Ilkley Harriers news archive 2021
Bangor Half Marathon – Sun 31 Oct
Sat 30 Oct 2021
From Petra Bijsterveld…
Photo credit Nick Preston…
It was meant to be my 4th Snowdonia Marathon on Saturday, but the event has been postponed until 2022 by the organisers. I had hung on to my 2-night accommodation just outside Bangor with the vague idea of still having a weekend away. A few weeks ago I went online on the off-chance that there might be a race somewhere nearby on the same weekend, to find that the Bangor Half Marathon (and a 10K) was taking place on the Sunday. It was just meant to be! I sharpened my legs on Saturday morning by running Conwy parkrun just down the coast, which was a lovely, friendly and scenic event, and I spent a nice sunny afternoon exploring Caernarfon Castle. Returning to my Travelodge room and checking the forecast for the morning again I did actually consider calling it a day and driving home, heavy rain and 40 to 50 mph gales were forecast just for the time I would be running. Thankfully I did not go home, as the weather turned out to be much better than that. We started at 09:30 and it was actually mainly dry and sunny, with intermittent showers and a bit of a breeze, but certainly no gale. In fact with a temperature of 10 degrees conditions were pretty perfect. The heavens did not properly open until about midday by which time I was dry in my car. The route was fairly scenic, the highlight for me was running on Garth Pier, a classic Victorian listed pier, which came early in the race, and where we were treated to a beautiful rainbow. Whilst described as a road race, I found the route stretched the definition of ‘road’ a bit for quite a few miles. Yes it was tarmac, but much of it was on small paths through the woods, covered in leaves, twigs and standing water. Pretty and definitely nicer than running on a dual carriageway, but combined with the significant undulation it meant that this was never going to be PB course. My Saucony racing flats (don’t laugh! I wear them as they suit my feet, not my speed) felt a little inappropriate on the wet autumn leaves but they were actually OK, and I was super grateful that I had decided against my ON’s which would definitely have had me sliding all over the place. Having not done any road racing for what feels like a century I had felt a bit daunted by the prospect of 13 miles of keeping going at an ‘acceptable’ speed, but I was fairly happy with my pacing, though uneven due to the ups and downs (why can you never regain on the downs what you lose on the ups!?), and I overtook a few people in the final miles which gave me a bit of a boost. The last 2 miles were less pleasant due to cramp in one calf as well as a stitch, but I gritted my teeth and kept pushing even when a marshal said it was downhill all the way and it was actually uphill to the finish!
(1 1:15:35 Ryan Roberts, Cybi Striders)
126 2:05:52 Petra Bijsterveld
198 ran
Apperley Bridge Canter – Sat 30 Oct
Fri 29 Oct 2021
[photo credit: Philip Bland]
From Sue Williamson…
The rescheduled Apperley Bridge Canter was a well organised 10k with friendly marshalls and even sunshine after a very wet Saturday morning.
(1 Phillip Tedd, Thames Hare & Hounds, 37:25)
21 Lucy Williamson 42:16 (1st Lady)
Cantering a little behind, Sue Williamson 1Hr 10
Black Lane Ends – Sat 30 Oct
Fri 29 Oct 2021
From Alison Weston…
I managed to complete another 2 of the original 50 FRA races in the last 8 days.
23 October
Hutton Roof – 7.30 mile very runnable route near Kirkby Lonsdale with great views of the west coast from the top. Won by Josh Hartley 51:48. My time was 1hr16 and position 102.
30 October
Black Lane Ends 4 mile race between Skipton and Colne which was a fell cross country with 3 laps of a muddy hilly course. Time approximately 44:51 minutes.
WYXC League Race 2 – Sat 30 Oct
Fri 29 Oct 2021
From Jonathan Turner…
There were some superb Harriers performances in the mud at Guiseley on Saturday after the series’ second race passed an early-morning inspection. The heavy rainfall had given way to blue skies by the time of the two senior races, and Jemima Elgood shone brightest in the ladies event as she crossed the line in first place while Rachel Carter (LV45) and Sally Malir (LV55) both made the top three in their respective age categories. Another strong display from the men saw them finish second in the team standings again, with Nathan Edmondson leading the way in fourth in a stacked line-up. Cam Reilly, Jack Wood, Dan McKeown, Steve Gott and Steve Coy were the other counters. And there were some great runs in the junior races too.
Hubble Bubble Marathon – Sat 30 Oct
Fri 29 Oct 2021
From Colin Williams…
On Saturday I ran my 4th Marathon / Ultra of the month, this time nearer to home. I took part in the “it’s Grim Up North”, Hubble Bubble Marathon – Day 1. The route is all along the Leeds Liverpool Canal, starting in Kirkstall running to Leeds where you turn around, run half a marathon in the opposite direction before turn round again and run back to the start.
