Seniors Road – Clayton-le-Moors Harriers

From snowdrifts to snowdrops – the March and April Roundup

3 March – Mid Lancs XC League Round 6

This was the cross-country final that nearly wasn’t. Whilst the Beast from the East did it’s best to snowdrift the country into a complete standstill, the M6 northwards and western fringes of the Lake District were strangely replete of snow, allowing the Mid Lancs XC crowd to head north for this new fixture up in Ulverston, at the Glaxo site on the very edge of Morecombe Bay.

A bone hard and undulating course, with a somewhat coolish breeze coming off the Bay greeted the runners, with trail and fell shoes being the preferred option for most runners.

28684974_325193594552388_8202583147458090236_n

Helana White to the fore. Photo:

Juniors

Amelia Halstead capped off a breakthrough xc season with a fine 4th place in the U11G, not far behind the winner and putting her into a series 4th overall. Her regular team mates Ellisia Smedley, Emily Nicholls and Joni Higgins helped the Clayton girls to 10th overall.

Charlie Barnes led the U11B home in 28th, and with Fraser Anforth and Josh McKay the boys took 12th palce in the team competition.

Helana White continued to blaze a trail at the front of the U13G with a fine 3rd, with Ella Dorrington in 9th and the fast improving Imogen Ferguson in 22nd. A few tense hours waiting for final results confirmed the U13G team in 3rd place overall just behind Blackburn and just ahead of Trawden, a great result for them after a full season of working hard toward that team prize.

Robbie Smedley in 3rd was followed by William Nicholls 13th, and Matthew Jackson 14th and this allowed them to claim 3rd place in the U13B team prize by one point.

Only Sophie Ashworth ran in the U15G race to14th, with the last minute start line addition of her race number!

Jackson McKay went out hard in the U15B race in an attempt to stamp his authority on the front group and it nearly paid off as he came in a hard fought 4th, with Michael Stevens 10th and brother Peter 13th. Lennon Jackson and Theo Burfield battled away for 22nd 25th. With Harrison Codd who ran in earlier races, the boys came 5th overall.

Josh Hall was our sole U17B in 7th whilst Brinoy Holt in U17G took a fine 2nd place overall in the series.

28468717_325193711219043_2959378484643561713_n

Imogen Ferguson was flying in Ulverston. Photo: Cassie Smedley

Seniors

Donna Airey capped off a great season with 13th to give an overall season placing of 16th Senior Lady (8th Vet), whilst Tom Brewster took 15th to give and overall senior Men 9th place.

David Edmondson had a consistent season and took 2nd overall in the Vet 50 competition (7th Vet overall), Andy Holt a top ten in V40 with Calum Holmes 6th in U20 Men. Dave Scott was first in the V70 Men.

Gold Team Prizes (and promotion to Division 1) were awarded for the season to the Division 2 Ladies and V65 Ladies teams, with Silver for our Division 1 Senior Men, and Bronze for the V55 Ladies and V40 Men.

Donna Airey reports:

“Ulverston was the final fixture in the mid Lancs League, A new venue and it didn’t disappoint. In fact, personally one of my favourite’s. Cold, windy, and undulating. Just missing some mud! Great turn out considering the snow around Burnley and hour and half drive up the M6. With the XC season now over, many thanks those who have taken part. Special thanks to Jason for everything he does and those who have helped with the tent. We’ve had plenty of seniors turn up to most fixtures even with some being over an hour’s drive away. We’ve seen some newcomer’s taking part, hope you have all enjoyed it and we will see you again next season. Well Done everyone, here are some of our overall performances”

And that, as they say, was a wrap for cross-country 2017/18

10 March – Inter Counties XC

Briony, Ella, Helana, Josh, Robbie and training partner Jack Villiers with their vests. Photo: Rachael White

There’s mud, and then there is MUD. The 5 Clayton Juniors selected to run for Lancashire had probably never run in worse conditions underfoot and probably never want to again. However, it didn’t deter Helana White, Ella Dorrington, Robbie Smedley, Briony Holt and Josh Hall from donning their shiny white and red Lancashire vests and getting stuck in. All of them did their Club and County proud and we expect to see more of them, and their teammates in Lancashire colours.

Robbie Smedley. And some mud.
Photo: Woodentops

10 March – Stan Bradshaw Round

Andrew Holt on his way to a cracking 27th. Photo: David Belshaw

As if one wasn’t enough… Beast from the East 2 arrived in time to threaten loads of fell races this particular and the Stan Bradshaw Round on our beloved Pendle Hill was no exception. However, a judicious course alteration from organiser Colin Woolford and some heroic marshalling meant the race avoided the cancellation that befell many other races in the region.

The now shortened course followed the normal start route to CP1, CP2 then left along the next wall to Ogden Clough, down to upper Ogden Dam and what was CP5, then up to Fell Wood to an amended CP6 giving roughly 12k in all. And a thoroughly testing day out with cold winds, frozen turf in places and deep drifts to wade through in others.

There were 21 Clayton runners led home by Chris Holdsworth in 3rd overall. Tara Robb was 1st Clayton Lady home (5th Lady overall).

28619260_1870607496340089_2243782913930525812_o

Michelle Butschok, wrapped up against the cold. Photo: David Belshaw

28516094_1870595446341294_5911120079689364261_o

Chris Holdsworth, moving quick enough not to need tights! Photo: David Belshaw

Full Results

25 March – FRA English Junior Championships

It was the usual late March start for the FRA English Junior Championships series, and like 2 years ago, Todd Crag in Ambleside was the setting for the first race of the season. The snow had gone, the sun shone and the racing was fast but technical on a rough and steep Lakeland course.

Jenson Bentham was 12th in the U13B with Helana White chasing hard for 3rd place in the U13G.

Jackson McKay took 5th and Ella Dorrington 16th in the U15B and G races, whilst Peter Stevens got the better, just ahead of brother Michael in the U17B race, taking 22nd and 23rd respectively. Briony Holt was 5th U17G.

Jenson Bentham. Photo: Dave Rylance

Ella Dorrington. Photo: Dave Rylance

11227408_1490225654420937_6074740801759620945_o

Briony Holt. Photo:

Full Results

7 April – Pendle Fell Races

Wet and claggy weather was booked for Pendle again this year, to celebrate the incorporation of the Lancashire Fell Running Championships into this long-running club fixture. Two new organisers also took over this year, Mark Nutter (Senior race) and Alan Dorrington (Junior races).

Juniors

Jackson McKay – U15B Lancashire Fell Champion. Photo: Woodentops

In the Juniors there were Lancashire medals for Jackson McKay who was Lancashire Champion in U15B, Helana White with silver in the U13G and Ella Dorrington with silver in the U15G. Many of our other Juniors also took part in the races, with several top ten performances from the likes of Jenson Bentham (7th) and Matthew Jackson (8th) in U13B, Robbie Smedley (6th) and William Nicholls (7th) in U15B and Imogen Ferguson 7th in U15G.

Peter Stevens also impressed in the U17B, narrowly missing out on a medal in 4th, with Josh Hall in 6th. Sophie Ashworth was 5th in U17G with a very muddy and shoeless Millie Stubbs in 7th and Beth Wheatcroft returning from injury in 8th.

Helana White – a silver medal in the U13G. Photo: Woodentops

Ella Dorrington – also a silver medal in the U15G. Photo: Woodentops

Peter Stevens just missed out on a Lancashire medal in 4th. Photo: Woodentops

Junior Results

Seniors

Jim Hickie wonders if his watch has started after all. Photo: Woodentops

Jim Hickie wonders how his new watch is supposed to work, while Mr Go Pro man behind captures it all for Youtube. Photo: Woodentops

In the Under 19 Men’s race, held as part of the Senior race won by evergreen V40 Rob Hope, Nick Hennessey had a fantastic run to become Lancashire Champion.

There were top ten places in the Senior Men’s race for Matt Perry and Andy Laycock (9th and 10th) and a fine 6th place overall and 2nd U23 Lady for Rhiannon Whickam. Peter Coates took a bronze Lancashire medal in the V40s, and Geoff Gough a silver medal in the V60 Men.

Irene Roche was a silver medallist in the Ladies V50, Karin Goss Lancashire V60 Champ and Linda Lord Lancashire V70 Champ.

Senior Results

14 April – FRA English Junior Championships

There was a new (to FRA Junior Champs) venue for the 2nd round of the FRA English Junior Championships with Trawden AC taking the race to Blacko and the hills surrounding the iconic Tower. The sun shone, the barbecue was pretty tasty and there was some great racing over traditional grassy Pennine hills (and bogs).

Helana White bagged her first ever win in the Junior FRA series with a powerful performance to see off her closest rival, based upon disappearing up the hill at a vast rate of knots to put in some distance between them. Her strategy paid off and she was a clear winner in the U13G race (and 8th overall), a fantastic achievement at this level.

I got this - Helana White in determined mood at the start of her U13G race. Photo: David Belshaw

I got this – Helana White in determined mood at the start of her U13 race. Photo: David Belshaw

Ella Dorrington improved on her last FRA outing with 8th in the U15G and Briony Holt had a solid run for 6th in U17G.

Emily Nicholls celebreates her Birthday in style in the U11 race. All was well afterwards. Photo: David Belshaw.

Emily Nicholls celebrates her Birthday in style in the U11 race. All was well afterwards. Photo: David Belshaw.

Full Results

22 April – Ron Hill 10k

Clayton Ladies Claire Vincent and Michelle Abbott were age group winners in the Senior Ladies and W35 Ladies categories respectively at this popular local 10k, whilst Calum Holmes took the U23 Mens win and 6th overall.

Calum Holmes sets off quick with Nick Hennessey.

Full Results

28 April – 3 Peaks Fell Race

Is it a fell race, a trail race or a marathon with mountains? That all depends on your perspective but what it clear is that it is a classic, and a hard one to pace, to boot.

David Bagot led home the usual large Clayton contingent in 3 hours 27 mins.

Photo: Chris Holdsworth.

