Race Date: Wednesday 8th June 2016

A lovely summer’s evening was in store for the runners at the Calver Peak fell race. The sun was shining and the village was buzzing with 275 runners and a load of spectators. Striders once again has a strong contingent of 25 participants and a good few supporters – well done to all runners.

This race had a long pull up the road at the beginning, not steep enough to walk and not narrow enough to get stuck behind people. It was hard work and the heat didn’t make it easier. Up and up we seemed to go but eventually it flattened out and the fleeting glances at the view that I dared myself were well worth it. To some extent, it’s a shame I spent most of the time looking 6 feet ahead of me.

By the time I’d reached the road at the top of the quarry I was knackered but knew it was mostly downhill for there on in. The remainder of the route followed the Peak Trail race route I had completed a few weeks earlier so I knew there was a narrow, steep, downhill rocky section to come. I ran as fast as I could down this difficult section but still got caught by a couple of runners. I need to try to improve my downhill running methinks.

Back into the village and onto the green and the finish line. There was a group of Striders already splayed out on the grass so I joined them. The running pain soon changed to enjoyment and the, ‘why am I doing this to myself’ thoughts changed to, ‘that was great, can’t wait till Edale!’ – madness.

Anyway, the race was won by Steve Franklin of Totley AC in 31.21. The first woman home was Hazel Tant also of Totley AC in 37.18. Again, well done to all the Striders on a hot but enjoyable evening.

Striders Results: