Change to programme

This Thursday (2nd September) there is a change of venue for the evening session. Instead of the advertised orienteering session at Hamsterley, meet at the Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle (Grid Ref NY055163) for a half hour run along the River Tees to Egglestone Abbey followed by a Sprint Orienteering even in the grounds of the Bowes Museum.
On arriving at the Bowes Museum, park on the left hand side of the drive which runs up to the entrance of the museum and meet at the ornamental fountains in the middle of the museum grounds in front of the museum. No kit needed other than the usual for a session at the forest.

published: 31/08/10

Turning Leaves race series

It has come to our attention that Cleveland Runner are organising a race series set in the beautiful Cleveland Hills. A set of Wednesday evening races with various venues and distances. The first has already passed but there are two more lovely events coming up.
Further details can be found on the Darlington Harriers website from the linked flyer. The event co-ordinator is Mic Doughty, telephone 01642 724 444.

published: 28/08/10

Race across Antarctica Results

See previous News Item (3rd April, below) for an explanation.

Final standings for all the BAS teams are

• Climate Anomolies 13,696.73km
• Broke Back Brunt Boys 12,004.10km
• Team Cool Runners (DFR) 10,550km
• Team Baked Alaska (DFR, 5 runners) 9,297km
• Plus another 15 teams in the contest, with accumulated kilometerages of 8,883.05 to 3,473.50.

So DFR come out not only very well but just great! Team Cool Runners were Pippa and Duncan Archer, Mike Mallen, Mark Elliot, Alan Hunt and Patrick Bonnett. Team Baked Alaska were Stuart Ferguson, Mike Tyrie, Steve Lumb and Shaun Roberts (Elvet Striders).

DFR have awarded the winners honorary DFR membership for one year. They will be sent DFR car stickers for their sledges (they are ice-bound in the Halley Bay BAS Station), as well as three volumes in the Trailguides series.

A request has been put to the Organisers for an allowance for total height climbed to be included in the scoring system - we should thrash them then!

published: 6/08/10

DFR Win Team Prize at Gribdale

We won the mens team prize at the Gribdale Gallop fell race last night. Duncan Archer 3rd, Nige 9th, Jim 10th, Andy 15th. Good result. Beer all round. Oh and Stu acting as reserve (and getting a bit nervous when I still hadn't turned up with 20 minutes to go). And an orienteering friend of mine, Julian Simpson, turned up too and was 13th I think. He is living in Richmond, so we must try to sign him up for DFR.

Duncan Archer

published: 6/08/10

DFR Club Championships after four races

Runners and points won can be seen on the DFR Club Championship 2010 page. The next race in the series is the Weasdale Horseshoe, 21st August.

published: 3/08/10

Cross Fell Circuit on Sunday, July 25th, 2010

Ros and Matt are going for a longish slow run on Sunday 25th July from Milburn near Dufton not far off the A66 and would like to invite anyone along who would like to join them. Weather permitting the idea is to take in Great Dun Fell; Little Dun Fell and Cross Fell - probably around 14 miles or so and maybe two and a half hours running. We'll be meeting at 9.30am and the grid reference is 655293. We'll probably also find somewhere for tea and cakes afterwards.

published: 20/07/10

DFR Vests

Happily, we are receiving numerous requests for DFR vests. We would love to supply everyone who wants one as soon as possible. Our problem is that, to put in an order for a reasonably-sized manufacturing run costs multo casho, which is tending to limit the size of orders. So . . . . . if anyone would like a vest, would you please contact us, via the web site, with what you require - ladies or gents/ large, medium or small - and a promise to pay up front when they are available for posting out? In this way we can keep the outlay from club funds as low as possible. It does take a few weeks between order and delivery.

published: 19/07/10

Kielder Marathon, 17th October, 2010

We have received a letter from the Calvert Trust ("Challenging Disability Through Outdoor Adventure"), of which this is an extract :-
We are looking for runners to take part in the all new Kielder Marathon, to raise money for Calvert Trust Kielder. It would be a great help if you would display and circulate the enclosed flyer.. The event co-ordinator is Hazel Munro, email hazel.munro@calvert-kielder.com or telephone 01434 250 232. This is the web site.

published: 10/07/10

Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon, 3/4 July, 2010

Members of DFR together with assorted friends and family were out in force for last weekend's 32nd Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon. The event started from from Wet Sleddale reservoir near Shap, near to the (in)famous setting for the rural retreat featured in 'Withnail and I'. Hot and sunny weather on Day One saw the longer courses heading north from the start to cross Haweswater below the foot of the dam. The courses then headed west onto the High Street ridge before turning south towards the overnight camp in Longsleddale. For the shorter courses it was a more direct route to the overnight camp across Swindale Common, taking in a few summits along the way. Overnight Camp Photo.

The weather on Day Two was a little more 'Witnail and I'ish' i.e. it lashed down with rain and blew a hooly and overall was less than clement. This encouraged all the runners to put their heads down and get back as soon as possible. No doubt helped by this incentive, all the DFR teams did well, with Steve Lumb and son Michael finishing first; Jim Mann and John Walmsley 26th and Ian and Jeanette Sumler-Hutchinson 71st in the Carrock Fell Class; in the Kirkfell Class, Mark Bevan and son Thomas finished 49th.In the Harter Fell Class, Ken and Karen Maynard finished 17th, Steve Gustard and Matt Lunn 21st and Ray Maynard and Paul Jackson finished 46th. In the Wansfell Class Catherine and Patrick Bonnett finished in 10th place.

After the race the usual meal and prize giving ceremony was held in the large marquee which is traditionally erected for this purpose at the event finish. On this occasion things were enlivened somewhat by the wind threatening to turn the marquee into an impressively sized paraglider such that the temporary fabrication had to be secured to dry (well actually pretty soggy by that stage) land by lashing the marquee to a Landrover and a Motorhome, before it was evacuated at 5pm on the Sunday due to some concerns as to its short term future. Fortunately the aerodynamic characteristics of the marquee won the day and we are able to report that it remained in the county of Cumbria.

Patrick Bonnett

published: 10/07/10

Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon, 3/4 July, 2010

Members of DFR together with assorted friends and family were out in force for last weekend's 32nd Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon. The event started from from Wet Sleddale reservoir near Shap, near to the (in)famous setting for the rural retreat featured in 'Withnail and I'. Hot and sunny weather on Day One saw the longer courses heading north from the start to cross Haweswater below the foot of the dam. The courses then headed west onto the High Street ridge before turning south towards the overnight camp in Longsleddale. For the shorter courses it was a more direct route to the overnight camp across Swindale Common, taking in a few summits along the way. Overnight Camp Photo.

The weather on Day Two was a little more 'Witnail and I'ish' i.e. it lashed down with rain and blew a hooly and overall was less than clement. This encouraged all the runners to put their heads down and get back as soon as possible. No doubt helped by this incentive, all the DFR teams did well, with Steve Lumb and son Michael finishing first; Jim Mann and John Walmsley 26th and Ian and Jeanette Sumler-Hutchinson 71st in the Carrock Fell Class; in the Kirkfell Class, Mark Bevan and son Thomas finished 49th.In the Harter Fell Class, Ken and Karen Maynard finished 17th, Steve Gustard and Matt Lunn 21st and Ray Maynard and Paul Jackson finished 46th. In the Wansfell Class Catherine and Patrick Bonnett finished in 10th place.

After the race the usual meal and prize giving ceremony was held in the large marquee which is traditionally erected for this purpose at the event finish. On this occasion things were enlivened somewhat by the wind threatening to turn the marquee into an impressively sized paraglider such that the temporary fabrication had to be secured to dry (well actually pretty soggy by that stage) land by lashing the marquee to a Landrover and a Motorhome, before it was evacuated at 5pm on the Sunday due to some concerns as to its short term future. Fortunately the aerodynamic characteristics of the marquee won the day and we are able to report that it remained in the county of Cumbria.

Patrick Bonnett

published: 10/07/10

Fancy a nice cup of tea and a slice of cake?

If you enjoyed the recent outings on Cronkley Fell and anticipate spending some time in Upper Teesdale running, biking or generally just mooching around, you'll need some refreshments at some stage.
David and Hazel, the owners of the Country Style Bakery in Middleton in Teesdale would be happy to attend to your culinary requirements. Simply let them know you are members of DFR and show your membership card when you pay and you'll receive a 10% discount on your bill.
Details of the Bakery, together with directions, are at this link. Look for the DFR sticker in the Bakery window.
Ms Victoria Sponge, renowned cake sampler and DFR runner of considerable girth said: "I tend to visit every Friday afternoon after my run and I cannot recommend the Bakery highly enough - friendly service, an interesting and fresh range of cakes and tray bakes and a very good bacon and egg butty as well. What more could you want?"
We are keen to extend the range of brew shops and cake vendors to cover other areas that DFR members frequent après-run. So if you know of anywhere that you think might be appropriate (and also might be interested in offering members a discount), let us know.

Ms V Sponge

published: 1/07/10

Cronkley Fell Race, Sunday, June 27th, 2010

Runners spot crocodile in river during fell race

Seventy four runners took part in the re-introduced Cronkley Fell Race in majestic Upper Teesdale, which began from the Strathmore Arms in Holwick on a very warm and sunny day. The race was started in traditional fashion by the Landlord of the hostelry blowing that age-old Teesdale musical instrument, the Vuvuzuela, watched by a small crowd of helpers, residents and bemused visitors.

The race, which is a simple 'out and back' course of 10.5 miles and includes 1750 feet of climb, saw a leading pack of runners begin to string out as the race moved onto the fell proper after about three miles. The 'sting in the tail', which the organisers had somehow forgotten to mention in any great detail before the race began, was that the mid-way check point was on an island in the River Tees, guarded by DFR's new club mascot, Samuel the 1.5 metre inflatable green crocodile. In the event, all the runners seemed to welcome the opportunity to go for a refreshing paddle in the river, notwithstanding the (inflatable) dangers which lurked nearby....

