson M40 1 38:12.4
20 John Hartley M55 1 38:52.7
22 Jonathan Cleaver M 12 38:59.4
24 George Pier MU23 3 39:03.3
27 Carl Helliwell M40 6 39:14.5
33 Chris Snell M 15 40:55.8
37 Daniel Plant M 18 41:28.1
44 Stephen Ainsworth M60 1 42:45.0
58 Robert Kay M50 7 44:10.2
69 James Boult MU23 5 45:02.5
70 Andy Quinn M45 8 45:02.9
82 Richard Brisco M 29 46:00.4
90 Helen O’Rourke W 3 46:32.8
115 Amanda Duffy W35 2 47:59.3
123 Angela Shian W35 3 48:27.2
129 Colin White M40 21 48:47.1
148 Rachel Todd W40 9 50:33.2
150 Donna Airey W35 5 50:41.3
176 Lee Moore M40 30 52:18.4
178 Ian Hargreaves M50 22 52:24.9
194 Jane Ryan W35 8 53:13.3
247 Stuart Barker M50 27 56:18.1
305 Robert Hirst M65 5 01:00:13.1
309 Sarah Helliwell W 21 01:00:35.1
351 Philip Naylor M 60 01:03:52.4

Full Results

Whitestone Fell Race

A return to form for Briony Holt after sustaining an injury during the English Schools Fell Running Championship race. She had a great run in this race organised by Helm Hill and part of the Kendal Winter Series of race finishing as first girl.

Briony Holt in action at the Whitestones Fell Race. Photo by Andrew Holt

Briony Holt in action at the Whitestones Fell Race. Photo by Andrew Holt

Awaiting Results

Hunters 10K

Formerly known as the Welcome Tavern 10K, 240 runners took part in this Preston based 10K road race. Daniel Isherwood was our sole representative at this event finishing in 34th place with a time of 39:44

Full Results

Parkrun roundup

Lots of our club members out and about at parkruns this weekend. Some of them warming up for other events, others out for a new PB and even a bit of parkrun tourism going on as well.

Burnley parkrun – A total of 305 runners took part.

A trio of Clayton Harriers racing at Burnley parkrun. L-R Dexta Thompson, Jon Cleaver and Kevin Davies. Photo by David Belshaw

A trio of Clayton Harriers racing towards a top 10 finish at Burnley parkrun. L-R Dexta Thompson, Jon Cleaver and Kevin Davies. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
1 David BAGOT 17:50 SM20-24 New PB!
3 Jonathan PYE 19:10 SM25-29
4 Kevin DAVIES 19:16 VM50-54
5 Jonathan CLEAVER 19:25 VM35-39 New PB!
7 Dexta THOMPSON 20:09 JM10
13 Simon WILSHAW 21:07 JM15-17
25 Reece Adam LAWRENCE 22:09 JM15-17
28 Andy QUINN 22:38 VM40-44
34 Andrew WEBSTER 22:59 VM45-49
37 James BOULT 23:12 SM20-24
41 Robert MORRISON 23:21 VM40-44
44 Julie DAWES 23:33 VW45-49
47 Matthew JACKSON 23:40 JM10
48 Liberty THOMPSON 23:50 JW11-14
50 Sophie ASHWORTH 23:58 JW11-14
62 Natasha OLSZEWSKA 24:21 JW11-14
65 Charlie BIRTWISTLE 24:25 JM10 New PB!
66 Carl CAREY 24:26 VM45-49
67 Lennon JACKSON 24:28 JM11-14
70 Ian HARGREAVES 24:45 VM50-54
85 Andrew TAYLOR 25:27 VM55-59
96 David Ian SCOTT 25:58 VM70-74
97 Lisa JOHNSON 26:00 VW40-44
103 Beth QUINN 26:20 JW15-17
104 Donna SCOTT 26:27 VW50-54
105 Adam STEVENSON 26:33 JM11-14
109 Aaron LUNDIE 26:47 JM11-14 New PB!
110 Annabel WILCOCK 26:52 JW15-17
111 John WILCOCK 26:52 VM50-54
112 Toby BIRTWISTLE 26:53 JM10 New PB!
113 Justin BIRTWISTLE 26:54 VM40-44 New PB!
117 Stuart HARTLEY 26:59 VM55-59
129 Nicola THOMPSON 27:17 SW30-34 New PB!
150 Diane ORRELL 28:27 SW30-34
157 Adrienne OLSZEWSKA 28:55 VW45-49
184 Bronia OLSZEWSKA 30:27 JW11-14
196 Judith CAREY 31:22 VW35-39 New PB!
242 Mike HOLDEN 34:31 VM50-54
267 Valerie LAWSON 37:20 VW70-74

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 108 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
106 Robin PRICE 39:18 VM70-74

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge – A total of 89 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
17 Wendy DODDS 25:02 VW65-69
59 Eileen JONES 32:37 VW60-64

Lancaster parkrun – A total of 363 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
183 Doug MUNROE 31:03 VM65-69 First Timer!

