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DFR News - 2011 | Archive: Latest 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 |
London Marathon PlacesWe've had a few inquires over the past few weeks as to whether the club was allocated any London marathon places this year. The application system for clubs to the London Marathon is somewhat baffling - clubs apply directly to England Athletics, but there is no published procedure on how and when to do this. Unfortunately, this year due to a change in club secretary we missed the boat for place allocation. Apologies to anyone who was planning to put in for these places, hopefully we've now sussed the system for next year! Ros and Matt Published: 12/12/11 | |
Club Championship Winners for 2011Congratulation to Dawn Metcalfe and Andy Blackett who are winners of this year's DFR Club Championships, Andy confirming his first place through a storming run at last week's Hexham Hobble where he took first place. The final results are on the club championship 2011 page. The Club Championship trophies will be presented on the morning of Sunday January 29th along with two new prizes - the Coaches Trophy - for most improved runner in 2011 and the Chairman's Cup - for outstanding contribution to DFR over the year. Details as to who the recipients of these prizes are to follow shortly....... The venue for prize giving is yet to be confirmed - Watch this space. Patrick Published: 12/12/11 | |
Angus Tait Memorial Hexhamshire Hobble 2011I thought that it was worth putting down a few words to record DFR\'s best ever weekend. On Sunday 4th December 2011 DFR recorded 1st, 2nd and 4th in the Hexhamshire Hobble and went onto claim 7 of the top 26 places, a brilliant result in this popular race. At the same time the mighty DFR went to claim the team prize at the Eskdale Eureka, with Nigel Tate, Ian McGrath and Joe McCready taking 4th, 6th and 7th place respectively. What a cracking day! I raced the Hobble to try to gain points in order to hold my lead in the hotly contested DFR series. Conditions on the fell looked grim of what we could see through the blizzard which had been blowing on and off since the early morning, this only seemed to strengthen the will of the collected Hobblers, apparently these were classic Hobble conditions. 11am saw the start with the collected masses setting off and the starting hooter going off just a few moments later. Philip Sanderson of NFR led up the steep 25% road from the line with a chasing pack of (Joe) Stanley Charles, Richard Parker of Tynedale Harriers, Conrad Franks of Gateshead Harriers, Rhys Findlay-Robinson of Dark Peak closely followed by myself and Duncan Archer. Philip pulled away slightly over the first fell section that was eagerly signposted "deep mud" and "pain this way" by some local cheering youth. Feeling good, I then upped the pace and after trailing Philip for a short while took the lead and pulled away up a climb about 3 miles in. Anyone who has run the Hobble will know that it feels like about half the race is on road and the other half is on rutted muddy path, today the rutted muddy path was a mix of ice, snow and slush pools making it very important to choose carefully between sticking the the path or bashing through the heather to the side. Conditions deteriorated during the race with more snow blowing in and making my choice of DFR vest with no base layer look foolish. The top 4 were myself, Philip, Stan and Duncan for most of the race. As I had told myself that I wasn\'t looking back I had no idea what was going on behind me, and was quite surprised to see the photos looking down the last climb with Philip just behind! The last mile is downhill on road, Duncan finished strongly, going past Philip and Stan in the last few miles and he apparently had his eye on me on the run in, which would have made a fantastic battle had he caught me, and we could both imagine we would have either jumped the wall to take a late shortcut or both fallen flat on our face around the last corner. A brutal headwind, blowing snow into the eyes of all the runners on the run-in made for a rather unpleasant finish to the race. Given the conditions and my position I was very happy to see the finish and take the tape for what is definitely my best ever result. I am apparently only the second ever person to win both the Allendale races, the Allendale Challenge and the Hexhamshire Hobble, after Angus Tait after whom the race is held in memory of. I never knew Angus, but anyone who has a race named after themselves must have been a good bloke and I spare a moment here to think of him. Duncan came in 40 seconds behind, followed by Philip Sanderson 30 seconds later and Stan a few seconds after that. Final DFR positions were, 1st Andy Blackett, 2nd Duncan Archer, 4th (Joe) Stanley Charles, 14th Jim Mann, 17th Peter Bray, 25th Michael Lumb, 26th Ian Walton, 46th Steve Lumb, 53rd Stephen Carter, 135th Alex Banks. Full results here www.allenvalleystriders.co.uk Huge congratulations to all who got round the course and contributed to such a great team performance. Andy Published: 12/12/11 | |
