Lady Lions continue success

This week saw fantastic performances by Sally Caton and Helen Armitage at Eccup 10 to secure 1st F45 and 1st F50 respectively in a crowded field, and another successful Vets Race with a win for Mags Beever, as the Lions battled on through the heatwave.

Wharfedale Three Peaks Challenge

The Wharfedale Three Peaks Challenge is a 22 mile fell race/challenge walk starting in Kettlewell and taking in the summits of Birks Fell, Buckden Pike and Great Whernside.  Kevin Robinson and Aileen Baldwin opted for the fell race, while Sandy Gee (who was racing the next day) completed the route as a challenge walk.

Results: Kevin Robinson 4:08:10, Aileen Baldwin 5:33:47

Eccup 10 Mile

Two dozen Lions took on the Eccup 10 Mile race on Sunday, many in search of club championship points.  The course takes in rural closed roads and a scenic route around Eccup reservoir and is always a sell-out.  There were impressive category wins for Sally Caton (1st F45) and Helen Armitage (1st F50) in a crowded field.  James McNutt just pipped Gareth Knight to be first Lion.

Results James McNutt 1:15:09, Gareth Knight 1:15:19, Sally Caton 1:15:43 (1st F45), Martin O’Brien 1:17:41, David Farrar 1:17:59, Helen Armitage 1:18:15 (1st F50), Maria Harron 1:19:10, Stuart Clinton 1:19:36, Michelle Rogerson 1:21:23, Ian Johnson 1:21:51, Jan King 1:26:01, Tim Walker 1:27:12, Catherine McHugh 1:29:01, Lesley Hodgson 1:29:40, Roy Lunt 1:30:37, John Hirst 1:33:16, Paul Armitage 1:39:50, Jenny Walker 1:42:12, Alex Whyte 1:49:50, Ken Chilcott 1:51:01, Trish Hallowell 1:53:58, Wendy Paulson 1:54:09, Jackie Barker 1:58:35, Gail Fawcett 2:04:53

Lindley 10K

Also taking place on Sunday was the Lindley 10K which marks the end of Lindley Carnival weekend.  Starting in the centre of Lindley, the route takes runners up to the M62, down a huge hill towards Huddersfield before the final leg straight up another huge hill back to Lindley.  Reassuringly, the finish line is almost directly opposite the A & E Department of the hospital.  Stephen Hall was 1st Lion, finishing in 10th place.  There were category wins for Derek Parrington (1st V50) and John Bassinder (1st V60), and Michelle Eyre chose this race to make her debut in a Lions vest.  Sandy Gee was unexpectedly named 2nd V55 - but don’t look too closely at what gender the organisers think he is.

Results: Stephen Hall 39:26, Derek Parrington 39:47 (1st V50), Chris Hall 40:54, Mak Dhinsa 45:20, Jim Harris 45:25, John Bassinder 48:13 (1st V60), Sandy Gee 57:54, Michelle Eyre 58:59, Susan Cash 59:12, Helen Harris 59:17

Dambusters 10 Mile

Two Lions made it to the start line of The Dambuster 10.  Enjoying good weather, the course was a very simple, undulating loop on road and trail around Ladybower Reservoir in Derbyshire.  Angela Lee and Steve Boyer crossed the finish line together in a time of 1:43:14.

Ripon Triathlon

Gavin Foster completed the Ripon Triathlon in 2:40:03.  It was Gavin’s first Olympic distance triathlon, and speaking afterwards he said he felt it was “a good target to beat next time, with plenty of room for improvement”.

A Win for Mags at South Leeds Vets Race

Captain Gav and his compact crew of veterans ran at South Leeds last week, race 4 of the series.  Thankfully, the route was mostly in the shade.  Mags Beever won the ladies’ race, while Tanya Blake was 2nd Lady and Gavin Mulholland was 3rd in the men’s race.  Stainland currently top all but one of the team classifications.

Too hot to race

Slightly less racing than usual this week.  Firstly, everyone’s been down at Heath celebrating the club’s 30th anniversary instead, and secondly, it’s just WAY TOO HOT.

Hat Trick of Fell Races for David Culpan

David Culpan was undeterred by the soaring temperatures and took on not one but three fell races this week.  He was the sole Lion at the Beamsley Beacon race (5.5 miles with 1100 feet of ascent) and at the Kinder Trog (15 miles with 3000 feet of ascent).  Supervet Aileen Baldwin joined him at Bridestones (4½ miles with 1100 feet of ascent).  Conditions at all three races were sweltering hot, particularly Sunday’s Kinder Trog, and David did well to manage a course pb there this year despite the heat.

Bridestones unofficial results Aileen Baldwin 52 minutes, David Culpan 52:12

Beamsley Beacon result: David Culpan 52:00

Kinder Trog result: David Culpan 2:55:00

Humber Bridge Half Marathon

The Humber Bridge Half Marathon is East Yorkshire’s largest half marathon.  The event is set against the magnificent Humber Bridge, formerly the longest single span bridge in the world (but now languishing down in ninth place and about to drop out of the top ten altogether, although the race marketing material doesn’t mention this).  Starting in Hessle, the route takes runners over the bridge, around scenic Barton and surrounding countryside, before the final leg back over the iconic bridge to finish.

Results: Stuart Clinton 1:51:27, Amjid Khan 1:57:46

Swansea Half Marathon

Thousands of runners took on this half marathon which follows the sweep of Swansea Bay.  The route is described as “flat and fast” but not when it’s 30 degrees it isn’t.  Ian Hoskins and Michelle Rogerson coped well with the heat and crossed the line together.

