UK Athletics Fell and Hill Relays

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Well done to our men’s team for their efforts at this year’s UK Athletics Fell and Hill Relays, this year held at the Clwydian Hills, Denbighshire. A 5th place finish against very strong opposition was a fine result. We started as we meant to go on, Darren Kay on Leg 1 handing over in 5th place to Brendan Bolland and Russell Maddams for the long pairs leg 2, who returned home in 6th place. James Logue and James Kevan worked hard on the navigation leg, significantly reducing the time cushion built by the leading teams, to bring us back in 4th place. Gary Priestley on Leg 4, gave his all to scalp back one place on the final run in, a deserving consolation for his efforts after being overhauled by two of Mercia and Dark Peak’s finest. We didn’t quite muscle in on the medals this year, but remained “one to watch” throughout the event, and the results will show how close the finish times of the top teams were after over 3.5 hours of running. Well done lads.

Chris Heys

Ladies Race.
A flyer of a run on Leg 1 from Katie Ingram got the ladies team off to a cracking start. Even after her speedy performance the day before, Katie pulled yet another fine run out of the bag. Despite a bit of congestion and confusion at the changeover point, Katie handed over to Geradline Walkington & Suzanne Budgett for the second leg. The terrain was easy going and despite some strong winds was pretty much runnable all the way round and presented no problems for this pairing. The next leg was navigational. Mary White & Rachel Metcalfe navigated this very well with a super-fit Mary taking Rachel somewhat by surprise. The ‘glory’ leg was run superbly by Angela Allen (who was dug out of hiding especially for the occasion). Predominantly a road runner, Angela confessed to actually enjoying the run, so beware all you roadies, I’ll be after you to try the fells and follow in Angela’s studmarks.
A superb team effort by all and a well organised event in some lovely surroundings. Many thanks to all who participated and to those who either stepped in at the last minute or who were prepared to – you’re all very much appreciated. Unfortunately the results are not yet to hand, so final finishing position is not available.

Suzanne

Results at: http://www.wfra.me.uk/567a.pdf