DFR on Tour - Hamsterley Forest - Sunday 18th DecemberMeet 10:00am at Hamsterley Forest Visitor centre. Elephant trees run, 11 miles via Doctors Gate to ET and back via Hidden Valley. Come well equipped for adverse weather. Dogs welcome. Afterwards in the tea rooms, also come and pick up a real Xmas Tree. Contact me for further info. Stu Published: 06/12/11 | |
DFR Men win at Clay Bank West raceIn a close run race Nigel Tate, Ian McGrath, Andy Minister and Joe Mccready won the men's prize at Clay Bank West on the North Yorks Moors last weekend, more details are at the official race site - well done lads! Patrick Published: 26/11/11 | |
Training Programme 2012The training programme for 2012 has been published on the website. A good year of fun and fitness ahead... Please note!!! - The 2011 schedule has been updated to reflect the fact that on December 15th is the Club XMAS Dinner - so no planned training for that day. Stu Published: 23/11/11 | |
The Spine - New Winter Ultra-marathonWe received an email that may be of interest to our members... maybe you want to give this one a go?? Scott Gilmour (Race Director) says, "Wanted to make your members aware of a new winter ultra-marathon that may be of interest to you. It's called The Spine - a 268 winter ultra-marathon encompassing the entire Pennine Way. It's nonstop which makes it a very interesting challenge along with the conditions. Check out the website for more info. Event website is www.thespinerace.com John Published: 16/11/11 | |
DFR Weekend in Ambleside - Nov 18-20th 2011 - Final DetailsAnyone planning to join us this weekend the final details are as follows:
If anyone wants to come along you will be very welcome to some or all of the weekend and we hope to see you there - any questions you can call me. Matt Published: 16/11/11 | |
DFR on Tour - Durham Orienteering Night - DetailsTiming: Thursday 24th November 2011, 7pm for a short briefing, starting soon after. Location: Meet by Freeman's Quay leisure center / swimming pool in Durham. Parking at The Sands car park (£1.20 for the evening). Format: A "score" event. You will receive a map with controls marked on it. The challenge is to visit as many as you can within 60 minutes. At each control site you have to answer a question to prove you were there (e.g. name of building, year bridge was built, number on fire hydrant sign etc.). You can take it as seriously (or not) as you like, run in pairs if you want etc. Scoring: 1 point per correct answer, 1 point deducted per incorrect answer (zero per blank answer), 1 point deducted per part or full minute over 60 minutes. Terrain: You will mainly be using pavements, alleyways, minor roads, and gravelled riverside paths. Trainers are fine. BRING A HEADTORCH - some paths / streets are lit, but others are not, and you'll almost certainly need it for reading the map! Map: 1:4000 (1cm = 40m), 5m contours, A3 size, provided in clear waterproof bag with question sheet. There will be a sample map to peruse before the start. SAFETY: You take part at your own risk. You will be using public rights of way. Be courteous to other people. Some paths and alleyways can be slippery, especially if it has been wet - please take great care. There are also some steep slopes near the river - we recommend you don't take these as shortcuts, and stay on the paths. Please observe out of bounds areas on the map: major roads (purple hatching on map - use underpasses or pedestrian crossings), gardens / private land (olive green on map), inside buildings (dark grey on map). Walls marked with a thick black line may also not be crossed. Covered areas (light grey on map) may be used. Duncan Published: 31/10/11 | |
Boxing Day Burn-OffThe Forest Burn Fell Race (3.5 miles or 5.6 km in new money), which was originally scheduled for 14th August, will now be on Boxing Day (26th Dec). 2pm start. Entry is free. Minimum age 15 years. Fully marked course but probably no marshals. Start will be next to the Gate Pub on the B6342 south of Rothbury, Northumberland, NE61 4PT, NZ067963. Pub open from noon until late so stick around for a pint or two after the race. Charitable donations will be taken in lieu of race entry fee (optional). Please park sensibly on road verge leading down the hill from the pub. Hope you can make it. Will Horsley, wjvh@btinternet.com, 07941 506 484 Published: 26/10/11 | |
DFR Vests availableThe DFR vests have come in are now available!!! Price is 20-pound (Sterling) plus P&P [ if you can't collect ]- No dodgy drachmas or monopoly money please. Get your orders in to Alan (on Thursday night) or place your order through the contacts page. Patrick Published: 09/10/11 | |
FRA Relays 2011 - ReminderA reminder about the teams being entered in the FRA Relays next month. People who want to take part/would like more details to get in touch with Mike, Brian or Denise. See below for more info Patrick Published: 17/09/11 | |
Top five finish for Duncan in the Lake District Mountain TrialWell done to Duncan for a fantastic result in last weekend's Mountain Trial. Despite the damp & misty conditions Duncan had a great run to come in fifth overall in the classic 17 miles event. Well done too to Andy Blackett on completing his first Trial. Patrick Published: 17/09/11 | |