Will Horsley of Northumberland Fell Runners was a clear winner in the Men's category, finishing two minutes ahead of the next runner, a performance all the more impressive as Will managed to sleep for only one hour the night before, parked in a lay-by on the A66, having helped a friend complete a successful Bob Graham Round the previous day - a truly impressive achievement. Equally impressive was the new ladies' course record, set by the first lady finisher - Pippa Archer of DFR, who shaved five minutes off the previous fastest time to finish in 1 hour 34 minutes in 20th place overall. Durham Fell Runners were the first Men's and Ladies' Teams to finish. The Landlady of the Strathmore Arms also presented a trophy, to be held for a year, to the first local Holwick runner to finish. Jennie Lee demonstrated impressive fitness and skills to claim the prize; a DFR membership form will shortly be dropping through her letter box...

After the race, the sweaty men, gently glowing ladies and all the returning marshalls and helpers were able to re-hydrate and re-fuel, aided by the proximity of the Strathmore Arms and the chip butty provided by the Farmhouse Kitchen as part of the race entry. Many no doubt departed quickly to watch a somewhat less uplifting performance by professional sportsmen in a distant sunny country.

All profits from the race will be split equally between Upper Teesdale Agricultural Support Service and Middleton-in-Teesdale Primary School. In addition, a collection was made for Teesdale and Weardale Search and Mountain Rescue Team who provided cover for the race. Thanks are due to the Team and all DFR members, friends and families who helped make the race a success by marshalling, registration/results and performing numerous other behind-the-scenes activities. DFR would like to acknowledge and thank the sponsors of the race, who provided the prizes, the Earl of Strathmore for allowing the race to take place and the Strathmore Arms and Farmhouse Kitchen in Holwick for providing facilities, help and refreshments.

Quote from the FRA Forum: "Well I did enjoy that...great organisation, lovely marshalls and fab views (which I was able to take full advantage of at my leisurely pace!!!)"

Results and photos are accessible here.

published: 28/06/10

For all Runners intending to run Cronkley Fell Race on Sunday, June 27th, 2010

Please be aware of the kit requirements and the marshalling point(s) closure arrangements. This information is repeated on the Cronkley Fell Race page of this web site. Minimum kit to be carried is full body cover waterproofs, hat and gloves, map, compass and whistle. Although the weather forecast is good, Cronkley Fell is exposed to any cold winds or thunder showers, which are also implied in the weather forecats. Cut-off Times:- The cut-off time for the mid-way, turn-around check point (Grid Ref NY 829283) will be 1230 pm. After this time, the check point will be closed by the marshalls, who will then progressively return along the route, with subsequent marshalled locations being closed down as they go through. Any runners who have not reached the mid way check point by 12.30 will be retired and informed of this by the returning marshalls and, if appropriate, the Sweeper, who will be behind them. A note will be made of their numbers and they will be reminded that they must declare their retirement and safe return to the registration/results team at the start/finish at the Strathmore Arms. Any runners who declare they intend to proceed having been retired will be informed that they no longer form part of the Cronkley Fell Race and that they continue at their own risk, with DFR accepting no further responsibility for their safety.
All participants must understand when we ask for your full co-operation in these important safety measures.

published: 25/06/10

Stanhope to Middleton Road Closed

STOP PRESS. For those travelling from the north. The B6278 Stanhope to Middleton-in-Teesdale road is closed south of Stanhope at Bollihope Burn. There is a diversion via Frosterley [the village 3 miles east of Stanhope] to Middleton-in-Teesdale. Please check with the AA/RAC and allow extra time on your journey accordingly.

published: 23/06/10

DFR at the LAMM, June, 2010

The Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon this year was held in the Arrochar Alps, the Glen Fyne area between Loch Lomond and Dalmally, over the June12/13th weekend. Congratulations to Roslyn and Matt for their excellent performance in their first LAMM, coming in first mixed team and in 9th place overall in the D Class. Neither competitor seemed troubled by their exertions over the two days, suggesting promising careers on the MM stage await them. Three other teams from DFR took part, all in the B Class: Alan and Patrick came 23rd, Garry Dickinson and Richard Harnett came 62nd and Mark Bevan and his son, Peter, unfortunately mispunched and failed to finish. All however, managed to bag at least one Munro over the two days (or sometimes more than one in an unplanned fashion but we needn't go into that...).
Photos in the Gallery section of the web site. Link here
Patrick Bonnett

published: 18/06/10

DFROT at Blanchland, July 29th, 2010

Durham Fell Runners On Tour on July 29th, 2010 will start in Blanchland, not Whickham. The route offers a nice run with several short cuts back to the car park, so people don't have to turn back if they wish to shorten the run. Meet at the car park near the hat shop in Blanchland, gridref NY 964 504. Drinks in the pub afterwards.
Alan Hunt

published: 18/06/10

Explore the Forest, Thursday, June 17th

For tomorrow's "different" training/orienteering evening, long sleeves and running tights/trousers are highly recommended (to avoid scratches from brambles etc). Bring whistle, compass and red pen if you have one (if not we will have some spares). £1.50 per person to cover costs of printing maps.

