Ilkley Harriers news archive 2024
Joss Naylor Lakeland Challenge – Fri 31 May
Fri 31 May 2024
From Jann Smith…
At 47 miles, with 17,000 feet of climbing, the JNLC is a tough mountain challenge.
It’s about three quarters of a Bob Graham Round, an East to West traverse of the Lake District. You have to touch 30 designated summits and have a time limit depending on age and gender set on Joss Naylor’s time for doing it.
I had 16 hours and after a sketchy first half with bad weather and stomach issues I was delighted to get round in a time of 14 hours and 24 minutes, solely supported all the way by Paul Carman.
Ilkley Gazette Report w/c 28 May
Tue 28 May 2024
From Jean Sullivan…
A race win and a new club record; another great week for the Ilkley Harriers!
Always a landmark in the Ilkley Harriers calendar, but especially now more than ever, with this race being dedicated to former Ilkley Harrier athlete, coach and friend to all, Pete Shields; This bank holiday weekend saw the staging of the Pete Shields Ilkley Trail Race. Thanks to the huge efforts of Race Director Neil Chapman and team of excellent volunteers, this race was a great success, with all profits from the race being shared between the Marie Curie charity and the Revival Centre and Orphanage in Matugga, Uganda, which has been supported since the race started in 2008.
Ilkley Harriers were out in force, with 39 Harriers running this 6.9-mile trail race, which offers superb views over the Wharfe Valley. Christos Tzelis led the Harriers home to finish in a superb fourth place overall, Christos running the course in 44:43. Gawain Moore was the second Harrier to cross the line in 46:24, finishing in sixth position, with Jeff Green the next Harrier to finish in 47:24, with Jeff also managing a top ten finishing place. These superb results, along with Forrest Hamilton’s great time, meant that Ilkley men had the winning men’s team. Rachel Carter led the Ilkley ladies home in a great time of 53:58, with Rachel taking first prize in her age category. She was followed by clubmate Jane McCarthy, with Jane also taking first place in her age category. Nicole Liptrot also had an impressive run also and was the third Ilkley lady to finish. Well done also to Justin Pierce and Tim Ashelford who secured age category prizes
This week saw the first race in the Harrogate District Summer Race League take place in Skipton, hosted by Skipton AC. This series of five races, which are only open to club runners, consist of five summer evening races in various locations around Yorkshire, with the last race being a handicap race for all to enjoy.
There was an impressive turnout of Harriers at the first race in the series with 25 Harriers taking part. The 8km race, mainly on the roads, starts and finishes in Skipton’s Aireville park, with Harrier Matthew Thackwray stealing the show to win the race outright in 27:49. Nick Kealey was the second Harrier over the line, in a great time of 32:02, with clubmate Jaysson Sawyer the third to finish in another speedy time of 32:29. Jane McCarthy led the Ilkley ladies home, with Jane taking first prize in her age category. Erin Keating was the second Ilkley lady to finish, followed by Phillipa Rawling. Other notable results included for Diane Kitchen who took second prize in her age category.
This weekend also saw the staging of the popular AJ Bell Great Manchester 10km road race. Harrier Nathan Edmondson’s blistering pace meant that he not only finished in a very impressive 29:48, but in doing so he also set a new Ilkley Harrier’s club record, breaking his own previous club record. His sub-30 finish makes him the first Ilkley Harrier to have gone sub-30 in the 10km distance.
Great running also by Clare Boyle at this event, with her time of 52:03 meaning she achieved a course PB. Dave Ibbotson and Juliet Green also had great runs at this event.
Up in Scotland, the Hayes family took part in the Edinburgh marathon festival. The festival offers a choice of marathon, half marathon, 10km & 5km race distances, as well as lots of junior race options. While Mum & Dad Sarah & John were busy completing the marathon, son Daniel and daughter Lucy took part in the half marathon event. Daniel finished in an impressive 1:22, with Lucy also having a great run, completing the course in 1:49:12. Great results from Sarah and John, with the miles recently clocked at the London marathon still in their legs. Despite the challenging weather conditions with strong headwinds to contend with, as well as torrential downpours, Sarah completed the course in a great time of 4:27:02, with John running the 26.2 miles in an impressive 3:23:52.
Harrier Carolyn Stone also completed the Edinburgh half marathon in a great time of 2:20:07, with fellow Harrier Steve King completing this iconic Scottish marathon in a superb time of 4:09:45.
Also on the roads two Harriers took part in Northallerton 10km, organised by the Northallerton 10km team, with all funds raised going to the Pendragon Community Trust. Taking first prize in his age category, Harrier Mark Hall completed the undulating course in an impressive time of 37:18, finishing in thirteenth place overall. Close behind, was Harrier Jaysson Sawyer, who finished in another great time of 38:08.
It was also busy on the fells, this week with two Harriers taking part in the Kildwick fell race, organised by Keighley and Craven Athletic Club. This 3.7-mile marked course, with 800ft of climbing, sees runners leave from Kildwick, climb to the Farnhill Pinnacle and across the moors before the return to Kildwick. Harrier Duncan Cooper led the Harriers home in 31:15, followed by clubmate Alistair Barlow in 31:43, both finishing high in the field of runners.
Also on the fells, hardy fell runner Dave Robson took on the Helvellyn and the Dodds fell race, organised by Keswick AC. This tough 15-mile course, with 1337m of ascent, is an out and back course from Threkheld Cricket Club. Luckily the weather was favourable, sunny with good visibility, and Dave completed this challenging race in a great time of 3:09:57, with Dave finishing highly placed in his age category.
Further afield in the Scottish mountains, Harrier Nea Weston, took part in the Isle of Jura fell race, described as ‘the pilgrimage of the fell running calendar’. No stranger to fell running, with her Mum Alison, a fell-running legend, Nea tackled this 28km course, with 2370m of ascent, over seven summits, made all the more challenging by the route not being marked and runners having to choose their own lines between checkpoints. Nea completed this technically challenging course in an impressive time of 5:35, but even more impressive was that she was 45 minutes quicker than her previous attempt at this event
The John Carr 5km race series, a longstanding tradition hosted by Saltaire Striders, has undergone some exciting changes for this year’s event, with a series of 5km races held throughout the day at Greenhead Athletics Track in Keighley. Runners were grouped into heats dependent upon their predicted finish time. The event, had a great atmosphere, with music provided by a resident DJ, and the finishing straight consisted of a ‘Lactate Tunnel of Love’ with four designated lanes to allow spectators to get up close to the action.
Four Ilkley Harriers took part, with Luke Watkeys achieving a PB by a large margin. Superb runs also by Danny Thompson, Helen Waddington and Jacqui Foster, who all enjoyed their track experience.
A beautiful sunny Saturday morning enticed many Harriers out to take part in the weekly 5km timed parkrun events, with lots of great results all round. Martin Stubbs managed a course PB at the Harrogate parkrun, as did Tom Lambe on the Leicester Victoria parkrun course, with Harry Sime also getting a parkrun PB under his belt at the Robert’s Park parkrun. There were lots of top ten finishing places also, including for; Tom Worboys, fourth finisher at Llyn Llech Owain parkrun, Samesh Chotai fourth finisher at the Skipton parkrun and Rob Cunningham also fourth to finish at the Bedgebury Pinetum parkrun in Kent. Tim Ashelford was the seventh finisher at the Chevin Forest parkrun. Penny Coulthard was flying the flag for the Ilkley Harriers at the Castlebar parkrun in Co. Mayo, Ireland, with Penny finishing high in the field of participants.
A busy weekend for Christos Tzelis – 26/27 May
Mon 27 May 2024
From Neil Chapman…
On Sunday Christos was competing with 250 others in the Darley Moor Sprint Duathlon, where he finished 3rd on the podium overall, but 1st U20. The race was won by Matthew Nelson in 51:09 and Christos finished in an impressive 52:29.
What was particularly pleasing for Christos is that he was sharing the podium with Matthew and second placed Ben Price. That might not mean much to most of you, me included, but these two guys are elite duathlon and triathlon competitors who have competed in many European Championship events with very good results. The icing on the cake for Christos is this was an age group qualifier for the world championship sprint Duathlon, so he will be heading over to Pontevedra, Spain to compete there in 2025.
After a fair bit of travelling the previous day and a tough duathlon, on Monday, after a swim training session first thing, he was at our own trail race. He went out hard leading the way on the climb and across the moorland, getting caught on the way back down, but still finishing in a very creditable 4th place.
Well done Christos, you need to put your feet up now for a couple of days, but I know that will not happen.
Pete Shields Ilkley Trail Race – Mon 27 May
Mon 27 May 2024
From Dan McKeown…
After an uncertain forecast, the Pete Shields Ilkley Trail Race took place in almost passable weather. Being in the registration / results tent, I barely needed my waterproof at all.
Despite the lowering skies, 170 runners opted to spend their bank holiday with us and they were rewarded, for the most part, with a sharp downpour when they were on the most exposed part of the course.
Christos Tzelis of Ilkley was the early leader on the uphill, but he was reeled in and passed by Ed Hyland of Calder Valley, who held off a fast-finishing Richard Anderson (Holmfirth) for the win in 42:38, with Jim Gordon (Doss AC) third and Christos fourth.
In a similarly tight finish to the women’s race, Rebecca Whalley of Valley Striders edged Catherine Westhead of Oxford University, with Sarah Shanks (Valley) third and Georgia Baynes (also Valley) fourth.
This sealed a dominant win in the ladies’ team competition for Valley Striders (he said, gnashing his teeth), but the home team fared rather better in the men’s competition, with Christos, Gawain, Jeff and Forrest the winning quartet.
There was a BAG of age-group prizes for the Harriers, well done to Rachel Carter and Jane McCarthy who both topped their categories on the ladies’ side, and to Gawain Moore, Justin Pierce, Jeff Green and Tim Ashelford, who also earned themselves some much-needed Complete Runner merch.
Huge thanks to all who took part and volunteered, and particularly to Neil Chapman for once again making the event a great success.
Ilkley Harriers are hosting two races in June – the inaugural Pete Shields 10k, plus a Harrogate District league fixture – and we’re looking for plenty of horsepower and help for both. Keep your eye on club comms and please get involved if you can!
Results (170 finished)
4 Christos Tzelis 00:44:43
6 Gawain Moore 00:46:24
9 Jeff Green 00:47:24
13 Forrest Hamilton 00:49:31
18 Tim Ashelford 00:50:39
20 Owen Parker 00:51:05
21 Andrew Overend 00:51:20
25 Justin Pierce 00:52:15
39 Luke Watkeys 00:53:33
40 Richard Joel 00:53:37
42 Adam Gerrish 00:53:47
43 Tony Pye 00:53:49
45 Rachel Carter 00:53:58
46 Peter Shelley 00:54:00
47 Charles Wain 00:54:34
57 Dave Reynier 00:55:51
60 Iain Young 00:56:30
62 Jane McCarthy 00:56:46
75 Dick Waddington 00:59:06
78 Martin Stubbs 00:59:24
81 Jeremy Greenwood 01:00:03
84 Nicky Liptrot 01:00:54
88 Marc Westerman 01:01:48
90 Mike Williams 01:02:10
93 Michael Ho 01:02:30
97 Paul Stephens 01:03:01
100 Keith Wood 01:03:16
102 Alan Travis 01:03:32
112 Geoffrey White 01:05:01
114 Sacha Jones 01:05:39
118 David Howe 01:05:56
133 Scott Armitage 01:10:42
137 Nigel Illingworth 01:12:39
138 David Lewis 01:12:45
141 Vincent Gibbons 01:12:50
144 Katherine Suddaby 01:13:36
155 Paula Reynier 01:18:32
160 Alex Stanley-Hyde 01:21:36
164 Meredith Bailey 01:23:33
Edinburgh Marathon – Sun 26 May
Sun 26 May 2024
From John Hayes…
This was a family affair for us, with Sarah and I running the marathon and two of our children, Daniel (who now lives in Edinburgh) and Lucy running the half marathon. In the days leading up to Sunday we’d been keeping an anxious eye on the BBC weather app. Fortunately, the lightning strikes didn’t happen. But the predicted torrential rain and a headwind for much of the course proved accurate. The fabulous crowds still turned out in force with their placards, whistles and the occasional bagpipes. As much of the route is along the coast, I’d had a romantic notion of taking a swim in the sea at the end. As it was, I felt freezing cold and soaking wet anyway, so I gave the swim a miss!