Pendle parkrun – A total of 73 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
4 John HARTLEY 21:03 VM55-59
8 Paul HESKETH 21:53 VM50-54
29 Dawn TERRY 27:55 VW50-54
48 Christine Jennifer EGERTON 33:12 VW65-69
59 Christine LEATHLEY 34:45 VW65-69

Penrith parkrun – A total of 166 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
121 Nicola KAY 33:47 SW30-34 First Timer!

Witton parkrun – A total of 113 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
60 Yvonne WICKHAM 31:11 VW50-54

Woodbank parkrun – A total of 169 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
152 Ron HILL 34:32 VM75-79

Woodhouse Moor parkrun – A total of 429 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
1 Jonny MCKENNA 16:42 SM25-29

 

ByAdrienne Olszewska

Snow holding us back!

Brrr…it’s been a chilly weekend with sub-zero temperatures and plenty of snow. Winter, it seems, is finally here. Not a problem for us – we are a truly hardy bunch. An excellent set of results at the Clayton-le-Moors fixture in the Mid Lancs Leagues just goes to show there’s snow holding us back!

Saturday 16 January

The Hebden

A half dozen Clayton-le-Moors Harriers took part in the Hebden. This is a challenge event that offers a choice of a 15 mile or 22 mile route and is organised by the Long Distance Walkers Association. The event is a firm favourite with runners and walkers alike and regularly sells out.

Conditions were excellent for this year’s event being nicely crisp and frosty. Neil Hardiman said he barely got his feet wet. All of our runners did the longer challenge.

Pos Name Time
12 Martin Terry 3:22
39 Neil Hardiman 3:52
40 Paul Hesketh 3:52
117 Nigel Hodson 4:51
137 Wendy Dodds 4:58
155 Barbara Savage 5:16

Finishing Times

Mid Lancs Cross Country League – Wilson Playing Fields

U11 Girls

Team Position 2nd place (E Dorrington | H White | S Hargreaves)

Ella Dorrington continues to run well finishing in third place on a very chilly and frosty morning at Wilson’s playing fields. Along with Ella, team mates Helana White and Summer Hargreaves ran well giving the U11 girls’ team second place. Kady Thompson, Rachel Stevenson and Millie Maccabe completed the U11 girls’ squad.

U11 Girls in action. Photo by Alan Dorrington

U11 Girls in action. Photo by Alan Dorrington

Pos Name Time
3 Ella Dorrington 8:54
14 Helana White 9:35
22 Summer Hargreaves 10:05
41 Kady Thompson 11:04
57 Rachel Stevenson 12:47
61 Millie Maccabe 13:52

U11 Boys

Team Position 1st place ( D Thompson | C Brown | R Smedley)

Dexta Thompson continued his winning streak with Christopher Brown and Robbie Smedley earning the U11 boys’ team first place. Matthew Jackson, Jenson Bentham and Joshua McKay completed the U11 Boys’ squad.

Dexta Thompson in the U11 Boys' race. Photo by David Belshaw

Dexta Thompson in the U11 Boys’ race. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos Name Time
1 Dexta Thompson 7:57
7 Christopher Brown 8:51
15 Robbie Smedley 9:09
21 Matthew Jackson 9:31
26 Jenson Bentham 9:43
42 Joshua McKay 11:14

U13 Girls

Team Position 4th Place (L Thompson | S Ashworth | C Bentham)

A couple of strong runs gave Liberty Thompson and Sophie Ashworth top twenty finishes in the U13 Girls’ race. Claudia Bentham, Natasha Olszewska and Roanna Holdsworth battling for the third counter position finished together with Claudia just grabbing victory. Keira Stevenson and Bronia Olszewska completed the U13 girls’ squad.

Keira Stevenson racing hard in the U13 Girls' race. Photo by Nicholas Olszewski

Keira Stevenson racing hard in the U13 Girls’ race. Photo by Nicholas Olszewski

Pos Name Time
15 Liberty Thompson 12:26
17 Sophie Ashworth 12:31
28 Claudia Bentham 13:29
29 Natasha Olszewska 13:30
30 Roanna Holdsworth 13:32
37 Keira Stevenson 15:59
39 Bronia Olszewska 17:29

U13 Boys

Team Position 8th place (J McKay | J Bowman | L Jackson)

Jackson McKay finished in fourth in the U13 Boys’ race with Jay Bowman and Lennon Jackson earning the team 8th place overall. Adam Stevenson completed the U13 boys’s squad.

Jackson McKay in the U13 boys' race. Photo by David Belshaw

Jackson McKay in the U13 boys’ race. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos Name Time
4 Jackson McKay 11:54
31 Jay Bowman 14:07
34 Lennon Jackson 14:27
36 Adam Stevenson 14:55

U15 Girls

Briony Holt ran well and finished in second place with Eleanor Root in eleventh.