Meet in the car park next to the adventure playground (along from the usual parking place on the left hand side as you proceed along the forest drive away from the Tea Rooms) at 7pm. Session will last 90 minutes (60 mins 'exploring the forest' and then 30 minutes for participants to help retrieve the controls). Prizes for all competitors!
Patrick

published: 16/06/10

Informal Cronkley Run, Sunday, June 20th

A quick reminder to all those who have volunteered to help out at the fast approaching Cronkley Fell Race that there will be a 'dry run' this Sunday, 20th June. It would be very helpful if all those who have agreed to undertake duties (marshalling, results, parking etc etc) could come along on Sunday. We will meet at 10am at the race start - the Strathmore Arms, Holwick nr Middleton in Teesdale, to go through what needs to be done, have a marshal's briefing and then undertake a 'dry run' (or possibly a wet run) over the course. This will enable us to undertake the required risk assessment and make sure all marshalls are clear as to where they should be and at what time.
Afterwards there will be the opportunity to celebrate Father's Day with liquid refreshments, either at the Strathmore Arms (if open) or the local Farmhouse Kitchen (which will be supplying the Chip Buttys on race day), if anyone is feeling peckish or thirsty.
Please make every effort to come along on Sunday as it is important that we are all clear as to who does what on the day and the Club want to ensure that the race goes as smoothly as possible. If you can't make it due to other commitments, it would be helpful if you could let Stu, Alex or Patrick know at training on Thursday in Hamsterley Forest or ring Patrick on 01833 637017.
Patrick Bonnett

published: 16/06/10

DFR On Tour, May.

Thursday, 27th May, was the Three Counties training run led by NFR member Will Horsley. The run is so called because it starts in Cumbria, crosses briefly into Durham, makes a little loop into Northumberland and then back into Cumbria.

The run started in Nenthead and, after a short steep climb, it was good running across Killhope Head to Killhope Law. At this point a cold wind came in, as well as some drizzle. We took a direct line to the road north in Allendale, where-upon we turned back to Nenthead via Issac's Tea Trail and Gudham Gil. Total 8.5 miles in 1h 45m, over some rough ground at times at a leisurely pace with frequent rests. We were six (Clare, Sue and Guy from Weardale, Eric from Consett, Will and friend and his dog). Great fun, thank you DFR. Will Horsley

published: 2/06/10

CLOK Summer Series

Cleveland Orienteering Klub (CLOK) regular midweek summer series has kicked off. Details here: CLOK Summer Events. Firm details only exist for the first race, but dates and locations exist for the others.

published: 20/05/10

DFR Club Championships after two races

Runners and points won can be seen on the DFR Club Championship 2010 page. The next race in the series is Clougha Pike, 19th June.

published: 20/05/10

Do Hadrian's Wall in 24 Hours?

To the Ultras in DFR! You may be interested in this offer, received from Tim Williamson today, to have a day out, see The Wall in a day and contribute to an unusual event.

Greetings from the Pursuit Arctic Expedition team!
My name is Tim Williamson and in 2012 I’m leading a 3-man expedition to the Geographic North Pole from Greenland. We are a non-profit organisation dedicated to raising funds and awareness for Durham University’s Obesity Research Group. As a local team, we are looking to link up with an equally motivated fell running club such as your own to share in some of our more interesting training events taking place across the North. We have an event earmarked for the beginning of June, on which I would like to invite a number of club members to join us. The challenge itself is a gruelling 84 mile coast to coast walk along Hadrian’s Wall in 24 hours. It will begin at Carlisle and end at Newcastle.

We’re looking for people who aren’t just mad about the outdoors; but are obsessed by them. I have it on good authority that there are a number of such people in your club. Due to the nature of the event, we can only take a maximum of 5 club members with us but I can promise none of them will get left behind. We are working alongside the media relations office at Durham University to get the maximum amount of publicity for the event, our charity and upon your approval, Durham Fell Runners.

The aim of the event is to inspire the young people in and around Durham who don’t realise the kind of terrain they have on their doorstep. We hope to capture the excitement many of them only find in computer games and TV. After spending 24 hours with us scrambling through the North of England, I can guarantee that the 5 will come back to your club with a heap of photos and some great stories to tell.

Please don’t hesitate to drop me an e-mail at timwilliamson414@hotmail.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

Best Wishes, Tim Williamson, 6 May 2010

Published: 6/5/10

Race Across Antarctica?

What's it all about?
Race across Antarctica is a challenge we have been set by the Sports & Social Committee of the British Antarctic Survey (BAS). Every year they have a virtual race within their organisation to get across Antarctica in the fastest possible time. This year they have challenged DFR to give them a race. The idea is simple - essentially you log your training/racing/exercise between 1 May and 9 July 2010. You compete as part of a team of six - each team member inputs their information on their own separate sheet on the spreadsheet, which can be down-loaded here.