Results: Ian Hoskins 1:47:50, Michelle Rogerson 1:47:52

Total Warrior

Something a bit different……..James McNutt took on this 12K obstacle race around Bramham Park in Leeds, tackling 25 punishing obstacles including walls, cargo nets, mud-filled trenches and a giant ice bath.

Result: James McNutt 2:16:47

Penistone 10K

Virginia Lewin chose the Penistone 10K as her debut race for the Lions, running well in the heat to pick up the 3rd F65 prize in a time of 62:40.

Victory for the Lionesses

In a week where the UK’s crisis of inactivity was in the news, the Lions were bucking the trend, getting out there in numbers to race up and down the fells and round our local roads.  This week’s highlights were a fantastic win for the Lions’ ladies team at the Joe Percy 10K and another ultramarathon in the bag for Rebecca O’Neill.

Joe Percy Invitational 10K

The Joe Percy 10K is a very popular, inter-club road race around Thurstonland and Farnley Tyas in South Huddersfield.  The Lions fielded a large team of around 70 runners.  The Lions’ ladies team pipped Halifax Harriers to the win, with strong performances from winning team members Mags Beever, Tanya Blake, Suzanne Patterson, Stefanie Hopkins, Sally Caton, Lorraine Naylor, Gaby Ferris, Helen Armitage, Aileen Baldwin and Victoria Armstrong.

As well as the team win, there were individual prizewinners on the night:

1st F35 Mags Beever
1st F50 Helen Armitage
1st F65 Aileen Baldwin
2nd F45 Suzanne Patterson
2nd F50 Rachel Lumb
2nd M65 Jan King
3rd F60 Janet Carter

Jonny Cartwright wins Ginathlon

Jonny Cartwright won this year’s Ginathlon, a 6km mixed terrain (roads, tracks and trails) fun race with feed stations every 1.5km stocked with optional ice cold gin & tonic!  Wife Nicki was 2nd Lady.  Cheers Mr and Mrs C!
 
Results: Jonny Cartwright 28:37, Nicki Cartwright 36:47, Jude Faulkner 63:30

Dark Peak Trail Race

Seven Lions competed in the Dark Peak Trail Race, a 25K trail run with over 2,000 feet of ascent.  The event is run on the footpaths, tracks and trails within the ‘grittier/higher level’ surroundings of the Northern/Dark Peak District starting and finishing from Hayfield and including The Sett Valley Trail, The Pennine Bridleway, Lantern Pike and Chinley Churn.  This is a hilly, moorland trail run amongst stunning Northern Peak District scenery.

Results: Rachel Lumb 2:46:47, Moira Alderson 2:46:55, Laraine Penson 3:02:15, Steve Boyer 3:10:08, Angela Lee 3:14:10, Sharon Marlor-Gage 3:14:10, Rikki Hammond 3:14:13

Settle Hills Race 2018

Settle Harriers organise the Settle Hills race which promises a bit of everything – grassy paths, tarmac at the beginning and end, rocky paths, tussocky moorland and some very steep climbs and descents – altogether an enjoyable route.  Jim Harris was the sole Lion taking part (as a Father’s Day treat), finishing in 1:11:44.

Settle Saunter 23 miles

Also in Settle, the Saunter is an annual race along footpaths and bridleways in the Yorkshire Dales through picturesque rural villages and hamlets and open countryside.  The event is organised by the Rotary Club of Settle.  There are various distance options, and Aileen Baldwin opted for the 23 mile version, finishing in equal 9th place in 5 hours 7 minutes.

London to Brighton bike ride

Andrew Mackrill completed the annual London to Brighton bike ride.  The 54 mile route meanders through the Surrey and Sussex countryside, starting at Clapham Common and ending in Brighton.

The Canal Canter Summer Extravaganza

This is an out and back canter on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal, starting and finishing at Kirkstall just outside the centre of Leeds.  Various distance options are available.  Rebecca O’Neill opted for the ultramarathon distance, her third marathon or longer in 10 weeks.

Results: James McNutt (half marathon 1:53:15), Andrew Falkingbridge (20 miles 3:50:54), Rebecca O’Neill (32.3 mile ultramarathon, 5:58:34)

Two Vets and a Bob

Another really big week of racing for the Lions.  Highlights include wins for Tanya Blake at Coniston Trail Half Marathon and Gavin Mulholland at Kirkstall Abbey, strong performances by Ashley Cavalier and Derek Parrington at the Calderdale Way Ultramarathon, a valiant attempt at the epic Bob Graham Round by James Penson and his loyal support crew, and not one but two Vets’ races in the same week.

The Bob Graham Round

James Penson made his third attempt at the famous Bob Graham Round this weekend.  The BGR is a fell running challenge in the Lake District, where runners are tasked with reaching the summits of 42 peaks in 24 hours.  James is a seasoned ultra-runner, having completed the Marathon des Sables and numerous other extreme distance events, and he had great support from Lion friends running sections of the route with him, but after 13 hours and 60km, he became unwell and had to retire.  James is an inspiration to other club members, and no doubt he will be back for another attempt.