While the route is more or less flat, I don’t find them as easy to run as some of the hillier routes.
On Saturday my time was 3:47:06 which took me to 5th place, the winner was Colin Johnstone in a time of 3:06:02, 25 ran.
ULTRA Q&A / Social evening – Tue 30 Nov
Tue 26 Oct 2021
We’re delighted to be hosting this event from 8pm-10pm at Ilkley tennis club for anyone interested in ULTRA RUNNING – from tackling your first Ultra to thinking about multi-day extreme Ultras. There’s a huge amount of experience at the Club that can be shared about events, training, fuelling, kit etc. The evening will be fairly informal, with a short introduction, Q&A with experienced Ultra runners and then plenty of time for a drink and a general Social. Thanks to Jane McCarthy and Andrew Merrick for organising. Please book your spot via SignUp to give us an idea of numbers.
Langdale Marathon – Sat 23 Oct
Sat 23 Oct 2021
From Colin Williams…
On Saturday I took part in the 33rd Langdale Marathon, my third time of running this race, a very hilly road marathon, advertised as “the toughest road marathon in the UK” with 3,400 ft of climb and some ascents as steep as 1:3. It also has some fantastic views that keep me coming back year after year.
This year, due to Covid 19, the organisers Brathay, gave the option to start early or join the mass start at 10:30, I opted for an extra hour in bed and join the mass start. As always the start was put back by 10 minutes, as the final runners were delayed in getting into Langdale and getting parked.
The forecast for the event was looking dry, but the Cumbrian weather had a different idea, with a light drizzle from the time I got out of the car till the end of my run, but not enough to put on a waterproof. The race was very well organised as always, lots of very friendly marshals and the route is well marked with big yellow arrows which, after running a few ultras with tricky routes over the last couple of months, was a nice change.
The race was won by Jarlath McKenna of Bristol and West AC, in I think a new record time of 2:41:34. I finished in 41th place in a time of 3:58:16 and 167 ran.
Nidderdale Way Ultra – Sat 23 Oct
Sat 23 Oct 2021
From Jann Smith…
29 miles / 3,300ft
There are 4 different distances of this race, half loop, full loop, 1.5 loops and double loop. We all set off together in the dark from Pateley Bridge at 7am heading over lots of beautiful landmarks including Yorks Folly, Ripley Castle, Brimham Rocks, Gouthwaite reservoir, Scar house reservoir and How Stean Gorge.
Results:
1. Ali Burns, 4hr. 07 mins
9. Jann Smith, 5hr. 36 mins (1st lady)
Brecon Beacons Ultra – Sat 16 Oct
Sat 16 Oct 2021
From Ritchie Williamson…
My entry into this race, organised by Trail Events Co, has its origins in the Cape Wrath Ultra 2021. At the pre-event dinner I met a fellow runner called Chris (previous experience, attempting to run across the Irish Sea in a giant hamster wheel), we ran a lot of CWU together and with connections made we kept in touch and made future running plans. High on the post CWU wave we decided to team up again and entered the Dragon’s Back Race for 2022. For this we committed to do some proper preparation, recces of the course and a bit more mountain fitness. Chris was already ahead of me on the training having entered the Brecon Beacons’ Ultra to get a ‘feel’ for some of the terrain the DBR would cover. Suffering from a well-known condition (runners envy, yet to be formally diagnosed) and itching to run an event post CWU I entered the race only to be put on the reserve list as it had sold out. Six days before the event, I got the nod and so started to think about an alternative fuelling and race strategy. On previous ultras I had tried a number of different approaches to fuelling, from chicken sandwiches to falafel wraps and onion bhajis (and everything in between). My race strategy (if it can be called that) had always been to a) finish the course and b) do well and it had served me well, finishing top 5 overall or in age category (but with top spot always eluding me). The Brecon Beacons Ultra seemed like a good place to attempt something different. At 32.5 miles long with around 6900ft total ascent I knew the distance and elevation would not pose a challenge. I planned to race this from the start, I reasoned if I went out hard and the wheels came off, I would still get across the line. I also needed to rethink my fuelling, carrying bulk items such as sandwiches or bagels required putting them in the race pack at the back and not in the front pockets and would slow me down getting access to them. From experience if someone was on your tail you would skip trying to access the fuel to keep ahead. There is also a certain amount of faff and time lost in using check points to refuel. I chose a well-known fuelling system and went with that, drinks and gels all the way, planning to get 20 grams of carbohydrate in every hour from the start. This was the plan.
Race day arrived, and after a very early start, registration at 06.30am at Talybont-on-Usk, we had the pre-race briefing and prepared to race. Chris and I discussed our own approaches to the race and when the race started at 07.30 am we set off together. The first 7.5 miles is a long uphill (1000ft) track/road along the side of the Talybont Reservoir. I had gone out quick and was leading within the first 2 minutes, Chris was with me and we put distance between ourselves and the following pack fairly quickly, we ran through the first check point (CP1 2.3 miles) and shouted out our race numbers as we passed through. We continued to run together for the next few miles but around mile 7 Chris wanted to run to his own plan and so I kept to my own and ran through CP 2 (7.2 miles) in the lead, again shouted my race number and kept going. I’d manged to keep to a sub 8 min/mile pace up to this point. I couldn’t see or hear any of the following runners, and never having been in this position I immediately started to think I’d gone off too quick. The next two and half miles offered a little respite as the tracks were runnable, narrow, and off road with a smaller ascent (less than 100 ft), I kept the same pace. Mile 11 is where the real climbing began, 3 miles of continuous up hill (1170ft ascent) onto the Graig Fan Ddu to join the Craig Gwaun Taf and running along as far as the Bwlch Duwynt (wind gap), I immediately regretted leaving the running poles in the car. I was puffing at this point, and there were a few strains in both claves making themselves known. I ignored them, I’d ran the first 13 miles in just under 2 hours and had kept to plan with a gel every hour from 20 minutes in as well as 500 mls fluid every hour. When I had a chance to look up, the views were amazing. It’s part of why I like ultras. Beginning the first descent from near mile 13 in was a joy, 1.5 miles of fast descent (1200ft -20% gradient) down a wide track. This was not a technical descent, and I reasoned I could put a bit more distance between myself and those behind. I went for it and felt I was flying, hitting the bottom in less than 9 minutes. It was a busy path as there were quite a lot of tourists making their way up as well as a few parties of squaddies on a march. It’s the closest you get to slalom when running. This brought me to CP3 (14 miles). I stopped to fill my flask, was told I was in the lead and replied almost apologetically with ‘I started too fast’. The next 1.5 miles were another uphill (1000ft) pull onto the Craig Cwin Llwch. I’d started cramping on the climb up (those twinges in the calves had now spread to the groin), I had to stop to stretch out a few times, I forced in another gel. I now had a long descent (3 miles) down to CP4 (20 miles), the last 1.5 miles on road. The cramping had slowed my pace as I was concerned with the “wheels coming off’ (brain trying to compensate with MV50 1st place is good enough), once I hit the road (and after some more stretches), I felt good enough to push the pace again. I filled my flasks with fluids at CP4, told them I’d gone off too fast (quickly becoming my refrain when I spoke to anyone) and set off again. I knew the next section was the toughest, approx. 9 miles to the final CP and the small matter of summiting Pen y Fan. I was still in the lead and was not used to the odd paranoia that comes with it. I knew if I could maintain the lead to CP5 I could race the last 3 miles.
Off road and starting the ascent there was 2.6 miles and 1950ft of climb between myself and the summit of Pen y Fan. I started the ascent and apart from a few twinges, all was going well. Gaining height quickly I had a clear view of what was behind, I couldn’t see anyone, I was beginning to believe. Around mile 21 (about 3hrs 30 mins of running) I needed to get another gel in, I was delaying, stomach was not feeling good (typical for around this time in most runs). I forced one in, in three attempts. The first attempt it stayed down, took a drink, the stomach was not happy. I left it a few minutes, tried to put a bit more in, there was a reflex, I held it down kept moving and had another drink. I still needed to finish the gel, I waited a few minutes more and forced the rest in. The stomach revolted; it didn’t stay down long. What followed was a few minutes of the physical act of expulsion of gastric content with the aim of removing toxic or irritating substances. I’m a neuroscientist by training, and every time this happens, I mentally list the neurotransmitters that mediate this and the brain regions that control it (yes there is a specific part of the brain that controls this), we all have our coping strategies. While I was bent over, I had a chance to scan down the Cefn Cwm Llwch ridge and spotted a red topped runner moving up. This was the first runner I had seen since parting with Chris. I reckoned they were about ¾ of a mile behind on the uphill. I needed to get a move on. The last section of Cefn Cwm Llwch on to the summit is steep, requiring hands at times. I summited and met a runner that was on the marathon distance course (different route). After a quick hello, I wanted to put some distance between myself and him so he could act as buffer between myself and the chaser in the red top.
