…very, very frightening race! Well it was on Wednesday evening for some of our hardy fellrunners. Other than a bit of thunderbolt dodging, you have been uphill and downhill, out in force at the Towneley 10K and junior races as well as the Todmorden Park 5K and the Widdop Races.

TUESDAY 18 JULY

WORSTON UPHILL & DOWNHILL RACES

Two races on one evening for club members with the first being the uphill race from Worston village to Pendle Summit and the second the downhill race from the summit back down the village. Like all the summer series races, runners must estimate their time.

Carl Helliwell was the first to reach the finish in the uphill and Mark Nutter was the best estimate being only 8 seconds out on his guess

Uphill Results

Andy Armstrong was the fastest descender in the downhill race and Sean Clare was the best estimate being a mere 7 seconds out on his guess.

Downhill Results

WEDNESDAY 19 JULY

BLISCO DASH

Three hardy fell runners headed to the Lake District for the Blisco Dash which is a low key, rough and tough short race with a bit of everything. It’s a 5 mile course with 2133ft of ascent.  A troubling weather forecast was issued and here’s what the race organisers had to say;

This was a race organiser’s worst nightmare! After three days of blazing sun, a forecast showing isolated thundery showers. The electric storm begins an hour and a half before the race, and is both heavy and very local. We wait and I take no money until we see how it pans out. The summit marshals are prepared to set off and our Plan B is for them to turn the runners before the summit. We are on the start line when the lightning comes again and two runners drop out when I spell out the danger. Both of my children are running. The race sets off and it stops raining in time for Phil and John to take the results. As Phil Davies says afterwards,”this is how fell running ought to be – on the edge”

Exciting stuff.

Full Results

WIDDOP

Report from Peter Coates

There were some few Clayton Harriers at Wednesday evening’s fell race at Widdop. This was my first time doing this fantastic mid-week race organised by Calder Valley Fell Runners. This is a 7-mile race taking in the moorland around Widdop. No really big climbs but a great route on twisty paths and plenty of tussocks and bracken.  I took a tumble on some wet rocks half way round but managed to get round and finished a respectable 8th place out of 144 finishers. Clayton were third men’s team overall.  This is a great race, and certainly one of my favourite local mid-week fell races and will definitely do again next year all being well.

Full Results

WIDDOP JUNIOR RACES

Eleven juniors headed just over the border to take part in the Widdop fell races.

Imogen Ferguson emerging from the bracken at the Widdop fell race. Photo by Alan Dorrington

Report from Ella Dorrington

On Wednesday I ran the Widdop Junior fell race. It was a really good course, one which suited me quite well. There wasn’t too much steep climbing, most of the climbs being long and draggy. Luckily, there were only three girls in my age group so I was guaranteed to be in the top three!

I had a good start and ran all the climbs but on the way down, I got quite annoyed because I kept on tripping and falling over loads. One was a spectacular fall, I face planted and have a few battle scars – some cuts on my face, legs and a swollen knee! The weather was all right, a perfect temperature and a little bit rainy. The atmosphere was really good and it was great to see all the Clayton Juniors that ran.

U9 RACE

U11 RACE

U13 RACE

U15 RACE

Full Results

THURSDAY 20 JULY

TODMORDEN PARK 5K SERIES  – RACE 3

Eight club members took part in the third race of the Todmorden Park 5K series organised by Cannonball Events. Jacob Watson was our first finisher in 2^nd place with a time of 17:14. Michell Abbot was our first lady finisher in 24^th place overall and 1^st F35. Richard Lawson was 1^st M75. Matthew Jackson was 1^st junior in the race. Jacob Watson, Matthew Jackson and Lennon Jackson took 1^st men’s team place.

Full Results

SUNDAY 23 JULY

CRAY  – awaiting results

TOWNELEY PARK 10K

55 Clayton Harriers ran in the Towneley Park 10K the 11^th race of the popular Pendle and Burnley Grand Prix race series. Danny Collinge took the win with Barlick’s Julian Hood snapping at his heels.

Danny Collinge racing hard for the win. Photo by David Belshaw

Jon Cleaver and Luke Turner continue their great form to finish in the top ten. Curtis Holt was 1stMj in 40^th place overall. Kevin Davis was our first vet male finisher in 22^nd place and was 1^st V55. Cassandra Smedley was our first lady finisher in 72^nd overall. Irene Roche was 1^st F55.

Report from Cassandra Smedley

I nearly missed the start of this race as I was too busy watching the juniors and chilling. Standing on the start line I was feeling rather relaxed. As we set off round Towneley I got into my stride and felt good.

Cassie Smedley at the Towneley 10K. Photo by David Belshaw

As I got to Mount Lane, I was feeling strong but I was very pleased to see the top. A few friendly faces definitely helped! As I started down the hill into Towneley I was still feeling strong, so pushed on past a few more runners. The support all way round was brilliant. Great PB 10k for me, as well as taking 6 mins off last year’s time.

TOWNELEY PARK JUNIOR RACES

Over 30 junior members took part in the Towneley Park Junior races with some fantastic performances in all age categories.

Clayton juniors out in force at Towneley. Photo by David Belshaw

U7 RACE

U9 RACE

U11 RACE

U13 RACE

U15 RACE

U17 RACE

PARKRUN ROUNDUP

Burnley parkrun – A total of 374 runners took part.

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 92 runners took part.

Dunfermline parkrun – A total of 135 runners took part.

Heaton parkrun – A total of 626 runners took part.

Pendle parkrun – A total of 81 runners took part.

It’s been another weekend of epic action for Clayton-le-Moors Harriers. You’ve been out on the fells and mountains, the urban and rural roads, and parks. There’s been a huge turnout of Harriers at Hendon Brook race and you’ve been spotted at classic Lakeland races, mountain marathons and a whole host of 5K and 10K events.

TUESDAY 4 JULY

20 BARRIERS

The 20 Barriers race follows a scenic route of just over 5 miles on the field paths, trails and canal towpath in the countryside to the south of Carnforth “Gateway to the Lake District”. The race gets its name from the number of stiles and other field boundaries crossed en-route but none of the “20 barriers” should present any unusual hazards or difficulties.

Wendy Dodds was our only runner in this year’s race finishing in 83^rd place and 1^st WV65.

Full Results

ROCHDALE 10K

Michael Hogan was running solo at the Rochdale 10K where he finished in 51^st place with a time of 42:04

Report from Michael Hogan

I was the only Clayton runner to venture out on this lovely mid-week 10K. It was a bit warm and humid but otherwise good conditions; there isn’t too much flat on the course just a series of undulations to work at. A cracking night out for 8 quid and a pair of technical running socks for completing- can’t fault it.

Michael Hogan at the Rochdale 10K

Full Results 

STOODLEY PIKE FELL RACE

Five Clayton Harriers took to the Calderdale fells for the Stoodley Pike Fell Race which, of course, features a run up to and back from the famous landmark. It’s a 3.1m race with 699ft of ascent. Richard Stevenson was our first finisher in 19^th place in 23:42.

Report from Colin Woolford

Another classic Calder Valley race, hosted by Tod Harriers with a short fast well marked course with something for everyone but none of it lasting long enough to be too unpleasant! I seemed to pass more people than passed me, so either my climbing is improving or I’m starting too near to the back…  I ended up in an early tussle for position with Steve Fish and was keen to stay ahead as I knew Mr Stevenson and Mr Briscoe would be well out of my reach!