Half Marathon
(1st Sean Chalmers 1:05:27)
111 Daniel Hayes 1:22:16
2213 Lucy Hayes 1:49:12
7944 Carolyn Stone 02:20:07
11167 ran
Marathon
(1st Moray Pryde 2:23:12)
1043 John Hayes 3:23:52
4420 Steve King 4:09:45
5737 Sarah Hayes 4:27:02
9968 ran
John Carr 5k – Day of the 5,000 PBs – Sun 26 May
Sun 26 May 2024
From Helen Waddington…
A new iteration of the much missed John Carr 5ks, which many IH have enjoyed in the past. This version, hosted by Saltaire Striders (with Racebest providing the timing), took place at the Greenhead Athletics track in Keighley. A trackside DJ provided an upbeat, friendly atmosphere as runners warmed up and family and friends milled around intermittently sheltering under umbrellas as the showers came and went. The race format is similar in nature to The Hyde Park Summer mile, in that runners were grouped into heats dependent upon their predicted finish time. Four IH took part, with Luke gaining a big PB, and Danny and me (and I think Jacqui!) enjoying our first track experience. A perhaps surprisingly small field given the PB potential, but hopefully it will grow.
(1) Jonathan Wills Roundhay Runners 16.25
(1) Sophie Martin Wharfedale Harriers 18:08
20 Danny Thompson 18:39
27 Luke Watkeys 20:10
42 Helen Waddington 22:07
59 Jacqui Foster 25:12
68 ran
Manchester Great Run 10k – Sun 26 May
Sun 26 May 2024
Nathan Edmondson has broken his own club record for the 10k in the Men’s Open category, running 29:48 today in Manchester which saw him finish in 22nd position. Congratulations on going sub 30 minutes!
Clare Boyle, David Ibbotson and Juliet Green were the other Ilkley representatives in the race.
Jura Fell Race – Sat 25 May
Sat 25 May 2024
From Alison Weston…
Nea Weston completed the gruelling Jura Fell race at the weekend (after an exciting time trying to get there by bike via Colonsay!) The race is 28 km with 7 summits, including the Paps of Jura, and 2370 m ascent. The race was won by Jack Wright in 3 hrs 18 and Nea improved her time last year by 45 minutes to finish 165th in 5 hrs 35”
Vic’s Memorial Run – to take place Thu 30 May
Thu 23 May 2024
From Helen Horton…
Many of you will be aware of the recent sad loss of former Ilkley Harrier Vic Verecondi (Aussie Vic). To coincide with his memorial service in Australia, a short run in his honour, followed by drinks at the Bar T’at is to take place Thursday 30th May at 7.30 pm. Vic’s sons have said they would appreciate a photo, so, if possible, please wear a Harriers top.
Meet at Bar T’at for a short half hour river loop 7.30 pm and/or drinks at around 8pm.
HDSRL 1 Skipton – Thu 23 May
Thu 23 May 2024
From Petra Bijsterveld…
Twenty-five Harriers toed the start line on the first Harrogate and District Summer Race League race held in Skipton. A five mile road race with some significant hills to add a bit of spice, the only grass to negotiate was at the start and finish. Some of us who started towards the back, such as myself, were held up by a bottleneck on exiting Aireville Park, this was a bit frustrating. Otherwise an excellently organised event. Matthew Thackwray took the overall win! Jane McCarthy was 1st F50 and Diane Kitchen 2nd F65.
Ilkley Gazette Report w/c 20 May
Mon 20 May 2024
From Jill Ezard…
Podium finishes on trail and road, England vests and GB team selection – it’s a great start to May!
Two evening races started the week for the Harriers. On Tuesday Kyle Bethell, Jane McCarthy and Mark Iley ventured to Rudding Park near Harrogate for their Rudding Parkrace, an undulating single loop 10k trail race taking in a mixture of paths and woodland with some technical areas. Kyle was first home in 45:45, followed by Jane in 50:25 and Mark in 51:08, with both Jane and Mark taking third place in their age categories. Wednesday evening say the 37th running of the Jack Bloor Fell race. Starting on the moor opposite Darwin Gardens this local race covers only 8.4km but takes in 350m of ascent! It’s an unmarked course taking in the Badger and Swastika Stones and Cowper’s Cross before finishing back at the bottom of the moor. Michael Odell was the first Harrier home taking fifth place overall in 46:23, and along with Jeff Green and Oscar Shinn, secured the men’s team second place. Alison Weston was the first female home in 1:01:03, followed by Joyce Marshall in 1:02:21, taking a well-deserved first place in her age category.
On Saturday Harriers were in action on both road and fell with podium success on both! Sally Armitage travelled to Lancashire for another of the Lancaster Race Series, the Caton Gala Windmill 10k. An undulating course through the scenic countryside around Caton village, the race takes runners three miles uphill with a short section on the tops with glorious views, then three miles downhill. Racing in a very small field, Sally powered through the race despite the heat finishing in third place overall and first female in 41:51, nearly ten minutes ahead of the next female finisher!