Success for DFR at the Bowes Show!Once again there was a good turnout of DFR members at the Bowes Show. Denise Tunstall recorded an impressive third place with her plums in the Industrial Produce section - all the more pleasing given that this year - as we all know, has been a difficult one for soft fruits, whilst Ms V Sponge (entering under an assumed name) produced yet another solid performance with a third place in the Men's Cake section. Oh - there was also a 10K Trail race which we did quite well in with Andy Blackett winning, closely followed by Jim Mann and Fiona Blackett. Let's aim for complete DFR domination of next year's show - the Leek entries and hand carved walking sticks entries look particularly vulnerable..... Patrick Published: 17/09/11 | |
Orienteering event - Sunday 11th SeptemberNext Sunday's orienteering event at Hamsterley Forest is being organised by Northern Navigators. For more details see: http://www.northern-navigators.org.uk/. Patrick Published: 04/09/11 | |
Bowes Show 10k Trail Race - Saturday 10th September10k Trail Race (16yrs and over) Undulating course over tracks, paths and a short section of moorland in the beautiful landscape surrounding Bowes and the Greta Valley. Trophies for winners and other prizes. Starts at 1.30pm. Further details at: http://www.bowesshow.org.uk/sports.htm. Patrick Published: 02/09/11 | |
DFR Weekend Away - November 2011 - AmblesideFollowing from our previous trips to Borrowdale and Coniston this Autumn's DFR away weekend will be to Ambleside on the weekend of the 19th/20th November. Similar format to previous trips with fast and slow packs on the Saturday (probably the fairfield horseshoe for the slow pack, weather permitting) and a run together on the Sunday - all suggestions for this welcome. Contact Matt and Ros for more details. Everyone is very welcome to come for some or all of the weekend and please invite friends and partners if they'd like to join us. Once we have an idea of numbers we will probably book a big cottage for anyone who wants to share - so if you fancy that please let us know. Matt and Ros Published: 02/09/11 | |
Thursday 1st SeptemberThe O night has been postponed till later this month, so meet as usual at Hamsterley Visitor Centre for a Mystery Session [ read I do not know what to do yet ]. The Mystery Session will be followed by our first double Mountain Marathon session of this autumn, so all you OMM / RAB people come along with a pack weighing about 6lbs for a run up to Doctors Gate following the session. A headtorch may be required for 2nd session. Stu Published: 30/08/11 | |
FRA Relays 2011Details have been published and we are trying to organise 3 teams for which we have entries. Speak with the nominated organiser below, in person or through email to register your interest and negotiate your place:
[If you're wondering why the email addresses look strange - I've just added some code to protect them from spiders/crawlers/bots. Take care in using them - remove any numbers or spaces you see inserted. The addresses will be removed once recruitment is complete - John] The race will start at 10am in the main event field GR971720 near the village church, cars will not be allowed on to the event field. Car parking will be in a separate field dedicated to competitor parking at the other end of the village near the bridge over the river Wharfe. Car parking will be £2.50 per vehicle. Toilets will be available on the event field. The maps will be 1:25000 scale and overprinted with the routes. The meal will include tea/coffee, vegetable casserole and bread. We are keen to involve the local community who have been extremely cooperative with the event. The Village Committee will have a fundraising stall and will be making a charge for tea/coffee/cake/buns, etc. Please give them your support. Camping will be available next to the event field at Fold Farm campsite. Camping space on this site may be limited and spaces will be on a first come first served basis. Cars will not be allowed in or out of the camping field between 9.30am and 3.30pm on race day. See the event website www.relay.bingleyharriers.org.uk for full details. Patrick Published: 30/08/11 |
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Club ChampionshipsThe results of the 6 Club Championships races run to date are given in the 'Club Champs' section of the website. In the ladies contest, we already have a clear winner - Dawn has won 5 of the 6 races to date, giving her the max possible total of 80 points (only 4 races count). In the men's competition it's all still to play for - Andy Blackett and Andrew Minster are leading the way, but with only 3 more points each than Ian Walton, then Dan Rhodes and Andy Charlies are in hot pursuit. But, to date the only DFR men entered in the next race - Langdale Chase - are Stu Ferguson and Matt Lunn, so there's still time for someone else to steal the title. Looks like it might come down to the last race of the season! Ros Published: 30/08/11 | |
Trail Guides - Mountain Marathon
Stu Published: 20/08/11 | |
The Cronkley Race - 2011 - PicturesAt long last the official photos from the race have been published - you can go strait to the Cronkley Fell Race 2011 Gallery page to view images from the day's event. John Nightingale Published: 11/08/11 | |
DFR on Tour - Blanchland - DetailsDFR on Tour this thursday is at Blanchland. Meet in the big car park at west end of village near the hat hire shop and white monk tea room for 7pm. Having just looked at the map, the car park is the one North-West-ish of Blanchland: Grid Reference: ny964 504 Alan Published: 27/07/11 | |
