Ravenstones Brow Fell Race, 2nd October, 2010

Following previous years access problems in May, The Ravenstones Brow Fell race saw a return to its almost original route today and a permanent route for future years for the month of October.

Today’s race was blessed with fine weather following torrential rain the day before but a wet and sodden course didn’t make things easy for the 72 who set off. A deeper than usual stream crossing and a knee deep slog up streams to the top of the moor made things a little more interesting, if not more difficult.

The men’s winner was a comfortable 4 minutes ahead of the field, Kieran Hodgson (FRA) setting what will be a new record for this now permanent course (1:16:53). Runners fighting for second position where involved in much more of a tussle. The ladies winner was Becki Penrose (North Derbyshire) in a time of 1:34:52 and 29th position overall. The first Saddleworth Runners home were Howard Chambers (1:28:32) for the men and Gaynor Keane (1:39:40) for the ladies.

A big thank you for the generosity of sponsors, Mountain Feet, specialist mountain sports shop in Oldham (www.mountainfeet.co.uk) and Ravenstone Catering Services (www.ravenstonecatering.co.uk).

A thank you also to Tanners Mill for the event centre, Oldham Mountain rescue and St John Ambulance for the support on the day and of course all the people from Saddleworth runners who give up their time to ensure that others can enjoy theirs. Thank You.