There was now a short steep and technical descent followed by a less technical section, and the final climb of the route skirting the Gwaun Cerrig Llwydion which brought me up to just over 26 miles. I had just over 10K to go, a long 3 mile downhill on a narrow path with constant looks over my shoulder. I hadn’t been able to put any fuel in since mile 21 and was banking on there being some cola at the final check point (CP5 29.5 miles). Once at the CP5 I had 3 miles left to go, I quickly filled a flask with cola, and emptied it even quicker as I ran a 1-mile downhill road section, managing to keep a steady 7.30 min/mile pace. The final 2 miles are flat along a winding canal, this was the hardest part, I had to keep moving and had no idea if red top runner was close as there was not a line of sight behind. Energy reserves were running low due to lack of fuelling, I ran the penultimate mile at a decent pace (8.14 min/mile) but had to push. I couldn’t maintain the pace for the final mile (9.00 min/mile), which seemed to take an eternity. I crossed the line in first place and red top runner came in 6 minutes after, third place runner coming in 18 minutes after me. Red top runner was called Graham and we had a good chat at the end. The strategy had worked to a point and as with all these events it was a learning curve. Never having led a race I had to get the navigation right, there were no ‘moving way points’ for me to follow. The course was well marked, but there were a few sections that you need to be on point as to when to leave a path or make a turn. It was a great event, the weather was perfect, and I’ve probably peaked, but look forward to the next one and trying to get the fuelling right. Graham has vowed not to wear a red top when running an event again, Chris has not told me what his next event is.
British Fell Relays – Sat 16 Oct
Sat 16 Oct 2021
From Jack Wood…
Strong running from all 3 Ilkley teams at Tebay in the British Fell Relays yesterday. The men’s team was 11th, the vets 12th in their v40 category and the women 14th.
Three Peaks Fell Race – Sat 9 Oct
Sat 9 Oct 2021
From Rachel Carter…
It had never crossed my mind to think of running the Three Peaks Fell Race until someone mentioned after I had run the Wharfedale Half marathon that it was a qualifier. I gained the required second qualifier with the Yorkshireman Half and entered. April 2020 became October 2021 for the 66th race. Despite in theory having a lot of time to prepare I didn’t manage any recces and long runs were a bit thin on the ground too. I had decided early on to run this for Samaritans in memory of my brother which took away any racing pressure and made the event more about completing without coming unstuck. The general consensus from the ‘experienced attenders’ was not to go out too fast up Pen-y-ghent so I followed this advice and tried to take on plenty of fuel with an aim to get round without struggling off Ingleborough.
It was fairly warm and humid at the start (I didn’t feel cold in just a vest at 9:30) but cooler in the clagg of the hills. Visibility was poor up Whernside (perhaps good as it hid the steepness of the climb for me as a first timer), with the only sign the top was yet to be reached by the sound of a tantalizing cow bell rung by the Westons who offered much encouragement and jelly babies when you finally got there! Descending for me is about not falling over (I did wish I had worn some different shoes!) so I was fairly steady off Whernside before heading onto Ingleborough. Although it is five miles or so down, I felt good at the top of Ingleborough to run strong to the finish (though there were a few cross-country style bogs and more wet limestone rocks to negotiate!). Support was brilliant so thank you to all those that were there and moved locations to cheer on – I won’t name names in case I miss someone! Thank you also to those who sponsored me – I am pleased to have raised money for such an important cause. It’s a great event with amazing organization, camaraderie on the course and atmosphere at the finish. Given it was Alison’s 20th Three Peaks race she must like it for a good reason!
(1st Gary Greenhow, Ambleside, 3:05:22)
145th Rachel Carter 4:22 (3rd LV40)
206th Dick Waddington 4:37
278th Peter Roll 4:55
288th Paul Howard 4:56
331st Alison Weston 5:05
376th Alistaire MacGregor 5:18
416 finished
Manchester Marathon – Sun 10 Oct
Sat 9 Oct 2021
From Hilda Coulsey…
Another weekend, another marathon. Tales from the previous weekend at London built the pressure – the run itself, it is a long 26.2 miles on roads, and the muscle stiffness to look forward to after.
It was lovely to see a major marathon taking place again, crowds shouting encouragement, plenty of volunteers, a superb event. It was a long day with the half marathon before it and very staggered start times, I didn’t begin until 11.25. This was my first time running of Manchester and the first marathon for a couple of Harriers too. No-one is owning up to finding it easy.