The Cronkley Race - 2011 - Report 2I took part in the Cronkley Fell Race again this year in the aim to raise money for my local primary school that I work at. After taking over the role as Chair of the Friends I managed to get 3 other parents to complete it with me. My friend and I completed it together in 2hrs 10mins. We had practised this route 3 times prior to the race even though I am definately no fell runner!! I am mainly writing to inform you that we managed to raise over £700 for the school! This is a great amount and will be used to benefit all of the children. I would also like to say well done again for organising this event as there was plenty of marshalls and everyone was so friendly. The organisation of it all was brilliant! I would also like to thank you for the plate that I received for being the local person who completed the race (you were the 1st lady Jennie and deservedly won the prize - ed); it really is lovely and is on show at school! I assume I have to return it again next year like I did with the trophy? (Yes you do - and congratulations on the winning streak!! - ed) Jennie Lee Published: 27/07/11 | |
Will Horsley Completes Stuart Ferguson's Durham Hewitts RoundWil has sent this account of his successful completion of the Durham Hewitts. A great way to see a lot of County Durham in a short time! He encourages more people to have a go, while the weather is favourable and the days long. Patrick Published: 28/06/11 | |
The Cronkley Race, 2011The sun shone again for this year's Cronkley Fell Race. Runners started from the Strathmore Arms in Holwick and the immediate uphill sections for the first 1.5 miles - and the heat resulted in the pack stringing out from early on. Once up onto Holwick Fell all competitors had to contend with a significant breeze which aided one way and hindered the other. Durham Fell Runner's mascot, Samuel the Crocodile was waiting for the runners at the mid way turn around point where a few hardy (or perhaps overly hot) runners enjoyed their paddle so much they decided to immerse themselves more fully in the River Tees. Carl Bell of Howgill Harriers was a clear winner in the men's race, coming in ahead of Ian Wellock of Hunters and Jim Mann of DFR (still smiling after his success in the LAMM). Nina Mason of Elvet Striders was the first lady home followed by Nicola Davies of Borrowdale and Susan Rigby of DFR. Men's and Ladies team prizes went to DFR. Once finished, competitors had the opportunity to rehydrate at the pub and refuel courtesy of the free chip butty provided to all finisher - and who said fell runners were healthy...? All profits from the race will be shared between local charities. See you next year! Patrick Published: 7/07/11 | |
Cronkley Fell Race 2011 - Preliminary ReportAnother well received race, with the weather improving considerably on that seen over recent weeks. Thanks to all DFR members who helped with the organisation, marshalling and other activities and well done to all those who took part. Report and photos to follow shortly - if you have any good photos can you send them to the usual DFR e-mail address and we'll include them. Patrick Published: 28/06/11 | |
Cronkley Fell Race 2011 - Results PostedAfter a successful day for the Cronkley Fell Race - organised by DFR - we have the results ready - visit the official race page to download the results. John Published: 26/06/11 | |
DFR On Tour, 30th June 2011Venue changed from Consett, as originally posted. Meet on the green in the centre of West Auckland near the Fish and Chip shop (GR approximately 180264) at the usual time. Route will be around 6 steady miles of running mostly on paths and tracks, even including an occasional hill. Cheers, Matt Published: 21/06/11 | |
Bingley Harriers Wharfedale TTT, Friday, July 1st, Saturday July 2nd, Sunday, July 3rd, 2011Kerry Gilchrist, of Bingley Harriers writes : Please find below the link to the details for this year's TTT - not far away now. Not only is it a great weekend of running, it's also an excellent chance to get to know the area for the FRA relays this autumn! I would be very grateful if you could publicize this to your members. Details at this web site. Regards, Kerry Gilchrist, Bingley Harriers, kerrygilchrist@yahoo.co.uk Published: 20/06/11 | |
OMM Entries 2011 Now On LineFor those expecting a postal entry form for the OMM to drop through their letterbox this year, be aware that this year it is on-line entry. See this link. Published: 18/06/11 | |
DFR on Tour May 26th, 2011Chapel Fell Top and beyond. 6 miles of varied terrain with around 1500 ft of climbing. Meet at car park on south side of A689 road by the Mart just before Golden Lion pub, east side of St John Chapel to start run at 7pm. Golden lion afterwards. Leader for the evening will be DFR ringer Will Horsley. Published: 19/05/11 | |
