This race report comes to us from the race director, Mike Fawcett:
Longtown, Herefordshire. Sunday 16th June 2013 – The 8th ‘Darrens Dash’ event. The day dawned bright and breezy, but my mid-morning the clouds were building and light rain started an hour before the race began. This did not deter the record field of 85 (including 8 Cani-X runners) or the 58 children taking part in the children’s races.
A modification had been made to the start to avoid early congestion at a stile – the only thing was it involved a river crossing! Steep climbing though fields led to open country and the relentless climb to the top of the Darrens crags. Magnificent views and Mountain Rescue Team marshals awaited the hardy runners as they charged towards the Offa’s Dyke ridge – the borderline between England and Wales. The views didn’t last for long however as patchy cloud stole the view for many. A turn to the south and undulating running eventually led to a fast runnable descent from the col down through Cayo farm and across the Olchon brook. A sting in the tail awaited the runner in the shape of a short, sharp uphill run to the finish. Runners then sprawled in the meadow grass savouring their achievement before walking back to the school for their delicious tea and cake.
Key Results
MEN
1st 44.48 John Pullen, Wye Valley Runners (New record for modified course)
2nd 45.54 Matt James, Hereford Couriers
3rd 46.00 Robin Smoult, Lliswerry Runners
WOMEN
1st 54.21 Nicola Gething, Parc Bryn Bach (New record for the modified course)
2nd 55.07 Heather Walker, Asylum Functional training
3rd 55.34 Rebecca Davies, Wye Valley Runners
CANIX
1st 1.08.50 Daniel Kane
2nd 1.11.45 Jacqui Good
3rd 1.17.40 Briar Morris
Race Listing
Click here to find out more details of the 2013 Darren’s Dash race.
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