Kirkstall Vets and Whitby Vets

Not one but two Vets’ races this week, with Kirstall Abbey on Tuesday evening and Whitby on Sunday.  The Whitby race is a keenly anticipated annual fixture, affording the club a day out at the seaside and a chance to run on private land in the beautiful grounds of Mulgrave Castle.  The castle is an ancient ruin (not unlike the runners!), and, unlikely though it sounds, was owned until very recently by supermodel Elle MacPherson, who apparently leased the shooting rights to the estate and might have enjoyed having a go at the Yorkshire Veterans’ race in her back garden had she been at home.  Whitby is one of the few places in the UK to have even steeper gradients than Halifax, and the Mulgrave Castle course features a memorable uphill finish.  This unrelenting wall of a hill reduces the majority of the runners to an undignified Death Shuffle in front of all the finish line officials, spectators and photographers.

Vets’ Captain Gavin Mulholland took the win at Kirkstall Abbey, and there were category wins and placings for a number of Lions at both events.  The Lions are currently sitting pretty in the Yorkshire Vets’ League, leading five of the six team categories.

Calderdale Way Ultramarathon

First, a quick recap: last month saw huge numbers of runners take on the Calderdale Way Relay Race –a six leg relay event run in pairs, which covers 50 miles of the Calderdale Way.  But on Saturday, this same route was raced all in one go as an ultramarathon.  Running one leg of the relay is gruelling enough, so hats off to Ashley Cavalier who ran all six legs by himself in a single day.  Ashley’s excellent run secured him 6th place.  Derek Parrington took the shorter (but still ultra distance) route option, also finishing in 6th place.

Result (50 mile route): Ashley Cavalier 10:05:17
Result (28 mile route): Derek Parrington 5:28:38

Wharfedale Trail Half Marathon

The Wharfedale Trail Half Marathon starts and finishes at Threshfield near Skipton.  With over 2,000 feet of ascent, the route follows well established footpaths, including the Dalesway, and the views from Scott Gate, Mastiles and Boss Moor are quite breathtaking.  Aileen Baldwin and John Ingles endured wet and muggy conditions on the day, with Aileen picking up the 1st F65 prize (and going on to race again in Whitby the very next day, where she also won the 1st F65 prize, because she’s awesome).

Results: Aileen Baldwin 2:07:03 (1st F65), John Ingles 2:12:24

Coniston Trail Half Marathon

Tanya Blake put in a superb run to finish 1st Lady (and 8th overall) at Coniston Trail Half Marathon.  Billed as “the most picturesque half marathon in the UK”, the beautiful route sets off from Coniston along a 13.1 mile journey through National Trust woodland.  The course then returns to Coniston down ancient bridleway trails to the shores of Coniston Water, before returning to the finish at Coniston Hall.  Speaking after her win, Tanya said, “It was unexpected.  Very tough in the heat but stunning scenery!”  Craig Miller was hot on her heels, finishing in 24th place overall and 3rd M40.

Results: Tanya Blake 1:38:20, Craig Miller 1:42:46

Huddersfield Marathon

Nearer to home, new Lion Kevin Robinson was taking on the hilly Huddersfield Marathon.  Notorious as the toughest road marathon in the UK, the two lap route has a hilly opening few miles before a kinder run in to the finish.  Kevin’s time was enough to give him a top twenty finish.

Result: Kevin Robinson 4:25:15

Yorkshire Mountain Bike Marathon and Fast and Flat 100 Miles

The club’s cyclists were also out in force this weekend.  On Saturday, Sally McGregor, Karen Thorne, Claire Guest, Sarah Lunt and Richard Crombie took part in the Flat and Fast 100 mile sportive around Doncaster and parts of South and West Yorkshire and Lincolnshire.  Tony Mott completed the Yorkshire Mountain Bike Marathon, cycling the 40 km route in 3 hours 10 minutes.  The route, which passes David Hockney's famous Thixendale Trees, starts and finishes in the grounds of Birdsall House in the Yorkshire Wolds.

Another bank holiday weekend of action

Another red hot Bank Holiday weekend with plenty of Lions in action.

Hollingworth Lake 5K

Two Lions completed Race 4 of the popular Hollingworth Lake 5K series this week.

Results: Andrew Mackrill 21:53, Tara Sherwood 29:15

Hare and Tortoise Relay Race

Gerry Banham and Laraine Penson were victorious at this year’s Hare & Tortoise, the club’s annual relay race.  Over 50 Lions took part in the event, which saw pairs of runners heading off in opposite directions to get their batons round the approx. 5.5 mile course.  The very enjoyable evening ended with a presentation to the Forget-Me-Not Children’s Hospice of the £1,173 raised at the Fun Run held earlier this year organised by Caroline Ford and Mark Pigford, pictured holding the cheque.

Results: (1) Gerry Banham & Laraine Penson 44:31, (2) Tony Mott & Rachel Fay 44:54, (3) Jonny Cartwright & Julie Goddard 45:21, (4) Will Rushworth & Jenny Walker 45:24, (5) Richard Crombie & Alison Hesketh 45:31, (6) Mike Dunning & Tony Pinnington 45:43, (7) Tracy Mott & Jon Pybus 45:47, (8) Chris Hall & Jackie Barker 45:49, (9) Ian Hoskins & Ansar Farouk 46:07, (10) Jim Harris & Caroline Palmer 46:31, (11) Gareth Duckworth & Catherine McHugh 46:37, (12) Gareth Knight & Paul Butterfield 46:43, (13) Dan Marsden & Anne Cawdron 46:48, (14) Martin Wood & Alan Whiteley 46:56, (15) Tim Walker & Claire Guest 47:26, (16) Leon Severn & Richard Lambert 47:34, (17) Amjid Khan & Ali Audsley 47:41, (18) Andrew Mackrill & Paula Pickersgill 47:45, (19) Paul Patrick & Lin Devine 47:46, (20) Helen Armitage & Graham Robertshaw 47:51, (21) Robert Ashcroft & Nicki Cartwright 48:04, (22) Andrew Earnshaw & Justin Scargill 48:21, (23) Dave Culpan & Roger Smith 48:26, (24) Michelle Rogerson & Sue Cash 48:34, (25) Roy Lunt & Paul Armitage 50:07, (26) Rikki Hammond & Sarah Lunt 52:44.