Swaledale Run, Sunday May 22nd, 10 am start in ReethI thought I'd drop you a line to let you know we have recently started a running group meeting regularly in Reeth to run on the trails and fells of Swaledale. We've met a few of your members so I thought I'd drop you a line and invite you and your members down for a pre-Swaledale Marathon run on the Sunday, 22nd May. It's a good opportunity to reccy some of the route, sample the terrain and do some training. We aren't a club, just a group of people so it's very informal and relaxed. We meet in the courtyard at the outdoors shop. The route on that day will be 12 miles and will cover sections of the marathon route. If any of you would like to come along that'd be great, just turn up or let me know if you can. Best Regards, Richard Published: 16/05/11 | |
DFR Orienteering Night, 19th MayNote that the venue for next week's orienteering has changed - it will now be at Hardwick Hall Country Park near Sedgefield where we will use the newly established permanent orienteering course.The terrain is good, fast & runnable - mainly grass, and the controls are easy to find! Hardwick Park is on the A177 Durham to Stockton road on the west side of Sedgefield, two and a half miles from A1(M) Junction 60 (well sign-posted) Further info on the park including how to find it are at this link. The Visitor Centre Car Park should be open as there is a Rangers meeting that evening, so park in the car park and meet outside the Visitors Centre just before 7pm, remember to bring a compass and whistle. Published: 12/05/11 | |
Parking on Thursday Nights at Hamsterley ForestThose of you who regularly come along on a Thursday night will have noticed some recent developments where we usually park in the way of big new gates, boulders to prevent access and, most recently, you may have received a note on your windscreen asking you not to park in front of forest barriers and gates. We've now spoken with the Forestry Commission to clarify their policy on parking and the implications for our current parking arrangements on Thursday nights. The FC inform us that they are aiming to leave either the main car park or the play area car park open in future, which will allow us to leave cars in the evening without getting locked in. The new barriers have been put in by the forestry staff as the Ranger could not get access into the buildings and that was making it difficult to do his job. The FC have told us that they hope to have this sorted out in a week or so and in the meantime have asked us to leave the access at the barriers open and sheds free, so could all members keep this in mind when parking - thanks. Later Note A reminder to everyone: DFR still have to pay the parking fee, either as a one-off each time at the entrance, or using a Discovery Pass. The annual Discovery Pass costs £40 and is obtainable either at the Visitor Centre Shop or on line at The Forestry web site. Published: 09/05/11 | |
DFR Yoga Session, Wednesday, 18th May.As some of you may already know, the DFR Yoga Session will be held at Wolsingham School Sports Hall on the evening of Wednesday 18th May between 6:30 and 8:00. Chris Ford will be taking the session. If you require any further information [ See ' How bendy are you' article on the DFR website ] speak or drop an e-mail to either Patrick or Stu. A small donation will be required depending on how many turn up, probably in the region of £7/person to cover the cost of hiring the facilities and to cover Chris's time. In order to assess the likely numbers, please could you confirm by e-mail to the usual DFR e-mail address that you will be attending. All abilities welcome - look forward to seeing you there. Published: 04/05/11 | |
Result of Footsie CompetitionOnce again we have had an overwhelming response to the recent DFR competition which presented members with a 'cute' set of toes to identify. Sadly, there were no correct answers this time around and we would like to point out to one competitor that "Hobbit Frodo Baggins from the Shire" is not currently a member of DFR (although we do welcome applications for membership from all interested parties). Therefore the prize is awarded on the basis of the tie-break answer and goes to Dawn Metcalfe whose tie break answer was: "The runner is advised not to wear open toe sandals for a while because....The birds might mistake those toes for cheesy wotsits". Well done Dawn - a fabulous small edible DFR competition prize awaits you, to be collected after a Thursday night session. For those who remain intrigued by the owner of the tootsies, they belong to..........Steve Lumb (who claims that at the time of the photograph being taken they looked fine to him....) Watch out for other super DFR competitions soon! Published: 30/04/11 | |
Whose Tootsies Are These? Many of us know only too well that our recent expensive pedicure can be ruined by a little jog in the hills - all that nasty slimy mud, peat water and the occasional slightly scuffed toe-nail resulting from a speedy descent. The problem gets even worse if you have a rucksack on your back with the extra weight meaning that the toes get bashed about even more. Regular celeripedeans (look it up) who compete in mountain marathons (where the rucksack can be quite heavy) can find that the result is that toenails begin to suffer...... This month's fabulous competition therefore has an anatomical feel to it. The picture shows the cute little tootsies of an unknown DFR member who last year took part in a mountain marathon. All you have to do to win a scrumptious edible chocolate prize (probably in time for Easter) is guess who those tootsies belong to.