A little further north but continuing on the roads, Stephen Liversedge took on the Windermere Marathon. This wonderful and undulating road marathon takes participants on a 26.2 mile anti-clockwise circuit of Windermere through the villages of Hawkshead, Newby Bridge, Bowness-on-Windermere and Ambleside, finishing at Brathay. Stephen had a great race and completed it in 4:53:56.
Closer to home five Harriers took on the Up the Odda 10k race from Hawksworth. Jack Cummings had an outstanding race completing the challenging race in 37:35, over six minutes ahead of the second finisher! With a fantastic top ten finish, Dave Robson was next over the line in 47:09 taking second place in his age category. There were also impressive runs from Samesh Chotai, Justin Phillips and Darryl Stead.
Not content with the win on Sunday, Jack took part in the Calderdale Way relay as one of the Ilkley A team at the next day. One of two teams taking part in this challenging six leg race, with legs ranging from 10.5 to 4.5 miles and some challenging climbs, the A team had a fantastic race taking fourth place overall. In addition three of the pairs took first place on their leg: Tom Adams and Sam Atkinson on the first leg; Ed Hobbs and Sam Bentham on the third; and Jack Cummings and Nathan Edmondson on the last leg. The Ilkley B team also had a great run out taking 28th place out of the 99 teams that ran.
Still on the trails and a new race to the calendar, two Harriers took part in the inaugural Bronte Half Marathon. Starting from Penistone Hill, the undulating lollipop route follows paths and tracks between Haworth and Hebden Bridge, finishing with a challenging last mile up hill. Helen Waddington and Mary Fairclough had a great race and came over the line within a minute of each other, fourth and fifth females respectively in 2:23:38 and 2:24:29.
Heading in the opposite direction two Harriers travelled to Burton Leonard to take part in a challenging multi-terrain 10k. This undulating route follows the tracks, woods and fields of the Mountgarret Estate in North Yorkshire. Kate Lofthouse and Susan Williamson took on the challenge completing the race only one second apart in 1:09:19 and 20 respectively.
For our last race we return to the roads where Hilda Coulsey was the only Harrier taking on the Essar Chester Half Marathon. The event boasts a lively city centre start and finish, with a route that takes in all the city centre sights alongside the surrounding picturesque countryside. Despite the heat, Hilda had an outstanding race coming over the line in 02:05:11 and taking first place in her age category.
And finally, our 24 parkrunners were travelling far and wide achieving Personal Bests (PB) and finishing in the first ten. Hitting personal bests this week were Harry Sime at the Skipton event, Martin Stubbs at the Conyngham event and Gaenor Coy at the Roberts Park event which had a great turnout of nine Harriers. Out top ten finishers this week included Jon Denniss at South Manchester, Penny Coulthard at Westport, Ruth and Diane Kitchen at Druridge Bay, Jonathan Turner at Carlingark Loch and, travelling the furthest this week was Amanda Newham, the ninth finisher at the Løvstien parkrun, in Bergen, Norway. Well done to all that took part.
Chester Half Marathon – Sun 19 May
Sun 19 May 2024
From Hilda Coulsey…
The day was really hot, the first time this year for me running in 25 degrees full sunshine. I was on a mission though, I’d failed at this event last year pulling out with a pre-existing calf strain which unsurprisingly didn’t get better when I started to run. Then I attempted to run the marathon later in the year, but without a real reason it became a case of too many marathons in 2023 and in trying to find a reason I chose to run as fast as I could. Again unsurprisingly that failed when I made it to half way in good time then my head went, not able to contemplate the second half at similar speed.
Chester is a lovely city and the crowds were cheering enthusiastically in the villages, deafeningly loud in the city. The half starts in the racecourse and after heading north westwards through country lanes it finishes in the town centre. There is a little hill first off up and down, then up to gently undulating countryside, down and back up again to the centre. The half last year saw me running with Jane McCarthy and Sally Armitage proudly in England vests. This year it was a qualification race to achieve an England vest for an event in the future. My head was in the right place, I had studied the route carefully, I knew not to set off too fast, I knew what I need to do to qualify, the issue was the temperature and with no breeze we were in for a very hot race.
All thought of a PB time was therefore out of the window from the start, I set off at a pace which was not dissimilar to a solid training run knowing that should see me inside the qualification time. I was able to keep that pace going despite what must have been glorious views but was seemingly relentless ‘undulating countryside’, chasing shade, and walks through water stops to dowse down my head, neck and wrists. Sadly there were a large number of heat casualties on the road side and DNFs in the results.
I am so pleased to have finished, achieve qualifying standards and rest my Chester demons. The race attracts a strong field, many club and charity runners, it is highly recommended.
1. 1.07.52 Marshall Smith, Ashford AC
27. 1.19.17 Abigail Howarth, Vale Royal AC
2560 2.05.11 Hilda Coulsey 1st v 70
5133 finished, out of 5911 entries
Brontë Half Marathon – Sun 19 May
Sun 19 May 2024
From Helen Waddington…
The inaugural Brontë Half Marathon couldn’t have had a better first day, although at times it felt perhaps a little too good! This hilly trail race (just over 2000 feet of elevation) has piggy-backed on to a long-standing MTB event, which offers 3 distances for the bikes (Charlotte, Emily and Ann!), the runners being allowed to follow the bikes on the shortest route. Starting from Penistone Hill, the route took us on the lovely paths and tracks in that area, familiar to those who have done the Yorkshireman or Haworth Hobble, and formed a lollipop – which, as much as we had all enjoyed the first mile downhill proved to be not much fun on the way back up! A small field of runners for the first year, hopefully it will grow, and lovely to meet fellow IH Mary and enjoy a post-race cuppa and pie and peas in the finish field sitting in the glorious Yorkshire sun.