Helvellyn and The Dodds Fell Race

David Culpan was the only Lion at this year’s Helvellyn and The Dodds Fell Race, a gruelling 16 miler with 4,500 feet of ascent taking in Clough Head, Raise and The Dodds before climbing up to the summit of Helvellyn and back.  Conditions on the day were hot, with very strong winds on the tops.

Result: David Culpan 3:40:52

Saddleworth Fell Race

This short sharp three mile race climbs 950 lung busting feet up to Alderman’s Hill before dropping steeply back into the valley.  The running on the top is described as “fast unless you pushed too hard on the climb”.  Jim Harris was the only Lion to take on the challenge, finishing in 33:58.

Melmerby 10K

Only one week after completing her marathon in Liverpool, Rebecca O’Neill was back in action in North Yorkshire on Sunday at the Melmerby 10K.  Conditions were hot, with a midday start in 23 degrees heat and full sun.  Rebecca ran well to cross the line in 51:43.

London Vitality 10K

Just one Lioness joined Mo Farah on the start line of this weekend’s big London race, the London Vitality 10K.  The course took in many of London’s famous sights including Admiralty Arch, Nelson’s Column, St Paul’s Cathedral, Mansion House, the Bank of England, the Old Bailey, Somerset House, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey.  Mo Farah won in 29:44.  Lioness Anne-Marie Killeen finished in 62:13.

Ilkley Trail Race

Organised by Ilkley Harriers for the past ten years, this 7 mile trail takes in tracks through woodland, fields and moors, interspersed with some short road sections.  Virtually all of the climb is on the way out, rewarding runners with views over the Wharfe Valley and Ilkley Moor before the very fast second half of the race.  Lioness Tanya Blake holds the women’s course record at this event (44:21).

Results: Ian Hoskins 60:18, Paul Patrick 60:58, Michelle Rogerson 62:51

Calderdale Way, fast Ed winning & mammoth marathon PB's

This weekend saw Fast Ed win the Sowerby Scorcher, Andy Baird take an improbable 48 minutes out of his course pb at Windermere Marathon (well done Andy, every three quarters of an hour counts!), and dozens of Lions take on the epic 50 mile Calderdale Way Relay.

Hollingworth Lake 5K

Two Lions finished in the top ten at Race 3 of the Hollingworth Lake 5K series this week.  Ed Hyland finished in 5th place (clocking the exact same time as he did in Race 2 last week), whilst Stephen Hall managed to shave 22 seconds off his time to finish in 7th place.

Results: Ed Hyland 16:58, Stephen Hall 17:00

Sowerby Scorcher

Just a couple of days after the Hollingworth Lake race, Ed Hyland was back in action, leading a pride of Lions round Saturday’s appropriately named Sowerby Scorcher to finish in first place.  Speaking after his win, Ed commented, “I got a bit lucky.  I was 20 metres or so behind the leader when he started fading in the last kilometre and I drew closer.  I think he must then have pulled up with an injury - but still, a win’s a win!”

The Scorcher takes runners through breathtaking countryside above Sowerby, following quiet country roads, bridleways and paths with panoramic views over the Calderdale and Ryburn valleys.  Around 40% of the 10K route is off-road on tracks and paths.

Results: Ed Hyland 39:04, Clayton Cutter 45:10, Michael Dunning 51:41, Jan King 56:14, Paul Wallis 61:50, Emily Wilson 63:32, Ian Threlkeld 64:47, Anne Cawdron 73:47, Jackie Barker 74:24, Linda Williamson 74:46, Peter Cawdron 78:32

Windermere Marathon

Regularly voted the most scenic marathon in Britain, this breathtakingly beautiful run starts, amidst a carnival atmosphere, in the grounds of Brathay Hall with its stunning views over England’s largest lake.  The route around Lake Windermere takes in the honeypot sites of Hawkshead, Newby Bridge, Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside.  Andy Baird and Sean Thompson both achieved fantastic sub 3½ hour times despite the undulating terrain and the hot weather on the day.

Results: Andy Baird 3:20:46, Sean Thompson 3:26:37

Great Manchester Run

Wendy Paulson was the sole Lion at the Great Manchester Run, the third largest mass participation race in Britain after the London Marathon and the Great North Run.  Wendy did the half marathon distance in the morning – there was also a televised 10K on the same course later in the day which was won by Mo Farah.

Result: Wendy Paulson 2:32:58

Liverpool Rock n Roll Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K and 1 Mile

The Lions were out in numbers for the Liverpool Rock n Roll races on Sunday.  Whilst most opted for the half marathon, two completed the full marathon distance.  Gluttons for punishment, many of them also took part in the 5K sharpener on the day before the main races, and a hardy few even had enough energy left over for the post-race 1 mile fun run!

