Borrowdale Fell Race

Borrowdale Fell Race 2014 – 17m 6500ft

Six NFR runners made it across for this Lakeland Classic. The weather forecast was for heavy rain, and it did not disappoint! There was rain, heavy downpours and torrential downpours for much of the race, with occasional glimpses of light (mostly late afternoon). The race was won by Ricky Lightfoot in 3hrs 3mins. I personally enjoyed a good battle with Scott Gibson and I think we both benefitted from pushing each other; both coming in under 4 hrs in 54th and 57th. Considering the weather, minor navigation mishaps, and both running this race for the first time, we were both pleased with our result. This race turned out to be every bit as hard as I thought it would be, and the long slogs up Great Gable and Dale Head were painful. John Tollitt was next home for NFR, followed by Gary Clarkson, Andrew Calcott, and Gary Mason. 289 started. After the event it emerged that a runner from Otley had taken a fall on the corridor route and fell circa 30m. He was air lifted to the RVI, and injuries are not thought to be serious.

Mark Clarkson

NFR Navigation Day

 

Briefing at the start from Joe (photo: John)

“10 folk from NFR enjoyed a great day on Saturday, exploring the Blencathra fells under the expert guidance of Joe Faulkner.  The aim of the day was to improve our navigation.  Joe covered the basics of map reading and compass bearings, and also provided plenty of helpful tips for more experienced navigators.

The forecast torrential rain never arrived, and it even cleared for us as we topped out on Blencathra with fantastic views over Sharp Edge and Scales Tarn.  Tea and beer in the pub afterwards rounded off a good day.

Our thanks are due to Joe.  You can find more details of his courses at: www.nav4.co.uk

John Duff

more photos from John