Different activities are weighted to make the distance earned reflect the time/effort expended more evenly across the various activities on the following basis:

• Cycling/exercise bike - 1km earns 1km
• Running/tread mill/cross trainer/skiing/walking/hiking - 1km earns 2.5km
• Rowing/kayaking - 1km earns 3km
• Swimming - 1km earns 10km

The total distances to be covered are challenging - either 6,000km (= one way across Antarctica) or 12,000km (= there and back if you are feeling sprightly)

Here's what you need to do:

1. Decide on your team - if you are looking for team members let Patrick, Stu or Alex know and we will try and do some matchmaking. Consider the mix of team members carefully - remember the weightings for different disciplines.
2. Decide on a Team Name.
3. Give your team entry fees (£12 per team) to Patrick, Stu or Alex on a Thursday night after training, or by cheque to the Treasurer, Steve G (address available on request). Entry fees are £2 per person to cover prizes and a charity donation at the end of the event.

What's Next?
Get started and rack those miles up - remember, the race started on 1st May. We will keep you updated as to the progress of other DFR teams and leading British Antarctic Survey teams and, hopefully, see if we can visually represent progress across Antarctica as time goes by. BAS have some pretty fit staff and some of those taking part will be over-wintering at their Research Stations in Antarctica, where they may have some spare time on their hands to get on the exercise bikes or indulge in some 'deep south' skiing. Teams will need to be pretty fit to complete the challenge in 10 weeks - so good luck!

Patrick Bonnett 03/04/2010

Published: 03/04/10

Stuart's Bollihope DFR On Tour DFROT, Thursday, April 29th

Twenty, yes 20, DFR members joined Stu on a run that took them from the Bollihope Picnic area, over a river crossing to follow east along the south side of the river, up the bridleway in front of Pye Close, to the ford at Fine Burn. The route then continued climbing up past the allotment house to the moor top. A turn right on the footpath across the tops went past Five Pikes and Pawlaw Pike. Just before the road, we turned right up the hill by Grouse Butts at Jack Scars to Long Man. A good fast descent by the fence went down to the road, then along the main road for a short distance, to the 3 mile descent back to Bollihope. 9.4 miles, 1 hour 40 minutes. Real fell running on good, tussocky, fairly dry terrain. A nice evening too, with a cool breeze and excellent views.
PS from Patrick - Nothing to add, except it was good fun.
PS from Alan H - Just as I remember it, though you did omit the history/archeology lesson. Perhaps a little lesson should be part of all dfrots. I enjoy these sort of runs more than I enjoy races. To me this is what running in the hills is about......an evening after a long day at work in stunning scenery, running with like minded people.....brill.

Published: 30/4/10

DFR at the London Marathon 2010

Julie Bradshaw completed the London Marathon on Sunday, April 25th. Running in the DFR vest, her time was 3hrs 29min and, out of 720 runners in the Female Vet 50 category, she was in the top 20! She achieved this fantastic performance despite conditions being warm and humid, which slowed her pace in the later stages.
Graham Bradshaw

Published: 27/4/10

DFR Needs Coaches

Durham Fell Runners needs more qualified Coaches. The position we need to progress to is that each night of the training programme, whether DFROT or a Hamsterley session, has a nominated Coach assigned to it to lead the group. The numbers at the Thursday Nights, and the varied abilities of the runners, emphasises this situation and makes it urgent. We cannot continue with anyone who is not qualified, and hence not insured to lead a group, either on a Thursday Night run, a Thursday Night Structured Session such as Hill Reps, or DFROT, when Stuart or another qualified person cannot make it. It is important that we increase our coaching team either by Leadership In Running, Coach Level 1 or Coach Level 2.

The immediate urgent need is at least one other person qualified at Leadership Level for Thursday nights. Anyone who leads a DFROT should have the one-day Leadership in Running Course. If we had a few people with the Leadership qualification, then Thursdays nights can be changed from a session to a run, if necessary.
Stuart Ferguson, email stuferguson@aol.com , is happy to help and mentor anyone who chooses to become qualified, at any level, for DFR. The Club will subsidise anyone attending the courses.