Ellie Root in the U15 Girls' race. Photo by David Belshaw

Ellie Root in the U15 Girls’ race. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos Name Time
2 Briony Holt 13:03
11 Eleanor Root 14:24

U15 Boys

Thomas and Daniel Bradley ran in the U15 Boy’s race finishing in 15th and 20th places respectively.

Pos Name Time
15 Thomas Bradley 18:35
21 Daniel Bradley 21:09

U17 Men

Team Position 2nd place (C Holt | S Wilshaw | R Lawrence)

Some solid performances from our U17 men was rewarded with a 2nd place team position.

Pos Name Time
11 Curtis Holt 26:45
13 Simon Wilshaw 27:55
15 Reece Lawrence 29:29

Senior Men U20

Team Position 1st Place ( J McDonald | J Boyle | G Pier)

Top 10 finishes for all of our U20 men and a first place for their team. A very strong performance from our younger runners. Watch out senior men!

Pos Name Time
2 Jordan McDonald 38:33
4 Jacob Boyle 39:58
8 George Pier 40:56

Senior Ladies Race

Team Positions

Team ‘A’ – 9th Place (H Leathley | A Shian | I Roche)

Team ‘B’ – 17th Place (H Burnett | N Gill | R Todd)

Over 35 – 7th Place (A Shian | I Roche | H Burnett)

Over 45 – 4th Place (I Roche | N Gill | J Rushton)

Over 55 – 2nd Place ( I Roche | Karin Goss | S Allen)

Clayton Ladies in action at the Mid Lancs Cross Country. Photo by David Belshaw

Clayton Ladies in action at the Mid Lancs Cross Country. Photo by David Belshaw

Another great set of results for our ladies. Two teams place in the senior races and across all the age groups. A great day for our tangerine ladies.

Pos Name Cat Time
9 Helena Leathley L 27:15
37 Angela Shian L35 32:03
53 Irene Roche L55 33:28
56 Helen Burnett L35 33:55
57 Nerina Gill L45 33:57
63 Rachel Todd L35 34:22
65 Bethany Quinn L20 34:31
66 Donna Airey L 34:38
69 Julia Rushton L45 35:06
82 Nicola Thompson L 36:46
90 Sarah Helliwell L 38:03
110 Karin Goss L65 41:00
115 Susan Allen L55 44:12
124 Christine Leathley L65 49:11

Senior Men’s Race

Team Results

Team ‘A’ – 1st Place (C Holdsworth | J McDonald | J Boyle | B Holdsworth | G Pier | D Motley)

Team ‘B’ – 6th Place (P Hall | C Helliwell | R Stevenson | A Orr | C Snell | S Clare)

Over 40 – 2nd Place (B Holdsworth | P Hall | C Helliwell | R Stevenson)

Over 50 – 2nd Place (P Hall | S Clare | A Life )

Clayton Men in action at the Mid Lancs Cross Country. Photo by David Belshaw

Clayton Men in action at the Mid Lancs Cross Country. Photo by David Belshaw

Really great results for our senior men from U20 to Over 50. Cross Country Captain leading by example with a fantastic 3rd place finish and a first place finish for the senior mens team. Our ‘B’ team also performed well, finishing in 6th place overall. Our V40 and V50 teams both placed second in their respective categories. Well done!

Pos Name Cat Time
3 Christopher Holdsworth M 36:37
8 Jordan McDonald U20 38:33
19 Jacob Boyle U20 39:58
20 Breton Holdsworth V40 40:07
28 George Pier U20 40:56
29 Dave Motley M 41:00
33 Phil Hall V50 41:51
36 Carl Helliwell V40 42:05
48 Richard Stevenson V40 43:05
65 Andrew Orr V40 44:08
68 Chris Snell M 44:25
73 Sean Clare V50 45:06
87 Alan Life V50 45:50
106 Gareth Berry M 47:04
118 Adam Shaw M 48:09
119 Dan Isherwood M 48:09
125 John Wilcock V50 48:51
129 Brian Horrocks V50 49:10
137 Richard Briscoe M 50:27
158 Andy Quinn V40 52:23
166 Andrew Howarth V50 53:08
170 James Hickie V50 53:21
180 Peter Browning V50 54:19
200 Martin O’Rourke M 1:01:47
205 Geoff Smith V40 1:04:10
210 Doug Monroe V60 1:06:15
217 Robert Hirst V60 1:10:54

Vet 70 Men

Well done to Richard Lawson who was 2nd Vet70.

