Race Reporting: Burbage Skyline 2010

 A record entry, long queues, a delayed start and a dry beer beer cask. Sounds like a good receipe for a succesful and enjoyable evenings racing. So it proved.

The entry record for the event was smashed and long queues ensured a swift descision to delay the start. The number of competitors that arrived caught everyone by surprise, especially as it was felt that the very chilly conditions would keep people at home - Wrong!
So 324 competitors headed from the Fox House Inn, down towards the Burbage Brook crossing, and around to Mother Cap before a short descent and then up onto Higger Tor. The 'Plummet' followed with a run down to the brook before climbing again to Burbage North. A final run along the ridge and a last descent to the finish and sprint for the line - well for some anyway.

The experienced and more recognised local fell runners were mixing with a number of fell running 'newbies', for whom there was definitely plenty of encouragement. It was however easy enough to spot those more used to tarmac.
That said one or two of the faster paced 'roadies' were definitely towards the front of the field. From the start Stuart Bond made his intentions very clear leading from the front as he lead the way to the first Brook crossing. In close attendance was a small group which included Rob Little and Neil Northrop. By the time the bottom of the 'Plumett' had been reached Mr Bond had opened a small gap with Mr Little continuing to chase hard.
Helen Elmore was clearly in determined mood as she had already run clear of Judy Jepson, at this very same point.

So this was how things would remain. Stuart ran home clear in 35.45 with Rob finishing in 37.38, with Helen clocking a very respectable time of 46.34.

Results were a little slower than normal, only because of the unexpected number of racers. Announcements were made and the bar was drunk dry.

If you ask me it was a highly succesful evening and racers, marshals, the organisers and the results team all deserve a pat on the back. Well done to one and all. Many thanks to all the staff at the Fox House for ensuring everyone was made to feel welcome.

So the attemtion now turns to the next race in the series, Castleton. See you here....

The 2010 Accelerate Gritstone Series Partners

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