If you require any more information, please visit the England Athletics web site.

published: 23/04/10

Marshalls Wanted for Cronkley Race, June 27th, 2010

For the Cronkley Race on June 27th, 2010 we will need at least 15 marshalls and other officials to monitor and organise the race properly. The duties include i) general course marshalling to guide runners and note race numbers, ii) car parking marshalls to ensure sensible and correct parking (there will be time for the parking marshalls to run the race, if they wish), iii) registration and results marshalls iv) start, finish and timing marshalls. Some of these posts already have volunteers but if you, or your friends and relations, are able to help and would like to do so, please contact Patrick, Stuart or Alex. You will be fully briefed before the race and given written instructions and the exact location for route marshalls. There will be an opportunity to join us at the recce before the race on Sunday, June 20th, to see what is involved on the ground.

published: 23/04/10

DFR On Tour, April 29th, 2010

Bollihope in Weardale. Thursday, 29th April at 7:00pm. Meet at Bollihope Picnic Area GR 005349. The run will be approx 10 miles and will traverse Five Pikes and Pawlaw Pike, followed by a crackin’ 3 mile downhill back to the Picnic Area. Afterwards at the Black Bull in Frosterley. All welcome. Contact stuferguson@aol.com.

published: 15/04/10

Lake District Mountail Trial, Sunday, September 12th, 2010

Entries for this year's Lake District Mountain Trial are now open. See the LDMTA website.

published: 15/04/10

Three Counties Summer Training Run, Thursday, May 27th, 2010

This is an open invitation to DFR, NFR, Elvet Striders and anyone with an interest in off-road running. On Thursday May 27th, 7pm, meet at Nenthead Heritage Centre car park (post code: CA9 3PD) for a leisurely-paced training run, starting in Cumbria, going to Killhope Law via Killhope Head (so briefly taking in Durham) and then doing a circuit out into the most south western corner of Northumberland, before going back to Nenthead via Gudham Gill. Afterwards at the Miners Arms.. Estimated distance about 9 miles. Some boggy terrain expected, so the going will probably be tough. Estimated time running under 2 hours. Dogs welcome but must be on leash at all times.

Will Horsley, wjvh@btinternet.com, 07941 506 484

published: 6/04/10

Hamsterley Annual Parking Passes for 2010

On March 31st, last year's annual parking passes expired. To buy one for this year, the system has changed to a national one, which means they cannot be bought at the Hamsterley Visitor Centre Shop or Wood'n'Wheels. The document is called a "Discovery Pass" and can be used nationally. This must be purchased on line from this web site. There is no provision for our usual DFR discount and the full price of £38 must be paid; the pass then comes through the post. Enquiries have been made at a meeting with the Head Recreation Ranger for the North East about the possibility of a DFR discount but local forests do not have the authority to give discounts. It is desirable - even essential - that we all have passes for Thursday nights, to avoid DFR being criticised. Our car stickers will distinguish between us and the biking fraternity, we hope.

re-published: 15/04/10

Race Round Up, February and March

Durham Fell Runners have been active over the past few months in defiance of the 'proper winter' we have experienced. In Mid March international orienteer and recent DFR recruit, Pippa Archer (nee Whitehouse) ran an excellent race to finish first lady at Clay Bank East and 16th overall. Other DFR runners performing well were Ken Maynard (5th), Jim Mann (8th), Andrew Henderson (12th) and Peter Milburn (19th) resulting in a second place for the DFR Men's team.

In late Feb members of DFR were exceptionally busy running in three races over one weekend. Four hardy DFR runners braved the snow to run the third High Cup Nick Race, starting and finishing at Dufton village green. The nine mile route with 1500 feet of climb was made more interesting by the large accumulations of snow at the head of the valley which made climbing out of the Nick a tad slippy, although eased by the steps which had been cut into the snow bank by Kirkby Stephen Mountain Rescue team prior to the race starting. First home for DFR was Dan Rhodes (60th), followed by Patrick Bonnett (68th), Denise Tunstall (120th and fifth Lady Vet 40) and Dougie Nisbet (129th); 145 runners completed the race.

The same day, two other members of DFR motored to Todmorden to take part in the nine mile, 2300 foot of ascent, Noonstones Race. Ken Maynard was first home for DFR (114th place) followed by Paul Kelly (160th place). These were excellent results in a very strong field - reflecting the fact that Noonstones is an English Championship counter race this year; 430 runners started the race.

The following day two DFR members competed in the appropriately named Commondale Clart. Conditions were a little 'sticky' underfoot, but this didn't hinder the progress of the intrepid DFR competitors (rumour has it that some applied Vaseline to the underside of their fell shoes in an attempt to prevent the 'clart' sticking to their fell shoes....). Jim Mann again ran strongly, finishing in fourth place, followed by Noel Hitchcock in 10th place. Ninety runners finished the six mile race which had 1000 feet of climb.

Patrick Bonnett, March 25th, 2010

published: 27/03/10

DFR On Tour, March 25th, 2010

The last head torch run of this winter will be on Thursday, 25th March around Beamish, Ousborough Woods. Meet at 7pm at the Eden Place car park on the way to Beamish Museum from the A693. Afterwards we'll be going to the Stables for a pint, where they even brew their own beer on site. See you Thursday! Will and Steve wjvh@btinternet.com, 07941 506 484
Car park: Map of car park here. The pub is here.

published: 20/03/10

DFR Club Championships after first race

The first race of the DFR Club Championships was Kielder Greys Summit Medium Race on Sunday, February 7th, 2010. Conditions were still very wintry, despite a postponement from several weeks earlier because of impossibly deep snow. Nine DFR stalwarts turned out to defy the long winter and to show what we are made of and test their fitness so early in the year. Runners and points won can be seen on the DFR Club Championship 2010 page. The next race in the series is the Guisborough Moors Race on 11th April.

