Great Hucklow Fell Race 2015 ran on Sunday 5th July

 

Another great running of the Great Hucklow fell race. As usual, local residents turned out in their dozens to marshal, register, refresh, time and more for the 142 adult runners, as well as nearly 40 junior competitors. The primary school playing field had a real buzz all morning thanks to all the refreshments for runners and spectators alike this year being in easy stumbling distance of the finish line.

 

Due entirely to organisational confusion, Mark Burton (Pennine) lost his good lead on Jack Ross at the top of the final descent to the finish. Thanks to the excellent sportsmanship of the two athletes, it was agreed to award a joint first place. Christopher Leigh (Pennine) came in 3rd. As photos from various points of the varied course show, these 3 maintained their lead of the field from the very beginning. Caitlin Rice (Glossop Dale) was first female back, in 14th place overall, followed by Holly Martin (Pennine) and Rosie Walwyn (Smiley Paces). While no records were broken by the winners the field overall was fast, the sweepers not getting to enjoy the usual amble with the back markers, with everyone accounted for over the finish line before prize giving was finished. Dark Peak pipped Pennine to be first female team, and While Pennine took first female team, winning a free pint each at the Queen Anne at the other end of the village.

 

In the Junior races, Jack Crownshaw (Dark Peak) finished the 10+ course first (shortened thanks to serious mine subsidence at the far end of the usual course), while Lauren Wilshaw (Buxton AC) was first back from the 6+ race.