Heroes Dash Through Dalby!

This year's Remembrance Sunday was marked for the second year by a trail race through Dalby Forest (Dalby Dash), attracting record numbers to this new event that is becoming a Yorkshire phenomenon. The race was organised by International marathon runner Darran Bilton, based at Up & Running York and supported by local Rotarians, runners and the Forestry Commission. It was held to raise money for both Help for Heroes and also Pickering Rotarians, who help charitable causes both locally and abroad.

This years event attracted 384 finishers including RAF Sergeant Jason Shutt, who accepted a cheque for £1000, though organisers are confident that the amount will raise substantially once the proceeds are calculated. Bilton, who also acted as race director, read a specially penned poem to our service men and women before respecting a two minute silence which preceded a mad dash of the enthusiastic runners into the forest along well marked trails.

First to finish was Scarborough's James Kraft, who amazingly equally the course record of 33 minutes 39 seconds, followed by Marko Guero of Keithly and Andy Normaldale of York Acorn. The ladies race was a tussle to the line with York Acorn's Heather Tuffs finishing in 39 minutes 36 seconds, just 15 seconds ahead of Emma Barclay of Ilkley and Sue Haslam of Scarborough in third. Prizes included a meal at York restaurant Mumbai Lounge awarded to the first locals home, who this year were Dave Smith of Esk Valley and Kim England of Pickering. Full results can be seen on the race website 'dalbydash.com.'

Bilton commented that "although there is a challenging hill at the start, the happy atmosphere and amazing scenery more than make up for it. Whilst the speedy decent down Heck Dale made for a lightening-fast finish! The race is an amazing success due to local support from great friends, family and local business. That's why it will continue and grow... next year will include a junior race, too." Next year's Dalby Dash will be held a 11 o'clock on the 11th of the 11th month. No excuses for forgetting that date - entry forms out soon!!!