Pos Name Time
2 Richard Lawson 41:44

Sunday 17 January

Giggleswick School Fell Race

Awaiting Results

Stanbury Splash

The Soreen Stanbury Splash race is celebrated its 33rd birthday on 17th January 2016 and prides itself on with being associated with Soreen. The 7 mile race is affectionately known as the Soreen Malt Loaf Run to runners young and old who just love the fruity taste of a Malt Loaf. Over the years the junior and senior races have introduced thousands of runners to the joys of fell running and seen superstars like Triathlon Olympians Alistair and Jonathan Brownlee; National and GB Internationals Ian Holmes, Robert Jebb, Tom Adams, Colin Donnelly, Jack Maitland, Mary Wilkinson, and Jo Buckley; and former World Champions Victoria Wilkinson and Carol Greenwood, make their mark in sport.

Snowy conditions did not deter a small but hardy group of our junior and senior runners from taking part in this popular early season race.

U8 Race

Pos Name Time
8 Felix Thompson 3:09

U10, U12, U14, U16 & U18 Race

Briony Holt and Dexta Thompson at the Stansbury Splash fell race. Photo by Woodentops

Briony Holt and Dexta Thompson at the Stansbury Splash fell race. Photo by Woodentops

Pos Name Cat Time
4 Briony Holt GU14 6:33
6 Dexta Thompson BU12 6:33
23 Christopher Brown BU12 7:26
27 Liberty Thompson GU14 7:33
51 Helana White GU10 8:39
67 Kady Thompson GU10 9:32

Senior Race

Pos Name Cat Time
115 Jean Brown L40 44:49
134 Jeffrey Pickup V60 46:12

Full Results

Parkrun roundup

Burnley parkrun – A total of 217 runners took part.

John and Annabel Wilcock undeterred by sub-zero temperatures at Burnley parkrun. Photo by David Belshaw

John and Annabel Wilcock undeterred by sub-zero temperatures at Burnley parkrun. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
2 Jonathan PYE 18:48 SM25-29
4 Kevin DAVIES 19:07 VM50-54
14 James BOULT 21:30 SM20-24
35 Julie DAWES 23:10 VW45-49
36 Carl CAREY 23:11 VM45-49
40 Colin WHITE 23:32 VM40-44
55 Dawn TERRY 24:45 VW50-54
57 Charlie BIRTWISTLE 25:01 JM10 New PB!
69 Annabel WILCOCK 25:55 JW15-17
70 John WILCOCK 25:55 VM50-54
88 Toby BIRTWISTLE 27:09 JM10 New PB!
89 Justin BIRTWISTLE 27:09 VM40-44 New PB!
108 Stuart HARTLEY 28:51 VM55-59
117 Jack MCGUIRE 29:15 VM60-64 New PB!
171 Judith CAREY 34:04 VW35-39
174 Mike HOLDEN 34:13 VM50-54
181 Valerie LAWSON 35:43 VW70-74

 

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge – A total of 79 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
59 Eileen JONES 32:23 VW60-64

 

Pendle parkrun – A total of 45 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
3 John HARTLEY 21:05 VM55-59

 

Skipton parkrun – A total of 152 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
1 Tom BREWSTER 17:50 SM25-29
15 Roger James BREWSTER 21:36 VM60-64

 

Woodhouse Moor parkrun – A total of 449 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
4 David BAGOT 17:25 SM20-24 New PB!

 

Witton parkrun – A total of 103 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
2 Garry R WILKINSON 20:17 VM50-54

 

ByAdrienne Olszewska

Happy New Year

Happy New Year! Despite widespread flooding and race cancellations all over the Christmas period, plenty of Clayton-le-Moors Harriers still managed to get out and about. Competing in races unaffected by floods, parkrunning doubles or finishing the Marcothon/Run Every Day December challenges.

Sunday December 27

Lancaster Festive 4K

Well done Julie Toman, our only runner in this event. She finished in 83rd place with a time of 20:10. 230 Runners took part.

Full Results

Wansfell Race

Described by organisers, Ambleside AC, as not to be under estimated despite being short and sweet. The route is very steep and extremely rough underfoot. Slippery, wet conditions can make the descent treacherous and if the mist is down the ability to navigate is essential. Please also be aware that the road section at the beginning and end will not be closed to cars although it will be marshalled. Runners must take great caution especially when descending at speed and negotiating blind corners. Despite the horrendous flooding in the area, the race went ahead.

Report from Colin Woolford

Wansfell race went ahead on the 27th in stunning clear, mild conditions. Very wet under foot, slippy and loose on the descent. 125 runners started including three Clayton, myself, Andy Firth and one other chap I’d not met and didn’t get the chance to meet! No results posted as yet, not found any pics either although I definitely saw a posh camera or two! Cracking little race, although i was over a minute slower than last year

Up The Nab

Wendy Dodds was our sole runner in this Peak District race from Glossop Rugby Club. A 4 mile route with 1197ft of climb.

Full Results

Thursday December 31

Auld Lang Syne Fell Race

A great run from Chrisopher Holdsworth earned him fourth place in this hugely popular end of the year fell race organised by Woodentops. Over 400 runners took part in this 6 mile race with 984ft of ascent with the elite runners being followed by runners in some fantastic fancy dress outfits. A fast and fun end to the fell running year for many.