By the time I reached the Pike – where there seemed to be a huge amount of spectators clapping and cheering support ( I apologised for being late) – I was hot on the heels of a Halifax Harrier and young Tod lady whereby the three of us seemed to change places several times over the final mile and although they got the better of me I was very pleased with my performance over all as third of five Clayton home.  This is a cracking route and a good race for those looking to venture on to the fells.

Full Results 

WEDNESDAY 5 JULY

ASTLEY PARK TRAIL SERIES

Five Clayton juniors headed to Chorley for the third race of the Astley Park trail series. Lennon Jackson was first finisher for the club in 17^th place with little brother Matthew not too far behind in 26^th. Luck Guest was 44^th and Jack O’Dowd was 82^nd. Imogen Ferguson was our only girl and finished in 78^th place overall.

Full Results

ROB SHEPHERD’S STIRTON

Five club members headed across the border to Skipton to take part in the Rob Shepherd’s Stirton fell race. This is a 5.6mile race with 1181ft of ascent organised by Keighley and Craven AC.

Kurt Livesey was our first finisher in 10^th place overall and 1^st M45. Jude Ashworth was our only lady runner and finished in 98^th place.Â

Full Results

THURSDAY 6 JULY

HOAD HILL FELL RACE

DON ASHTON MEMORIAL TOCKHOLES EVENING FELL RACE

Seven Clayton Harriers took part in the Tockholes Evening Fell Race, a 5.8 mile race with 1099ft of ascent.

Report From Ivan Whigham

This evening race run by Darwen dashers race is 6 mile long and 875 ft.of climbing and is well marshalled. The weather was sunny and warm with great views over the Moors.

Ivan Whigham at the Don Ashton Memorial Fell Race. Photo by Calum Rigby

The race sets off down tracks that take you down to Darwen then up to Darwen moor going round the back of the tower then down to the reservoir and then a climb to the finish. Peter Coates the first Claytoner came in 7^th, I came in at 35^th, Mark Taylor 53^rd, Andrew Howarth 58^th, Pete Dugdale 62^nd and finally Stephen Fish 82^nd  place out of 99 entrants .

Jack Bundle of Blackburn Harriers took the win and Kirsty Hall of Wharfedale the first Lady who also broke the record in 27th place.

Full Results

TODMORDEN PARK 5K SERIES

 A dozen Clayton Harriers, including juniors, seniors and vets, ran the fast and furious Todmorden Park 5K race. Jacob Watson was our first Clayton runner and finished in 4^th place. Our super fast juniors got age category wins all round with Helana 1^st U12 girl and 3^rd female overall and Ella Dorrington 2^nd U14 girl and 2^nd female overall.  Josh Hall, Matthew Jackson and Lennon Jackson were 1^st in their respective age categories. We also had success for our seniors with Michelle Abbot 1^st F35,  1^st senior man to Jacob Watson, and 1^st M60 to Stephen Green.

Clayton runners on the start line at Todmorden Park 5K. Photo by Rachael White

Ella Dorrington, Helana White and Michelle Abbott were the first ladies team. Jacob Watson, Jonathan Pye and Chris Snell were the 1^st mens team. Josh Hall, Matthew Jackson and Stephen Green were second mens team.

Full Results

SATURDAY 8 JULY

ADDINGHAM GALA

Four Clayton men took part in the Addingham Gala Fell Race, a 6 mile route with 9894ft of ascent. Alan Life was our first finisher in 18^th place. Jack Holt was our next finisher in 21^st place and 1^st M60. Rick Moore and Stephen Fish completed the quartet.

Full Results

MANX MOUNTAIN MARATHON

Simon Halliday, Jean Brown and Paul Thompson took part in the tough, Manx Mountain Marathon. Simon Halliday finished in 6th place, Jean Brown was 7th and 1st lady, and Paul Thompson was 12th. 52 competitors finished the event.

Report from Jean Brown

So pleased that I made it over to the Isle of Man for what was billed as the last running of the Manx Mountain Marathon. Those of us who had a great time over there are very much hoping that the race continues – it is a classic in every way!

The 51km race with 2500m of ascent starts in Ramsey at the northern end of the island and tracks its way up and down what seems like every hill on the island to finish on the prom in Port Erin. The first half is over the wilder hills, t…he latter section on a stunning section of coast path.

Jean Brown at the Manx Marathon presentation.

A bottle of local beer and tee-shirt for all finishers – presentation by a bar next to the beach in the evening (after great ice-cream and fish and chips in the town) – what is not to like?! OK – it was sunny this year so the island was showing itself off in the best way!

The race was extremely well organised, a mini-bus available to take you to the start, great marshalling on route, lots of places to get water etc. 

Thanks for an excellent race! I plan to return…

Full Results

WASDALE

Martin Terry and Wendy Dodds took part in the classic Wasdale Horseshoe fell race organised by Cumberland Fell Runners Association. Its a category AL race and is 21.1miles with over 9000ft of ascent including a climb of Scafell Pike. Martin Terry was our first finisher in 104^th place with a time of 5:23:13 and being the hard-as-nails ultra runner that he is, went on to run a respectable 57^th place in the Hendon Brook race the following day!

Wendy Dodds was our sole lady runner and she finished in 203rf place in 6:21:08 and 1^st W65.

Wendy Dodds at the Wasdale fell race.

Full Results

SUNDAY 9 JULY

BLACKPOOL SUMMER 10K

Craig Nicholls was our sole runner in the Blackpool Summer 10K. He finished in 9^th place overall with a time of 42:17 and 1^st MV40.

Full Results

GERRY MCCABE LEGENDARY HENDON BROOK RACE

A record turnout for this year’s Hendon Brook, newly renamed to honour its founder, Gerry McCabe. Jacob Watson was the first Clayton finisher in 6^th place with Luke Turner and Jon Cleaver joining him in the top ten.

Jacob Watson in action at Hendon Brook. Photo by David Belshaw

Paul Hesketh was 21^st and 1^st M50. Martin Terry was 57^th, an amazing result considering he’d run the Wasdale Fell race the day before and already had 21.1 miles and over 9000 feet of climbing in his legs!

Martin Terry running Hendon Brook on the back of the Wasdale fell race the day before! George Pier just behind. Photo by Adrienne Olszewska

George Pier was the 1^st MJ in 71^st place overall, and Jeff Pickup was 1^st M65.

Donna Airey was our 1^st Clayton Lady in 79^th place and 2^nd in her age category. Irene Roche was 1^st L55 and Beth Quinn was 1^st FJ.

Donna Airey looking fresh at the halfway point. Photo by Adrienne Olszewska

It was a great turnout for the club and good to see so many Clayton Harriers tackling the distance and the climbing; some for the first time and some repeating the experience.

The Clayton Water Stop team.

The halfway water station was manned by Clayton Juniors who did a fantastic job of dishing out water, oranges, jelly babies and lots of encouragement to the runners. There were also a few “inspirational” signs dotted around to keep the motivation going.

Inspirational signs at Caldwell. Photo by Adrienne Olszewska

Report from Richard Briscoe

I hadn’t done this race for the last two years so I’d decided to do it. I hadn’t really done much long running recently so it would be a good training run. I started slow and steady and stayed with James Boult, and John Roche all the way round. I was quite worried how many people I was overtaking especially on the hills. I have an achilles heel injury and a bad calf so I struggled on the downhills.