Results (Marathon): Rebecca O’Neill 4:15:06, Derek Doyle 4:20:30

Results (Half Marathon): Steve Ashworth 1:43:25, Michelle Rogerson 1:46:02, Ian Hoskins 1:48:58, Claire Guest 1:51:51, Lesley Hodgson 1:52:51, Catherine McHugh 1:58:51, Kim Ison 2:03:36, Zoe Mallinson 2:04:19, Diane Thornley 2:06:00, Debbie Hyde 2:08:32, Graham Robertshaw 2:11:28, Paul Butterfield 2:14:28, Justin Scargill 2:21:11, Helen Shenton 2:25:20, Simone Zoledziejewski 2:25:47, Zoe Lunn 2:26:30, Ken Chilcott 2:28:30, Alex Whyte 2:30:21, Manjit Ahiar 2:31:32, Cheryl Hill 2:34:43, Colette Croft 2:37:12, Hilary Scargill 2:49:57, Sandra Robertshaw 2:54:54

Outlaw Half Ironman

Meanwhile, down in Nottingham, Tony Mott completed the Outlaw Half Triathlon.  This gruelling event comprises a 1.2 mile open water swim, 58 mile bike ride and half marathon.  Tony was going well until part way through his run, when he started to feel ill, and he did well to finish.

Result: Tony Mott 6:03:20

 

Calderdale Way Relay

Sunday saw half the runners in Calderdale taking part in the Calderdale Way Relay, a six leg relay event run in pairs, which covers 50 miles of the Calderdale Way.  Andrew Laird Boldy did a fantastic job of pairing together Lions of similar speeds, so that each team could run together effectively.  Cameron Rushworth and Amjid Khan both deserve a special mention, having been drafted in at the eleventh hour to replace injured runners – and in Amjid’s case having only joined the club this week and wearing borrowed club kit.  The results are to follow, but in the meantime here are some pictures from the day.

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Bluebell weekend and loads more

This weekend saw the Lions host their flagship event, the mighty ten mile Bluebell Trail, brilliantly organised this year by first time Race Director Clayton Cutter and his team.
 

Bluebell Trail

The Bluebell Trail is one of the best known races on the local calendar.  Eagerly anticipated for its mix of beautiful scenery, challenging hills and famously “refreshing” river crossing to finish, the race always sells out well in advance.  This year’s event was extra special as it marked the start of the Lions’ 30th anniversary celebrations that will be formally celebrated in June.  500 lucky runners secured places in the race, and conditions on the day were perfect, with wall-to-wall sunshine and plenty of bluebells in flower along the route.  Dozens of enthusiastic marshals were on hand to ensure that everything went smoothly.  The runners were particularly glad of the marshals’ encouragement on the day’s most challenging climb, the legendary Trooper Lane.  After this lung-busting effort up the steepest road in Halifax, exhausted runners were rewarded with supplies of water and jelly babies, plus panoramic views from the top of Beacon Hill and a welcome downhill run to the finish.  Thanks to a last minute course alteration, organisers were able to provide the runners with extra value for their money this year by treating them to a bonus extra half mile on top of the advertised ten miles.  There was a party atmosphere at the finish line, with a live band and bar, a bouncy castle for the children, and well-earned cakes and ice cream.  The race was won by Matthew Hallam of Valley Striders in 1:12:02, Lioness Lucy Collins was 1st Lady, and there were category wins for Aileen Baldwin (1st F65) and Judith Greenwood (1st F70).

Lions Results: Darren Young 1:19:13 (2nd M45), Dan Marsden 1:23:27, Lucy Collins 1:24:30 (1st Lady), Derek Parrington 1:26:55 (2nd M50), Phillip Moyles 1:29:46, Mark Pigford 1:29:52, Andrew Earnshaw 1:33:30, Michael Barlow 1:34:22, Julie Field 1:35:11 (2nd F45), David Culpan 1:38:25, Martin O’Brien 1:40:07, Stuart Clinton 1:41:05, Rachel Lumb 1:42:38 (2nd F50), Aileen Baldwin 1:42:43 (1st F65), Michelle Rogerson 1:44:55, Gareth Duckworth 1:45:02, Ian Hoskins 1:46:57, Jonathan Pybus 1:48:02, Gareth Webb 1:48:46, Moira Alderson 1:50:38, Angela Lee 1:54:46, Kevin Jaggar 1:58:36, Tony Pinnington 1:58:40, Holly Maddocks 1:59:33, Genevieve Thompson 2:01:35, Carol Gregson 2:03:07, Alison Audsley 2:03:49, Zoe Mallinson 2:07:36, Catherine O’Shaughnessy 2:11:16, Steve Boyer 2:12:00, Roger Smith 2:12:01, Debbie Hyde 2:14:50, Judith Greenwood 2:24:32 (1st F70), Patricia Hallowell 2:24:35, Wendy Paulson 2:25:16, Julie Goddard 2:31:22, Manjit Ahiar 2:37:56, Gail Fawcett 2:43:03

Yorkshire Vets Grand Prix Series – Race Two, Roundhay

Over in Leeds, it was time for Race Two of the Yorkshire Veterans Grand Prix series.  Nearly 40 Lions answered Vets Captain Gav Mulholland’s call to arms (and feet), to race round the 5 mile parkland course in search of points for the team.  Every single runner contributed to the team’s points score, and there were category wins on the night for Sally Caton (1st F40) and Aileen Baldwin (1st F65).  The race took place in the beautiful surroundings of Roundhay Park, taking runners from Soldiers Field down to the Lakeside cafe, then up to the top lake, and around the golf course and back, with just under 400ft of climbing.