Andrew Webster took on the 3 Peaks for the first time this year – here is his report:

“I had never done this race before and was a bit nervous as I had struggled on the recce a few weeks ago on the back 2 peaks but I had had lots of good advice off people before race day.

I got there in plenty of time and caught up with several other Clayton runners before we lined up in our expected time orders. I had a stroke of luck and set off with Simon Stansfield who had given me advice about pacing and leaving a little for descent off Ingleborough. I had set myself 2 race goals – avoid the bus and walk the hills and run everything else so I made cutofffs. It was pleasant trotting on with Simon to the base of Pen y Ghent and Ii think I paced it ok – Igot up in just under 48 minutes. The descent off was nice and there was a temptation to tear off on the good running to Ribblehead but I managed to contain myself and kept a consistent pace. At Ribblehead I was heartened to see Andy Bradley in front of me him being the 1st other club member I had seen since Pen y Ghent. I was prepared for Whernside being tough but not the biblical bog at the bottom – I actually saw 1 bloke go in almost to his waist. Swerve that 1 I thought! I managed to get to the summit of Whernside only feeling like chucking up a little and on the plus side my calves where that sore they had actually gone past pain and were just numb ( a blessed relief!!). I managed to gain a little speed coming down and didn’t knock any walkers over thankfully and before I realised it I was at the Hill Inn and oh joy inside cut offs!! Only by about 18 minutes but I do admit I was relieved! at this point. I really knew I would finish the race and gathered myself for the looming bulk of Ingleborough.

Two fields in I saw Richard Briscoe and again this raised my spirits to see a fellow club member and managed to stagger past him. Just before starting the climb it hailed for just 2.5 seconds but I thought my world was going to end as I wasn’t feeling quite myself at this point and though this is all i need! The climb didn’t seem as bad this time and I was lifted to see Steve Berry near the top shouting encouragement and giving me a drink of water. He said ” Andy’s just a minute in front of you – he’s yours to take!” I replied that all I wanted taking was a me in a helicopter from the summit but he just laughed ( I was deadly serious but he’d thought I was joking!). On my way to the trig I saw Andy Foster coming down and we said hello.

This was the bit I was most bothered about now as I was tired and it is horrible on that limestone coming back ( in fact on our recce Alex ended up with 3 stitches in his knee falling along the route back). But I remembered Simon’s advice about the race really starting from here and luckily I had paced it so that I steadily overtook quite a few on the way down including Andy who had a bad cramp attack and was slowing rapidly. Even more unusually I didn’t fall. These Yorkshire folk must like value for money in a race, as several times on the way in people shouted just a mile and a half to go when it was more like 4. Even so I managed to gain a few more places till the finish took me by surprise popping out from that tunnel straight onto the field!!

It was a great event and a fantastic experience I will definitely do again. I was very pleased with my time as I had reckoned around 5 hours to 5 and a half mark but got in in 4:45. My thanks to the organisers, marshalls and support on this race – it truly is a classic and I’d recommend it to every club member wholeheartedly.

Martin Brady (2nd from L) and Andrew Orr (R)receiving their trophies for 21 3 Peaks completions. Photo: Andrew Firth.

Full Results

28 April – Fellsman

Fellsman regular Andy Armstrong and first timer Alan Dorrington set about this classic old-school ultra in the Dales, finishing together at the end of its 61 mile route with over 11,000ft of climb in just over 18 and a half hours.

For Alan it was a step into the unknown, given he hadn’t run more than 6 hours before but a combination of frequent refuelling with sausage rolls, pasta, hotdogs and flapjack and Andy’s experienced pacing and grit when he was unable to eat any of the above mentioned buffet for the last part of the race, saw them both round in good order. A great, if slightly lengthy day out over the many of the highest parts of the Dales.

Andy Armstrong and Alan Dorrington not taking things too seriously at the Fellsman. Photo: SportSunday

ByAlan Dorrington

Winter’s not over till it’s over…

No let up in the winter weather this month with gales, snow, ice and then a proper cold snap heading toward the UK at the end of month. Of course none of that deterred the Clayton runners from hitting muddy fields, wintry fells, snowy mountains and the roads in between.

3 February – Lancashire Schools Cross Country

Helana White waiting for the B of the Bang...

Helana White (609) waiting for the B of the Bang… Photo: Rachael White

Clayton Juniors were to the fore at the recent Lancashire Schools Cross-Country Championships. There were fine age group wins for Helana White and Briony Holt, top 10 places for Harry Cole, Ella Dorrington and Jackson McKay and a host of fine supporting performances as our Juniors ran for their individual District teams.

Year 7 Girls – Helana White 1st, Rachel Stevenson 59th

Year 7 Boys – Harry Cole 8th, Jenson Bentham 24th, Finley Stubbs 31st

Junior Girls (Yr 8 and 9) – Ella Dorrington 10th, Sophie Ashworth 26th, Imogen Ferguson 59th, Keira Stevenson 64th

Junior Boys – Jackson McKay 9th, William Nicholls 20th, Lennon Jackson 39th

Inter Boys – Nick Henessey 20th, Michael Stevens 22nd, Peter Stevens 26th,

Inter Girls – Briony Holt 1st, Millie Stubbs 8th, Caitlin Welsh 31st.

Apologies to anyone I have missed – as our Juniors were running for their District teams it is harder to spot them in the results.

Full Results

4 February – Blackburn Winter Warmer

Jon Cleaver reports from this popular event:

A very strong field lined up for the 2018 Winter Warmer at Witton Park on a chilly Sunday morning with the sun on our backs which made for very good racing. The course itself is a toughie and from past performances one which normally sees you at least 2 minutes short of your PB. It starts with a climb of around 450ft climbing out of the park and then most of the work is out of the way. I managed to hold on to a pack holding the top 5 until the descent which found me lacking a bit for speed to keep with them. There is a little kicker of a hill at mile 4 before you start on your way back through the park which again is flat or descending until you see the track. I’d managed to gain a couple of places back but was starting to get a bit concerned when I looked behind and saw a lad from Salford starting to make some distance on me. Not to be deterred I held on and pushed for the last lap around the track for a top 10 finish.

27368912_1837112753022897_7630969224917702846_o

Nick Hennessey. Photo: David Belshaw

There were some outstanding runs from the younger Clayton lads picking out a couple of exceptional results from Nick Hennessy 38:11, Ryan Bradshaw 37:22 & Josh Hall 42:30.

Great start to the road championship for 2018 and well done all whom turned out to run and cheer us on.

Editors update: Clayton took the 2nd team prize behind the winners, Blackburn Harriers

Full Results

4 February – Kong Mini Mountain Marathon Series Rd 1

Sparkling condtions over to the Carneddau at the Kong Mini Mtn Marathon. Photo: Alan Dorrington

Alan Dorrington headed over to North Wales for the 1st round of this 4 hr score event series, held out of Bethesda on sunny day with low temperatures and with significant snowfall higher up to spice things up..

“With 4 hours to find as many controls of varying point value and heavy penalties if late back to the finish, this type of event requires a systematic plan that can be varied according to the conditions underfoot, and according to any mistakes that may or may not be made in finding well hidden controls over a wide area. My initial plan to pick off higher scoring controls with some ridge running over Carnedd Gwenllian was abandoned due to tough running in wind-slabbed snow, so I opted to target controls at lower elevations for the next 2 1/2 hours. A bit of a wobble with some poor map interpretation meant a panic to get back over some fairly big climbs and back to the finish in time to avoid penalties, as well as losing out on some controls on the homeward sweep. All in all, the Kong events are a great way to see some areas that you wouldn’t normally visit, as well as sharpen up on navigation for some of the longer, harder fell races.”

10 February – Windy Hill fell race 9 miles and 1280ft

Jon Cleaver enjoying a windy Windy Hill. Photo: Cannonball Events

A new-ish fixture on the fell calendar, this 9 mile B category race visits the hills around Hollingworth Lake. No that the runners would have seen much of the great scenery around there this year…

Report from Jon Cleaver:

Well this race certainly lived up to its name! On a very wet & cold day I layered up well with 2 hats, 2 pairs of gloves and 4 tops to ensure I kept warm and braved the moors around Littleborough & Blackstone Edge.

Starting out at the Rugby Club near Hollingsworth Lake you climb up over the M62 and onto the moors about 3 miles in there is a climb which goes on for a mile and climbs around 900ft. Once you got to the top you got hit with a wall of wind and rain. The path followed the old Roman road for quite a bit which was treacherous due to ice. This lost me a bit of ground on the top 10 due to lack of grip in my mudclaws. On the way in you have about 2 miles of really good trail and finally some good old fashioned 2 foot deep mud making it quite a quick run in!

Even though the elements were against us I really enjoyed it and could have been caught with the occasional smile on my face (hard to believe I know!). Overall I came 11th in 01:08:53 (8.8miles 1565ft).

Full Results

11 February – Barbondale fell race

Briony Holt digs in at Barbondale.

Hail hill and hurt – Andrew Holt reports:

2nd of five races of Kendal Winter League for myself and Briony and one we’ve been wanting to do for a couple of years as it’s well known as the steepest of the series. The location is nestled in the hills behind whernside linking the dales to the howgills, not that we could see much due to the snow and cloud

After a struggle parking we arrived with time to shred our calf’s walking the route – for Briony 300m of ascent then a 200m run to the top and for myself the same 300m ascent in 800m followed another 800m runnable but uphill at the top. Then straight down for the both of us

The ground was slippy, wet, sprinkled with ice at the top but nothing of value on the way up or down. The weather cleared at the top for a while and I decided to wear a top and gloves as it was completely different to the conditions in the valley below. And the views,when the weather cleared were more than worth the effort.

And we’re off – 13 minutes eyeball popping power walking followed by 5 minutes running to the trig. I did my usual grind it out start and pulled myself into 40th or so at the top (it was nice to be on the flat near the top before the front runners passed us on the way down) and gained another 4-5 places overtaking just before the hill steepens and thankfully staying upright into the finish

The awesome Wendy Dodds and Katy Thompson took a 1/2 in their respective categories with Briony a brilliant 2nd overall and I squeezed in a top ten finish for my age. A brilliant series that’s well worth a look

17 February – Mid Lancs XC League Round 5

Team warm up for the U11 Girls. Photo: David Belshaw

Charlie Barnes and Fraser Anforth. Photo: David Belshaw

Helana White giving it 110% for a fine 3rd place. Photo: David Belshaw

Millie Stubbs. Photo: David Belshaw

A new venue up the M6 for the penultimate round of the Mid Lancs XC series saw the Clayton tent pitched in the middle of Ryelands Park, Lancaster.

The U11 Girls team of Amelia Halstead, Ellisia Smedley and Joni Higgins were straight into warm up and off round the grassy course which had a few twists and turns rather than lots of straights. Amelia continued her good form and took 7th, with Ellisia and Joni in 57th and 61st. In the U11 Boys, Charlie Barnes was 45th and Joshua McKay 62nd.

Helana White scored her best performance of the Mid Lancs series so far, with a really gutsy run to 3rd place in the U13 Girls, with Ella Dorrington in 8th and the ever-improving Imogen Ferguson in 40th. The girls also took 3rd in the team competition, setting them up nicely for a possible series team placing.

William Nicholls also had a great run for 16th in the U13 Boys, with Robbie Smedley, Finley Stubbs and Matthew Jackson supporting.

Millie Stubbs was the sole U15 Girl in 12th, whilst Jackson McKay also came in 12th in the Boys race, closely followed by Harrison Codd in 13th and Lennon Jackson in 23rd.

Briony Holt took 3rd in the U17 Girls race, despite suffering the after effects of a tough England Mountain Running Team training camp earlier in the week.

Clayton Ladies looking chirpy before the race. Photo: David Belshaw

Deborah Greenwood looking slightly less chirpy… Photo: David Belshaw

Tom Brewster. Photo: David Belshaw

Donna Airey led the Ladies home in 25th, as well as the Ladies Over 35 team to a fine 2nd place backed up by Michelle Abbott and Cassie Smedley.

Another consistent improver, U20 Calum Holmes was the first Clayton man back to the finish in 18th, leading the Men’s team of Tom Brewster, Thomas Walker, Andrew Holt, Mark Aspinal and Chris Funnel to 2nd in the team competition. With the addition of John Wilcock, the Vet men took 3rd Over 40 and 2nd Over 50 team also.

Full Results

25 February – Hoppits’ Hill fell races

Ella Dorrington descending at Hoppits. Photo: Alan Dorrington

Organised by fell running royalty in the form of Nicky Spinks, this low key local race around the hills near Dewsbury incorporates relaxed Junior races and is a lovely warm up for Juniors looking ahead to the fell season starting in the Spring months. Not that it was that warm with the Best from the East on the way, though the snow was yet to arrive.

Ella Dorrington was the sole Clayton runner there amongst the Juniors but made up for that by coming 2nd overall in the U15 race, as well as 1st girl in the combined U15 and U17 race. Chocolate prizes presented by Nicky capped off a lovely day out.

ByAlan Dorrington

Kicking off 2018 with a (X) Country flavour!

It’s been (mostly) about cross-country during this otherwise quiet month, with the Lancashire Championships, and Mid Lancs League as well as some other mud-based action further afield. Worthy of special mention, is the club’s Junior section who continued training hard right through the Christmas break, with both the younger and older Juniors putting in the time despite the weather. This led to both individual and team awards for their efforts, with ALL the Juniors being part of the success that is Team Clayton.

We also learnt this month that Danny Collinge, one of the Junior section’s big inspirations and role models as well as ambassador for Clayton overall is soon moving on to pasture’s new. Danny’s fantastic exploits have graced this report many, many times over the years and behind the scenes his help, support and encouragement for Juniors (and Seniors too) has been hugely valued and much appreciated by so many in the Clayton family. In common with all of us at the Club, I would like to thank Danny and wish him the all the very best for his running in the future – thank you.

7 January – Lancashire Cross-Country Championships, Witton Park

Our U11 Girls team charges off the line! Photo: David Belshaw

We’ll start with our Clayton Juniors as they came away from the Championships with a fantastic medal haul and a good collection of Lancashire vests earned for the Inter Counties race in March.

Amelia Halstead (in blue headband above) pulled off a stunning victory in the U11 Girls with a finely judged run from behind to overhaul all but one of the hard-charging front runners on the second lap, and all finished off with a gutsy sprint to the line to take the win. Amelia had been moving up the placings in Red Rose and Mid Lancs league races so her Championship win was not unexpected but richly deserved nonetheless. Ellisia Smedley, Emily Nicholls and Joni Higgins all battled hard and made up the Clayton team finishers.

In the U11 Boys race, Charlie Barnes (in 31st) led home Brayden Clarkson, Joshua McKay and Fraser Anforth for a team finish.

All eyes were on Robbie Smedley, Matthew Jackson, William Nicholls, Finley Stubbs, and Jenson Bentham in the U13 Boys race for both individual results and the team prize. Robbie Smedley had a fine run to take the Bronze and with it Lancashire selection whilst Matthew Jackson also placed in top ten (and reserve for the County team) and with the others, secured 2nd place in the team competition.

Helana White and Ella Dorrington were both aiming for Lancashire vests in the U13 Girls race and after one of their customary big battles with each other, as well as the rest of the field, both secured their vests with Helana 6th (in her first year in the age cat)and Ella 5th. Behind them, Imogen Ferguson and Rachel Stevenson brought their lovely smiles and cheery demeanour to our U13G team.

26198615_1801064296627743_9076584043904718725_o

Robbie Smedley clinched 3rd place. Photo: David Belshaw

26233085_1801066549960851_3918171710176402532_o

Ella Dorrington. Photo: David Belshaw

Helana White pushes to the line. Photo: David Belshaw

In the U15 Boys race, Jackson McKay finished 12th, Michael Stevens 17th, twin brother Peter 24th and Adam Stevenson 29th. The normally fast Lennon Jackson also ran but appeared to not particularly enjoy the experience and finished a little behind the others…

26232969_1801103993290440_286934796566724369_o

Briony Holt. Photo: David Belshaw

Millie Stubbs, Kaliska Clarke, Beth Wheatcroft and Keira Stevenson all ran in the U15 Girls with Millie 13th after chasing hard for a top ten place.

Briony Holt secured Lancashire selection with a strong 4th place in her first year in the U17 Girls age group, whilst Josh Hall and Nick Hennessey were 10th and 16th respectively in the U17 Boys race.

Danny Collinge came home 11th in the Senior race and earned a reserve place on the Lancashire team.

Finally, in the Vets race, our team of David Edmondson, Richard Stevenson, Andrew Holt and Michael Toms were 3rd, with Tara Robb leading the Clayton Ladies in (26th), and Donna Airey the Vet Ladies (16th).

Full Results

12- 14 January – The Montane Spine Challenger

Nicholas Olszewski, Andrew Armstrong and Andrew Morley lined themselves up for this epic challenge, 108 miles along the Pennine Way to Hardraw in the Yorkshire Dales. Freezing temperatures, torrential rain and biting winds did nothing to deter their resolve and they all finished close together in 39 hours. Yes, 39 hours of non-stop running, walking and general forward movement. There are photos circulating of discolated fingers, trench foot and the like but it’s probably safer to show some of the photos I took whilst encouraging them near Malham Cove. Special mention too to Adrienne Olszweska who was probably as sleep deprived as them travelling around supporting on the road stops.

Our Spine Challenger racers near Malham. Photo: Alan Dorrington

13 January – Mid Lancs Cross-Country League Towneley Park

Should be a prize for smiling - here's your winner Rachel Stevenson. Photo: David Belshaw

If there was a prize for smiling whilst racing, here’s your winner Rachel Stevenson. Photo: David Belshaw

With barely enough time to clean off dirty spikes from the weekend before, our Clayton athletes were back in action on home turf at the 4th Mid Lancs League round in Towneley Park. Conditions were surprisingly fast and firm leading to some quicker racing than in the heavy going at Witton Park the week before, though a cold wind in the finish straight made fast finishes tough going..

Amelia Halstead built on her win at the Lancashire Championships the week before with a great 2nd place in the U11 Girls, whilst in the U13 Girls Ella Dorrington produced her best Mid Lancs performance this season in 3rd, backed up by Helana White in 6th. With Imogen Ferguson they took 3rd place in the team competition.

Robbie Smedley, William Nicholls and Matthew Jackson worked well to take 3rd team in the U11 Boys race, and Briony Holt placed 2nd in the U17 Girls race.

The leading Clayton runners in Senior Ladies and Mens were Tara Robb (30th) and Tom Brewster (27th) whilst the Senior Men (Tom Brewster, David Bagot, Calum Holmes, David Edmondson, Richard Stevenson and Thomas Walker) took 3rd team and the Vet 40s also secured 3rd team (David Edmondson, Richard Stevenson, Andrew Holt and Michael Toms).

26685134_1809356539131852_5511615301471059385_o

Josh McKay. Photo: David Belshaw

26678498_1809407679126738_624043619896673119_o

Jackson McKay and Michael Stevens chase a local rival. Photo: David Belshaw

26240880_1809429775791195_2873845633907623287_o

Nerina Gill. Photo: David Belshaw

26678188_1809374319130074_4702980840524154870_o

Kaliska Clarke showing good form at the finish. Photo: David Belshaw

Full Results

14 January – East Lancs Hospice 10k and 2k

Your winner! Danny Collinge. Photo: David Belshaw

Road racing is a bit thin on the ground this time of year but this traditional New Year fundraiser for the Hospice always attracts a good field including those wanting to test their legs a bit before the season starts properly in the Spring.

In one of his final appearances for the club before moving on to pastures new, Danny Collinge took a very convincing victory by well over a minute from Matt Nuttall of Blackburn Harriers with a very impressive time of 33:50. Callum James was next in for Clayton in a great 9th overall and 1st Junior with Nick Hennessey 2nd Junior and 16th overall.

26677862_1810385979028908_8184813231437858054_o

Cassie and Michelle. Pairs race winners… Photo: David Belshaw

26910259_1810366002364239_5135225176622774092_o

A fine run from Callum James. Photo: David Belshaw

The inseperable duo of Cassandra Smedley and Michelle Abott were 4th and 5th women, and Joanne Motley 8th. Angela Shian and Vickey Heys were 6th and 7th in the women’s V40 and V45 cats respectively with Charlie Clutterbuck 4th in Mens V70+.

There were plenty of Clayton Juniors in the 2k race held alongside the main race, with Matthew Jackson back on his preferred tarmac surface placing 2nd overall and 1st U13B, chased in by Helana White in 3rd overall and 1st U13G.

They’re off! Photo: David Belshaw

26756879_1810519179015588_1192152229438019328_o

Toby Birtwhistle eyes up the finish line. Photo: David Belshaw

28 January – Kendal Winter League Whitestones

Andrew and Briony Holt risked forever changing the interior of their car (for the worse) at this renowned uber-mudfest, part of the super tough Kendal Winter League where fell races masquerade as cross-country races, the sheep wear Inov8s on the fell and, well you get the drift… they’re quite hard.

Andrew reports:

After promising myself I’d do as many of these races as I can this year life and work have conspired against me making this one-the fourth in the series-my first.Todays race wasn’t particularly promising either- a heavy cold since Thursday and awful conditions when we awoke.

Briony was excited to be back on the fells however, and once we passed Settle on the way up the rain eased off.I’ve watched this race but not ran it yet and it’s steep at the start, technical, and with this years extra dose of mud more than challenging along the top of the course.The distance is just over four miles with 250m of ascent, a challenging run.

We started and it’s a mad rush to get the 300 or so yards to the single track ascent to the top of the first hill. I misjudged it and found myself scrambling through the gorse next to the path trying to keep momentum up the hill. On top the course flattens for a mile or so, and is cross crossed with bogs and tussocks sapping our legs.

Unlike the recent cross country races I was faster than the people around me on the flat-hard ground and anything technical or boggy I would fall back a couple of places. We ran around the top of the valley into the strong wind to the summit of the next peak adjacent to where we start.

I counted twenty or so people in front of me, and I was neither gaining nor being overtaken so in kind of a run-come-bog trot traversed around the head of the valley to the descent. I managed to drag maybe three people in on the final hill prior to dropping onto the finish, but was reminded again these are fell runners as they came past me downhill like I was stood still!

I finished 20th overall, v happy and looking forward to the Fell season starting proper.

Briony came 2nd in her first fell race this year, and despite dragging herself up the first hill with a combination of eyeballs and willpower finished with her usual smile enjoyed it immensely.

Stephen Fish and Chris Brown were the other orange hoops on show and looked strong in their respective races

Andrew Holt at the Farleton Knott fell race. Photo by Geoff Thompson

Andrew Holt not in the mud at Whitestones but in warner times at the Farleton Knott fell race. Photo by Geoff Thompson

Full results

ByAlan Dorrington

December’s Festive Roundup

Into December and on toward Christmas and the New Year, the cross-country season rolls on with guest appearances from the fell and road runners around the festive break.

To round off the year, there have been Junior wins, Senior wins, some dodgy fancy dress and a mass takeover of Pendle Hill. Grab a brew and the last of those mince pies and review the final month of the year, hopefully emerging inspired to take on 2018 in similar style.

Right, see if you can stand still without being blown off your feet! Photo: Deborah Stevenson

26 November – Lee Mill Relays

The running around the quarries and moors above Bacup is surprisingly tough and this year’s Lee Mill Relays, a recent and popular fixture on the calendar were made even tougher by proper wintry weather conditions. Clayton fielded 3 teams and Sarah Helliwell reports:

It was a cold and overcast morning as 3 Clayton teams made their way to Stubbylee Park near Bacup. As we parked up, it was obvious it was going to be snowy, frosty and boggy if you ‘stepped or fell’ into the wrong place!

We had 2 ladies teams who braved the conditions and 1 men’s team. The leg 1 runners had a tough start as they had to forge their route through thick snow, hidden tussocks and freezing cold bogs that many of the runners got stuck in! With the odd rain, sleet or snow shower depending what altitude you were running at, creating wintery conditions for the majority of the runners over the 6 mile course. Very tough and definitely character building.

The men can 5th overall with a time of 4.00.58, the team consisting of Carl Helliwell, Luke Turner, Russell Clarke and Chris Snell. Well done lads on some tough conditions.

Both ladies teams put in sterling efforts, with some of the ladies doing the event for the first time. The A team included Tara Robb, Rhiannon Wickham, Alison Dugdale and Jean Brown, with all of them having good runs and coming home as 3rd ladies team with a time of 4:50:37. The B team was a vet 40 team consisting of Angela Shian, Julia Rushton, Teresa De Curtis and Katy Thompson with a time of 6:00:11. A massive well done to all who ran and represented Team Clayton on a very demanding day.

Carl Helliwell blazes a trail on Leg 1. Photo: mick Fryer

Full Results

2 December – Red Rose Cross Country League Round 4

Marl Pits. Like Marmite. Some love it, some hate it. Either way there will be always be weapons grade mud at the final Red Rose League fixture and this year didn’t disappoint.

Jenson Bentham supplements his diet with Marl Pits mud. Photo: David Belshaw

Junior Races

Highlight of the day was Ella Dorrington’s win in the U13G. Using her fell running strength on the hilly and muddy course, she tracked the 3 early leaders, put in the quickest final muddy descent of all of them and outsprinted the final two on the line. Helana White was close behind in 10th.

Robbie Smedley had his usual battle royal with former teammate Dexta Thompson and secured 2nd on the day with teammates Will Nicholls and Finley Stubbs securing 2nd team prize also.

In the U11s Charlie Barnes led the boys home in 27th and Amelia Halstead was 11th in the girls race.

Harrison Codd was first Clayton U15B in 12th and Millie Stubbs led our U15G girls home in 6th. Special mention to Sophie Ashworth who fell and tore ligaments in her ankle – we wish her a speedy recovery.

The U17B were led home by Josh Hall in 7th with Briony Holt our only U17G in 3rd place.

Our Juniors won several awards in the overall 4 race series:

2nd= U13B Robbie Smedley

3rd= U13G Ella Dorrington

3rd U17G Briony Holt

2nd U13B Team

24297163_1761959543871552_5893708868136743625_o

Ella Dorrington on her way to her first League XC win. Photo: David Belshaw

24955808_1768327473234759_3360305278942475369_o

Another race goes down to the wire. Season long rivals Robbie Smedley, Dexta Thompson and Joe Ormerod. Photo: David Belshaw

Briony Holt revelling in the conditions. Photo: David Belshaw

Briony Holt looking very relaxed on the slick descents. Photo: David Belshaw

Seniors

Danny Collinge beat the Bog of Doom in the woods to secure a classy win in the Senior race, and backed up by Dave Motley, Tom Brewster, Peter Coates, Matthew Duckworth and Carl Helliwell took 2nd place in the Team race. Our Vet Men performed well too, also taking 2nd Team with Peter Coates, Carl Helliwell, Andrew Holt and Andrew Orr.

In the Ladies, Cassie Darling was 26th (15th Vet too) and with Michelle Abbott and Irene Roche the Vet Women took 6th place in the Team race.

Here’s a report from Vet Andrew Holt:

“Having watched my kids run there, and listening to the more experienced runners at CLEM I knew that the annual Marl Pits mud fest would be to my liking, it was just a case of waiting for my shifts to line up at work.

Following a reasonable night shift on Friday, and with four XC events in my legs already this year I felt I’d be able to do myself justice running it. It felt warmer than before, but was still boggy and the course was cutting up nicely following the earlier kids runs.

I’d half an hour when I arrived, so the choice was either a recce of the course, or a 50p coffee as mine was cooling nicely on the kitchen table where I’d left it. The coffee won!

A quick warm up, pep talk from Briony (grind the hill, walk the bog and ur gonna love it!!) and we were under starters orders. For the first time this season I felt the field pull away from me on the opening lap. I wasn’t concerned as I hadn’t ran this week and didn’t want to blow up later, but was the lack of sleep/training gonna take its toll? The first lap was manic, lots of slipping and sliding, up until the bog where the gaps started appearing and we settled into our running.

I was able to hold the runners around me on the ascents, and gain ground on the downhills and through the numerous hazards. The cheering at the bottom of the hill was excellent, demanding commitment, and I had the misfortune of a couple of pals from the mountain rescue giving me loads next to the wooden bridge, and any thought of resting was scuppered by coach Phil loitering in the field above the hill. The hills/bridges/bogs took care of themselves, and before I knew it I was on the last lap descending into the finish. I nearly got mugged on the line by one of the BOFRA runners I know (thanks Sarah for the warning) and ran in for my highest position so far this season.

I’m gonna plug my lad Curtis too for finishing this hard hard course despite barely no training and no doubt a hangover. I’m in front of him at the moment but I doubt that’s gonna last very long!

Superb running from everyone, baptism of fire for many. Now onto the flatter courses, starting at Leigh.”

The overall series results for Seniors/Vets included:

4th Vet Women 35-39 Cassie Darling

2nd Vet Women 65-69 Christine Egerton

3rd Vet Women 65-69 Christine Leathley

24254766_1762003310533842_299942354651095240_o

Michelle Abbott loves mud. No really. Photo: David Belshaw

24273900_1762059023861604_7900584229009159795_o

Sarah Helliwell. Photo: David Belshaw

24291806_1762029423864564_132472088861498636_o

Kirstie Higgins getting stuck in. Photo: David Belshaw

Marl Pits Results

Final Series Results

9 December – Mid Lancs Cross Country League Round 3

The cross-country season returned to Leigh Village for the 2nd time this season, this time for the 3rd Mid Lancs counter.