Results
(1) John Benton 1:48:42
(1) Sophie Whitrick 2:14:15
19 Helen Waddington 2:23:38
20 Mary Fairclough 2:24:29
43 ran
Old County Tops – Sat 18 May
Sat 18 May 2024
From Alison Weston…
Kate and I took part in the Old County Tops on Saturday, visiting only 3 tops, Helvellyn, Scafell Pike and Coniston Old Man but about 36 miles and over 10,000 ft climbing! It was hot work in the valleys but the views were amazing. I struggled up (and down) Coniston Old Man but Kate was really strong all the way round.
We were 49th and 3rd ladies team in 10hrs32.
Caton Gala 10k – Sat 18 May
Sat 18 May 2024
From Sally Armitage…
Today I ventured over to Caton, a small village in the Lancashire countryside, for a 10k road race. With the sole purpose of a good ‘race pace’ run to prep for upcoming larger events (to make me work hard as I struggle to do that without the buzz of a race!). I’ve taken a liking to the Lancaster Race Series events as they all offer entry on the day, ideal if you worry about losing a race entry due to illness/injury before the event! Also ideal if the weather takes a turn for the worse…
When I arrived and purchased my number the organiser told me there were 27 entries, this upped to 36 by the race start.
The race started in the centre of the village and ran straight up, 3 miles, almost to the windmills on Caton moor, with a short loop at the top, followed by 3 miles back down. I really struggled with the heat, my heart rate was higher than I’ve ever seen it. I can’t say I actually enjoyed any of it, but it’s a good training run in the bag!
I also want to note that, despite the small field, the goodies at the end included a beautiful slate medal, a long sleeved running top and a wagon wheel to all finishers, plus I bagged 3 x £10 vouchers to use on any of their races. Pretty sweet finishers treats for such a tiny race!
1st Lee Parrington (Lancaster & Morecambe AC) 37.45
2nd Andy Ward (Wigan Phoenix) 38:38
3rd Sally Armitage 41:51
36 ran
Dick Hudson’s and Jack Bloor Fell Races – 2 and 15 May
Wed 15 May 2024
From Paul Stephens…
I haven’t raced much in recent years – injuries and fear of injury, but the first 2 fell races I did following Covid were the 2023 Dick Hudson’s and the Jack Bloor race. They’re just 2 weeks apart in May, and I ran them again this year. Dick Hudson’s is fast, mainly on paths and after the first long climb is relatively level. It’s almost 7 miles. The Jack Bloor feels very different. Although shorter at around 5.7m, the terrain is rougher, there are route choices to make and it feels hillier. Interestingly according to my Garmin, there was actually more climbing at Dick Hudson’s and I was still was a full minute-a-mile faster.
Dick Hudson’s is out and back over the moor, with a choice of route at the start but with most people coming back the more direct route down the side of the beck to the White Wells car park. I’ve been towards the back of the race for the last 2 years, but was reasonably satisfied with my time this year of 73mins which was 3 minutes faster than last year. Despite all the rain so far this year it was dry underfoot and a beautiful evening although the headwind on the way back was hard work. There was a short stop coming off the top where a runner had fallen and hit her head. Geoff White stayed with her longer which is why he finished behind me. When I first ran Dick Hudson’s in 2008 (and we competed with cyclists back then), I took under the hour and was well ahead of one John Hayes. This time John was 11 minutes in front of me, and it was less than 2 weeks since his 3.18 London Marathon time. A good turnout by Harriers with Nathan Edmondson the clear winner and Jeff Green the 1st M50.
Two weeks later, and it was raining hard for much of the day of the 37th Jack Bloor Races. It did dry out and the cloud lifted, which made navigation les challenging, but it’s still easy to get it wrong. I first ran the Jack Bloor in 1996, 11 years before I moved to Ilkley. Malcolm Pickering and Nick Pearce were in the top 10 that year. I was about half way down the field in 52.08. I didn’t run it again until 2007 – one of my first races as an Ilkley Harrier. It’s a great course, and I ran it most years through to 2017 when I helped for a few years until Covid. I picked it up again in 2023. Now I was towards the rear, and 10 minutes slower than in 2016. My time this year was only marginally slower, but would have been faster if I hadn’t made a stupid navigational error getting from the top down to the last checkpoint before the finish. I did make up some time on the final leg through excellent route choice (thank you Mr Hayes). I do like the course, its varied terrain, the fact that if you follow the person in front it’s probably not the best route; and as with most fell races, people are out to have fun
Again a good turnout from Harriers with a category win for Joyce Marshall, 2nd prize for Ilkley Men’s team (Michael Odell, Jeff Green and Oscar Shinn), and 3rd prize for Ilkley Women’s team (Alison Weston, Joyce Marshall and Lucy Haines).
Thank you to the organisers of both races – Wharfedale Harriers, and the Jack Bloor team.
Ilkley Gazette Report w/c 13 May
Mon 13 May 2024
From Will Worboys…
Photo credit Chris Hodgson
Ilkley athletes break records during busy weekend of running
In a bumper weekend of running events there was much focus on the second Leeds Marathon festival in which a number of local runners were participating. But it was two big fell races and a flat 5K that proved most successful in terms of finishing positions for competing Ilkley Harriers.
Ben Rothery again showed that he is one of the top fell athletes around with a brilliant victory at Pendle Cloughs; smashing the course record in the process. This event was the third counter in the English fell championship series ensuring a strong competing field. The race was a gruelling 14 miles with six climbs totalling over 4,000 feet; and rather unusually for Lancashire took place in hot and sunny conditions adding to the challenging nature. Rothery stamped his class on the race unfazed by the conditions, finishing in a time of 1hr 58, a minute and a half clear of his closest rival. Two other Harriers excelled at this race with Kate Archer achieving a time of 2hr 56 and Jane McCarthy 3hr 03. Both Ilkley ladies finished 4th in their respective categories.