Results: Sean Thompson 32:24 (3rd M50), David Roberts 32:30, Dan Marsden 32:38, Andy Baird 32:55, Clayton Cutter 34:13, Andrew Earnshaw 35:29, Paul Hiley 35:35, Andrew Laird Boldy 36:14, Sally Caton 36:43 (1st F40), Paul Patrick 37:17, John Ingles 37:24, David Culpan 37:29, Gareth Knight 37:34, Ian Hoskins 38:22, Andrew Mackrill 38:24, Helen Armitage 38:29 (2nd F50), Tim Neville 38:32, Steve Hallam 38:44, Michelle Rogerson 38:45 (3rd F40), Paul Corns 38:53, Aileen Baldwin 39:33 (1st F65), Steven Crowther 40:50, Tim Walker 41:51, Tony Pinnington 42:17, John Hirst 42:48, Paul Armitage 42:51, Gail Schofield 43:38, Jonathan Taylor 44:18, Liz Hallam 45:02, Paul Butterfield 46:47, Jenny Walker 47:20, Dave Hudson 47:53, Wendy Paulson 52:26, Patricia Hallowell 53:18, Judith Greenwood 54:02 (2nd F70)

Kirklees 10K

This year’s Kirklees 10K attracted 240 runners.  The circular course started and finished at Cathedral House near Huddersfield town centre, and was largely run on flat canal towpaths to Linthwaite and back.  Two Lions were amongst those taking part, and Gaby Ferris finished 4th Lady.

Results: Gaby Ferris 47:16, Paul Corns 49:09

Hollingworth Lake 5K

Two of the club’s faster runners were in action at Race 2 of the Hollingworth Lake 5K series this week.

Results: Ed Hyland 16:58, Stephen Hall 17:22

Leeds Half Marathon

A magnificent run by Jan King saw him take the win in the M65 category at the Leeds Half Marathon.  It was the 33rd year of the event, and all the runners were supported every step of the way by enthusiastic crowds.  The course took the runners along The Headrow and out of the city centre, returning via Abbey Road and Kirkstall Road to the big finish in Cookridge Street alongside Millennium Square.  Several of the Lions scored personal bests on the day.

Results: Gavin Foster 1:21:41, Will Rushworth 1:37:20, Gerry Banham 1:37:49, Jan King 1:43:03 (1st M65), Michael Dunning 1:45:15, Catherine McHugh 2:00:33, Ian Quigley 2:08:59, Kate Ryley 2:09:02, Dawn Medlock 2:09:20, Anne Cawdron 2:28:19, Carol Heptonstall 2:33:17

White Peak Trail Run

Laraine Penson marked her return from injury with an appearance at the 16 mile White Peak Trail Run.  The run took place on the spectacular trails of the Southern Peak District, taking in Dovedale, Milldale and the Tissington Trail.

Result: Laraine Penson 3:11:57

Lake Balaton Ultra Marathon, Hungary

Andrew Falkingbridge travelled to Hungary to take part in the UltraBalaton, a 140 mile relay race around Lake Balaton, the largest lake in Europe and 40 times bigger than Lake Windermere.  Andrew ran as part of a relay team of 11 runners, and his team completed the race in 22hrs 21mins, which was comfortably within the 24hr cut off time.  Speaking after the event, Andrew said, “On the day I ran 3 legs, two of around 7 miles and a short one of just under 2 miles, so not a great distance in total but the heat and humidity was incredible, it was over 30C so made for very hard going even for relatively short runs.”

Red hot racing over bank holiday weekend

Red hot racing over the Bank Holiday weekend culminated in the Lions Ladies Team taking second place at Coiners Fell Race, and James Penson and Jim Harris completing another of their trademark epic Lakeland challenges.
 

Orchan Rocks Fell Race

But first to Todmorden for the Orchan Rocks Fell Race.  This short sharp race from the Staff of Life pub in Todmorden takes runners up to Orchan rocks and then fast downhill back to the finish line.  3½ hard miles with 900 feet of ascent.

Result: David Culpan 33:23
 

Hollingworth Lake 5K

Joanne Hirst marked her return from injury with an appearance at Race 1 of the popular Hollingworth Lake 5K series.  Joanne finished 3rd V50 in a time of 33:44.
 

Windmill 6

On the outskirts of Huddersfield, the Windmill 6 is an undulating road race around the windmills on the top of Spicer Hill.  The route is an anti-clockwise loop with breathtaking views across Penistone and surrounding areas.  Carol Heptonstall was the sole Lion to participate, completing the route in just over an hour.
 

Saddleworth Cake Race

The Cake Race, which took place in Saddleworth on Saturday, is a spectacular 10 mile race with as much well-earned cake as runners can eat at the end.  Prizes are awarded for the cakes as well as for the running.  The challenging course with 1,700 feet of ascent takes in open moorland scenery, industrial heritage and Pennine farmland.  It is mainly on flagged paths, tracks and trails with the challenge of going over the Pennines and back.  Some of the tracks used by the runners were built in the 18th Century for the canal boat horses - while the horses were led over the hill, the boatmen would have been "legging" the boat through Standedge tunnel below.  Conditions on Saturday were very hot, and there was a battle for first Lion, with John Bassinder overtaking David Culpan in the last 200 metres to claim it.  First pick of the cakes for John!