Chris Holdsworth at the Auld Land Syne Fell Race. Photo by Woodentops

Chris Holdsworth at the Auld Land Syne Fell Race. Photo by Woodentops

Fourteen Clayton Harriers took part with some strong performances from our senior men. Wendy Dodds was our only lady runner.

Pos Name Cat Time
4 Christopher Holdsworth M 43:26
25 Breton Holdsworth MV40 48:02
28 Matt Perry M 49:06
42 Dave Bagot M 50:58
46 Dave Motley M 51:14
58 Colin Shuttleworth MV50 52:17
81 Neil Hardiman MV40 54:55
87 Sean Clare MV50 55:32
154 John Wilcock MV50 59:22
161 Nick Roscoe MV50 59:59
260 Wendy Dodds FV60 67:30
277 Colin Woolford MV40 68:41
317 Stephen Fish MV60 71:34
410 John Francis MV70 105:55

Full Results

Bowstones Fell Race

343 Runners took part in this 6.8 mile race with 1066ft of ascent. Chris Snell and Andy Bradley took part with Chris finishing in 35th place with a time of 50:33 and Andy coming in 70th place with a time of 53:59

Pos Name Cat Time
35 Chris Snell M 50:33
70 Andy Bradley V50 53:59

Full Results

Friday 1 January 2016

Billy Knox New Year’s Day Awakener

Colin Robinson receive an award today from Andy O’Sullivan MBE for 60 years of outstanding service to Rochdale Harriers at the Billy Knox New Years Day multi terrain Race. A baker’s dozen (13) Clayton-le-Moors Harriers kicked off the new year with this trail 5K. First finisher was John Roche in 32nd place with a time of 23:35. First lady was Vicky Heys in 62nd place with a time of 26:40.

Billy Knox New Year Awakener. Photo by Graham Wright

Billy Knox New Year Awakener. Photo by Graham Wright

Pos    Name    Cat    CatPos    Time   
32 John Roche M55 (004/008) 00:23:35
48 Stephen Green M60 (002/008) 00:25:34
49 David McMullan M45 (008/010) 00:25:34
62 Vicky Heys F45 (002/008) 00:26:40
63 Angela Shian F35 (002/006) 00:26:40
75 Irene Roche F55 (002/004) 00:29:25
83 Robert Hirst M65 (004/006) 00:30:42
85 Julie Toman F45 (005/008) 00:30:53
89 Ron Chappell M65 (005/006) 00:31:47
98 Jack S. McGuire M60 (008/008) 00:34:23
100 Christine Leathley F65 (001/001) 00:35:41
102 Julia Taylor F55 (003/004) 00:37:33
103 Jean Knightley F55 (004/004) 00:37:33

Full Results

Nine Standards

Jon Sharples reports on this 8 mile fell race with 1801 ft of ascent;

Wendy Dodds and I were Clayton’s representatives on a cool and slightly icy course.  Run of the day was by Victoria Wilkinson of Bingley Harriers (and Denise Park’s Practice) who took the ladies record by over three minutes and came 3rd overall.

Pos Name   Time
1 Carl Bell Keswick 54.49
3 Victoria Wilkinson Bingley 58.48
59 Jon Sharples 1st V60 1:16:24
75 Wendy Dodds 1st LV60 1:21:03

120 ran

Full Results

Saturday 2 January 2016

Podium 5K

Eager to burn off some mince pies in a fast-paced 5k race saw a group of keen Harriers ready to run at this event.

Laura Hesketh at the Podium 5K race. Photo by David Belshaw

Jacob Watson at the Podium 5K. Photo by David Belshaw

A Race Results

Pos Name Cat Time
18 Jacob Watson M 17:53
20 Richard Stevenson M 18:23
21 Laura Hesketh F 18:51

Sheffield Open Cross Country Event

Report from Chris Thompson

Yesterday we went to Sheffield for the open cross country races. Having been to plenty of races in Yorkshire last year, although mainly being fell, I expected this to be a good turnout.  We arrived at Graves Park and it looked a little quiet. When we collected the kids numbers I could see that not so many had registered so was hoping for more people to pay on the day.  We walked the course which I can say was a very well marked out and challenging one; some parts quite muddy with some good twists and turns and some steep hill climbs.

First to race was Dexta whose course was a little longer than a normal under 11’s race with this being 2.5k. Nothing he hasn’t done before though. He put in a good run and finished second.

Then Liberty raced the same course and finished in 8th position.

Full Results

Sunday 3 January 2016

Central Lancs Half Marathon

Well done Ian Hargreaves who took part in this half marathon and gained a new PB despite some harsh conditions in the last 8k.

All ready for the Central Lancashire Half Marathon. Photo by Ian Hargreaves

All ready for the Central Lancashire Half Marathon. Photo by Ian Hargreaves

He finished in 270th place with a time of 1:57:37.