Junior action saw Amelia Halstead have a great run in U11G for 6th, Robbie Smedley 6th in U13B, Helana White 13th in U13G, Michael Stevens 14th in U15B and Briony Holt 2nd in U17G. The U13B team were 2nd with Matthew Jackson and Will Nicholls scoring points.

Tara Robb led the Women home in 20th with Tom Brewster 37th in the Senior Men. Calum Holmes had a good run for 4th in the U20 Men and Richard Lawson was 3rd in V70 Men.

Our Vets teams were 3rd in V40 and 2nd in V50.

Full Results

16 December – Hurst Green Turkey Trot

A fancy dress competition masquerading as a race, the Turkey Trot is always a firm favourite at this time of year. Whilst the fancy dress makes identifying individuals difficult, the results show that Andrew Payne was first Clayton home in 6th and Tara Robb was 7th Lady. It’s hard to do justice to all the fabulous fancy dress efforts that day but Michelle Abbott and Cassie Darling made it ‘Mario-Time!’ with their outfit, backed up by Lennon in his own inimitable style…

It’s-a-Me!! Guess who? Photo: David Belshaw

Jenson Bentham kept it rubber side down this time, to chase Helana White. Photo: David Belshaw

Full Results

24 December – Christmas Eve social up Pendle Hill

Strong winds and clag on the tops didn’t deter a large group of Juniors and Seniors from trekking up Pendle Hill to temporarily claim the trig platform as their own. Our own super-photographer David Belshaw also displayed his amazing time-travelling ability to almost be in two places at once with photos from the fell gate and then photos back in the car park as many of the runners returned. Personally, I think we should get him a vest and get him out racing..

Everybody look at me! Photo: David Belshaw

26026151_1786092051458301_8498733009376463102_o

I’d hold onto those Santa hats if I were you. Photo: David Belshaw

26 December – Whinberry Naze Fell Race

More fancy dress on show here for the fellrunner’s traditional hangover cure on Boxing Day. With a race distance of less than 4 miles but with over 750ft of climb, it’s always a bit of a rude awakening for the slightly befuddled, climbing steeply from the start before a correspondingly fast descent back down. Not before passing the trig and collecting a packet of Smarties from Santa though. Bonus points for those that can eat them on the way down without choking.

Fancy dress winner Shrek aka Julia Hartley and her movice co-stars. Photo: Kath Brady

Fancy dress winner Shrek aka Julia Hartley and her movie co-stars. Photo: Kath Brady

Full Results

31 December Ribble Valley 10k

Incorporating the North of England Championships this race always attracts a quality field with Olympians Jonny Brownlee and Laura Weightman amongst the star runners this year.

Jacob Watson claimed the honour of fastest Clayton runner in 71st and 35:10, whilst Richard Stevenson was quickest Vet with 37:39.

Claire Vincent was quickest Clayton woman in 43:17 and Lisa Johnson our fastest Vet woman in 52:56. Super Coach Marion Wilkinson won the V75 category overall with a predictive time for the following New Years Day of 01:01:01.

26114332_1793777494023090_7116766607633904734_o

The amazing Marion Wilkinson. Photo: David Belshaw

26114627_1793604617373711_8965061571480016863_o

Richard Stevenson chases Dave Motley. Photo: David Belshaw

26170406_1793656540701852_7525115111723705605_o

Calum Holmes digs in. Photo: David Belshaw

Full Results

ByAlan Dorrington

Run it fast, run it long, run it any which way!

This week you’ve recorded times from 4 mins 45 seconds to 33 hours 56 minutes and lots more in between with some short and snappy runs, some really loong ones and some pretty soggy ones too. And there’s been racing action abroad too with more Ironman competition. In other words, the usual spectacular celebration of running (and swimming and cycling) exploits from the Clayton membership. Fantastic stuff.

Wednesday

Padiham Greenway

Organising his first senior race, Junior Coach Jason Pier did a super job with this popular fixture on the Burnley and Pendle Grand Prix series, which ran like clockwork and attracted a record 180 seniors to race on a warm, balmy mid week night.

Fast Wharfedale Senior James Hall blazed into the finish in under 16 minutes with 15:44, followed by our own Danny Collinge in 16:29. From then on, the flood of Clayton runners was pretty constant, with many PBs and course bests peppering the results.

20248227_1611906005543574_9210407855762515630_o

PB for George Pier. Photo: David Belshaw

20280656_1611912105542964_9015134802559088210_o

Donna Airey. Photo: David Belshaw

20287013_1611905138876994_459369559482202132_o

‘What do you mean I didn’t run quick enough?!’ Nick Hennessey was 1st Junior home in a speedy sub 18 minutes. Photo: David Belshaw

20369777_1611917435542431_7016613983133816759_o

Thank. Goodness. That’s. Over… Lucy Stevenson. Photo: David Belshaw

20369767_1611917288875779_8494823877944108012_o

Christine Leathley brings it home. Photo: David Belshaw

20247834_1611909022209939_8326030155937057190_o

Bit more work needed on the double thumbs up Cassie Smedley? Photo: David Belshaw

Pos	Name	Cat	Cat Pos	Time
2	Danny Collinge	MS	(002/031)	00:16:29
8	Luke Turner	MS	(005/031)	00:17:16
9	Matthew Duckworth	MS	(006/031)	00:17:26
14	Nicholas Hennessey	MJ	(001/003)	00:17:49
17	Jonathan Pye	MS	(010/031)	00:18:06
19	George Pier	MS	(012/031)	00:18:21
27	Kevin Davies	M55	(001/012)	00:18:49
33	Paul Hesketh	M50	(002/016)	00:19:22
34	James Boult	MS	(018/031)	00:19:29
35	Gareth Berry	M40	(006/026)	00:19:29
40	Mick Hughes	M40	(008/026)	00:19:41
42	David Moynihan	M50	(003/016)	00:19:52
43	James Dunderdale	MS	(021/031)	00:19:54
45	Reece Lawrence	MJ	(002/003)	00:20:01
46	John Roche	M55	(003/012)	00:20:05
48	Michael Clarke	M40	(011/026)	00:20:13
51	Sean Clare	M50	(004/016)	00:20:19
52	Andy Bradley	M50	(005/016)	00:20:21
53	Paul Foster	M45	(006/012)	00:20:27
54	Craig Nicholls	M40	(012/026)	00:20:34
56	Adam Stephenson	MS	(023/031)	00:20:38
59	Elizabeth Mullan	FS	(001/012)	00:20:53
67	Cassandra Smedley	F35	(003/018)	00:21:24
72	Robert Morrison	M45	(008/012)	00:21:46
73	Donna Airey	F35	(004/018)	00:21:54
75	Chris Lawrence	M50	(010/016)	00:22:07
78	Colin White	M40	(013/026)	00:22:23
82	Jeffrey Pickup	M65	(001/004)	00:22:31
84	James Hickie	M55	(005/012)	00:22:40
86	Carl Carey	M45	(010/012)	00:22:46
87	Michelle Abbott	F35	(005/018)	00:22:49
99	Aaron Lundie	MJ	(003/003)	00:23:45
102	Nina Kewin	F35	(006/018)	00:24:03
103	Nerina Gill	F45	(002/007)	00:24:05
106	Julia Rushton	F50	(003/008)	00:24:11
108	J Pollard	F45	(003/007)	00:24:15
109	Ian Hargreaves	M50	(014/016)	00:24:18
112	Lisa Ellis	F35	(008/018)	00:24:28
117	David I. Scott	M70	(002/002)	00:24:38
119	Jane Ryan	F40	(003/008)	00:24:41
122	Bryn Barnes	M65	(003/004)	00:24:52
124	Colin Woolford	M40	(020/026)	00:24:55
125	Andrew Taylor	M55	(009/012)	00:24:55
130	Lucy Scott	FS	(008/012)	00:25:12
133	Richard Lawson	M75	(001/001)	00:25:29
134	Mark R. Knowles	M40	(022/026)	00:25:32
141	Michelle Butschok	F40	(004/008)	00:26:14
144	Rebecca Bradshaw	FS	(011/012)	00:26:38
145	Jane Hylands	F45	(004/007)	00:26:42
148	Deborah Greenwood	F45	(005/007)	00:27:06
152	Helen Burnett	F45	(006/007)	00:27:30
156	Julia Taylor	F55	(001/004)	00:28:39
163	Judith Carey	F35	(016/018)	00:29:24
166	Geraldine Varley	F55	(004/004)	00:30:03
167	Christine Egerton	F65	(001/002)	00:30:06
171	Ron Chappell	M65	(004/004)	00:30:44
172	Jack McGuire	M60	(008/008)	00:30:53
174	Lucy Stevenson	FJ	(002/002)	00:31:18
175	Sharon Wilson	F40	(008/008)	00:31:30
176	Anita Jones	F60	(003/004)	00:32:07
177	Christine Leathley	F65	(002/002)	00:32:09

Full Results Seniors

Junior races

There was also a record turnout of 83 juniors for these races, a large section of whom were Clayton Juniors. There were age group wins for Freya Birtwistle (U9G), Helena White (U13G), Tom Holden (U17B) and Millie Stubbs (U17G). Podium places were also occupied by Robbie Smedley (U13B), Finley Stubbs (U13B), Michael Stevens (U15B), Adam Stephenson (U15B), Ella Dorrington (U15G), Jay Bowman (U17B), Kaliska Clarke (U17G) and Alfie White (U17B). All our Juniors ran brilliantly and were smiling at one point or another during the proceedings.