Results: John Bassinder 1:32:29, David Culpan 1:32:36, Martin O’Brien 1:35:41, Kevin Jaggar 1:38:46, Rachel Lumb 1:41:50, Rikki Hammond 1:50:18, Moira Alderson 1:50:54, Ray Mooney 1:51:25, Michelle Rogerson 1:51:54, Ian Hoskins 1:52:06, Cat Daniel 1:52:41, Angela Lee 1:57:53, Steve Boyer 2:03:37

Staveley - Kentmere Trail

Four Lions took part in this 17k run on Saturday.  Part of the Lakeland trail series, the beautiful undulating train run along the Kentmere Valley takes in spectacular views of the southern Lakeland Fells.  Mags Beever led the Lions home.
 
Results: Mags Beever 1.28.16 (5th Lady), Tanya Blake 1.30.08 (1st V40), Craig Miller 1.30.45, Karen Marsella 2.33.55
 

Roche Abbey Half Marathon

Joanne Cooke ran the Roche Abbey Half Marathon on Sunday.  Roche Abbey is a hidden gem, nestled away in South Yorkshire near the picturesque village of Maltby.  Starting and finishing within the grounds of the glorious 12th Century abbey, the route encompasses trail and track running through Lord Scarborough’s land, which originally formed part of Sherwood Forest.  Joanne’s finish time was 2:43:46
 

Coiners Fell Race

Bank Holiday Monday saw a huge pride of Lions gathering in Mytholmroyd for the Coiners Fell Race round Stoodley Pike.  The Lions Ladies Team of Aileen Baldwin, Rachel Lumb and Victoria Armstrong ran strongly to take second place in the Team competition.

Results: Phillip Moyles 1:03:15, Clayton Cutter 1:05:09, James McNutt 1:06:28, Anthony Mott 1:08:00, Martin O’Brien 1:08:02, Gerry Banham 1:08:33, John Bassinder 1:09:33, Steve Ashworth 1:11:10, David Culpan 1:12:21, Aileen Baldwin 1:12:43, Andrew Earnshaw 1:13:03, Rachel Lumb 1:14:09, Victoria Armstrong 1:14:52, Jonathan Pybus 1:15:30, Ian Johnson 1:16:23, Richard Crombie 1:17:19, Maria Harron 1:18:30, Julie Field 1:18:31, Ian Hoskins 1:19:59, Tim Walker 1:22:49, Michelle Rogerson 1:22:54, Moira Alderson 1:27:13, Catherine McHugh 1:27:24, Jonathan Taylor 1:28:49, Steve Boyer 1:28:55, Angela Lee 1:32:35, John Rushworth 1:37:13, Susan Cash 1:41:38, Dawn Medlock 1:50:17, Jackie Barker 1:52:33, Helen Shenton 1:53:22, Ken Chilcott 1:53:26, Wendy Paulson 1:55:56, Alex Whyte 1:57:19
 

SILVA Great Lakeland 3Day 2018

If you are of a nervous disposition, look away now.  The SILVA Great Lakeland 3Day is a 58 mile mountain marathon with 19,387 feet of ascent and 28, yes 28, Wainwrights.  The event takes place over the three days of the May Bank Holiday, and this year was the twentieth anniversary edition.

James Penson and Jim Harris completed this epic challenge on the hottest three days of the year, finishing in very creditable 13th and 17th positions.

Results:
James Penson: Day One 7:22:53, Day Two 6:32:42, Day Three 4:41:43, Total 18:37:18
Jim Harris: Day One 7:27:55, Day Two 6:41:12, Day Three 4:53:11, Total 19:02:18

Three peaks and more

This weekend saw Mark Pottinger racing the Three Peaks and Stefanie Hopkins leading the Lions home at the Bradford 10K.
 

The Three Peaks Fell Race

Familiar to most people as a walking challenge, the Three Peaks is also one of the oldest and most famous fell races in Britain.  Imagine running a marathon not through city streets but over Pen-y-ghent, Whernside and Ingleborough.  The first recorded traverse of the route was in 1887 when two teachers from Giggleswick School, near Settle, claimed to have completed it in 10 hours.  The first race over the route was organised in 1954, with the winner Fred Bagley posting a time of 3:48.  This year’s race, billed as The Marathon with Mountains, saw Lion Mark Pottinger finish in an almost identical time to that first winner.

Result: Mark Pottinger 3:49:31
 

Bradford 10K

This popular local charity fundraising race was postponed due to heavy snow earlier in the year.  Organisers Epilepsy Action rescheduled the event for Sunday, when around 2,000 people took part.  Starting and finishing in Centenary Park, the fast flat route took runners through the heart of the city centre.  Stefanie Hopkins scored a new personal best and was first Lion to finish.

Results: Stefanie Hopkins 43:15, Paul Corns 46:51, Jan King 48:11, Bill Lee 60:59, Julie Goddard 63:52 and Peter Cawdron 67:45
 

Lincoln Sprint Triathlon

Tony Mott took on the Lincoln sprint triathlon, a 400m heated indoor pool swim, followed by a 23K bike ride and 5K run along the Fossdyke Canal.  Tony finished in a new personal best time of 1:16:34.
 