L-R Richard Briscoe, James Boult and Gareth Berry at the Hendon Brook race. Photo by David Belshaw

The support was amazing from the water stations from both and Clayton and Trawden handing out sweets etc. I struggled on the last mile where I wanted to get under 1hr45 but James and John overtook me unfortunately. Finished the route in 1hr50 so it was a good result and a good day for everyone who took part.

Report from Sharon Wilson

Well it was the morning of Hendon Brook and I was feeling ok so far; had a good breakfast and drank plenty of water, so I knew I would be ok. Until I was about to leave the house – oh my the nerves started to kick in even more. What am I doing? My first ever half marathon and I choose Hendon Brook! Well I love a challenge and I knew I would give it my all so nothing ventured nothing gained.

As we arrived to the start line getting ready to start. I could tell I wasn’t on my own with nerves everyone was going through exactly the same. And at that split second we were starting the race its now or never I took it steady as I didn’t want to go too fast. My friend Carole Bailey ran with me as it was her first Hendon Brook too. We kept one another going and it was great as the first 3miles passed I was feeling ok and nerves drifted away.  I was focusing on I can do this. As we kept on running Marshalls were handing out jelly babies and water which was great. It was great to see so many spectators and marshals helping and making sure we were. It’s what makes a race.

As we reached 8 miles I was relieved to be nearly half way round feeling very hot but good as we approached another water station. I could see a young lad with a hosepipe. He knew we were hot and yes I can say I was wet through but  it cooled me down and it kept me going. As we were nearly approaching the end I was slowing down a bit which I didn’t want to. I kept saying to myself you can do this not much longer to go. As we were getting closer to the finish I could har everyone cheering us on. This really spurred me on to give me my last sprint finish which I did and it felt fantastic.

Sharon Wilson’s sprint to the finish at Hendon Brook. Photo by David Belshaw

Overall it was a very good run and I will be doing it again. Thank you to everyone for all your encouragement it was amazing marshals and spectators

Full Results

ST ANNE’S CARNIVAL 5K ROAD RACE

Two super-vet Clayton Harriers ran at the St Anne’s Carnival 5K road race. David Scott was the first Clayton finisher in 64^th place and 2^nd M70. Richard Lawson was 76^th and 1st M75. A total of 156 runners took part.

Awaiting Results

WE LOVE MANCHESTER 10K

Amanda Duffy and Clare Wilson ran in the We Love Manchester 10K

Report from Amanda Duffy

I ventured over to the Ethiad stadium on Sunday morning for the We Love Manchester 10K. It’s a fast start and finish on the running track with a few small undulations. I was hoping the sun wasn’t going to come out as it was already warm but at the 3k mark it made an appearance which made the race get tougher.

Amanda Duffy racing hard at the We Love Manchester 10K

I had a target time to try and beat 43 minutes and finished in 42.09 and 11th female. The race was well organised with a friendly atmosphere with a nice medal and t shirt to finish. Another one for the diary for next year

Full Results

PARKRUN ROUNDUP

Blackpool parkrun – A total of 170 runners took part.

Burnley parkrun – A total of 386 runners took part.

Burnley junior parkrun – A total of 82 runners took part.

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 111 runners took part.

Fell Foot parkrun, Newby Bridge – A total of 221 runners took part.

Pendle parkrun – A total of 94 runners took part.

Skipton parkrun – A total of 146 runners took part.

Witton parkrun – A total of 91 runners took part.

Woodhouse Moor parkrun – A total of 280 runners took part.

It’s been a bit of a trail running fest this week. Starting off in Worsthorne, via Witton Park and finally to Trawden you have truly been out in force this week. Off the trails there’s been some road racing, fell racing and smashing of course records.  Well done to Chris Holdsworth for his new course record at the Heptonstall Festival Fell Race and to Laura Hesketh for her new course record at Burnley parkrun.

Foreword from Club President, David Scott

Where did the morning go?

Having been away for several weeks, more or less incommunicado with home and the UK, I sat down on my return with a breakfast coffee and started to catch-up on Clayton’s ‘Roundups’.  Next thing I knew it was nearly lunchtime.

What a variety of races everyone has been running, representing country, representing county, representing club, raising money for charity, trying a new race or trying to beat a previous time.  The enthusiasm of those of you who wrote about your races really came through and you didn’t mind writing about how hard running can be, whether you’re out to beat a time or just to finish.

And what an age range, from Under 8 to Over 75.  I was wishing I was 40ish again, with the speed and stamina I once had and with all these events to choose from.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed in any way to the weekly roundups, the technical aspect of which largely passes me by. Clayton’s a wonderful club and I feel proud to be its President.

David Scott.

P.S. Reading about the ’22’ run up Pendle, took me back to a Saturday, many years ago……..but what WAS the date my memory asked?  Looking through my training logs I eventually found it to be 18th August 1979, (probably before some of the ’22’ runners were born) when John Haworth ran 15 times from the Pendle Inn to the Trig Point and back in just over 12 hours to raise money for Barley Village Council.  I had a school function in the morning so could only be there from 12 o’clock.  I ran the last 6 reps with him, approx. times being 48, 52, 60, 51, 59 and the last one was from the picnic area and back on a ‘Guess the Time’ raffle of 48.07.

TUESDAY 27 JUNE

CLUB SUMMER SERIES – WORSTHORNE TRAIL

Senior Race

Worsthorne trail race is the second race in the Clayton Harriers summer race series. Listed as a 5 mile race with around 1000ft of ascent this is always popular with our members and this year saw 41 seniors take part. As well as recording the finishing positions of runners, runners must give an estimated time for their run.

Danny Snell and Chris Snell racing down the Gorple Road. Photo by David Belshaw

Chris Snell and Danny Collinge raced to the finish neck and neck with Chris just managing to pull ahead to take the win. Cassie Smedley was our first lady finisher. Nina Kewin gave the best estimate of the event with only 10 seconds difference between her estimate and actual finish time.

Full Results

Junior Race

20 Juniors took part in the junior race with Nick Hennessey finishing in 1^st place. Ella Dorrington was 1^st girl finisher. The best estimated time went to Ella Dorrington who was only 4 seconds out!

Alfie White, Keira Stevenson and Imogen Ferguson. Photo by Nick Olszewski

Keeping the longstanding tradition of spot prizes, Alfie White was awarded a spot prize for “best race face in a sprint finish”.

Full Results

WEDNESDAY 28 JUNE

CRAGG VALE FELL RACE

Alan and Carol Life took part in the Cragg Vale Fell Race. It’s a 4 mile race with 801ft of ascent organised  by Calder Valley Fell Runners.

Full Results

RACE FOR LIFE, WITTON PARK

My son Matthew and I took part in the Race For Life at Witton Park all for a good cause. I love this event and this time we were running for my dad. We set off together but that was short lived – Matthew was flying again and got round the course in 18.20 in 2^nd place he wanted under 19 mins and with grandad watching he wasn’t going to fail. I tried to keep within sight which wasn’t easy and managed 5^th place in 22.30

Michelle and Matthew at the Race for Life in Witton Park

NO RESULTS AVAILABLE

THURSDAY 29 JUNE

WITTON PARK TRAIL RELAYS

There was a huge turnout of 87 Clayton Harriers in 29 teams at this popular trail relay in Witton Park. Our Men’s A team put in a great performance to finish in 3^rd place. Our Junior Boys B Team finished in 14^th place overall and 3^rd Junior Boys team. Our Clayton Vets A team came 13^th overall and 2^nd men’s vets team.