I found it particularly hard after 30k, not a surprise as I didn’t train beyond 2hrs 45. I was planning to run Chicago, same Sunday, deferred from last year. I was hanging on to see if we Brits would be allowed to enter the US, it didn’t seem likely hence I really didn’t have the motivation to train. However, when it was eventually a certainty in early September that I wouldn’t go, I thought but I need a good-for-age time to enter a big race next year so I entered Manchester. It was pragmatism over enthusiasm. Now I have the good-for-age time target I set myself I’m now wondering what was I thinking as my place for Chicago is deferred until 2022, do I want to do two marathons next year – NO!!!
Well done to all the runners.
The elite race was won by Mathew Crehan 2:18:26 and Anna Bracegirdle 2:40:17
836 David Foyston 3:0716
964 Jane McCarthy 3:09:52 (6th FV45)
2856 Michael Ho 3:37:48
3421 Leah Chown 3:43:59
4130 Justin Pierce 3:51:18
4286 Helen Waddington 3:52:46
5645 Tom Worboys 4:04:30
8925 Hilda Coulsey 4:37:33
13,454 finished
Lakes in a Day – Sat 9 Oct
Sat 9 Oct 2021
From Andrew Merrick…
Lakes in a Day was one of my first ultras on a very sunny day back in 2016, with a few friends including Rob who I hadn’t run with again until this August. I am not entirely sure what led me to enter it again in 2018, but in stark contrast, the weather then was very, very wet, and funnily enough my plan of drinking and eating little in a futile attempt not to get too wet wasn’t the best approach….. I threw in the towel and tried to find a dry one at Ambleside that year, so decided I had to do it again in 2020 to lay that ghost…
For obvious reasons 2020 became 2021 and since the deferred (from March 2020) Tokyo Marathon was still not an option for international runners, I stuck with the LiaD plan.
I joined the camper van convention at a very picturesque Cartmel racecourse on Friday evening, did the registration thing – no kit check in these covid times – and after an appropriate amount of faffing settled down for the night, hearing every hour rung by the church bell until my 5am alarm competed with it.
I dropped my kit bag at the village hall just in time for the 5:45 coach north to Caldbeck where the race starts. This year each forecast I had seen suggested dry, even quite pleasant, weather, so I was slightly surprised when the guy next to me on the bus suggested 4 hours of rain was likely.
At least I knew what to expect with a first steady climb out of Caldbeck before we dropped down to the double river crossing at the foot of Blencathra. No rope was required this year but there were a number of marshals in the water to ensure we didn’t fall in the knee deep current. I stuck with my standard plan of working the climbs and trying not to damage myself on the descents, Halls Fell Ridge being the first test of this plan. A fellow runner muttered something unprintable about how well his roclite’s weren’t working as we fiddled our way down, bum shuffling being required for some of us in a number of places given how wet the rocks were.
Stage 1 ends in Threlkeld, mask hunting being required as we approached the check point there, with a well stocked feed station at which we were generally encouraged not to stay too long and a water station outside. I grabbed a banana and some soreen and refilled my bottles, knowing from previous experience that the next 18 miles before CP2 (a long gap by ultra standards) were going to be challenging. I don’t recall exactly when the rain started, but cold, wet and miserable was the best description of both me and the weather courtesy of a brisk wind bringing the rain largely against us and very limited visibility almost all the way along the ridge before the long descent to Ambleside. I battled on determined that I would not DNF again, but had to have a proper word with myself as we continued along the top of the ridge to finally reach Helvellyn and the gradual descent down towards Grisedale tarn. The route here involves a series of stone steps, and I decided to follow the lead of others and run away of the steps in an attempt to make more rapid progress…. A comedy slip resulted in a damaged and bent pole, not ideal before the final major climb of Fairfield. However I managed to get that done and had company for the long, slightly messy, misty descent into Ambleside. My spirits were raised by a combination of a bowl of pasta and cup of tea (to be consumed outside), the improved temperature as we descended and got out of the wind (it was still raining), and the sight of a skiing friend of mine who happened to be in the area and had dropped by to cheer me on.
I said to my friend that I didn’t think there was a chance I would hit my target of getting back in time for us to have a drink in Cartmel, but I was firmly told that it was much easier from here and that I should crack on…..