Update - Anniversary Waltz and Teenager with Altitude Fell Races

Full results are now out for last week’s Anniversary Waltz and Teenager with Altitude Fell Races: Jonathan Collins 2:11:31, Mark Pottinger 2:12:04, Mark Pigford 2:27:45, Andrew Earnshaw 2:34:18, David Culpan 2:41:23, Jim Harris 2:43:42, Aileen Baldwin 2:51:15, Rikki Hammond 2:55:25, Leon Severn 2:56:00, Moira Alderson 2:58:38 and Steve Boyer 3:47:35 (Anniversary Waltz) and James Penson 4:21:01 (Teenager with Altitude).

A scorching weekend

This weekend saw the daddy of them all – the scorching hot London Marathon, with 15 Lions among the 40,000 runners massed on the start line alongside Mo Farah.
 

London Marathon

After spending the winter months training in freezing conditions, the fifteen Lions were faced with sizzling temperatures of 24 degrees on Sunday, making it the hottest day in the history of the event.  Good news for the crowds lining the route who were able to enjoy a carnival atmosphere in blazing sunshine, but a huge challenge for the runners, with everyone from Mo Farah to the back markers struggling to stay hydrated.  The battle to keep cool proved too much for Lion Matthew Pierson, who sadly had to pull out after 25K run at his signature furious pace.  With Matthew out, Stephen Hall was first Lion to cross the finish line, in a scorching time of 2:56:10.  The club is enormously proud of each and every one of its marathon runners and very grateful to coaches Mark Pigford and Tanya Blake for all their help in preparing the runners for their big day.

Results: Stephen Hall 2:56:10, Jamie Westwood 2:58:17, Darren Young 3:12:54, Simon Rawnsley 3:25:46, Tim Neville 4:06:36, Paula Statham-Drake 4:14:46, Richard Crombie 4:34:47, Jenny Walker 5:05:41, Caroline Palmer 5:26:57, Allison Hesketh 5:31:20, Ginny Rushworth 6:22:16, Sandra Robertshaw 6:52:25, Judith MacDonald 6:57:48, Jeanette Campbell 7:06:39

Yorkshire Vets Grand Prix Series – Race One, Honley

While the Marathon was in full swing in the capital, up in Honley the Yorkshire Veterans Grand Prix series was getting underway.  Over 40 Lions took part in the first race of the series, which this year comprises 10 cross country races held in various locations across Yorkshire.  Points are awarded for individual and team performances, and tallied up over the course of the series.  Not only did Stainland’s new Vets Captain Gavin Mulholland do a top job marshalling his troops, he also led from the front, winning the men’s race in a time of 37:28 and picking up the M45 category win in the process.  Other category honours went to Angela Lee (1st F55), Julie Field (2nd F45), Sean Thompson (3rd M50), Amanda Zito (3rd F50) and John Bassinder (3rd M60).  But it’s not all about fast times - every single runner contributes to the team’s points score, and the Lions managed first place finishes in all but one of the various team categories – a flying start to the season!
 

Anniversary Waltz and Teenager with Altitude Fell Races

These two epic Lake District fell races were held for the very last time this weekend, following the recent death of the event organiser.  Both races start and finish at the village hall in the small Lakeland hamlet of Stair, and both are extremely challenging.  Whilst the Anniversary Waltz is hard enough for most people at 11.5 miles long with 3,600 feet of ascent, its big brother race the Teenager with Altitude is more James Penson’s cup of tea, at over 15 miles long with 7,600 feet of ascent.  The always excellent Aileen Baldwin finished 3rd F60 in the Anniversary Waltz, from a very strong field and in roasting hot conditions.  Club coach Mark Pigford (who helped many of the club’s marathon runners prepare for London, putting together their marathon training plans and leading their weekly track sessions) also put in a strong performance in the Anniversary Waltz.  Everyone who took part was very enthusiastic about these races, and fingers crossed a new organiser might be found for them for next year.  Results are not available at the time of going to press, but Lions taking part included Mark Pigford, Leon Severn, Aileen Baldwin, Jim Harris, Andrew Earnshaw, David Culpan, Moira Alderson, Rikki Hammond and Steve Boyer (Anniversary Waltz) and James Penson (Teenager with Altitude).
 

The Dirty Reiver 200K Mountain Bike Challenge

Kielder Forest on the border of England and Scotland is a favourite playground for Lions attempting big challenges this year.  After Roy and Sarah Lunt did their night time marathon there last month, this weekend saw Tony Mott in action, swapping his running shoes for his mountain bike to take on the 200K Dirty Reiver ride.  Named after the reivers who were raiders along the Anglo-Scottish border in the Middle Ages, the route traverses gravel forest access roads near Kielder Forest, taking riders through remote areas in the Borders, and affording outstanding views to the riders.  Tony finished his long day in the saddle in a time of 9:38:55.
 

Lions Manchester to Sowerby Bridge 50K Ultra Marathon

Like the London marathon runners, Lion Rebecca O’Neill also trained hard all winter in readiness for a planned 50K ultra marathon from Manchester to Sowerby Bridge.  Then – disaster!  The company organising the race went out of business and the event was cancelled.  But Rebecca and running partner Andrew Falkingbridge didn’t let this detail stop them, and come race day, they were there on the start line at first light in Manchester, helped by a swiftly mobilised Lions support crew.  The Lions manned impromptu water stations along the route, cheered the runners on and ran sections of the route alongside them.  Rebecca and Andrew finished in just under 5½ hours, and medals were even conjured up for the pair!