To make things a little easier, here is a list of some of the DFR members who took part in mountain marathons last year - the toes belong to one of these finely honed athletes: In the event of more than one entrant identifying the runner the winner will be decided on the basis of originality, humour, the mood of the competition judges and whether there is any evidence of this year's subs having been paid in answering (in no more than 20 additional words) the following statement: "This runner is advised to not wear open toe sandals for a while because........." Closing date is 25th April,so don't delay - enter today! Send your suggestion to the usual DFR e-mail address, (Terms and conditions apply, if it is sunny any small edible prizes are liable to melt, the value of your investments may go up, down, north, south, east or west, eating lots of sweeties and cakes is no substitute for a calorie controlled diet or a holiday on the west coast of Scotland) published: 12/4/11 | |
Hardmoors 55, Race ReportHardmoors 55 is a 55 mile race in the North York Moors from Helmsley to Guisborough. This year was the second running. The weather looked beautiful as a strong field wandered around Helmsley looking for the start line. When everyone found registration, spirits were high and nerves jangling as the slow runners gathered for the 9am start and set off far too fast, as is apparently customary in these sorts of races. Confusion then took over: almost all of the quick runners went with the slow runners' start, so Jim was left almost alone on the line waiting for the 9:30 elite start. Jim started with 2 others at 9:30 and quickly discovered that his companions weren't up to much so left them, and set off to run a 55 mile time trial against competitors who had a 30 minute start. Andy, Dawn and new DFR member Tom Reeves all set off at a steady place at 9am running together and the miles passed easily for the first couple of hours. Although Andy said he was determined to run a steady 11-12 minute mile pace for the whole race, Tom didn't believe him and thought he would go off at the first opportunity. Such an opportunity was presented when Jim stormed past the happy trio at around 13 miles, "Want some company?" asked Andy. "Love some!" said Jim, and Tom was proved right. The next couple of miles passed quickly, and then, checking his Garmin watch, Andy pointed out that he and Jim were running 7:15 mile pace, "That's not sensible, but it is exciting," Jim said, and on they went, Andy storming through the field, and Jim going into the overall lead. What a team they made, like a wind blowing through the Moors, like a tsunami destroying the field, like a reactor waiting to explode. The next 20 miles flew by, then around 30 miles in the inevitable happened and with Jim 20 minutes down on the leaders on the road, and 10 minutes up on the clock, Andy blew up and had a little 6 mile walk. As Jim stormed onto Kildale 12 miles from the end, Andy lost 3 or 4 of the places he had gained before finding his second wind and starting to run again. All the while Dan Shrimpton was leading the race on the road, Shelli Gordon was leading the women's race and Dawn and Tom were keeping a good steady pace with Dawn up to third place woman. After Kildale, Jim had a rough time, with his BGR of 2 weeks ago still in his legs, and lost the lead. He was passed by Shelli just after Rosebery Topping and she coaxed him home through Guisborough Woods to finish 4th in a time of just under 9 hours. Andy ran well on the last section, making up several of the places he lost in the middle section including passing UK double IronMan champion Anthony Gerundini who started with the quick guys at 9:30. Andy finished 8th in 9 hours 31, and Tom and Dawn came in together (after a short detour on the way into Kildale) in just under 11 hours (I think) after both running a great even pace, which brought Dawn home as 3rd woman. Overall Dan Shrimpton won in 8 hours 40 minutes and Shelli won the women's race in 9 hours 27, despite missing a checkpoint and having to retrace her steps for a mile. The drop bags didn't turn up at Guisborough until near midnight after some confusion that led to the marshals waiting for competitors who didn't exist, half the field missed the last checkpoint after it was put in the wrong place and the first few runners turned up at the finish line before the finish line was there, but the weather was great and a good result for DFR with 4th and 8th in the men's and 3rd in the women's race. Published: 24/3/11 | |
Raby Castle 10K, 29th MayEntries are now open for this year's Raby Castle, organised by Teesdale Athletics Club, see: Details here Published: 17/3/11 | |
Glaisdale Rigg 2011 - review by Jim.Sunday 13th March saw five DFRs heading to the North York Moors for the first running of this 8.5 mile race. DFR performance of the day had to go to Fionna Blackett who won the ladies race (setting a new course record in the process) against fierce competition despite taking a nasty tumble on the final descent - +2 hero points. The men's race was won by front runner Paul Butler (Loftus and Whitby) who took on the lead at the gun and held it for the entire race. Jim and Nigel (showing a good return to form) fought it out in the chasing group where 2nd place changed hands maybe a dozen times in the race eventually finishing 6th and 7th respectively. Paul Kelly and Denise Tunstall completed the DFR showing with excellent finishes in their age catagories. Published: 16/3/11 | |