Emily Johnson looking good and heading to the finish. Photo: David Belshaw

U7/U9

Pos	Name	Cat	Cat Pos	Time
13	Charlie Plant	M9	(007/008)	00:04:45
15	Ruby Cleaver	F9	(005/008)	00:05:01
16	Freya Birtwistle	F7	(001/001)	00:05:08
21	Olly Plant	M9	(008/008)	00:05:27
22	Emily Johnson	F9	(008/008)	00:05:30

U11/U13

Pos	Name	Cat	Cat Pos	Time
2	Robbie Smedley	M13	(002/009)	00:06:46
3	Finley Stubbs	M13	(003/009)	00:07:12
5	Matthew Jackson	M13	(005/009)	00:07:16
9	Helana White	F13	(001/006)	00:07:25
14	Nathan Kewin	M13	(007/009)	00:07:56
19	Charlie Barnes	M11	(006/015)	00:08:09
26	Toby Birtwistle	M11	(011/015)	00:08:30
28	Imogen Ferguson	F13	(005/006)	00:08:41
36	Fraser Anforth	M11	(015/015)	00:09:37
38	Emily Nicholls	F11	(008/010)	00:09:45
39	Ellisia Smedley	F11	(009/010)	00:10:14
40	Joni Higgins	F11	(010/010)	00:10:57

Michael Stevens chased winner Jack Villiers hard in the U15 race. Photo: David Belshaw

Beth Wheatcroft and Kaliska in the U15G race. Photo: David Belshaw

Beth Wheatcroft and Kaliska Clarke in the U15G race. Photo: David Belshaw

U15/U17

Pos	Name	Cat	Cat Pos	Time
2	Michael Stevens	M15	(002/006)	00:10:58
3	Adam Stevenson	M15	(003/006)	00:11:33
4	Lennon Jackson	M15	(004/006)	00:11:40
5	Tom Holden	M17	(001/003)	00:11:58
6	Harrison L. Codd	M15	(005/006)	00:11:59
7	Jay Bowman	M17	(002/003)	00:12:00
9	Ella Dorrington	F15	(002/009)	00:12:13
10	Millie Stubbs	F17	(001/002)	00:12:29
11	William Nicholls	M15	(006/006)	00:12:52
13	Kaliska Clarke	F17	(002/002)	00:13:18
14	Bethany Wheatcroft	F15	(004/009)	00:13:23
15	Alfie White	M17	(003/003)	00:13:37
17	Natasha Olszewska	F15	(006/009)	00:13:52
18	Heidi Kewin	F15	(007/009)	00:14:08
19	Keira Stevenson	F15	(008/009)	00:15:33
20	Bronia Olszewska	F15	(009/009)	00:15:58

Full Results Juniors

Lee Mill Fell Race

This midweek Rossendale Harriers fixture over 6 miles takes competitors on an industrial fell-tour of some of Rossendale’s largest stoneworking sites, past and present, with some good old fashioned moorland running thrown in too. Won by Phil Marsden from Horwich RMI, Chris Snell was the first Clayton runner home in 7th, with Alan Life in 11th and Stephen Fish in 47th.

Full Results

Thursday

Heart of the Lakes Rydal Round

Along with the Guides races, the Rydal Round makes up the fell running attractions at Ambleside Sports. This longstanding AM race is held over 9 miles and 300ft of climb. Matt Perry was 12th in a fast time of 1:31:33 behind winner Simon Bailey (Mercia) in 1:23:37, Richard Briscoe was 63nd in 1:57:30 and Alan Dorrington 72nd in 2:03:32. 144 runners started.

Alan Dorrington reports:

“Chasing Briscoes in the mist… that was the theme for this Fairfield Horseshoe by another name. Following pretty much the same course, save for the initial climb up Nab Scar and a little bit of contouring around rather than over intermediate peaks, the weather during the round deteriorated reasonably decisively as a heavy rain shower and strong winds blew in over Fairfield summit. Depending on where you were in the field, this meant being buffeted and drenched at some point, some escaping the worst and others like myself being battered by the weather over the rougher rocky sections over Fairfield and down to Link Hause.

It had started innocuously enough, as I found myself pacing the long initial climb up to Heron Pike, only for Richard Briscoe to stride past at the bottom of the climb. Assuming he had been out clubbing till 4am the night before/raced for 3 days previously/was severly dehydrated* (*delete as applicable), I happily let him go and marvelled instead at the sight of Simon Bailey running the top section of the climb, some considerable way above me. I resolved to catch Richard later in the race for sure.

Except I didn’t, and he remained, tantalisingly, a short distance in front all the way over toward Fairfield and as the mist came in. The rain and wind and clag did for the vision through my glasses and reduced my pace to an embarassingly slow crawl over the rocky sections to Hart Crag till lower ground was gained, it stopped blowing a hooly and I could see again. Except there was no sign of Richard. He’d had a good run over the back side of the course and finished well on the now sodden descent back through Brock Crags and along to the sports field. Next time…

Alan Dorrington makes his way through the rain and clag on Fairfield. Photo: Stephen Wilson/GrandDayOut

Full Results

Ambleside Sports Guides Races – BOFRA

Along with Grasmere, this is one of the oldest and more prestigious Guides Races in the country, following the usual ‘stupid steep up and then down’ format of Guides Races over the years.

Briony Holt revels in this kind of flat out racing up and down 45 degree slopes and took 2nd place in the U17G race by a clear margin behind perpetual rival, Rosie Woodhams. Her time over the same course as the Senior race would have placed her as 2nd Lady in that race too…

Briony Holt in full flight. Photo: Woodentops

In the Senior race won by Rob Hope in 14:15, a plucky Richard Briscoe decided to see just how wrecked his legs might be from the Rydal Round a couple of hours before but still managed a respectable 21:39 and 59th with Andrew Firth in 72nd. Chapeau!

Here’s Richard’s report:

“On Thursday I decided to do the Rydal Round and the short Bofra race at Ambleside Sports. I had to to the Bofra race to try and get 8 championship races in. The main race is the Rydal round a cracking race was a good turn out. Three Clayton runners did the long race Matt Perry, Alan Dorrington, and myself. I started very well behind Matt but in front of Alan. I saw him behind me so I had to improve my game to stop him. The weather wasn’t good especially on top of Fairfield so had to be quick to get round. I managed the race and was faster than previous times. I felt good so I did the 2nd race as well the short Bofra race. Andy Firth and myself did it.”

Richard Briscoe feels the pain of 2 fast race finishes in about as many hours. Photo: Woodentops

Andrew Firth on his way to the finish at Ambleside Sports. Photo: Woodentops

Full Results

Friday

Lakeland 100

Grim, overwhelming, stomach churning and unforgettable. That was just the portable toilets at this years Lakeland 100/50 event, never mind the tough, iconic ultra distance courses and traditional Lakeland ‘weather’ on offer to hardy ultra runners this weekend.

The M*A*S*H themed support station at Dalemain. Photo: Adrienne Olszewska

Put simply, Martin Terry had a knockout performance in the Lakeland 100. He ran consistently well throughout the race and was looking happy and strong at Dalemain checkpoint. He continued to race steadily and, despite a temporary period of tiredness in the later stages, managed to pick off a few runners to finish in 17th place overall with a time of 26:09:03. There are no age categories in the race but that position would have been 1st V50.

Andrew Armstrong finished in 113th place with a time of 33:56:30 despite suffering from sickness and struggling to refuel throughout, opting for a liquid diet of flat Coke and a single cup of soup between miles 25 and 75. Andy does like to keep things simple and minimal, but we’re not sure that nutrition strategy will fully catch on in the ultra world. Nor will the acquisition of trench foot due to the wet conditions that battered the 223 finishers in the 100 race for much of the weekend.

Congratulations to both on a truly mammoth accomplishment. Trench foot pictures withheld due to upsetting content.

Also a special mention to Clayton Juniors Natasha and Bronia Olszewska who worked really hard all weekend at the Dalemain checkpoint, looking after the 100 mile runners brilliantly.

Bronia and Natasha – experienced ultra helpers. Photo: SportSunday

Full Results to follow

Saturday

Lakeland 50

Andy Laycock had a fantastic run in the 50 mile event, starting on Saturday. He was in first position for the first half of the race until he was overtaken by Casper Kaars Sijpesteijn who then went on to break the course record. Andy finished in 07:51:42.

Full Results to follow

Pilling 10k

Laura Hesketh had a fantastic run here, placing 1st Lady in 35:23 (a PB), and 7th overall. This continues her super run of form in recent races including last weeks Sale Sizzler 5k (16:44) and which has seen her place 16th overall in the UK rankings, the highest position ever for a Clayton senior lady.

Full Results

Turnslack Fell Race

This 8 mile race with 2001ft of climb starts out of Calderbrook near Littelborough and heads out over Hades Hill to Ramsden Clough before returning over Shore Moor. The race was won by Mike Fanning from Holmfirth in 1:10:52 and Paul Hesketh, Jack Holt and Jeffrey Pickup ran coming in 17th, 30th and 48th respectively.

Full Results

Cowling Gala Fell Race – BOFRA

Helana White popped across the border to this local gala fell race with its stone wall obstacled finish and came back with a 3rd place in the U12G race. And probably an ice cream.

Whoosh! Helana White getting those arms in the air. Photo: Woodentops

Full Results

Sunday

Sabden Fell Race

This English Hill Runners fixture takes in a 5.25 mile loop from Sabden over the quieter end of Pendle with some nice contouring running amongst a couple of stiff climbs giving around 1500ft of climbing. Dave Motley got his race face on as well as the bit between his teeth, and took a fine second place behind winner Grant Cunliffe of Rossendale Harriers with support from Chris Snell in 8th, Rick Moore in 31st and Peter Dugdale in 44th.

'You looking at me?' Dave Motley leading a group up onto Pendle. Photo: David Belshaw

‘You looking at me?’ Dave Motley leading the chasing group up onto Pendle with Chris Snell in close attendance. Photo: David Belshaw

Pos	Name	Cat	Cat Pos	Time
2	Dave Motley	MS	(002/008)	00:43:22
8	Christopher Snell	MS	(006/008)	00:46:19
31	Rick Moore	M50	(013/016)	00:59:47
44	Peter Dugdale	M60	(005/005)	01:18:11

Full Results

Ironman Switzerland

After Jon Cleaver’s recent efforts at Ironman UK, Vicky Heys has earned the right now to a very specific tattoo with a successful completion of Ironman Switzerland. Or Schweize/Suisse/Svizzera/Svizra depending on your language preference. Despite the multiple language options in Switzerland, the Ironman format remains the same: a 2.4-mile (3.86 km) swim, a 112-mile (180.25 km) bicycle ride and a marathon 26.2-mile (42.16 km) run. A long way in other words…

Angela Shian sent us this report as presumably Vicky is putting her feet up somewhere and refuelling with cheese and chocolate:

“Vicky Heys is an Ironman!!!