Still 21 miles of the 50 to go (54 on my watch), with one more CP before the finish, but very different terrain from now on, with some road stretches and in places relatively flat paths, and fully signed all the way back to Cartmel and I had a pub-based renewed focus…. The lakeside paths were in places at least ankle deep in water (and it was still raining), and there were a few minor climbs through the woods as we neared Finsthwaite, leaving in theory 7.5 miles to the finish. I was in good spirits after grabbing some coke and a take away leek and potato soup on my way through the CP, not dimmed by the marshal confidently stating only 14km to go (even my tired brain told me that was nearer 9 miles). A few climbs (several more than I was expecting) but largely on tracks and decent terrain, and only one wrong turn as a few us travelled broadly at the same pace before the final couple of road miles (it was still raining) down into and through Cartmel to the school on the far side. I heard the church bell ring out 10 times as I neared it – I hadn’t missed it – which encouraged me to keep running the last half mile or so to the finish, leaving ample time for a shower before heading off to the nearest pub with my ski friend. The landlord entered into the spirit (?) of the day and said there was no charge for the pint of blonde with the water chaser that I enjoyed to the sounds of any songs he had on his music system with the word “run” in them….. After a lift back to the racecourse, I managed to sleep through the sound of the church bell until I counted 5……
A very well marshalled race, which is much more enjoyable in good weather… I don’t plan to do it again but then I promised myself all sorts as I was in the cold and miserable phase of the race. The descent off Blencathra is challenging for some of us, and the 18 mile stretch between check points starting with the ascent of Clough Head and ending with a long descent into Ambleside is both physically and mentally demanding, but it gets much easier from there and Cartmel is a lovely place to wake up (in the sunshine) on a Sunday morning… even if I did forget the sticky toffee purchase!
Rotherham Round Ultra – Sat 9 Oct
Fri 8 Oct 2021
From Colin Williams…
On Saturday I took part in the Rotherham Round Ultra, a 50-mile trail run mostly through woods and over farmland with a small amount on roads. The race is part of the Run Further series of races for their league. There are 12 races, to qualify a runner needs to complete a minimum of four, including one short, 35miles or less, one medium, between 35 and 45 miles and one long over 45 miles plus another of your choosing. After missing out by one race in 2019 and having some that I had booked for 2021 being cancelled, I was determined to make the start line for the Rotherham Round.
I opted for a late start at 06:55 so that I wasn’t in the dark and didn’t need to leave home till 5am. The event is chip timed with up to 10 runners starting every five minutes, the earliest starting at 4am, so by the time I started most of the participants were already running. I started well, and made it to the first check point at 10 miles in an hour and 25 minutes, the weather was looking good, a bit damp underfoot but it was going well. At about the 18 mile mark, Rory Harris, the eventual winner, passed me – I guessed he had started about 15 mins behind, By the 35-mile mark with six checkpoints down the weather was more like a hot summer’s day than October and I was feeling done in. I carried on at a somewhat slower pace, eventually finishing in 10:15:12.
1st Rory Harris 06:48:28
20th Colin Williams 10:15:12
143 Finished
Palma half marathon & 10k – Sat 9 Oct
Fri 8 Oct 2021
From Matt Snow…
A group of Harriers took one for the team and travelled to Palma for the half marathon and 10k runs.
We even made the ultimate sacrifice and took the other halves.
Well done to Dave Singleton, Roar Leijssen, Dave Holder and Matt Snow.
Conditions were more conducive to fast running than our previous visit in 2019, unfortunately, none of us do fast running.
A really well organised and friendly event.
Half Marathon:
334 Matthew Snow 1:48.54
444 Dave Holder 1:53.29
727 Roar Leijssen 2:03.18
1558 ran
10k:
213 Dave Singleton 54:26
1042 ran
parkruns – Sat 9 Oct
Thu 7 Oct 2021
Lots more good parkrun/’parkrace’ performances on Saturday, especially at Skipton where there was a Harriers double. Rob Cunningham was first across the line in an impressive 18:01 and Lucy Williamson was the first female finisher (and fifth overall) in 18:42, both PBs.
Consolidated club results here
Kielder Marathon – Sun 3 Oct
Sun 3 Oct 2021
From Colin Williams…
Last Sunday I returned to Kielder to run the marathon for my fourth time. The enforced year off due to last year’s race being cancelled, allowed me to forget how undulating the course around the Kielder Reservoir is. As always the well organised event was well attended and had a party atmosphere. The day started with rain but luckily stopped just before the race started and mostly kept dry for the rest of the event, I finished in a time of 3:48:18.
(1 2:54:25 Russell Maddams, Keswick AC)
70 3:48:18 Colin Williams
237 4:40:53 David Howe
469 ran
West Yorkshire XC Race 1 Cleckheaton – Sun 3 Oct
Sun 3 Oct 2021
From Petra Bijsterveld….