Some distance north-west of Pendle and taking place at the same time was the Fairfield Horseshoe fell race. Again run in hot conditions and again won by an Ilkley Harrier with an incredible performance. Oli Murphy smashed the field to bits winning by over five minutes from the 2nd placed athlete in a time of 1hr 26. This race takes in the classic nine mile Lakeland route starting out from Ambleside, enduring 3,000 feet of uphill and requiring good navigational skills. It is advertised as ‘not an ideal first fell race’. Other Harriers taking part and all performing brilliantly were; Gavin Lamb who put in a great run to finish 3rd MV40. Jim Ryder who was 5th MV55 and Katie Poulter finished 23rd female overall.
On to flatter surroundings but no less impressive, last years winner of the Leeds Marathon Nathan Edmondson elected for a shorter distance this weekend, winning the York 5K race on Friday night in an amazing course record time of 14:42. The race which was part of the EvenSplit series and held at the University of York Sport Village Cycle Circuit. It was also attended by Harrier Mark Hall who bettered his own MV60 club record to 17:48 in another brilliant showing and finishing 1st in the category. Harry Sime also achieved an impressive 20:17 ensuring he finished 4th in the MV60 category.
So onto the Rob Burrows Leeds Marathon. Fourteen Harriers were among the 14,000 participants in the second running of the event which began last year to raise awareness of Motor Neurone Disease. The first Ilkley runner home was Forrest Hamilton finishing in 49th position in a time of 2hr 58:38, no mean feat on a course that is by no means flat. The only other Harrier to break the elusive three hour barrier was Dave Foyston who scraped under by just three seconds despite never running more than ten miles during his training runs! There were plenty more impressive performances with Steven Bysouth and James Lumb finishing in 3:01 and 3:11 respectively and being 23rd and 35th in the MV40 category. Fiona Schneider put in a very good run to finish 10th in the FV60 category. While Dave Reynier was 25th MV50. The other Harriers putting in a great shift in the heat where Tony Pye, Robin Nicholson, Charles Wain, Alan Travis, Hannah Osieku, Jonathan Nelson, Sarah Lambert and Jo Pattinson.
Meanwhile in the Half Marathon there was a quartet of Ilkley ladies who completed the course headed by Heidi Hoad; finishing in an impressive 1hr 48 and 36th in her category. The other ladies who navigated the course, which was a similar route to the marathon but avoiding descending into Otley or heading back up the hill of doom were; Charlotte Smithson who was next coming home in 2 hours. Followed not too far behind by Lucy Lowe and Rumana Chowdhury.
Also taking place this weekend on Friday night and attended by an Ilkley runner was a race at Pinhaw Moor. Dave Robson continued his streak of finding the most obscure fell races possible to test the report writers’ detective skills. Robson had his usual excellent run in the five mile event based at Earby to finish 1st MV50 and 27th overall of the field of 218 runners.
Finally in terms of races, there were two Harriers present at the Ripon 10 mile mixed terrain event on Sunday based around Studley Royal. Jaysson Sawyer was 5th of the 170 finishers in a time of 1hr 06:24 and Mark Hall close behind in 6th. Particularly impressively, it was Hall’s second MV60 category win of the weekend after also racing on Friday!
Moving onto the weekly 5K parkrun results, there were some more superb performances from Ilkley Harriers. Tom Adams finished 1st at Conyngham Hall in a time of 16:13. Rob Cunningham was 3rd finisher at Witney in Oxfordshire in 20:24. James Horrex was 3rd at the tough Chevin course in an impressive 19:36. Nick Kealey was 2nd at Roberts Park with 18:04. Alison Bennett was 3rd at Morecambe Prom in 21:48 giving her a whopping age grade of over 90%. Finally the Coys continued their weekly parkrun tour with Steve finishing 3rd at Sandy Water in South Wales and Gaenor finishing 5th.
Leeds Half Marathon – Sun 12 May
Sun 12 May 2024
From Rumana Chowdury…
I ran the Leeds half marathon and enjoyed it! The new route, which is on the same day as the marathon and follows part of the same route, suited me much more than the previous years’ fairly tedious amble through the less scenic parts of Leeds. This time, the atmosphere was electric, the crowds were huge and full of support and the out and back approach worked well, with a mostly uphill first half towards Golden Acre Park then a mostly downhill return. Finishing in Headingley stadium was brilliant, I even managed a fist pump which got me a little cheer out of the crowd – my one and only stadium rock moment!
It was a hot day and there were a fair few runners looking in a bad state on the side of the roads, I had to stop twice to let ambulances through. So when I realised my electrolytes had fallen out of my pocket, I did have a mild panic. Thankfully, there were plenty of disgusting sweets being handed out by the crowd which just about did the trick, although please note – don’t stuff haribos in your pockets on a hot day and then forgot about them as I did, only to later discover them congealed around my car keys…
I was happy with my time, my 2nd fastest half marathon time, with no specific training. I will return to chasing the elusive sub-2 hour goal another day! Until then I’m enjoying running off-plan, trying new routes and events and rediscovering the joy. And this event definitely helped with that.
I suspect there will be grumblings from some marathon runners about the point where the half and full runners merged and having to weave around slower runners etc. But coming at it from the other side, I absolutely loved that point, running for a short bit with the 3.15 marathon pacer (I was swiftly dropped, obvs) was just brilliant, seeing the pain and determination on fellow runners faces was so moving and being able to run alongside and give them a ‘come on, you’ve got this!’ was just everything that I love about running and the running community.