Vicky is mostly known for racing the fells, being noisy at cross country….!! And has ran the odd road relay for us (with a little persuasion!). However this year her Inov8s have had to take a back seat. Vicky has always competed very well in local triathlons, but it seems that this is not enough of a challenge for her! Vicky and Julia Hartley booked to take part in the Switzerland Ironman, 2.4mile open water swim, 112 bike, then finish off with a full marathon, all this in hot and humid conditions. The hard training of 2017 paid off, she ran over the finishing line in 13hrs 40, in 17th position in her age category. Congratulations on the mammoth achievement, Vicky can now have a well earned rest, well until Yorkshireman marathon next month anyway….!!!”

Congratulations from all of us too!

Parkrun

Burnley parkrun – a total of 356 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
1	Tom BREWSTER	17:25	SM30-34
2	Nicholas HENNESSEY	18:13	JM15-17	New PB!
3	Jonathan PYE	18:28	SM25-29
7	Michael STEVENS	19:20	JM11-14
18	Mick HUGHES	20:54	VM40-44
38	Chris LAWRENCE	22:35	VM50-54
43	Charlie BARNES	22:44	JM10
49	Cassandra Darling SMEDLEY	22:51	VW35-39
50	Michelle ABBOTT	22:53	VW35-39
53	Sarah ANGELONE	23:10	SW30-34
56	Colin WHITE	23:14	VM40-44
74	David Ian SCOTT	23:57	VM70-74
76	Robbie SMEDLEY	24:05	JM11-14
78	Nina KEWIN	24:11	VW35-39
90	Bryn BARNES	24:59	VM65-69
97	Toby BIRTWISTLE	25:13	JM10
98	Charlie BIRTWISTLE	25:14	JM11-14
115	Lynsey BIRTWISTLE	25:57	VW35-39
117	Justin BIRTWISTLE	26:01	VM40-44
139	Heidi KEWIN	26:49	JW11-14
230	Judith CAREY	30:34	VW35-39
232	Marion WILKINSON	30:52	VW75-79
234	Stuart BARKER	30:59	VM50-54
240	Ella DORRINGTON-LEVY	31:06	JW11-14
242	Robert HIRST	31:08	VM65-69
246	Ron CHAPPELL	31:12	VM65-69
253	Ellisia SMEDLEY	31:52	JW10

Rugby parkrun – a total of 171 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
9	Sean CLARE	20:32	VM50-54

Harrogate parkrun – a total of 373 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
275	Emily JOHNSON	31:15	JW10
276	Lisa JOHNSON	31:16	VW45-49

Sewerby parkrun – a total of 234 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
71	Sophie ASHWORTH	24:53	JW11-14
94	Thomas ASHWORTH	27:00	JM10

Lyme Park parkrun – a total of 126 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
55	Katy THOMPSON	28:00	VW60-64
67	Paul THOMPSON	28:49	VM45-49

Pendle parkrun – a total of 81 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
5	Paul BRANNON	20:58	VM55-59
20	Eleanor Betty ROOT	25:04	JW15-17
24	Dawn TERRY	25:56	VW50-54
25	Barry MITCHELL	26:09	VM70-74
58	Yvonne WICKHAM	32:12	VW50-54
64	Grace Georgina ROOT	33:21	JW11-14
81	John HARTLEY	53:55	VM60-64

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge – a total of 241 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
140	Eileen JONES	00:29:27	VW65-69

Witton parkrun – a total of 62 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
24	Stephen FISH	27:47	VM60-64
62	Julia RUSHTON	48:47	VW50-54

Lytham Hall parkrun – a total of 150 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
36	Philip NAYLOR	23:42	VM40-44

Lancaster parkrun – a total of 218 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
130	Doug MUNROE	31:42	VM70-74

Blackpool parkrun – a total of 173 runners took part.

Pos	Parkrunner	Time	Cat	Note
92	Christine Jennifer EGERTON	29:43	VW65-69
120	Christine LEATHLEY	32:06	VW65-69

ByAlan Dorrington

Hills, hills and more hills!

With a few notable exceptions who went looong, you’ve been hitting the hills this week. Welsh hills, Lakeland hills and our very own local hills. Those gruesome hill rep sessions seem to have been paying off as there have been outstanding individual performances, some great team camaraderie and a lot of miles covered by you all. Belt up for a roller coaster ride this week!

Tuesday

Ian Terry Memorial 5k

Jane Hylands FV45 was Clayton’s sole representative in this midweek 5k won by M. O’Malley in 16:20. Jane came in 38th in 25:46.

Full Results

Friday

Sedbergh Sports fell race

Short and steep, this AS race packs in 1300ft of climb in its short 3.5m length. Won by Josh Boyle MU23 in 25:37, Wendy Dodds FV60 was 31st in 38:49 and Stephen Fish MV60 36th in 43:00. Stephen sent this report in:

“Always keen to try a race I’ve not previously done I headed up the M6 for the Friday evening event held just outside Sedbergh, in a field next to Buckbank Lane, just off the A683.

Sedbergh Sports is a typical Cumbrian local show with plenty of novelty events for children and adults, comprising of 3 legged, sack, potato, tyre rolling, sprint, ½ mile handicap, 1 mile handicap races, plus the fell races for U7s upwards.

The senior route took us out, after a lap of the show field, along Buckbank Lane before the steep ascent of Knott. On the initial part of the climb I managed to eventually pass Wendy Dodds and was amazed to look up and see the eventual race winner, Josh Boyle, actually running the climb. Wendy and I were in walking mode at this point and it wasn’t long before she came past me again and it stayed that way for the remainder of the race. Once Knott was conquered the ascent up onto Sickers Fell ensued, followed by a fast, exhilarating, descent into the show field. Despite having what I thought was a decent run, I only finished 36 out of 38 runners.

A very good ‘BOFRA’ style race, which had a bit of everything. One I would recommend, certainly justifying its category ‘A’ status, despite the tarmac portion at the beginning.”

Full Results

Saturday

Snowdon Race

The big fixture of the weekend was the Snowdon Race. Held since 1976, its 10 miles up and down format on Wales’ highest mountain has led to its classic status on the mountain running calendar. Incidentally the male record for this race has stood since 1985, being one of Kenny Stuart’s enduring times from that golden era of fell/mountain running – an amazing 1:02:29.

A large contingent of Clayton runners made their way to the top bit of Snowdonia for the start in Llanberis. Quickest up and down in somewhat claggy conditions, and with the added cachet of wearing an England vest for the second time was Chris Holdsworth. He came a stunning 4th place in 1:09:17, 1 second off 3rd place and 3rd English counter behind the Italian winner Magnini in 1:06:42.

20046602_10155515939229183_3613370747140894238_n

Chris Holdsworth pushing hard on the descent. Photo: Deborah Stevenson

Behind a cast of, well maybe not thousands but 10s of Clayton vests supported him with special mention going to Richard Stevenson who managed to rip the skin off not one but both heels during the descent. Ouch.

Dave Motley working on his way up the claggy climb.

That’ll be Wayne McIntosh.

Look away now… Selfie: Richard Stevenson

Full results to follow when available.

Pendle Running Festival half marathon and 10k

A few hardy (foolhardy?) souls decided they hadn’t had enough of hilly half marathons the week after Hendon Brook and so opted to run the half distance at the Pendle Running Festival, an event growing in popularity owing to its relaxed atmosphere, additional family activities and scenic location in Barley.

With over 2000ft of climb in the half, and over 800ft in the 10k the routes were accurately described as challenging.Tom Brewster SEN was first Clayton runner home in the 10k in 3rd place and 40:05 whilst James Boult MU23 led the way in the Half in 1:39:18.

A trio of Clayton runners still nursing Hendon Brook legs formed a pact before the half marathon to sing, cajole and support each other round the hilly course.

Here’s their tripartite perspective ‘The Team Works!’:

Report by Cassie Smedley

“Well, to say that I was nervous entering another HM 6 days after completing the tough Hendon Brook HM was an understatement, but to be told that the Pendle HM was as tough wasn’t making me feel any better. We were set off with the 10k race, and needed to make sure we didn’t get carried away and set off too fast. It was great to run with Michelle but we also had Mick Hughes for support and encouragement, and the odd sing song from him to keep us entertained. We had a great run, kept each other going at a good pace, and Mick went to stretch his legs out with about 3k to go. Me and Michelle found our legs again and kicked into the finish. Came in strong to the finish line, hand in hand as always. Great run, with great team mates and friends”

Report by Michelle Abbott

“Well after having a bit of a rollercoaster week and doing Hendon brook just 6 day before it was time for the the Barley hm, first time for me. I wasn’t out for any records, just an enjoyable run which it was, kept a good continuous pace. I enjoyed every bit with Cassie and Mick running along side, it was brill. As we were coming back into Barley after first lap the 10 k runners were heading into the finish and we had to go and tackle another big hill before doing another lap. It was tempting to join the 10 k runners at that point but we still managed to keep plodding with a smile and finished strong before heading straight to the cafe for a well earned bacon butt.”

