Race Reporting: Longshaw Fell Race

By Debs Smith

Longshaw fell race always has a great relaxed atmosphere and this year was no exception. The 6th race in the Gritstone series proved to be crucial to a few categories but for others Windgather will be the decider.

The sun shone as we set off over Burbage. It is a great route. Starting with a long steady climb up to Burbage bridge before descending through the mud beside the river. Although it was relatively dry this year but there were still plenty of contenders for the annual “muckies leg price”. Next was a short but steep slog up Higger Tor before, for me, the best bit through the heather and a fantastic swooping decent. All was going well until the sting in the tale - the climb up the fields to the finish, with nothing left in the legs or lungs this went on for ever, but we were finally greeted by Jim Fulton over the loud speakers announcing the runners. With some information on each competitor, such as “Here comes, John, the fattest person running today”. I think I got off likely! As ever it was all in good spirits.

Lets be honest Longshaw is just one of those races, full of character, wit and humour and with prizes of cakes, jams and home grown tomatoes you can’t go wrong.

A great race - thanks to Jim and Hilary for organising, and of course, all the marshals.

The 2009 Accelerate Gritstone Series Partners

Early September Heather and Higger Tor....

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