George Pier with Peter Coates handing over to Jonathan Pye,  at the Witton Park Relays. Photo by David Belshaw

Clayton Ladies A Team finished in 68^th place overall and 4^th ladies team. Our Clayton Junior Girls A team had a fantastic run to finishs in 48^th place overall and 1^st Junior girls team. Our Lady Vets A team finished in 95^th place and 5^th lady vets team.

Leg C Ladies and junior girls waiting for their runners. Photo by David Belshaw

Danny Collinge ran our fastest male leg in 15:29 and 6^th fastest overall. Briony Holt ran the fastest leg of all the women and was 1^st junior girl in a fantastic time of 17:35. Jo Perry ran the fastest leg for our senior ladies and the 3^rd fastest senior lady overall with a time of 18:55.

Sprint finish from junior runner, Adam Stevenson. Photo by David Belshaw

It was another great event for the club with all the usual team spirit on show and the last minute substitutions and changes.

Report from Andy Holt

This was my second go at the Witton Park relays and, after informing the junior coaching staff my kids were available, I’d forgotten to tell John Cleaver about my own availability! As the date approached and spaces became available I was asked to join Michael Clarke and Adam Stephensons’ team as a late entry!!

Warm and dry underfoot with no wind made this mile up-mile down course even faster and running the last leg allowed me the possibility of having to run against my daughter. My son was running the first leg for another team so I was spared watching him disappear into the distance!

Thankfully Michael and Adam gave me a head start on Briony’s team, (nothing worse than feeling like you’re being chased down) and I had a clear run up the hill. Choosing grippy fell shoes worked and allowed me a flowing descent to the finish.

Brilliant fun, took 15 seconds off last year’s time, team finish well under 60 minutes and equally as satisfying knowing that Curtis, Briony and myself finished within 25 seconds of each other!

Big thanks to the team captains for the messing around and accommodating as many runners as possible.

Full Results | Individual Legs

SATURDAY 1 JULY

BLACKFELL

Ivan Whigham and Wendy Dodds travelled over the border into the Yorkshire Dales to take part in the Blackfell race.

Report from Ivan Whigham

This race was run by Bingley Harriers as part of their running weekend. It is based in Kettlewell a very nice part in the Yorkshire Dales.

The weather was great with plenty of sun and a brisk breeze. About 60 runners set of with me and Wendy Dodds the other Claytoner.

The route is about 9 miles and goes round Cam Head, Whernside, Great Whernside and returns via Hag Dyke on the route of the Great Whernside race which is fast running on bowling green grass purely awesome.

I finished half way down the field in 1hour 50 with Wendy coming in a little later, a cracking race in beautiful scenery.

Full Results

Catforth Canter 5K

HEPTONSTALL FESTIVAL

A trio of Clayton runners took part in the Heptonstall Festival fell race. A 5.9 mile race with 1627ft of ascent. Starting in the hilltop village of Heptonstall, the route plunges deep into a neighbouring valley before finding its way to the top of a nearby peak. It then returns in similar fashion presenting runners with an almighty uphill struggle at the end!

Chris Holdsworth not only won the race, he also knocked over 2½ minutes off the course record at the same time. A superb result for a runner on top form at the moment. Carl Helliwell ran strongly to finish in 11^th place and Simon Stansfield was 58^th.

Full Results

LOSTOCK HALL CARNIVAL 5K

Amanda Duffy was our sole representative at the Lostock Hall Carnival 5K.

Report from Amanda Duffy

I headed over to the Lostock Hall Carnival 5k on Saturday morning. The race set off before the carnival procession. The course itself was a fairly flat out and back with a loop around the town to finish. It was a great carnival atmosphere with lots of support from the crowds. All roads were closed which made it much better for racing.

I finished 6^th female and won the v35 prize with a second best 5k time. It is one I would like to run next year and was a great day out for everyone.

Full Results

OAKWORTH HAUL

Richard Briscoe was our only runner in the Oakworth Haul fell race, a 5.6 mile race with 820ft of ascent organised byt Keighley and Craven Athletics Club.

Full Results

SUNDAY 2 JULY

ALDERLY BYPASS 10K

Michelle Abbot and her two sons headed to Cheshire for the Alderley Edge Bypass 10K and fun runs.

Report from Michelle Abbott

Me and the boys had a change and headed over to Wilmslow for the Alderley Edge Bypass 10K and fun run. With about 2000 runners in the 10K, it was very busy, well organised with food ,beer ,and a funbus for the little ones. It was a fast course when the winner comes in in 29 mins; I just about managed a reasonable 47.11 while Lennon and Matthew whizzed round the 1.8K course in sub 6 mins with Lennon coming in 3^rd closely followed by Matthew in 4^th,   no official timing for the funrun as it is 100% all for charity

Michelle Abbot at the Alderley Edge Bypass race.

Full Results

EDGWORTH HALF MARATHON

Well done to Geoff Smith who was our sole runner in the Edgeworth Reservoir Challenge Half Marathon. The course takes runners on 2 laps of the popular 10K route in the picturesque countryside of Edgeworth over challenging terrain and offering stunning scenery. Geoff finished in 27^th place and 1^st V40 with a time of 1:54:58.

Full Results

SKIDDAW FELL RACE

Jack Holt was our sole runner in the Skiddaw race organised by Keswick AC. He finished in 66^th place overall in a field of 136 runners. This is a 9.6 mile race with 3154ft of ascent over mainly hard paths.

Jack Holt at the Skiddaw Race. Photo by Stephen Wilson of Granddayoutphotography

Full Results

TRAWDEN 7

65 Clayton Harriers took part in this 7 mile trail race organised by Trawden AC and the latest race in the Pendle and Burnley Grand Prix series. Danny Collinge was our first finisher in 4^th place overall. Kevin Davies was 1^st M55 and Jeff Pickup was 1^st M65. Elizabeth Mullan was our first lady finisher in 129^th place overall and 2^nd senior lady.

Donna Airey and Chris Lawrence enjoying the Trawden trail race. Photo by David Belshaw

Report from Cassie Smedley

Yet another grand prix race arrived. I was looking forward to this one but hoped that I wouldn’t follow last year’s antics and fall mid race.

Cassie Smedley staying on her feet this year at the Trawden trail race. Photo by David Belshaw

I set off far too fast, as always, but managed to find and maintain a good pace. I decided to try and stay focused on the paths rather than the views in order to remain on my feet. The race was great. Well-supported and great weather. Added bonus at the end as I’d pre-registered so got a pie and a bottle of good beer! Well done to all that raced.

Full Results

JUNIOR RACES

U7 & U9

Ruby Cleaver was our sole runner in the U7 & U9 race. She finished in 21^st place. A total of 40 runners took part.

Ruby Cleaver in action. Photo by David Belshaw

U11 RACE

34 runners took part in the U11 race. Charlie Barnes was our first finisher in 10^th place. Emily Nicholls was our first girl in 27^th place.