The local cross country season started today after a long covid-induced hiatus, and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces from many clubs, and of course the organisers and the official starter, who was on good form today cracking jokes with us before firing the gun. The weather was kind, if anything it was a tad warm for running, and underfoot conditions were very dry considering the rain we have had in the last few days.
Excellent running by all Harriers including the juniors who raced in the morning. In the senior women’s race, consisting of 3 large laps (3.2 miles), Rachel Carter led the Ilkley women, coming home in 10th place as well as being 1st W45. Alison Bennett continued her brilliant current form with a very fast time, though such was the strength of the field, this made her ‘only’ 2nd W60. Diane Kitchen, myself and Steph Fox arrived around 5 minutes later each having given their all! Personally I was delighted to get around so well and without injury as this was the first ‘fast’ run for me in 4 months, having strained both calves in turn this year my training has all been of the slow variety.
The men’s race was 5 laps of the same course (5.5 miles) and was won in brilliant style by Tom Adams with Oli Murphy in 3rd place. Harry Holmes of Pudsey and Bramley, who recently won the Ilkley fell race and had been leading in the initial laps, came 2nd, it was nice to see Tom reel him in sometime around the 3rd lap if I was counting correctly, and trapping him in an ‘Ilkley sandwich’. Strong running by all Ilkley men, who ended as 2nd team, with Tim Ashelford coming 1st M55.
Senior Women
(1 20:09 Becky Penty)
10 22:34 Rachel Carter 1st W45
31 24:37 Alison Bennett
62 29:07 Diane Kitchen
65 29:42 Petra Bijsterveld
70 30:56 Steph Fox
78 ran
7th team
Senior Men
1 30:23 Tom Adams
3 31:13 Oli Murphy
14 33:37 Nathan Coy
17 33:50 Matt Cox
44 37:18 Tim Ashelford 1st M55
68 39:30 Jim Ryder
123 ran
2nd team
Eyam Half Marathon – Sun 3 Oct
Sun 3 Oct 2021
From Jean Sullivan…
Billed as the North’s ‘most scenic half’ this course does not disappoint! Mile after mile of stunning views, across five counties.
Starting and finishing in the historic village of Eyam in Derbyshire, this ‘rat race’ consists of a clockwise circuit which involves over 1,200ft of ascent, so the views are definitely hard earned!
I enjoyed this race, apart from the climb between miles 9 and 11 which nearly finished me off! If you are after a well-organised, friendly hilly road half marathon I would highly recommend this race!
(1 Luke Beresford Ripley Running Club 1:20:02)
144 Jean Sullivan 2:01:56
292 finishers
London Marathon – Sun 3 Oct
Sun 3 Oct 2021
From Michael Abrams Cohen…
The London Marathon saw a brilliant showing from the Ilkley Harriers with many donning the red and green colours and heading to the capital.
We lucked out with the weather, and 18 months after the original planned date for the London Marathon, the Harriers logged some very impressive times.
1st M Sisay Lemma 2:04:01
1st F Jocyline Jepkosgei 2:17:43
2318 Michael Abrams Cohen 3:00:55
2548 Stephen Bysouth 3:03:10
4534 Stephen Newell 3:19:06
4739 Dave Reynier 3:20:26
10577 Marc Westerman 3:47:14
30495 Paula Reynier 4:52:15
West Yorkshire XC Race 1 Cleckheaton – Sun 3 Oct
Sat 2 Oct 2021
From Petra Bijsterveld….
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The local cross country season started today after a long covid-induced hiatus, and it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces from many clubs, and of course the organisers and the official starter, who was on good form today cracking jokes with us before firing the gun. The weather was kind, if anything it was a tad warm for running, and underfoot conditions were very dry considering the rain we have had in the last few days.
Excellent running by all Harriers including the juniors who raced in the morning. In the senior women’s race, consisting of 3 large laps (3.2 miles), Rachel Carter led the Ilkley women, coming home in 10th place as well as being 1st W45. Alison Bennett continued her brilliant current form with a very fast time, though such was the strength of the field, this made her ‘only’ 2nd W60. Diane Kitchen, myself and Steph Fox arrived around 5 minutes later each having given their all! Personally I was delighted to get around so well and without injury as this was the first ‘fast’ run for me in 4 months, having strained both calves in turn this year my training has all been of the slow variety.
The men’s race was 5 laps of the same course (5.5 miles) and was won in brilliant style by Tom Adams with Oli Murphy in 3rd place. Harry Holmes of Pudsey and Bramley, who recently won the Ilkley fell race and had been leading in the initial laps, came 2nd, it was nice to see Tom reel him in sometime around the 3rd lap if I was counting correctly, and trapping him in an ‘Ilkley sandwich’. Strong running by all Ilkley men, who ended as 2nd team, with Tim Ashelford coming 1st M55.