Now, don’t get me started on trying to exit the stadium and walk back through Leeds to the car. Those pesky marathon runners blocking the roads, can’t they just hurry up?!
Chip times (go ladies!)
Heidi Hoad 1:48:35
Charlotte Smithson 2:00:51
Lucy Lowe 2:02:19
Rumana Chowdhury 2:08:07
Pendle Cloughs Fell Race – Sat 11 May
Sat 11 May 2024
From Kate Archer…
This was the third counter in the English fell championships. A challenging 14-mile figure of eight route over Pendle Hill with at least six climbs that takes in seven cloughs. The start and finish is in Downham, a picture perfect village with a lovely ice cream café and village green. The heat made the going tough this weekend, but it was beautifully clear which meant navigation wasn’t an issue. The race was won by Ben Rothery in an amazing time of 1:58. Ben was 1.5 minutes clear of second place and a set new course record! Other than a very frustrating bottleneck at the start, Jane McCarthy and I enjoyed the race, both of us 4th in our respective categories.
1. Ben Rothery 1:58:48
124. Kate Archer 2:56:43
146. Jane McCarthy 3:03:21
York Evensplits 5k – Fri 10 May
Fri 10 May 2024
From Mark Hall…
Three Ilkley runners took part in the latest York 5k series event. Conditions were warm with a little wind. A field of 83 lined up. Nathan Edmondson once again performed to his usual excellent standard winning the event in 14.42 also setting an event record in a rare outing for him at 5k. Mark Hall was 26th in 17.47 and for those who like age grades 92.5%. Next was Harry Sime 57th in 20.13.
(Editor’s note: this is a new MV60 club record for Mark Hall, breaking his own record by 4 seconds)
Tadcaster Tri – Mon 6 May
Mon 6 May 2024
From Neil Chapman…
A great result for Christos Tzelis at the Tadcaster Sprint Triathlon on Bank Holiday Monday, when he beat almost 300 other competitors to win the race.
Christos did not get off to the greatest of starts and was two minutes down on the race leader at the end of the first transition, but managed to pull 25 seconds back on the 13k bike section. A storming 6k run to finish with, which was 1m 40s faster than the leader’s time, was good enough to see off the competition and win the race by the narrowest of margins, just 4 seconds, with a total time of 53.54.
It just goes to show it is not how you start that matters, but how you finish the race. Well done Christos!
Ilkley Gazette report w/c 6 May
Mon 6 May 2024
From Jill Ezard…
Podium finishes on trail and road, England vests and GB team selection – it’s a great start to May!
May got off to a fast start with 18 Harriers taking part in the ever popular Dick Hudsons fell race on Thursday. There are only two fixed points in this seven mile course with competitors starting at the barrier at the bottom of the track to White Wells and choosing whichever route they want to get to the gate at Dick Hudsons and back again. Knowledge of the moor was clearly an advantage for Harrier Nathan Edmondson who took first place over six minutes head of the second finisher in 44:00. Michael Odell was the next home in eight place overall and second in his age category in 49:42, followed shortly after by Jeff Green taking first place in his age category and 12th overall in 50:37. Seven Harriers made it into the top 30 finishers with Matt Cox, Gavin Moore, Nick Kealey and Dan McKeown having great runs. It was a family battle to the finish for the only two female Harriers taking place with less than 60 seconds separating Nea and Alison Weston. And it was bragging rights for Nea who finished in 1:10:30 followed by Alison in 1:11:22.
There was no rest for Alison who, along with Kate Archer, was in action again at the Coniston Fell Race on Saturday. A classic fell race with some steep and technical sections but with some fantastic views across the ridges. Starting from the Copper Mines Road, the 14km route summits Wetherlam, Swirl How and the Old Man giving a total of over 1000m of ascent. Alison was first over the line for the Harriers in a fantastic time of 2:03:25 and taking third place in her age category, followed by Kate in 2:10:32.
Sunday was the busiest day in the calendar with Harriers taking part in four different races. Based on an outstanding race performance last year, Helen Waddington was yet again in an England vest, having been selected to take part in the England Age Group Masters which this year was part of the AJ Bell Great Birmingham 10k. An undulating City Centre race, participants set off from Centenary Square headed out to the Jewellery Quarter passing the famous Mailbox building and New Street Station, finishing in Smithfield. As a masters event it was a tough field and Helen put in a great performance completing the race in 46:11 coming in the top 15 of her age category.
Still on the road, it was another Harrier podium finish at the Melmerby 10km. Starting in the village this undulating route takes runners through surrounding villages on quiet rural roads and has the potential for some fast times. And that was definitely the case for Matthew Thackwray who whipped round the course in 32:45 taking first place by nearly two minutes! Jaysson Sawyer also had a great race finishing in 38:29 and taking third place in his age category.
And the podium placings continued on the fells at the Great Hameldon Hill Race in Accrington. Starting at the base of The Coppice on the outskirts of Accrington, the race crosses tracks, fields and open moor before a bog and steep climb (described as horrendous!) leads the runners to the Great Hameldon trig. A fast descent picks up the outward route and ensures an exciting finish. And it certainly was that for Harrier Oli Murphy who romped home in 38:50 taking first place, almost two minutes ahead of the second finisher.
In other news, three Harriers have been chosen to represent Great Britain and Northern Ireland in the European Off Road Running Championships taking place at the end of the month in Annecy, France. Ben Rothery will take part in the Senior Men’s up and downhill race, Sam Bentham in the Junior Men’s uphill only race, and Edward Hobbs in the Junior Men’s up and downhill race. We look forward to reporting on their performances. And congratulations to Christos Tzelis on winning the Tadcaster Sprint Triathlon, where his superb 6k run section secured him his podium finish.
