RACE PHOTOS  | RESULTS

This popular early season evening race returned after an absence of 5 years. 89 runners set off at pace up the steep track on a blustery evening. To the fore were Nick Sharp, recently a father to daughter Daisy, and Tim Austin, returning from injury. Tim reached the top first in 17.06 with Nick 3 seconds adrift. A slight error by Tim on the descent saw Nick take advantage to seal victory by 5 seconds, 34 seconds adrift of John Hooson’s 1995 record. The promising youngster Ben Ablenoor had a strong race to finish third ahead of Gary Thorpe in fourth place, who was also first vet 40. These two along with Nick Sharpe combined to take the team honours for Ambleside in their opening club championship race of the year.

Paul Dugdale had a good run to finish 6^th overall and 2^nd vet 40 with Kendal clubmate, the ‘evergreen’ Phil Clark taking the vet 50 prize ahead of Dave Holcroft of Ambleside. Dave Harrison finished first vet 60.

The ladies race was dominated by English champion Natalie White who now runs for Bingley.  She shattered the old record from 1997 held by Lyn Thompson by nearly 2 minutes, coming home in 32.00 and finishing 13^th overall. Natalie was followed home by Hazel Jones in second and previous record holder Lyn Thopmson in 3^rd and first V50.

Thanks to all the people who helped on the evening, particularly the summit marshals and Helen and Michelle who registered runners, collated results and made cakes.

See you next year

Dan