WRR FELL race CHAMPIONSHIP Harrock hill Wednesday, 27^th June 2007

It was touch and go whether I would be able to go but fortunately I made it thanks to my good mate Big George who picked me up in the nick of time. I would not be disappointed at the Fairfield, there were already several people raring to go and a convoy set off to Harrock.

Once we arrived at the pub, to my amazement, yet still more Wesham runners were dotted here and there – Tracey, Mark, Graham, Jenny and Nigel; people who you would not normally expect. Fantastic – it was a Wesham night out!

I suggested at the start to link arms so no other runners could get past the ‘blue vests’ and to let Charlie and Jo get a lead in the race. It was a parade going up the first, tough climb. All of us were battling for a strong start with Charlie at the front and Helen Jolly at the rear. At the top I had the better of Gary but it was short lived when he came flying past me downhill and over the many stiles you encounter on the way. No way was I giving up on the chase so I dug deep and, on the uphill parts, I made up ground. We were both not too far away from Alex. As soon as Gary hit the road at the top he suddenly put on a big burst of speed and left me behind. I never gave up hoping though; he may become tired towards the end and I may just get past him. My luck was not in. He is very strong and, in the end, he beat me by 40 seconds. Next time Gary I will get you!

The real battle was going on behind me with the young guns of Steve Myerscough and Karl Lee being chased down by the experienced fell runner, Richard Davies. Who would prevail? If it was on the road you would have your money on the young ones but, like tennis players, each have a better surface and this is where Richard comes into his own. Like an old master, first he put Steve to the sword on the last climb and now had Karl Lee firmly in his sights down the last field, nearer and nearer getting to the blue vest. One last “Hurray” and Karl was blown aside – Richard had beaten him!

The blue vests were coming in thick and fast. Pete Waywell then Dave, then Jo carrying on her good form from Freckleton and was first Wesham lady home with a great support from Sarah, Carmel, and Kath. Another of the Waywell’s, Julie, was there also. We should rename her ‘London Bridge’ as she is always falling down! Hopefully it was not too serious and will not keep her from running. All in all we had twenty four runners, (all at different standards), in the race and five spectators and it was just great to see them all.

We then headed for the pub for some ‘light refreshment’ and what a great atmosphere we had which added to the occasion.

We picked up several prizes just for fun and we carried the gospel of Wesham to this great race. Harrock Hill now knows about ‘The Friendly Club’, even if the course is just a bit tougher than the usual road races we do. Variety is the spice of life so they say, so ‘well done’ to everyone who turned out.

The next WRR Fell Championship Race is later this month so you will have time to recover: Saturday 21^st July – Ingleborough Fell Race.

Richard is leading the men at the moment, followed by Graham Ingham and Mark. Michaela is leading the ladies. Well done to both of you.

Cheers Lee

Submitted: 2^nd July 2007

Edited by: Brenda J Earnshaw WRR Editor