published: 20/03/10

Capricorn Long O Event, September 4th, 2010

Lancashire Pennines 3 hr Score Event. Registration 9.30 - 11.30 Starts 10.00 - 12.00. Entry Fee to be decided. SI card (dibber) hire available £1.00 adults Juniors no charge - lost SI cards charge £25. Map 1:25000 OS. Get ready for Autumn Mountain Marathons with this event. Information from Bill Griffiths 01706 876984. Final details & location map at this web site.

published: 16/03/10

DFR Committee Meeting, 31st March, 2010

There will be a DFR Committee Meeting at 7 pm on Wednesday, March 31st, 2010, at Karen's house in Fir Tree, (post code DL15 8DF). The meeting is open to all members to attend and you are invited to do so. This meeting is the last of the current year, before the AGM on Wednesday, April, 21st - see news item on AGM.

published: 04/03/10

DFR Annual General Meeting, 21st April, 2010

The Club Annual General Meeting will be held at 7 pm on Wednesday, April 21st, 2010, at Karen's house in Fir Tree, (post code DL15 8DF). All members are urged to attend and make a contribution to the running of the Club by debating the issues involved and supporting the Committee.

published: 04/03/10

Membership Subscriptions for 2010 now due

A reminder that the Club's "official" year ends on March 31st, so our £10 subs should be paid to Alan Hunt now. The membership form (which can be printed from the web site) includes the contact address for the Membership Secretary, who will be pleased to receive subscriptions. This is a very busy period for Alan, with the bureaucracy of the England Athletics registration system to contend with. Please help him by sending your subscription in plenty of time.

published: 04/03/10

Two O-type Events in July and August, 2010

Plan well ahead into July and August, with two O-type events for your diary and before you book your holidays. For both events, early applications for entry are advised. Superb weather has been applied for in both cases.

The first is the 2-day classic, local, Pheonix Long O Event, provisionally announced for the weekend of 17/18 July, 2010. The location is College Valley, North-West Cheviots. This website for further details.

The other event is "The Lakes 5", offering you five days of orienteering in the Lakes. The dates are 22-27 August, 2010. For details see this website.

published: 04/03/10

DFR on Cronkley Fell, Feb 28th, Report

Nine DFRs, Matt, Ros, Steve, Mike, Brian, Patrick, Dawn, Alan and Stu, took to the snowy hills for a run along Cronkley Fell Race route on a crisp day. Fine apres-run food and drink at the Conduit cafe in Middleton-in-Teesdale. DFR generally had an active weekend with members racing at Noonstone, High Cup Nick and Commondale Clart. More reports to follow as details emerge. (more pictures on the DFR Forum Facebook site).

published: 01/03/10

DFR On Tour, Waldridge Fell, Feb 25th, Report

Steve G led (his partner in the headtorch world, Will, is currently injured) a group of 10 including 8 DFR - Matt, Ros, Pippa, Steve Moor, Alan, Patrick, Jim and Stu, 1 NFR - John, 1 Elvet - John and 2 dogs. The route of 1 hour, 5 miles, trudged through all the types of mud you can imagine, climbed styles, missed the cows and horses and traversed a few bridges, along with the usual mix of tracks and trails. Another very enjoyable and very social headtorch run.
Stu.

published: 01/03/10

Final details for the Borrowdale Training Weekend (March 13th and 14th, 2010)

Thanks to those who have confirmed that they will be able to meet up for the inaugural DFR (and guests) training weekend in a couple of weeks. The youth hostel is full but there is plenty of accommodation around the area and everyone is welcome for any or all of the weekend so we hope that as many people as possible will be able to join us at some point.
Plans for exactly what we will do on each day are still pretty vague, probably determined by the weather, but the intention is to split off into groups depending on ability and preferences. There are a lot of great mountains and routes round there so we should all be able to enjoy some slightly bigger hills than at Hamsterley. Meet at 10am in the car park at the youth hostel in Borrowdale on both the Saturday and Sunday morning and people can agree what they want to do from there. Directions can be found at on the YHA website.
We'll then agree a cafe or pub locally to meet back up in at some point in the afternoon - any suggestions are welcome. On the Saturday evening we're hopefully going to meet up, eat, and possibly even drink at the Scafell hotel in Rosthwaite at 7pm - unfortunately it's not possible to book for bar meals and they get quite busy so we'll have to hope for the best.
Hopefully we'll see you at some point over the weekend - if you've any questions you can email us at roslynkelsey@hotmail.com or contact us on facebook.