Lining up for the U11s race. Photo by David Belshaw

U13, U15 & U17 Race

Nick Hennessey won the race with Jackson McKay not too far behind in 2^nd place. Helana White was our first girl to finish and 2^nd girl overall.  There were age category firsts for Nick Hennessey, Jackson McKay, Helana White, and Millie Stubbs

Lining up for the U13/15/17 Race. Photo by David Belshaw

Full Results

PARKRUN ROUNDUP

Here are this week’s parkrun results for registered Clayton Harriers. To see them in more detail, please check out the consolidated club report.

Arrow Valley parkrun – A total of 300 runners took part.

Burnley parkrun – A total of 388 runners took part.

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 111 runners took part.

South Shields parkrun – A total of 198 runners took part.

Cheltenham parkrun – A total of 440 runners took part.

Cuerden Valley parkrun – A total of 171 runners took part.

Keswick parkrun – A total of 174 runners took part.

Pendle parkrun – A total of 81 runners took part.

Witton parkrun – A total of 80 runners took part.

Blackpool parkrun – A total of 144 runners took part.

Midsummer madness is upon us with so many races to choose from it’s increasingly tricky keeping up with all of our intrepid racers.  This week has seen a huge turnout at the Sabden race, there’s been some high Lakeland fell running, as well as Peak District and Yorkshire races together with trails and 5ks. Plus the odd bit of triathlon action.

TUESDAY 20 JUNE

BRIDESTONE FELL RACE

This fell race goes past the famous Bridestone and takes in some of the lesser used paths in the upper Calder Valley. A short fast race with steep climbs, fast tracks and demon descents, something for everyone. Two Clayton Harriers took part. Richard Briscoe was our first finisher in 18^th place and Colin Woolford was 39^th.

Report from Colin Woolford

Bridestones is a classic Calder Valley fell race, in that for a short but steep valley, they seem to find an impressive amount of ‘up’ before a very short ‘flat’ mid-section before finding a lot of ‘down’. A small field enjoyed good conditions given the baking temperature of previous days. It’s a good race, well-marked and marshalled and on the trails less travelled for about 4 miles. It’s a good race for those looking to try a fell race. Although slower than the last time I did this, I was pleased with my run, as I seemed to be passing more people than passed me after the first mile. Probably not the best prep for the following evening’s Sabden 6 though!

Full Results

 WEDNESDAY JUNE 21

 BOLTON ABBEY SOLSTICE SAUNTER

It was a family affair at the Bolton Abbey Solstice Saunter for Team Brewster. In a welcome return to racing Tom finished in 2^nd place with Roger Brewster in 28^th and 1^st M60.

Report from Tom Brewster

I did the bolton Abbey summer solstice saunter on Wednesday organised by the airedale dodgers and in support of Sue Ryder care (Dad, Mum and my sister also ran). It was a 5mile route starting at the pavilion, running along the river to Barden Bridge then back along the other side to finish on the field opposite the pavilion. I had a good battle in the top three from the start and managed to finish in 2^nd on a very hot, very humid night!! Very happy with the result especially after a very tough 9 months away from racing with Achilles issues!

Full Results

SABDEN TRAIL RACE

Well over 60 Clayton Harriers took part in the latest race of the Pendle and Burnley Grand Prix Series, the Sabden Trail Race which is a 6 mile trail race around the Sabden area.

Clayton Runners on the ‘hill of doom’. Photo by Sport Sunday

Report from Alan Dorrington

There’s a point when temperature and humidity combine to make things truly unpleasant. Hot temperatures can be pretty nice when the occasionally arrive in the UK, and most of the time our humid climate is not so hot as to cause too much bother. Sabden last Wednesday appeared to find itself in the middle of one of those unholy alliances where both measures were pretty high and it made for fairly brutal conditions for running.

Alan Dorrington looking determinded at the Sabden trail race. Photo by SportSunday

None of which deterred 200 or so Grand Prix runners from belting off up the long drag through the Sabden Brook valley to Ratten Clough, some appearing to pace themselves wisely, others going all out. My rationale was that it was only 6 miles, only 750ft of climbing, what was the point in hanging about?

Happy Harrier

Those that had run before, or studied the race profile with more than a cursory glance knew what was coming. Some very fast running, but never flat, just up or down and then… that climb. The one I hadn’t bargained on. I knew something was amiss as we dropped down to Sabden from below Pendleton Moor and my watch said 4 point something miles. Whilst running on minimal oxygen levels, my brain was still just able to work out that there was more to come to make it 6 miles. And that the finish was definitely not coming any time soon as we were almost in the village. Cue that horrible feeling when your legs go from flat out downhilling to grinding uphill again, with no flat to help adjust. Cue some cursing under my breath at the helpful ‘tough mile now lads, dig in!’ comment. Mile??!

Luke Turner – first Clayton finisher. Photo by SportSunday

In the end it wasn’t too bad despite feeling like my head was going to explode in the humidity and I even enjoyed the death march up the reservoir bank, though David from SportSunday was optimistic if he thought he was going to get a star jump from me at that point. There followed a hectic blast back to the finish for that ‘lost’ distance to make up 5.9 miles, and the discovery on finishing that my vest weighed about 4lbs with the sweat it had soaked up and not evaporated. I was happy enough with 38th and a reasonable limiting of my time losses against the quick Vets around the 45- 55 age band that I’m in the middle of. What a great way to spend a Wednesday evening.

Leanne Cottam and Rachel Todd. Photo by Sport Sunday

Full Results

SABDEN TRAIL JUNIOR RACES

Clayton juniors taking five at the Sabden Trail Races. Photo by Cassie Smedley

U9 Boys

Olly Plant was our only boy in the U9 boys race and he finished in 4th place.

U9 Girls

Ruby Cleaver and Charlie Plant took part in the U9 Girls race.

U11 Boys

Guy Whalley was our first finisher in the U11 boys race finishing in 5th place.

U11 Girls

Emily Nicholls was our first finisher in the U11 Girls race.

U13 Boys

Battling hard, Robbie Smedley had to settle for 3rd in the U13 boys race.

U13 Girls

A win from Helana White in the U13 girls race with Rachel  Stevenson in 6th.

U15 Boys

Michael Stevens finished 2nd in the U15 Boys race.

U15 Girls

3rd place for Ella in the U15 girls race.

Full Results

THURSDAY 22 JUNE

AGGIE’S STAIRCASE

Six Clayton runners took part in the Aggies Staircase fell race organised by Darwen Dashers.

Starting at the top of Punstock Road in Darwen, the route climbs a footpath, turns right onto the track past Robin Hood’s cottage, then left to follow an enclosed footpath to the main track, and left up to Darwen Tower. It then descends through a small quarry onto the main track towards the top of Bold Venture Park, before turning right to climb steeply up a rough path known as Jacobs Ladder, then across the moor top, and on down to the foot of Aggies Staircase.

Matt Perry was our first finisher in 4^th place. Joanne Perry was our sole lady runner and she finished in 119^th place.

Full Results

PENDLE SCHOOLS DUALTHLON

Well done to Briony Holt who took part in the Pendle Schools duathlon which involved a run and cycling. She came 1st in the teams and individual races.

TODMORDEN 5K SUMMER SERIES

 There were five Clayton runners at the first of the Todmorden 5K race series organised by Cannonball Events. Jacob Watson was our first finishe in 8^th place with a time of 17:42.

