Guisecliff Gallop Report

The 2nd Guisecliff Gallop Fell Races - report

The 2nd Guisecliff Gallop Fell Races took place on Sunday 3rd July with the following race categories catered for: - under 9, under 12, under 14, under 17 and seniors. The races took place in the Pateley Bridge/ Bewerley Showground in glorious sunny conditions although a little too warm for the runners.

The races were organised by Nidderdale High School teacher Mick Hawkins a former international runner himself, to try and encourage as many local children as possible to give fell racing a go with the hope that some may continue in the sport. The under 9’s and under 12’s were well supported by some of our local primary schools.

Although overall the fields were relatively small all the competitors thoroughly enjoyed the courses which were very scenic and quite challenging in places. The events culminated in a 3 mile senior race run to twos Stoops and back. There was a field of 30 runners for this race which was won by ex Nidderdale student Jack Simpson in a new record of 23.08 which was exactly 2 minutes faster than his 6th place of last year. Jack is taking his running more seriously now and is looking to compete in some of the classic fell races during the summer months. Trish Wardell from nearby Willsill also excelled in winning the ladies race in a new record time of 32.02. The Nidderdale High School cook is a relatively late starter to running but has made very good progress competing in a wide variety of events from marathons to short fell races.

As with most new races the Guisecliff Gallop has made a good start and hopefully over the coming years can become an event you must not miss.

There were over £250 in prizes and trophies so those that did enter did very well for themselves. A big thankyou must go to the event sponsors who were under 9, 12 and 14--- Stud Fold Adventure Lofthouse, Pateley Bridge. Under 17 and Seniors --- Up and Running ( Leeds Central) and Gilmoor Fishing Lake. The organisers would also like to thank The Showground committee for the use of the showfield which is ideal for the event to take place.

Finally a special mention must go to all the marshals and helpers who made the Guisecliff Gallop such a well-organised event.

Top results

under 9's 

1	Jack Muir		2.03
2	Antony Brockway		2.11
3	Herbert Antcliff		2.15

Under 12's

1	James Lund		6.08
2	Ben Speak		6.56
3	Toby Antcliff		7.03

Under 14's

1	Miles Blakey		10.55
2	Edward Burgess		11.03
3	Dom Ashfield		11.11

Seniors

1	Jack Simpson		23.08 NEW REC
2	Shaun Chew		24.31
3	Dave Mann	40	25.06