THE GLENDALE SHOW FELL RACE
This was to be my first go of organising a fell race. And i must say i think i've already cracked it,the key to putting on a race is simple-get a committee and land owner that are 100% behind it,a couple of local folk to stick in prize money and a team of helpers with loads of experience,then you just let them get on with it and turn up on the day and look busy.
It's been over ten years since there was a race at the show so we had no idea what to expect. I've noticed that generally the show race numbers have been down so i was a little apprehensive especially after flogging it to death on websites(thanks Rob)and getting write ups in the papers.The last thing i wanted was a low turnout and a bit of a letdown.
I had no need to worry as over 60 seniors and juniors turned up, which is more than i hoped for.
The race was a simple out and back, the first mile was fairly flat, nice running on grass, the next half mile was a steady climb up a farm track, then as the juniors turned and went back the way they had came the seniors were out onto the open fell, making for a giant ST Georges Cross flag (not my choice) at the top of Brands Hill.
With it being a very runnable,fast race i knew the climb up Brands would catch a few people out but the view from the top looking onto the show field (and surrounding wind farm)would be worth it.Coming down Brands is one of the best bits of the Chevvy Chase in my opinion so i knew the runners would find it enjoyable.
Nick Swinburn(NFR) led from early on and won the race by a couple of minutes,i think Darrell Hastie and Phil Sanderson(Elswick) had a good race with both leading at one stage or another only for Hastie to take second and Phil third.Nicola Roper(Heaton RC) was first lady,beating Wooler running clubs Henrietta Bolton Carter by almost 2 minutes,Shelly Barton was third,beating the up and coming Alison Brown by a few seconds.
I have to say that it was a really strong field with some recognisable faces from the fell and road scene.
Junior winners where Jarod Lewis and Philippa Chambers (13-15)and William Dixon and Callie Henderson(10-12.
Highlights for me was watching local lad(1 to watch)Jarod Lewis fearlessly lead out Nick Swinburn for the first few hundred yards! Also big up to Nina Cameron for doing the Falstone / Glendale double.
Thanks to everyone who helped do my job for me on the day, Glenn,Adam,Harry,the marshals and time keepers,see you all next year.