Full Results

Hit the Trail

A solo outing for Chris Snell at this 5 mile trail race organised by Belle Vue Racers. Over 350 runners took part.

Pos    Name    Cat    Time   
20 Chris Snell M 00:31:55

Results

Parkrun roundup

Firstly a very well done to all our runners that made it to parkrun on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Some of you even did it twice on some of those days! All is back to normal now so here is the first ‘official’ parkrun roundup of the year.

Burnley parkrun – A total of 236 runners took part.

Ron Chappell demonstrates the art of layering! Photo by David Belshaw

Ron Chappell demonstrates the art of layering! Photo by David Belshaw

Pos  parkrunner  Time Age Cat  Note 
3 Andy LAYCOCK 18:36 SM20-24 New PB!
5 Jonathan PYE 19:29 SM25-29
8 Jonathan CLEAVER 19:37 VM35-39 New PB!
9 Kevin DAVIES 19:47 VM50-54
16 Gareth BERRY 20:27 VM35-39
31 Nick COLLINSON 22:31 JM15-17
32 Andy QUINN 22:36 VM40-44
35 James BOULT 22:56 SM20-24
54 Helana WHITE 24:15 JW10
56 Julie DAWES 24:18 VW45-49
57 Colin WHITE 24:18 VM40-44
60 Sophie ASHWORTH 24:24 JW11-14
64 Adam STEVENSON 24:54 JM11-14
65 Richard STEVENSON 24:55 VM40-44
76 Natasha OLSZEWSKA 25:34 JW11-14
79 Donna SCOTT 25:48 VW50-54
92 Lisa JOHNSON 26:36 VW40-44
95 Carl CAREY 26:44 VM45-49
99 Diane ORRELL 27:01 SW30-34
103 Annabel WILCOCK 27:12 JW11-14
104 John WILCOCK 27:13 VM50-54
125 Stuart BARKER 28:12 VM45-49
141 Toby BIRTWISTLE 28:50 JM10
142 Justin BIRTWISTLE 28:50 VM40-44
148 Ron CHAPPELL 29:16 VM65-69
151 Bianca BENNETT 29:30 SW25-29
164 Christine Jennifer EGERTON 31:04 VW65-69
178 Bronia OLSZEWSKA 32:49 JW11-14
179 Adrienne OLSZEWSKA 32:49 VW45-49
186 Judith CAREY 33:49 VW35-39
198 Aaron LUNDIE 35:47 JM11-14

Cuerden Valley parkrun – A total of 160 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
44 Martin BRADY 25:30 VM50-54 First Timer!

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 77 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
74 Robin PRICE 40:09 VM70-74

Pendle parkrun – A total of 50 runners took part.

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
2 John HARTLEY 21:04 VM55-59

Witton parkrun – A total of 95 runners took part

Pos  parkrunner  Time  Age Cat  Note 
6 Michael CLARKE 21:43 VM40-44
53 Julie TOMAN 32:31 VW45-49

 

ByJim Hickie

Senior Club Competitions 2016

Now 2016 is here why not look at the Club Championships when planning your races? The first Club Road Championship race is the East Lancs Hospice 10k on Sunday 24th January, the first Club Trail Championship race is the Standish Hall 10k on Saturday 20th February, and the first Club Fell Championship race is Heptonstall (BL) on Sunday 20th March. These three club championships all follow a best four out of seven races format.

The Winter Warmer 10k on Sunday 7th February is the final race in the 2015 Club Road Championship to replace the cancelled Guys 10.

As well as our Club Championships we also have two more fell competitions – the Pendle Aggregate Trophy and the John North Trophy. Follow the link for a complete list of all our Senior Club Competitions and Awards.

I wish all members a happy and successful 2016!

ByAdrienne Olszewska

‘Twas the week before christmas

You lot were definitely stirring in spite of yet more appalling weather in the parks, zoos and on the fells. It’s almost Christmas and the festive spirit is certainly in evidence both in donning fancy dress and giving generously to our Cumbrian Neighbours ( our donations are currently at £685 – you can donate here )

Saturday 19 December

Tour de Helvellyn – Report by Nicholas Olszewski

It all started at 05:30 Saturday morning when I picked up Martin Terry. As we drove towards the Lakes up the M6, the weather deteriorated with every mile with driving rain and horrendous winds. I think then we both knew we were in for a challenging day on the fells.

Devastation on the footpaths of the Lake District following the recent storms. Photo by Aleks Kashefi

Devastation on the footpaths of the Lake District following the recent storms. Photo by Aleks Kashefi

Having checked in and gone through a rigorous kit check I finally set off, leaving Martin to go through the kit check as I knew he would catch me up somewhere on route and hopefully we’d finish roughly the same time. Stepping outside it was still slightly dark and raining still. The route to Howtown was relatively easy going underfoot, just the high winds and rain to contend with. The first control point is at Martindale church, with then a small road section towards Boardale and over Boardale House heading towards control 2 at Side Farm. This was when it all started to turn into gill scrambling as the amount of water that was emanating from god knows where was unbelievable; that coupled with the gusty headwind made it a gruelling assent over to Patterdale.

