small but friendly gathering for the first in the series race

A sunny mild day at Hamsterley Forest for the first of a four race handicap grand prix of fell / trail running.

Very well organised by Gerry Hehir (DFR) and Track & Trail. Unfortunately a very poor turn out on the day. I am not sure if this race clashed with anything else [there were a number of events on at the weekend - ed]. However, there are another three races and that is all you need to qualify. I have been told there is a lovely cup/trophy for the race series winner.

Ruth Fletcher and Philip Sanderson represented NFR. The handicap was pretty fair with a good head start for the slower runner. The route was really good with some woodland and fell mixed up, and there was a bit of "Doctor's Gate" in there too.

is Philip in a hurdle race?

Gary Dickinson of Track & Trail won with Philip Sanderson close behind. Ruth did a sterling run for the NFR ladies.

Ruth victorious

I really enjoyed the race and hope to see a few more NFR for the second race.

more photos of the race courtesy of Philip

Philip Sanderson

results (pdf)