And finally, our 26 parkrunners were smashing the age gradings, achieving Personal Bests (PB) and finishing in the first ten across the board this week. Achieving age gradings well over 80% were Mark Hall and Alison Bennett at the Lister Park event, Hilda Coulsey at the Fountains Abbey event and Jane McCarthy at the Roberts Park event. Not content with that, Jane also achieved a PB and was third finisher. At the same event Harry Sime also got a PB, as did Rachel Barnicoat at the Bramley event. And other top ten finishers included Alex Foyn and Jaysson Sawyer at Fountains Abbey, Robert and Nicola Budding at Northallerton, Tom Lambe at Leicester Victoria Park, Jacqui Foster at Ford and Tim Ashelford at Chevin Forrest. Well done to all who took part.
Great Birmingham 10K/England Athletics Age Group Masters 10K Representative International – Sun 5 May
Sun 5 May 2024
From Helen Waddington…
A beautiful sunny day in Birmingham for this England Age Group Masters race, which I was lucky enough to qualify for last year. The camaraderie at these events is great, although the field is competitive so expectations have to be managed. The course was surprisingly enjoyable for a city centre race, with multiple twists and turns and undulations. I am ashamed to say I’ve never visited Birmingham before but that’s the good thing about running – it takes you where you might never go otherwise!
(1) Stephen Blake 00:31:16
(1) Gemma Steel 00:34:06
371 Helen Waddington 00:46:11
3694 ran
Staveley 18km trail race – Sat 4 May
Sat 4 May 2024
From Rebecca Mon-Williams...
Natalie and I headed to the south lakes last weekend to take part in the Staveley 18km trail race. This race is part of Lakeland Trail series, and you’re able to choose from an offering of different length races or opt for a “challenge” (in this case, the challenge was the same as the 18km race but without the cut-off time). The field was relatively small (only 47 running, 205 runners having set off an hour earlier for the “challenge”). The atmosphere was friendly, and despite the drizzle, both Natalie and I enjoyed the event. The course was beautiful, very runnable and, in recognition of the race being held on May 4, we even had a fully clad storm trooper to cheer us on at the top of the final hill!
(1 Vit Knezinek 1:20:06)
(5 Victoria Duncan 1:26:17 1st F)
35 Rebecca Mon-Williams 1:50:37
45 Natalie Curtis 2:03:08
Helvellyn and the Dodds and other May races
Wed 1 May 2024
From Dave Robson…
May has been a bumper month for my new race challenge, with three completed…
Helvellyn & the Dodds Fell Race: Advertised by Keswick AC as 15 miles and 1337 metres ascent, this was always going to be a tough race. The course is an out and back From Threlkeld Cricket Club to Helvellyn via various ‘Dodds’, which I’m told is pretty much part of the Bob Graham route. It was a sunny day with great views across the tops and the route was easy to follow but tough to complete. I clocked it (Strava elevation and OS Map checked it) at 1670m climb, so bear this ‘bonus’ 300m+ ascent in mind if you’re going to give it a go. I was pleased with my time and 48th position on the day which just sneaked me into the top ten in the M50 category. Results
Pinhaw Fell race: A quick trip across the Lancashire border, for a fast 5 mile, Friday night fell run. Although it’s only 200m ascent and largely on tarmac it is still classified as a fell race in the FRA handbook. A competitive field, spurred on by the Red Lion beer garden faithful, created a great atmosphere. I finished 27th and 1st M50, partly due (Strava tells me) to my fastest ever 2 mile effort! Results
Up the Odda trail race: I registered last minute for this one as it was just down the road in Hawksworth. A two lap trail race which Jack Cummins won by a huge margin. Most impressive performance of the day however, may have to go to the man who ran it in inflatable dinosaur costume! Results
Races in honour of Pete Shields
Wed 1 May 2024
We’re hosting two races over the next couple of months in honour of Pete Shields, a much-loved former coach and fellow Harrier, who died early in 2020 – and we need your help.
Both events will be raising money for charity and we’d like as many Harriers as possible to enter or volunteer – and raise awareness of them to friends and family.
First up is the Pete Shields Ilkley Trail Race on Bank Holiday Monday 27th May.
As most of you will know, it’s a lovely 11km route on a mix of surfaces up to Middleton Moor and then back down, providing spectacular views over the Wharfe Valley.
All profits from the race will be shared between Marie Curie, the UK’s leading charity for people living with a terminal illness, and the Revival Centre and Orphanage in Matugga, Uganda, which has been supported since the race started in 2008.
Enter | Volunteer | More details
And then on Sunday 9th June there’s the Pete Shields Ilkley 10k, a brand new event and will be run on fully closed roads between the Lido in Ilkley and the turn off to Denton.
Pete was a gifted runner himself and an outstanding coach. He was exceptional at getting the best out of all runners and especially skillful at encouraging young enthusiastic runners.
So it’s hoped the new race will attract a wide range of abilities and ages – as a fast, flat, out-and-back two-lap course, it offers the chance to run a new PB. But the course’s style, with minimal climbing, also means it is a good opportunity for those less experienced wanting to tackle a 10k for the first time to give it a go.
All the profits from this race will be given to Marie Curie Cancer Care in appreciation of the help and care they gave to Pete and his family when he was very poorly – and to enable them to help other sufferers and their families in the same way, when it is most needed.
Enter | Volunteer | More details
Please do support both these races – even if it’s just by spreading the word. Neil Chapman in particular has already put in so much hard work to make them happen and we now need to help as much as we possibly can. Many thanks.
Selection News
Wed 1 May 2024
From Abbie Rothery…
Three Ilkley Harriers have been selected for the senior and junior uphill and up-and-down events for the upcoming European Off Road Running Championships 2024 taking place between 31 May – 2 June in Annecy (France). Ben Rothery will be in the Senior Men’s team for the Up and Down race, and in the Junior Men Edward Hobbs will be running in the Uphill race whilst Sam Bentham will be in the Up and Down race. Read more about it here