At control 2 we had to be diverted slightly due to the flooding and route being too deep in water, so a slight deviation was taken and I soon found my way heading towards control 3, Swart Beck footbridge, which is on the way up to Sticks Pass on Helvellyn, in the middle of nowhere. As I dibbed in I thanked the marshals for being here in these horrendous conditions. All was going well, it was a slog but I felt fine and as I headed over Sticks Pass and down the other side the rain began to ease off and yes, the sun did come out for a while and control 4, Stannah Beck footpath was duly dibbed.

Nicholas Olszewski heading up Sticks Pass at the Tour de Helvellyn. Photo by Granddayout Photography

Nicholas Olszewski heading up Sticks Pass at the Tour de Helvellyn. Photo by Granddayout Photography

The next two controls, 5 and 6 were possibly the worst as we traversed the foot of Helvellyn. The flood damage was clearly visible, massive mud and rock slides had to be negotiated along with some hairy river crossings as all the foot bridges had been destroyed, lying in bits further down the fell side. I’m still amazed that no one was hurt or even washed away at some of these crossings as the ferocity was not to be taken lightly. Raise Beck was possibly the worst for me as I leaped in, throwing all caution to the wind and cracking my shin on an underwater rock. It was the only way I could get across to the other side and make the assent to Grisdale Tarn and back down to Patterdale, then follow the outward route back to Askham Community Centre.

Climbing out of Patterdale over to Boardale the wind began to pick up again, very nearly whipping my legs from beneath me, so strong and very slippy underfoot as I cautiously navigated my way down to lower ground. Arriving back at Askham in a time of 8:15 in 29th positon, well chuffed with that, and better than last year, although last year was a slightly different route, Martin had a great run, coming 10th in a time of 7:31, a great day, but both mentally and physically draining.

One more challenge left in the day, driving back down the M6 in this horrendous weather.

Full Results

Sunday 20 December

Rudolf Red Nose 5

Seven club members took part in this 5 mile multi-terrain race around  Blackpool. The event is run on property access roads and around a golf course on purpose built trail and includes section of caravan park perimeter road and short field section. The race HQ is a local fire station located 400 metres away from the course start and finish which are both on a closed car park used during the week for main hospital staff parking and at weekends as overspill for the Blackpool Zoo who do not require it on this date. The race also raises funds for the local Hospice by taking donations for the refreshments provided before and after the race

Report by Richard Lawson

If Wendy (Dodds) had hoped by coming south to avoid the Lakeland floods she failed as several sections of the course were awash at the back of the De Vere. A sea of green and red Santas and Elves made me think it was I who was in fancy dress in my club vest as we set off , observed by  noisy sea-lions, a conspicuous albino wallaby and a threatening pack of wolves. The ubiquitous Julie Toman and Martin Brady braved the course and we had four age group winners in Steve Biscomb M60, Wendy Dodds W65, Val Lawson W70 and Richard Lawson M75. Thanks go to Dave Waywell and his team

Pos Name Cat Time
28 Alan Life MV50 00:36:00
36 Stephen Biscomb MV60 00:36:47
54 Martin Brady MV50 00:38:31
75 Wendy Dodds FV65 00:40:19
94 Richard Lawson MV75 00:42:45
134 Julie Toman FV45 00:46:34
199 Val Lawson FV70 01:00:39

Results

The Stoop Fell Race

All competitors receive a free Santa hat that they must run in! There is also a “Festive Fancy Dress” competition with ‘Cadbury Xmas Choc stocking’ for the best 8 costumes. Fourteen club members donned the Santa hat to take part in this 5 mile race with 820ft of climb.

Dave Motley at the Stoop Fell Race. Photo by Scott Leach

Dave Motley at the Stoop Fell Race. Photo by Scott Leach

Clayton Ladies Alison Dugdale, Jean Brown and Katy Thompson at the Stoop Fell Race. Photo courtesy of Katy Thompson

Clayton Ladies Alison Dugdale, Jean Brown and Katy Thompson at the Stoop Fell Race. Photo courtesy of Katy Thompson

Pos Name Cat Time
44 David Bagot M 00:38:28
54 Dave Motley M 00:39:06
78 Colin Shuttleworth M50 00:40:38
83 Andrew Holt M40 00:40:49
85 Chris Snell M 00:40:52
117 Jonathan Cleaver M 00:43:12
192 Jean Brown F40 00:43:53
199 Jeffrey Pickup M60 00:48:39
222 Alison Dugdale F40 00:49:56
307 Katy Thompson L60 00:54:40
314 David Niels M50 00:55:10
401 Robert Hirst M60 01:02:53
411 Michael Frost M60 01:04:33
444 Jack Maguire M60 01:15:55

Results

Junior Stoops (Curly Wurly) Race

Report from Tina Hines Holt

Great morning out at Penistone hill for the stoop quarry runs. Brilliant fancy dress and even got some treats at the chocolate throw out at the end. Briony came 1st under 14s girl, but is still suffering from a sore foot injury from September.