Matthew and Lennon Jackson at the Todmorden Park 5K

Michelle Abbot Reports

Matthew and Lennon bagged PBs at Todmorden park 5k Matthew coming flying in at 19.33 winning first under 12 , Lennon getting his first official sub 20 mins just 11 secs behind his brother (for the first time) coming in at 19.44 winning first under 14. I managed first v35

SATURDAY 24 JUNE

DARREN HOLLOWAY MEMORIAL RACE

Andrew Laycock and Wendy Dodds took part in this classic fell race formerly known as the Buttermere Horseshoe. Wendy who was taking part 30 odd years after doing the original Buttermere Horseshoe race!

Report from Andrew Laycock

Headed up to the Lakes to do the Darren Holloway Memorial Buttermere Horseshoe. From the start in Loweswater the race covers around 23 miles with 8500ft of climbing and quite a bit scope for route choice. The weather wasn’t perfect, there wasn’t much visibility on the tops but at least the rain stayed away and it was pretty cool.

Andrew Laycock approaching the Newland Checkpoint. Photo courtesy of CFR

The first half of the race went smoothly, I settled into what felt like a manageable pace and got off Dale Head to Honister Pass feeling ok. From there I got into a group with a couple of local runners and we worked our way around Haystacks and up onto High Crag. A sudden bout of cramp just before the summit of High Stile left me on my own in the thick fog and once on the top I couldn’t find the checkpoint. After wandering around confused and frustrated for five minutes I realised I was on the wrong summit and the checkpoint was further west, this cost me six or seven places.

Wendy Dodds at the Darren Holloway Memorial Fell Race. Photo courtesy of CFR

The following rough boggy descent left my legs cooked for the final climb up onto Melbreak so I was thankful for a fast runnable descent into the finish. Over five hours on the fells sure felt like a long day out, but definitely a learning experience.

Full Results

ELDWICK GA

It was all about the girls  at this BOFRA race with some great running from Briony Holt and Ella Dorrington.

Report from Tina Hines Holt

U17 Race

Briony in the U17 race

U14 Race

Ella Dorrington in the U15 race

WHALEY WALTZ

WHINLATTER 10K

SUNDAY 25 JUNE

A DAY IN THE LAKES TRIATHLON

Report from Jon Cleaver

Peter Coates and I took on this half iron-man(ish) distance triathlon in Ullswater. Leg 1 was a swim in Ullswater consisting of 2 x 1km laps, there was quite a strong current and I swam 0.2km over distance. Next was the bike 48 miles through beautiful villages and countryside and on a long A road on the way back for 2 loops which was around 2500ft climbing. After that came what I was looking forward to a 12.8 mile Fell run to cap the day off with 1900ft of climbing.

Peter Coates and Jon Cleaver at the Day in the Lakes Triathlon

The run was stunning taking in trails and fell with some pretty steep climbs and thrown in at the end was a 5km road run which was not at all comfy in Fell shoes. Peter did fantastic coming in 13^th overall and I came in 37^th. A real bargain of an event for long tri enthusiasts and highly recommended. Great practice for the big one in 3 weeks!!

KINDER TROG

Report from Ivan Whigham

I arrived at Hayfield with rain forecast and as we set off we had rain for the first hour and low cloud causing poor visibility on Kinder.

Race went well until a group of local runners had their maps out lost in the mist! We had to return to the main route.

Ivan Whigham at the Kinder Trog. Photo by Frank Golden

Visibility improved and found the last part of the race was more enjoyable, finishing in 2.40 will be back as it suits my running.

Full Results

PARKRUN ROUNDUP

Burnley parkrun – A total of 359 runners took part.

Dewsbury parkrun – A total of 167 runners took part.

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

Lyme Park parkrun – A total of 100 runners took part.

Pendle parkrun – A total of 102 runners took part.

Witton parkrun – A total of 87 runners took part.

Worcester parkrun – A total of 448 runners took part.

What a scorcher! But as always you have been keeping your cool and making your presence felt. You’ve been out in huge numbers at lots of events, competing in championship races, winning medals and enduring the heat with a smile on your face.

WEDNESDAY 14 JUNE

BILLY KNOX 65^TH BIRTHDAY 5K COWM RACE

Ron Chappell was our sole runner in this 5k race. He finished in 42^nd place. A total of 48 runners took part.

Full Results

BROWN WARDLE (AND A BIT MOOR)

Five Clayton runners took part in this short 3.3 mile fell race with 1181ft of ascent. Alan Life was our first finisher in 6th place overall. Wayne McIntosh was 26th with Stephen Fish in 28th and 1st V60. Carol Life was our sole lady runner and she finished in 34th place overall and 1st LV50

Full Results

HOLCOMBE TWO TOWERS

In the first of three races this week Peter Coates joined Martin Brady for this mid week fell race.

Report from Peter Coates – Race 1

At the Holcombe Two Towers race there was just myself and Martin Brady in action for Team Clayton in this little gem of a midweek race organised by Holcombe Harriers. This is a short but surprisingly tough 4 mile fell race across and around Holcombe Moor with some steep climbs. I finished 7th overall out of a field of 109 and was first vet40 so a good evenings work which would hopefully sharpen me up for the big race at Tebay at the weekend.

Full Results

FRIDAY 16 JUNE

BARROWFORD GP 5K ROAD RACE

This fast and flat 5k race is the latest race in the popular Pendle and Burnley Grand Prix series and, as always, there was a bumper turnout of Clayton Harriers across the board.

A Race

Five fast lads took on the seriously speedy A Race with top ten finishes for Jacob Watson, Luke Turner and Matthew Duckworth. Jonathan Pye just outside in 22^nd place and George Pier in 30^th. All five with comfortably sub 20 times.  The race was won in 14:27 by Jonny Mellor of Liverpool Harriers.

Clayton fast lads in the A Race at Barrowford. Photo by David Belshaw

Full Results

B Race

A huge turnout of 65 Clayton Harriers took part in the B race with an astounding range of ages from 15 to 75.  Jon Cleaver was our first finisher in 3^rd place overall and Amanda Duffy was our first lady finisher in 32^nd place overall, 2^nd lady and 1^st F35. There were plenty of age category wins for our youngsters and vets as well. 1^st M17 for Josh Hall, 1^st F35 for Amanda Duffy, 1^st F55 for Irene Roche, 1^st M65 for Jeffrey Pickup, 1^st F50 for Julia Rushton, 1^st FJ for Beth Quinn, 1^st M75 for Richard Lawson and 1^st 7o for Marion Wilkinson.

Team Clayton out in force at the Barrowford 5K. Photo by David Belshaw

Full Results

JUNIOR RACES

U9 Race 1K Race

Charlie Plant was our first finisher in this race (she is wrongly listed as a boy!). She was 8th overall and in another show of sibling support, she went back after finishing her race to support her younger brother Olly.  Ruby Cleaver had a great race to finish 12th overall and 1st girl in her age category. Emily Johnson continues to improve and raced to 17th place.

Ruby Cleaver in action in the U9s Race. Photo by David Belshaw

U13 Race 2K Race

Racing hard against his former clubmate Dexta Thompson, Robbie Smedley had to settle for 2nd place.  Our U13 boys all ran strongly. Helana White was our first girl in the race in 11th place and 2nd girl overall in the race.

Charlie Barnes in action in the U13s Race. Photo by David Belshaw

U17 3K Race

Oue U15 and U17 runners dominated this race with strong performances all round. Nick Hennessey took the win with Michale Stevens snapping at his heels in 2nd. Millie Stubbs was our first girl and 2nd overall in the race.  There were age category wins for Nick Hennessey, Michael Stevens and Millie Stubbs.

