November 7, 2023

Cop Hill Fell Race

Bob Foreman reports:

On Sunday I went up to Last of the Summer Wine country for the Cop Hill Fell Race. Organised by Meltham Athletic Club and based at the impressive Meltham Sports Centre this 6 miles and 880 feet race is a 2 lap affair over mainly saturated fields, footpaths, a bit of muddy woodland and a few sections of tarmac to join the off road bits together. The climbs were not too steep but tough in the underfoot conditions.

On filling in the entry form I noticed that the race incorporated the Yorkshire AAA Veteran Fell Race Championships which explained the higher than usual number of mature athletes milling about!

Another lovely sunny autumn morning for the 190 starters. I had a last minute start line  removal of my base layer and was glad I did as I was plenty warm enough in my vest.

The race was won by Nigel Hockin of Slaithwaite Striders in 39:15. The first lady was Katie Walshaw of Holmfirth Harriers, 11th overall in  a new record time of 44:46. I was 26th  and 1st M65 in 48:30.

A very well organised event with plenty of tea and cakes and the bonus of hot showers. I thought it more of a tough XC course than Fell Race but really enjoyed it and would certainly do it again.

Thanks to all involved.

 

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