Senior Women
(1 20:09 Becky Penty)
10 22:34 Rachel Carter 1st W45
31 24:37 Alison Bennett
62 29:07 Diane Kitchen
65 29:42 Petra Bijsterveld
70 30:56 Steph Fox
78 ran
7th team
Senior Men
1 30:23 Tom Adams
3 31:13 Oli Murphy
14 33:37 Nathan Coy
17 33:50 Matt Cox
44 37:18 Tim Ashelford 1st M55
68 39:30 Jim Ryder
123 ran
2nd team
Rombalds Romp – Sun 3 Oct
Sat 2 Oct 2021
From Nick Kealey…
Definitely felt like autumn as nearly 50 hardy runners stood at the start line for the annual Rombalds Romp organised by North Leeds Fell Runners. The 8.1 mile route heads up over Rombalds Moor (unsurprisingly), through the plantation (watch out for slippery bridges), and down to Ilkley Road. The tough mile or so climb up to Keighley Gate that follows is then rewarded by a flattish section across the moor towards the Badger Stone and then a brakes-off rapid descent to the finish. Great fun!
Despite knowing many of the paths it is a very enjoyable route and race. For a local race, surprisingly I was the only Harrier in the field and perhaps luckily, due to the plethora of other races at present, I was able to finish 4th and 1st V40.
(1 59:15 Andy Watkins – Mercia)
4 1:02:58 Nick Kealey – 1st V40
Stay safe out running
Fri 1 Oct 2021
We’re sure many of you were struck by the tragic death of 52-year-old runner Jim Read recently.
Jim collapsed when running on Middleton Moor a fortnight ago, and his body was found by two cyclists but not identified for another two days, during which time family and friends were searching for him.
In case you didn’t see this post on the Ilkley Harriers WhatsApp group on Monday from Simon Jenkins, we believe it’s well worth highlighting:
“I had a very moving experience today which I want to share with everybody. I was cycling towards Concrete Square when I came across an older couple walking. I slowed right down to almost a stop as I always do when going past people and the lady asked if she could ask me something. She asked if I carried a mobile phone and I said I did she said that was good and it was so important to do so. We talked a little bit and then she said that they were parents of a runner who had died recently who I can only assume was Jim. I think their names were Stella and Denis. It would have been his birthday today and they had walked up to the site where he had died. I promised that I would share something on our WhatsApp site to make sure that everybody carries a mobile phone when out cycling or running. I think it is also a good idea to let people know where you are going and how long you might be if possible. I offered my very, very sincere condolences and told them that my heart goes out to them, they seem like a lovely couple. It was so sad and moving. Very upsetting. RIP Jim”
Would you please think carefully about always taking your phone, ID and emergency contact details on all runs, whether you’re by yourself or part of a group?
Many of us use Strava, and their Beacon safety feature has just been switched to the free service, allowing nominated contacts to track your run, ride or walk. Or you can support parkrun as they sell personalised-ID products, including wristbands featuring your ICE number, any medical conditions etc. Other alternatives are available.
And as we head towards winter, consider taking an extra layer and an emergency bivi bag if you’re venturing onto the moors – it could make a huge difference if you or someone you are with has a fall or sustains an injury.
Above all, stay safe and enjoy your running.
Thanks from the Harriers committee
Outstanding Achievements, September (as nominated by Ilkley Harriers members)
Fri 1 Oct 2021
From Jean Sullivan…
Running
Steve Turland – for his performance at the Dragon’s Back
Tom Adams – for winning the UK Golden Trail Series and for his amazing performance at Cleckheaton cross country
Jack Wood – for his recent race results
Matt Cox – finishing in 2nd place at the Reservoir Dogs Ultra
Volunteering
Steve Coy, Martin Archer, Jayne Norman, Sue Williamson and Beth Massey – for their excellent service to the club as part of the Ilkley Harriers Committee
Jane Bryant – for her fantastic Wednesday night speed sessions, as well as taking time out to mentor two new Harriers coaches
Caroline Howe – for organising the Ilkley Incline
Steve Weston – for organising this year’s Ilkley Moor fell race against all the odds
Neil Chapman – for restarting the Monday night circuits session and adapting them so well to Covid precautions
Jonathan Turner – for all his recent work on sorting out the SignUp system
Jack Wood – for organising a team for the Calderdale Way Relay
Tom Adams – for taking the time to talk to and inspire younger runners