Report by Mick Hughes

“Having done the 10k last year, I had vowed to take on the Pendle Festival half marathon this year. What I had forgotten was that it would come just 6 days after Hendon Brook! My largest goal this year is completing the whole 14 PBGP races so having managed 1hr 57 at Hendon, I had to be smart in tackling this and one of my smartest decisions was to pace along with Cassie & Michelle. Taking on another 2000ft of climb and the 2nd hilly half marathon within a week would take discipline. The one thing Cassie & Michelle have in abundance is determination and stamina! These girls have real good engines and we took turns at pushing forward and leading the group. Add into the mix good personality and sense of humour and we were good to go. Having done the 10k last year I advised the ladies to remain steady in pace as tackling Stang Top twice is a test!. We chatted and willed each other on throughout all the elevation and many laughs kept us going as we paced just right to manage a nice sub 2 hr finish and another good day for team Clayton. It was another one of those races that stay in the memory and a reminder of just how great our team mates are.”

Triple trouble at the Pendle Running Festival half – Cassie, Mick and Michelle. Photo: David Belshaw

Donna Airey finishing. Photo: David Belshaw

Donna Airey finishing with a double thunbs up. Photo: David Belshaw

Full results to follow

Interim Facebook results here

Race to the Stones

The Ridgeway is old. Really old, and steeped in Iron Age features and subsequent history along its 100 mile-odd route through the Chilterns to the North Wessex Downs. It makes for great open trail running too as the Clayton team of Chris Funnell, Stephen Ainsworth, Rob Morrison, Andy Webster, and Colin White found out when they entered the 100km Race to the Stones, the stones in question being the iconic stone circle at Avebury.

Here’s what happened:

Back in late 2016 during one of our Sunday morning long run and natters we decided to try something different and Stephen suggested we gave Race to the Stones a go in 2017. The appeal was that this would be a good challenging distance (100K ultra over 2 days) and was the equivalent of trail running glamping as everything was included.

The run itself is along The Ridgeway which is an ancient 5000 year old trail from the Chilterns to the North Wessex Downs. This is trail running at its most scenic with miles of rolling hills and spectacular views. The forecast for the first day was cloudy but dry with temperatures around 22 degrees. The reality was cool with regular showers which kept the running to a comfortable temperature. There were refuelling stations every 10-12K with every type of sports nutrition you’ve heard of and quite a few I’d never come across. We quickly realised that our loaded backpacks which carried enough provisions for a weeks wild camping were totally superfluous as we took refuelling to a whole new level and Andy commented that he’d eaten less on all inclusive holidays.

Our plan was to run the route together as Team Clayton and soak up the whole experience. The end time wasn’t important. We all expected to comfortably complete the first 50K but the big question mark was how we were going to feel trying to get going again the next morning. We arrived mid afternoon at the half way camp where virtually every whim was catered for including unlimited hot food, bar, hot showers, massage, medic tents, pamper tent, sports nutrition, yoga class, live music, stretch out area and rollers and chill out zone complete with bean bags. In true Northern style we made full use of all the facilities. The overnight stay was in one man tents and runners and walkers arrivals continued to be announced over the speakers late into the evening. Between the wind rattling the tents and Rob shouting in his sleep we didn’t get much shut eye (apart from Rob) and at 0500am we all popped out of the tents bleary eyed and wondering how the legs were going to hold up.

A hot shower, porridge and full English later we all felt refreshed and good to go again and we set off just after 0600am although this was considered a late start and a big contingent had already left earlier.With the second day promising to be a bit warmer we all donned our Clayton vests. The scenery the second day was even more spectacular than the first and the early morning was calm and cool and it felt great to get the legs moving again. The route contained roughly 6000 feet of climbing and we were getting lots of shouts of “good effort” as we overtook lines of people without breaking pace as although the climbs were long and these weren’t hills by Northern standards. At the refuelling points everyone remarked on how we had stuck together and ran the challenge as a team. Mostly it was just pairs or individuals. Although most didn’t know where Clayton le Moors was many made comments about its infamous running history including Ron Hill and other Clayton le Moors legends.

After we had been running for a couple of hours Colin started grimacing as an old hip injury resurfaced and the next 20K proved to be the biggest test for Team Clayton as we battled through each 1K using a combination of encouragement, painkillers and shear determination. Andy’s stock phrase of “it’s just around the next bend” was no longer having effect and we were trying to decide if we had enough provisions in our backpacks to knock up a quick field stretcher. After force feeding Colin a handful of Randoms and lying that it was only 5K ( or one Parkrun) to go we dug deep for the final push and the glory that awaited at the finish which was at the Bronze Age stone henge at Avebury. At the finish line we had mixed feelings of pride of starting and completing as a team but sorry that it had come to an end. Although it was never about a fast time ( as we stayed much longer than most at the refuelling stops), Steve came away with the Vet 60 1st place which was the icing on the cake. Over a few beers we celebrated and relived our whole experience and talk was already about ideas for the next trip.

Race to the Stones Team Clayton

Junior FRA ‘do’

Four Clayton Juniors (Briony Holt, Ella Dorrington, Jenson Bentham and Christopher Brown) attended the Junior FRA ‘do’ at Marl Pits Rossendale. Part social, part prizegiving, the event was hosted as in previous years by Rossendale Harriers and combined running and coaching sessions, planning for the future and a talk from fell legend Steve Birkinshaw.

Briony was there to pick up her 3rd place award, presented by Steve Birkinshaw, for the season long English Championships U17G competition, a fantastic achievement in only her first year in that age group.

English Junior Fell Championships medal for Briony Holt. Photo Alan Dorrington

Sunday

Kentmere Horseshoe fell race

Horseshoe? Go up to the left, round the back and then down from the right. Simples. Photo: Alan Dorrington

This edition was won by Joshua Jardine MU23 in 1:32:55. Andy Armstrong MV40 was first Clayton finisher in 100th in 2:04:24, Jack Holt MV60 105th in 2:04:56, Alan Dorrington MV40 214th in 2:23:53 and Wendy Dodds FV60 241st in 2:30:48.

Clayton Juniors coach Andy Armstrong reports:

“The Kentmere Horeshoe is a 12 mile/3000ft fell race in the old school tradition. It starts on a narrow country lane (ensuring a mad scramble for positions as the race heads up out of the village) and it finishes in a farmer’s field where water is available out of the back of a car. The presence of Pete Bland’s iconic red van, coupled with tea and sandwiches in the village hall afterwards complete the picture. No medals, no Tshirt, no Tannoy!

Between the start and finish is one of the prettiest horseshoe courses in the lakes with views beyond Windermere to the west and Haweswater to the east. A dry sunny day guaranteed fast times and comedy vest tans all round. Four Clayton members made the trip to Kentmere; first home was Andy Armstrong in 100th place chased all the way off the fell gate by Jack Holt in 105th (3rd MV60). Alan Dorrington was next in at 214th then Wendy Dodds some time later in 241st position (1st FV60).

The race is not without its dark side – Judith Taylor of Clayton lost her life on this course in 1994, during what were described as truly horrendous blizzard conditions. However on a clear day this would make a great introduction to anyone seeking to do longer fell races in the Lake District.

Andy Armstrong descends off Kentmere Pike to the finish. Photo: Mick Dobson

Alan Dorrington heading to the finish in Kentmere village. Photo: Mick Dobson

Full Results

BOFRA Cracoe fell race

Briony Holt continued her super run of form with a solid 2nd place and 9th overall in the U17 race held on a fast and for BOFRA, relatively tame grassy course.

Briony olt scaling the Cracoe wall. Photo: Carolyn Brett Muir

Briony Holt scaling the Cracoe wall. Photo: Carolyn Brett Muir

Full Results

Pendle Running Festival trail race

Day two of the Festival saw the Trail race with a game amount of climb around Barley, Newchurch and Whitehough.

The race was won by Burnley and Pendle regular Nick Gaskell in 31:40 and first Clayton runner home with a fantastic performance was 15 yr old Junior Nick Henessey in 6th place and 37:32.

20157095_1596709343729907_3761252832697450787_o

Tall for his age? Junior Nick Hennessey was flying in the trail race. Photo: David Belshaw

19983232_1596711100396398_8565089952793014777_o

Gareth Berry, Andy Bradley and Reece Lawrence battling it out in the trail race. Photo: David Belshaw

Full Results to follow

Interim Facebook results here

Ironman UK Bolton

Last but certainly not least given his efforts, Jon Cleaver has been quietly doing the lengths, kms and miles in preparing for the classic Ironman UK grueller, and joined fellow multiple kit option devotees at the start line in Pennington Flash on Sunday. Here’s how he got on – wonder if he’s going to get the tattoo now?

“Starting with an eye watering 03:45 wake up call I got myself changed and headed over to Penington Flash for the first event of the day 4km swim which involved 2 laps of the flash mainly trying to avoid getting kicked and elbowed in the head. I was pleased to come out at 01:18 which was exactly what I paced for in training. Next onto the bike going through Leigh over to Westhoughton, then Rivington for the start of two 50 mile loops and 5200ft of climbing I felt pretty good on the bike keeping on top of my feed and hydration. I came into T2 after 07:07 of cycling, considering this was probably my weakest event I was happy enough with the time. Then onto the run my strongest discipline having not done a marathon since April I was a bit rusty and my legs were shot at from the bike I had to summon all the strength I could muster on a pretty hilly road course over 1200ft in elevation. I finished the run in 03:45 which is not too shabby considering and heard the immortal words “Jonathan you are an Iron Man” at 12:32. Overall I placed 507 out of over 2000 making up a lot of ground on the run.”

Full Results

Parkrun

Burnley Junior Parkrun – a total of 77 runners took part.

Pos	Name	Time	Cat	Note
2	Robbie SMEDLEY	07:21	JM11-14	New PB!
4	Matthew JACKSON	07:37	JM11-14
6	Charlie BARNES	08:36	JM10
8	Bethany WHEATCROFT	08:43	JW11-14
13	Imogen FERGUSON	09:06	JW11-14
14	Jake ANFORTH	09:10	JM11-14	First Timer!
27	Fraser ANFORTH	10:19	JM10	New PB!
30	Ellisia SMEDLEY	10:41	JW10	New PB!
33	Charlie BIRTWISTLE	10:42	JM11-14

Burnley parkrun – a total of 368 runners took part.

Pos

Name

Time

Cat

Note

Jacob WATSON