Peak District Birthday Bash
In preparation for my training for tackling the Lavaredo 120km Ultra Trail Race at the end of June, on Saturday 20th April, I ran the Peak District Birthday Bash. The full 70 kilometres Route (there is 35km option) is a spectacular tour of the best scenery the Peak District has to offer. With around 2,600 metres (8,500ft) of elevation gain, it is a challenging route but the multitude of breathtaking views make the effort worthwhile.
On the morning of the race, we were also blessed by near perfect weather, blue skies and a pleasant cool breeze.
The race starts in Castleton and sets off in the direction of Mam Tor but veers off before the top and heads over to Hayfield via the Lords Seat. From Hayfield we climbed up to Kinder Scout and headed over to Edale, taking in Kinder Downfall and the tricky descent that is Jacobs ladder. From Edale we gradually climb up and over Win Hill to then descend the gloriously muddy path down to Thornhill and head to Bamford, where we climbed the very steep tarmacked Bamford Clough heading up towards Stanage Edge and the uninspiring titled Sheffield Country Walk before eventually descending down into Hathersage. The route then predictably heads up again up to Abney Moor over to Bradwell where it drops back down, only then to climb back up over towards Old Moor before descending back down via the truly wicked (especially at 69 km) Cave Dale back into Castleton for the finish and a nice warm Chilli.
I finished in 10 hours 38 minutes (21st place). The first male (Dan Floyd) managed it in just 8 hours 14 and first female (Rachel Lee) in 10.17. 89 runners started, with 71 completed.
By way of reminder, I am raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society to help spur me on to complete the Lavaredo 120km in Northern Italy at the end of June. This is the furthest distance I’ll have run!!!