Millie Stubbs and William Nicholls in the U17 Race. Photo by David Belshaw

Full Junior Results

SATURDAY 17 JUNE

BUCKDEN PIKE

Clear blue skies greeted the runners at the start of the Buckden Pike Fell race. Numbers were a little down this year due to a clash with the Championship race taking place at Tebay.

Mark Nutter at the Buckden Pike Fell Race, Photo by Andy Firth

Mark Nutter was our first finisher in the race in 26th place overall and took the 1st V50 win as well. Linda Lord was our only lady runner and finished in 62nd place and 1st WV65.

Linda Lord in the Buckden Pike Fell Race. Photo by Andy Firth

Full Results

MUCKLE TOON ADVENTURE FESTIVAL

Report from Dave Motley

Another annual pilgrimage to the Muckle Toon Adventure Festival for Team Perry, Team Motley & Team Clarke and this year we were joined by Team Helliwell. The festival based in Langholm in the Scottish borders is a mix of MTB, road sportive, trail running and on the event filed they have all sorts going on from trampolines to climbing walls and tent talks on various subjects. There is something for everybody from little kiddies right through to the most sporty of us, on top of this the weekend was topped off with camping, drinking and BBQ in the glorious Scottish Summer.

Muckle Toon Trail Races. L-R Matt Perry, Jo Perry, Sarah Helliwell, Carl Helliwell, Dave Motley and Russ Clarke

The races themselves are tough and testing trail routes with lots of climbing and the 25 degree heat certainly didn’t help. The 10k & half marathon were on the Saturday and set off at the same time with a route split after about a mile. I found the initial climb tough after last week’s 22 for 22 on Pendle and the 85 miles in my legs was really showing. After the first few miles I found myself in about 7^th or 8^th but with a big descent to come I found my legs and seemed to carry the momentum through the field for the next 10 miles feeling stronger and stronger. I eventually finished the race in 3^rd place managing to gain that position after about 12 mile. Matt Perry runner up at the race last year had to settle for another 2^nd with Russ Clarke in 5^th and Carl Helliwell in 12^th.

Whilst us blokes were out doing the half, the wives were tearing up the 10k with Mrs Perry finishing the tough 10k course in 41^st position in a time of 62:16 and Mrs Helliwell 51^st in 65:46. Mrs Motley was chief babysitter on Saturday so I think she had the harder job looking after 6 kids whilst we got to run, however she did get her break and ran the 5k on the Sunday in a time of about 27mins. A belting weekend and Team Motley will be back for more in 2018

Muckletoon 10K Trail Race

Full Results

Muckletoon Trail Half Marathon

Full Results

PILLING 10K SERIES  – RACE 2

Laura Hesketh was our sole representative in this 10K road race. She finished in 8th place overall and the first lady runner with a time of 37 minutes dead

Full Results

TEBAY

Peter Coates joined nine other Clayton Harriers to compete in the third race of the FRA British Championships at Tebay. Super vets Kieran Carr and Wendy Dodds took first place in their respective age categories with Jack Holt taking 2^nd in his.

Tebay Fell Race. L- R Kieran Carr, Jack Holt, Peter Coates, James Williamson, Neil Hardiman and David Bagot

Report from Peter Coates Race No.2

Over 450 runners with a good turnout from Clayton lined up for this championship race in gloriously hot sunshine. The heat was going to make this 8.1 mile race with 3000Ft of ascent an absolute beast particularly with what was warned as being a extremely tough final climb up Blease Fell.

I soon settled into the race after what was quite a chaotic start to the race with runners choosing different lines up the rough track. I spotted Dave Bagot up ahead just before we began the climb to Rispa Pike and set my sights on reeling him in and managed to pass him on the boggy path just after the summit. The next few miles were a mix of killer climbs and fast descents. I still felt strong as I reached the summit of Linghaw and began an exhilarating descent off the fell towards the stream crossing before the final killer climb up Blease Fell which looked massive. This was a real tough climb in very hot weather but I managed a good climb and still felt strong when I finally reached the summit. It was then a case of running the final 2 miles on a long gradual descent back to the finish in Tebay.

Barbara Savage at the Tebay Fell Race. Photo by Steve Angus

What a fantastic race in stunning scenery in glorious sunshine and one which I thoroughly enjoyed running against the UK’s top fell racers. I finished just ahead of Dave Bagot who had a great race considering his heroics of the previous weekend on Pendle so massive respect to Dave!

Full Results

SUNDAY 18 JUNE

FATHER’S DAY 10K

James Dunderdale was our only runner in the Father’s Day 10K race organised by Lancaster Race Series. He finished in 7th place overall with a time of 41:57.

James Dunderdale in the Fathers Day 10K

Full Results 

FRECKLETON HALF MARATHON

A quartet of Clayton Harriers took to the scorching roads of Freckleton for this half marathon race. David Moynihan was our first finisher in 69th place.  Sarah Angelone was our first lady finisher in 125th place.

Sarah Angelone and Janine Pollard ready for the Freckleton Half Marathon

Report from Sarah Angelone

Well what can I say about the freckleton half? It was the hardest race I’ve ever done!!! In scorching heat with no wind the hardest battle was not the physical pain but the mental battle to keep going. Luckily the water stations, armed with sponges and showers were a god send and something I eagerly kept a look out for throughout the route and after each one looked like I’d been for a swim never mind out for a run!!! Glad I got round the gruelling 13.2 miles but I wouldn’t want to do it again.

Full Results

HELM HILL RACES

Report from Peter Coates –  Race No. 3

BOFRA race at Helm Hill Kendal.  I decided to do this race after we stopped up in the Lakes following the previous day’s race at Tebay.  This was my first BOFRA race and I enjoyed the low-key feel although with runners of the calibre of Ben Mounsey and Simon Bailey competing the quality of the field was definitely not low key.  This was a relatively short 3.3 mile race and I was not sure how the legs were going to feel following the previous days tough racing.  The race starts with the climb up Helm Hill and my legs felt dead going up the short climb but once at the top my race head took over and I tried to pick runners off were I could along the twisty paths and sharp climbs and descents.  I was pretty shattered at the finish but I did enjoy the race and didn’t do too bad considering.

Peter Coates at the BOFRA Helm Hill Race.

Full Results

OLDHAM 10K

BRITISH  ATHLETICS EUROPEAN MOUNTAIN RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIP TRIALS

 Report from Chris Holdsworth

Three Peaks Fell Race 2015 – Constant hail, sleet, snow and wind leading to mild hypothermia.

Tour of Pendle 2015 – Cramp so bad that I almost had to get evicted off the Big End for squatting so long… AND almost being beaten by Dave Motley *Shudder*

Edinburgh Marathon 2016 – re-aggravation of a hip injury from mile 15 and pushing through to the end (Possibly not so clever in hindsight).

Howarth Hobble 2017 – Blowing up with 6 miles to go after 26 miles of tough, boggy, brutal running and looking as well as Jonathon Brownlee did after THAT infamous moment.

Home International Race, Sedbergh 2017 – now joins the list of toughest races I’ve endured!

Making my England debut, I’d hoped to have kinder conditions, but the forecast (unsurprisingly for the middle of June) provided intense, windless heat on the Sedbergh Hills.