Competition WinnerWe had an overwhelming response to our recent 'Guess the Runner' competition with entrants attracted by the fabulous prize to be won, donated by a generous member of the fell running community. It was obvious that in the case of a small number of correct entries that certain participants benefited from 'insider trading' in as much as they either witnessed the unfortunate falling-over event as it unfolded or part owned the curtains which formed the backdrop for the photo. Despite these built in advantages, all correct entries were considered with judging taking a number of days due to the volume of responses and a winner chosen based on obscure and biased reasoning. The identity of the runner was Patrick Bonnett and the prize winning tie break answer to the following tricky question - Why I deserve a small fabulous edible prize more than any of my greedy fellow runners was: "Eating small edible prizes is an important resistance training technique, and will lead to more equality during hill reps" The lucky winner was Pippa Archer who will be receiving her wonderful prize of a small (but fabulous) edible item at a forthcoming DFR Thursday night training session.The national press will be invited, so all DFR runners who regularly come along on a Thursday night are asked to attend in ironed running gear, clean shoes and freshly combed hair. Congratulations once again to Pippa and watch out for more fun competitions soon...... Published: 2/3/11 | |
Jim Mann Completes a Winter Bob Graham Round
Published: 2/3/11 | |
Commondale Clart 2011 - reviewSunday 27th Feb saw five DFRs heading to the North York Moors for this short fell race of 5.5 miles, with around 600 feet of ascent. The name gives it away as a very muddy affair. First home was Andy followed by Jim, Nigel and Stu. This brought DFR fourth in the Men's team results. Denise was the lone lady. There were over 150 finishers. This was a welcome return for Stu to racing after 3 months since his kidney stones. But by far the most impressive fact was that this race was two up for the weekend for Andy and Denise, having finished the High Cup Nick race the day before. Published: 2/3/11 | |
The Wild Races Series 2011All Terrain Events are organising the Wild Races Series 2011. The series consists of three trail races in scenic, challenging and rural settings, to suit all abilities. The dates are 21st March, 15th May and 19th June. On-line entry is available here. Published: 2/3/11 | |
5k RacesFor those of you who might be interested (and don't mind some running on tarmac)...... 5Ks have suddenly become very popular-they are good little races in themselves but also can form a useful part of your training as you prepare for longer distance events. Darlington 5K Time Trials Park Run 5Ks Forest Trail 5Ks published: 1/3/11 | |
Guess the Runner Competition As part of our superb membership package we intend to offer occasional opportunities to win unique and priceless prizes. The first of these will see one lucky winner get their hands on a fabulous small edible item. All you have to do is guess who is the mystery muddy DFR runner seen in the picture after a recent Thursday night training session. Send your suggestion to the usual DFR e-mail address, with the words "I feel lucky" in the e-mail subject heading. Closing date for the competition is 28th February. In the event of more than one correct answer, the winner will be decided based on the tie break question which is to explain (in no more than 20 words) "Why I deserve a small fabulous edible prize more than any of my greedy fellow runners" - so be sure to also include your tie break answer in your e-mail reply. Good luck! Competition rules published: 13/2/11 | |
Fancy a lift?In these financially austere times with the price of petrol increasing every week and global warming continuing apace, it is possible that we could be doing more to reduce the number of car journeys that are made to Hamsterley Forest for the regular Thursday night training sessions. If you'd be interested in possibly car sharing to the sessions let us know by sending an e-mail stating:
We'll then see if we can do some matchmaking - obviously the final arrangements would need to be made between those actually sharing the lifts Published: 6/2/11 | |
How Bendy are You?We are considering arranging a 'taster' introduction to Yoga with an emphasis on the types of stretches most relevant to runners and the muscle sets we all use. All equipment will be provided - all you have to do is bring yourself and your tight hamstrings/quads and the ability to laugh at yourself and others as they find that they can't balance as well as they thought they could or that they can't even touch their knees let alone their toes. The likely venue will be Wolsingham School in Weardale and the session would last no more that 1.5 hours. The cost (and feasibility) of the session will be dependent on the potential demand, but we'd try and keep it as low as possible. It's likely that we would try and arrange for a Monday night. If you would be interested let us know by sending an e-mail: to this address. For more information on how yoga can keep us all flexible see: this web site or or this one. Published: 6/2/11 | |
Thanks Alex! Alex has now stepped down from the DFR Committee but continues to help out with the web site and on being presented with his framed club vest was also formally appointed to the role of Honorary Astronomer to Durham Fell Runners in recognition of his long suffering efforts to educate DFR members in all things celestial during dark winter runs over Hamsterley Common. Thanks Alex! published: 6/2/11 | |
Orienteering in Cumbria, February 2011.For those with easy access to the Lakes, there are a number of orienteering events scheduled for Penrith and the surrounding areas in February. Full details can be found on the British Orienteering Federation website (click on events and search) or on the Borderliners Club web site. Published: 25/1/11 | |
Hamsterley to be sold off?You may have read of the proposed sale of Forestry Commission assets - which could include Hamsterley Forest (see this link for example.) The government will launch a consultation shortly. In the meantime, if you have any views on the plans, you can make them known through an on-line poll at this site, which also includes the option to then send an e-mail to your local MP. Published: 25/1/11 | |
DFR On Tour, Thursday Jan 27th, 20117pm for 7:10 start. Meet in the Dales Centre car park, Stanhope, Weardale. Come prepared for open, exposed, wet and high-level moorland. Estimate 7 miles mainly on tracks and paths, some rougher ground. Afterwards in the Bonny Moor Hen - they do food but suggest you phone ahead to make sure they are still serving at a time to suit you. We should finish the run by 8:30pm. Hope you can make it! Will Horsley Published: 23/1/11 | |
