“The expected rain stayed away and an exceptionally mild but overcast day
greeted the runners for the 30th Edition of this popular December race. The
race was founded in 1995 by Peter Reed and the late Ray Hayes. Peter was
handing jelly babies and water out to the runners at the Coquet Cairn check
point and is still very much involved.
NFR’s Chris Larkin was the convincing mens winner and he is getting very
close to Nick Swinburn’s course record. NFR’s Jarlath McKenna and Thomas
Prentice coming 2nd and 3rd.
NFR’s Karen Robertson won the Ladies race making this her 13th victory in this
event. Emma Burke NFR and Laura Chapman Jesmond Joggers were 2nd and 3rd.
Thanks to Elvet for bringing a good compliment of runners and home club
NFR who had 26 members competing.
A special mention must be made for local lad Brian Robson who completed
his 30th Simonside Cairns Fell Race. Brian actually ran in the same kit that he wore
in the very first race in 1995. Fell running has played a big part in Brian’s life and
has helped him through some challenging times in recent years. He was presented
with a memento of the Simonside Hills and long may he continue to run.
Also a big thanks to the registration and refreshments teams and to the many
marshals out on the course for giving their time to make these events happen.“

Simonside Cairns race results

Paul Appleby