Chris Holdsworth ready for his England debut. Photo by Sophie McIntosh

The race began shortly after 1pm and despite the weather, I quickly found myself in 2nd place on the tail of leading England runner Chris Smith. Having reduced my miles for the race, my legs were feeling very good. However, the warmth soon sapped and drained everything I had and I found myself in massive oxygen depletion earlier than usual. Summiting and returning down the way we came, I felt my dry and dehydrated hamstrings both begin to strain and pull… A painful run back down on tender legs, the next loop back round will be one I won’t forget in a while.

Chris in action.

I’d never felt sick whilst running before, I’m usually quite adept at keeping myself composed and well, but the next slog up the climb brought on involuntary retching, blurred and diminishing vision, and the tightening of lungs, throat and every muscle in my legs.

Success for Chris on his England debut.

I was running for England though, there wasn’t any chance I was going to let my pace drop any further – so I clawed and battled my way back to the summit, and endured the pain all the way back down.

Gold medal winning England Team

Finishing 6th in the World Mountain Trials race and 3rd in the Home Internationals, I was able to help England secure victory and a gold medal – as well as a bronze medal, two shredded hamstrings and one hell of an Englishman’s sunburn for myself… well worth the pain!!

AWAITING FULL RESULTS

TRAILBLASTER

A men’s team, a ladies’ team and a number of juniors gave the club a real presence at this year’s Trailblaster endurance event featuring laps in and around Towneley Park.

Team Clayton at the Trailblaster endurance event.

Report from Michelle Abbott

The event and support was amazing with loads of people coming down to give their support and run laps with us (too many to mention but you were all brilliant) which was amazing. It was definitely a bit too hot to be out for 12hrs, but with team and family support and pure grit we got through every lap together which paid off in the end. At 7.30pm already tired and ready for a lie down ,I was anxiously waiting for Nina to come in so I could get out and equal the record of 25 laps I knew I had to be back before 8 so that Cassie could get out and complete the 26th lap –  so no pressure!

After a hot 5 laps I was off with a little help from one of our juniors,Sophie, who ran the full lap with me and the support coming into the last 1.7 was amazing with George Pier running along with me for the last push. I got in with 3 mins to spare. we got the ladies 12hr team win and record! We will be back again. Such an amazing team effort – male and female.

Junior Runners at the mini Blaster. Photo by David Belshaw

Everyone worked really hard with well deserved wins all round even for our juniors who took on a full lap in the miniblaster. Matthew Jackson leading all the way with Lennon on his tail until the last K when Lennon pulled in front and won by 6 secs leaving Matthew in second – sibling rivalry keeps them pushing.

 Report from Lynsey Birtwistle

I can honestly say that this is one of the best days running I have ever had. Both teams performed so well in the heat and the team spirit was amazing. It was so hot out there and each lap got harder and harder.

Trailblaster Ladies Team

Lots of friendly Clayton faces came down to cheer us on and join in with our massive spread of food in the party tent!!! The last couple of hours were brilliant and both teams worked well together to win both men’s and women’s team prizes. Cannot wait for next year!

PARKRUN ROUNDUP

Abingdon parkrun – A total of 347 runners took part

Burnley parkrun – A total of 340 runners took part.

Burnley junior parkrun – A total of 120 runners took part

Concord parkrun, Sheffield – A total of 88 runners took part.

Cuerden Valley parkrun – A total of 209 runners took part.

Mile End parkrun – A total of 278 runners took part.

Pendle parkrun – A total of 94 runners took part.

Witton parkrun – A total of 116 runners took part.

What a week! There have been some amazing efforts from our members as they took part in the Pendle Hill 22 for 22 challenge with plenty more of you turning up to support and join in along the way.  There’s also been plenty of action with some great performances and success in the Inter-Counties competition.

PENDLE HILL 22 FOR THE 22

The terrorist attack at the MEN Arena left 22 dead and 119 injured. Many of our club members have felt the impact of this atrocity and thankfully our junior member who was there escaped unhurt. A charity event to raise money for the We Love MCR Emergency Fund and Red Cross was launched.

6 runners, Garry Wilkinson, Matt Perry, Dave Motley, Dave Bagot, Ryan Wilkinson, Lee Smith and Paul Hesketh would run up and down Pendle Hill 22 times making a total of over 80 miles of running with around 22,000 feet of climbing over 3 days.

The 22 for 22 Challenge. Photo by David Belshaw

Support came in thick and fast from members of Clayton Harriers, other local running clubs and local businesses.

Report From Garry Wilkinson

Well 4 out of 5 of us beat the mountain.22 Summit climbs from the Pendle Inn Barley taking in 84 miles and 23,500 feet of ascent/descent. Starting out on Friday at 4pm and finishing Sunday at 4pm.

Claggy conditions during the 22 for 22 challenge.

We wish to thank the Pendle Inn, Barley Village for letting us host the event there and all our sponsors and supporters. Some came to run a few and some just one.

Clayton runners supporting the challenge. Photo by David Belshaw

Others just came to show their support, feed us and take in the incredible camaraderie these guys produced. We have raised close to £5000 and our original target was a thousand.

You can still donate on www.justgiving.com/WeHeartMCR22

We just can’t thank you enough

Report From Dave Motley

Well I managed to complete the challenge of running up/down Pendle Hill 22 times this weekend and I’m not broken, although my legs are a little sore.

One last time. Photo by David Belshaw

During the challenge 4 of us completed the full 22 reps resulting in us running 83.5mile and climbing 23,359ft!! I’ve just checked and this is the equivalent of running from Everest base camp to the summit and back down twice (and a tiny bit more) over the weekend. Unfortunately Man 5, Ryan Wilkinson had to pull out after really struggling with a knee injury with 5 reps to go, but he has already vowed to finish the challenge when he’s fixed, so watch this space.

We had some real low times between us over the weekend with awful weather on Saturday and personally the 1^st two legs on Sunday where I couldn’t keep food down (not drink related). But the support we received over the weekend from our families, friends and the running community was amazing.

We have managed to raise over 4k so far and once we’ve counted the buckets and got the last bits of sponsorship hope to be over the 5k mark. You can still sponsor us on the below link. Thanks for all your support, it means a lot to me and the rest of the lads.

TUESDAY 6 MAY

PADDY’S POLE

The weather conditions at the Preston Harriers` organised Paddys Pole fell race were very challenging this year. A very strong westerly wind howled across the fells making progress very difficult at times for the runners and the wind had brought down some tree branches in the lanes near Chipping. The race starts and finishes near Fell Foot and is 3.7 miles , with 1102 feet of climbing. It heads out under Parlick, crosses Blindhurst Fell to Fair Snape Fell (Paddys Pole) and returns with a fast descent to the finish off Parlick. The first three runners were together for the majority of the race and Matt Perry won in 31.06, just two seconds ahead of Sam Harrison of Bowland. They both descended from Parlick at a furious pace as the lead kept changing hands.

Sarah Helliwell was our first lady finisher and Karin Goss was 1^st FV60. First place was awarded to both our Men’s and Ladies’ teams.

Full Results

WEDNESDAY 7 MAY

ASTLEY PARK TRAIL SERIES

Seven junior runners took part in the second race of this year’s Astley Park trail series. Lennon Jackson was our first finisher in 17th place and Sophie Ashworth was our first girl.

Full Results