Briony Holt slipping and sliding but still first girl. Photo by Woodentops

Briony Holt slipping and sliding but still first girl. Photo by Woodentops

Well done everyone who took part. It was a great race to watch, with a few slippery stumbles along the way.

A rather muddy Dexta Thompson and Chris Brown at the Junior Stoop Races. Photo by Woodentops

A rather muddy Dexta Thompson and Chris Brown at the Junior Stoop Races. Photo by Woodentops

Under 8s Race

Pos Name Cat Time
24 Kady Thompson GU8 3:55
26 Felix Thompson BU8 3:58

Under 10 / 14 / 16 Race

Pos Name Cat Time
5 Briony Holt GU14 7:13
20 Dexta Thompson BU10 7:50
24 Christopher Brown BU10 7:55
40 Jenson Bentham BU10 8:30
42 Liberty Thompson GU14 8:31
72 Helana White GU10 9:49

Parkrun roundup

Some great running in evidence at parkruns this weekend with first place finishes for Richard Stevenson and Christopher Holdsworth. A special mention for Sophie McIntosh who got a PB at the Southwark parkrun on day 19 of her Marcothon. Marcothon is a commitment to run every day in December for at least 5k or 25mins so very well done Sophie (and all our Marcothoners).

Burnley parkrun – A total of 180 runners took part.

James Boult and Andy Quinn at Burnley parkrun. Photo by David Belshaw

James Boult and Andy Quinn at Burnley parkrun. Photo by David Belshaw

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
3 Jonathan PYE 19:08 SM25-29
6 Andrew ARMSTRONG 19:31 VM45-49
7 Kevin DAVIES 19:39 VM50-54
8 Chris SNELL 20:00 VM35-39
10 Jonathan CLEAVER 20:12 VM35-39
11 Dexta THOMPSON 20:29 JM10
16 Simon WILSHAW 21:16 JM15-17
17 Susan BURNS 21:19 VW55-59
28 James BOULT 22:58 SM20-24
29 Reece Adam LAWRENCE 22:59 JM15-17
37 Matthew JACKSON 23:18 JM10
39 Colin WHITE 23:26 VM40-44
41 Andrew WEBSTER 23:34 VM45-49
42 Martin BRADY 23:37 VM50-54
45 David Ian SCOTT 23:46 VM70-74
53 Adam STEVENSON 24:30 JM11-14
55 Julie DAWES 24:33 VW45-49
56 Helana WHITE 24:36 JW10
63 Beth QUINN 25:09 JW15-17
68 Liberty THOMPSON 25:27 JW11-14
69 Sophie ASHWORTH 25:33 JW11-14
73 Jenson BENTHAM 25:53 JM10
76 Lisa JOHNSON 26:04 VW40-44
79 Annabel WILCOCK 26:22 JW11-14
80 John WILCOCK 26:23 VM50-54
101 Ron CHAPPELL 27:50 VM65-69
104 Diane ORRELL 28:04 SW30-34
120 Toby BIRTWISTLE 30:00 JM10
121 Justin BIRTWISTLE 30:01 VM40-44
126 Aaron LUNDIE 30:53 JM11-14
128 Christine Jennifer EGERTON 31:01 VW65-69
139 Christine LEATHLEY 32:24 VW65-69

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 83 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
81 Robin PRICE 39:36 VM70-74

Heaton parkrun – A total of 354 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
323 Ron HILL 37:54 VM75-79

Pendle parkrun – A total of 79 runners took part

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
1 Richard STEVENSON 19:50 VM40-44 New PB!
3 John HARTLEY 21:01 VM55-59
30 Katy THOMPSON 26:42 VW60-64 First Timer!
34 George THOMPSON 27:10 VM65-69 First Timer!
57 Paul HESKETH 31:15 VM50-54
62 Molly HESKETH 33:43 JW11-14

Southwark parkrun – A total of 123 runners took part.

Sophie McIntosh on day 19 of her Marcothon at Southwark parkrun.

Sophie McIntosh (L) on day 19 of her Marcothon at Southwark parkrun.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
1 Christopher HOLDSWORTH 16:04 SM20-24 First Timer!
94 Sophie MCINTOSH 29:17 SW20-24 First Timer!

Witton parkrun – A total of 96 runners took part.

Pos   parkrunner   Time   Age Cat   Note  
11 Michael CLARKE 20:43 VM40-44
49 Julie TOMAN 28:02 VW45-49