Matt and Ros

published: 25/02/10

Cleveland Survival, March 27th, 2010

This 26-mile, orienteering-type event is organised by the Cleveland Search and Rescue Team. The location is somewhere in the North Yorks Moors, with a 12-hour time limit and starts staggered at two-minute intervals between 8 and 9 am. Details of the event, including the map reference of the starting place, will be sent to applicants a few weeks before the event date of Saturday, March 27th, 2010. Application forms, sponsorship forms and other information can be found at this web site.

published: 25/02/10

Join Stu and Patrick, Sunday, Feb 28th, 2010

Stu and Patrick are planning a social run on Sunday 28th February over the Cronkley Fell Race route, all are welcome and the intention is to then retire to a teashop in Middleton for post race refreshments. Meet at 10.00 am at the road/bridleway junction at Holwick, Grid Reference NY904270; please park considerately being careful not to block gates and any entrances. (Weather dependent of course - if there has been recent snow, the road into Holwick can be difficult so ring either Stu or Patrick beforehand to check whether it is still on.)

published: 23/02/10

Two Orienteering Events for Your Diary

The first one is on Sunday, 7th February, 2010, in the Lake District, and sounds one for the experienced hard men and women; details on the South Ribble Orienteering Club web site. The other was due to be held on Waldridge Fell, near Durham but was cancelled due to the bad weather. Amended details are yet to be announced.

published: 04/02/10

Borrowdale Training Weekend, March 12-14th, 2010

Matt and Ros are planning a training weekend in the Lakes for the weekend of the 12-14th of March based at Borrowdale YHA. The plan is to run both Saturday and Sunday and there's plenty of options for runs straight out the hostel - The Scafell Range and The Newlands Fells are all nearby or, if the weather's bad, low level routes round Derwentwater.
They'd like to invite any other DFR members (and family and friends) who'd like to come along to join them for some or all of the weekend. No more plans than that at the moment, but hopefully this will be the first ever annual DFR on tour weekender. If you want to join them, book yourself in at the Borrowdale YHA and add your name to the thread on the DFR Facebook page.

published:1/12/09

London Marathon - Club Application

It is regretted that we were too late in making plans to take up the Club's affiliated club London Marathon place. Our apologies to Graham Bradshaw, who won the draw. Next year we will do better! The application needs to be in before October of the year before the race takes place. The relevent web site page is here.

published: 12/02/10

3 Peaks Yacht Race and Scottish Islands Peaks Race - A Runners Opportunity

Hi Everyone, We have received the following email from Phil Newman. This sounds an amazing opportunity and if any one, or a pair, are enthused, please contact Phil direct as detailed below.

"Apologies for contacting you out of the blue but I am looking for a couple of runners who would be interested in competing in this years 3 Peaks Yacht Race and The Scottish Islands Peaks Race.
I have a confirmed entry for the PowerBar 3 Peaks Yacht Race starting on the 19th June 2010, a fast boat and full complement of sailors, but seek a pair of runners. Experience as a team at 3 Peaks or similar racing would be an advantage but not essential, however enthusiasm, commitment and a streak of lunacy are. Ideally runners should also be available for the Scottish Islands Peaks Race starting on the 21st May 2010 as a pre-cursor to the 3 Peaks Race, this race is probably as much fun as you can have in Scotland over a long weekend with running kit on.
Entries for both races are paid for, as is the boat, accommodation therein and sailing gear, therefore cost should be minimal for runners other than any specialist scoff and kit they require plus travel expenses to and from the start/finish though may also be able to help with that.
Further details are available from Phil Newman on 01904 442639 (Daytime) or 07710103398 (Mobile)
Email: phil.newman@btinternet.com or phil.newman189@mod.uk
Kind Regards, Phil Newman
25th January, 2010"

published: 27/01/10

Hamsterley Forest 10 mile Circuit.

There will be a Club run, led by Stu Ferguson, on Saturday 30th January. Meet at the Visitor Centre at 10.00 for a 10 mile run within the forest perimeter. The circuit will be tracks, trails and some hills. Refreshments afterwards in the Café. All welcome.

published: 25/01/10

Will and Steve's Headtorch Run, January 28th, 2010

Will and Steve's January Head Torch Run will involve some urban off-roading around Aykley Heads in Durham, Thursday 28th January. Meet at 7pm to start by 7:10pm. Approx 1 hour. Meeting place: Car park next to the Durham Light Infantry museum see map. Contact: Steve Gustard (DFR), 07910 002 189 All invited. Cheers, Will & Steve.

published: 21/01/10

Cronkley Race - Did You Know?

People are recceing the circuit already, in any and all conditions. The picture here was taken on January 10th 2010. Did you know the race has been selected as a 2010 NECAA and NEHRA Fell Running Championships race? Here's hoping global warming will kick in before 27th June!

published: 17/01/10

Kielder Race Postponed

Will Horsley writes With regret I have had to postpone the Kielder race that was to be held on Saturday 16th January and it will now go ahead on Sunday 7th February. All other details concerning the race remain the same (including the start time of 1pm). Sorry for any inconvenience but in the end the decision was out of my hands. I look forward to seeing you all in February, many thanks, Will Horsley (Kielder Race Organiser). Please see original news item for race details here..

published: 13/01/10