10% Off Offer from Swaledale OutdoorsSwaledale Outdoors, based in Reeth, are offering 10% off their full price gear for the next 12 months upon completion and return of this form. Their web site is here. Published: 23/1/11 | |
DFR Club Championship Races for 2011Eight races have been selected by the Committee this year for the DFR Club Championships 2011 and they are listed on the web site. Click on 'Club Championships' in 'Club Information' in the Home page left hand menu for the rules and on the link at the bottom of that page for the 2011 page. One rule has been added in an attempt to separate a tie and the first rule amended to allow eight races. Published: 21/1/11 | |
Social Run - Hamsterley Forest, Sunday 30th Jan at 10.00There will be a Social Run at Hamsterley Forest on Sunday 30th Jan, meeting at 10.00 at the Tea Rooms. Length of run ~ 1 hour, various routes possible depending on who turns up. Followed by refreshments at the Tea Rooms, all welcome. Published: 18/1/11 | |
DFR Coaching OpportunitiesIn December Steve Gustard and Patrick Bonnett, together with Will Horsley of NFR, attended a one-day UK Athletics Coaching course at the Riverside, Chester-le-Street entitled 'Leadership in Running'. There were a range of participants from various running clubs in the region and everyone came away with some new ideas, and - importantly for DFR - a Level 1 Qualification. This is important given the growing numbers of DFR members who attend Thursday night sessions as we will be able to develop the training calendar for 2011 still further to provide more activities to accommodate the needs of those who come along for the regular sessions that Stu runs. We are always interested to hear from anyone who might be interested in becoming more involved in coaching. The Club may be able to provide some assistance with the fees associated with attending course such as the Leadership in Running or the Assistant Coach course which Alan is going on in Gateshead later this month. If you are interested/intrigued or just mildly curious about what courses you could do, what they entail and what you might learn please have a word with Stu, Steve, Patrick or Alan on a Thursday night (if you aren't sure who is who have a look on the Committee page of the web site which has some lovely colour photos) or send an e-mail. The courses are interesting and you learn a lot! Published: 12/1/11 | |
DFR Club Champions 2010
Congratulations to Roslyn Kelsey and Denise Tunstall who were joint Ladies Club Champions in 2010. They were presented with the trophy at the DFR Christmas dinner in December and can be seen in the photo wondering how best to polish it and whether it is easy to chop in half... Graham Burns was the Men's Champion in 2010, winning a closely fought battle with Matt Lunn and congratulations go to him. The Club Championship races for 2011 are currently being finalised and will be posted shortly. Published: 12/1/11 | |
Cleveland Survival Event. March 26th, 2011Details for this year's Cleveland Survival event on 26th March are now available at this web site. On line entry available here. The event is organised by Cleveland Search and Rescue Team and raises vital funds to support their work helping people missing or injured on the North Yorkshire Moors. The Survival is a friendly event based on an orienteering course of about 26 miles to be completed within the 12-hour time limit. It is open to runners and walkers. There will be a series of checkpoints identified by a grid reference and description. The aim is to visit each checkpoint in the order given on the route card. Published: 12/1/11 | |
DFR at Clay Bank, Jan 9th, 2011DFR had a successful outing at the Clay Bank East fell race on Sunday 9th January, with a clean sweep of the top three places. Two others in the top 10 gave us a convincing men's team victory (and lots of bottles of wine all round!): The ground was frozen and icy, with an overnight dusting of snow, making the running conditions "interesting" (although falling over at least 4 times seemed to qualify you for a box of chocolates in the prize giving). However the cold conditions didn't deter Jim from racing in just shorts and vest. The organisers also threw in a twist, by changing the finishing route, as the usual route was deemed too icy. Sadly many runners further down the field missed the taping of the new route, ending up on the wrong side of a wall near the finish, with much confusion (and 20s time penalties) all round. Finally, a question for any keen supporters out there. If you are cheering on your team-mates in a race, and one of them shouts "How far?" on the way past, what is the correct answer to give them? This question was posed by a breathless Jim, as he ran past a cheering Pippa (who wasn't competing due to a cold). Apparently the required answer was (c), as Jim was trying to stay ahead of a junior that was chasing him (which he managed). Published: 12/1/11 | |
Kev and I have just published our new book, The Mountain Marathon Book, as a special introductory offer a fiver off if you buy online during August from the 
Congratulations to Jim and Duncan for a fantastic result in winning the Elite Class in last weekend's LAMM in Scotland.
Congratulations to Jim on having just completed his winter BGR in a fantastic time of 20 hours 39 minutes - an awesome achievement! Picture right taken at the finish. 
Various members of DFR, friends and family gathered at Hamsterley Forest on Sunday for a social run followed by refreshments at the Hamsterley Tea Rooms. Once cakes and coffees had been consumed the club took great delight in embarrassing Alex Menarry by presenting him with a framed DFR vest as a way of saying "thank you" for all the work Alex has done for the club since its early days - both as Chairman and then Secretary and his ongoing work (with John Nightingale) ensuring that the web site is regularly updated with articles such as this - all of which has been characterised by good humour and boundless enthusiasm.
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