Report by Fran Cummins

Race Date: Saturday 11^th August 2018

A lovely morning greeted us at Bradwell for the start of the half tour (16 miles, 3000ft climb).  Tea, coffee and biscuits at registration set us up for the 16 miles ahead.

The route features 3 distinct climbs, the first to the top of Cave Dale then Lose Hill and finally Win Hill.

Having not run much around Castleton, the first half of the route was amazing, taking in the views and hills before a steep slippery descent into Castleton.

After Lose and Win Hill there is a short flat section on the Thornhill Trail before the last 2 miles which I found the hardest as it is a gradual shallow climb leading up to a farm, which is tough on tired legs.   A herd of cows took an interest in myself and another runner and there was a fair bit of shouting and arm waving to put them off!

Soup, flapjack and more tea and coffee were at the finish line. I thoroughly enjoyed it, the route is great and the atmosphere and marshals brilliant.  I will be back for the winter version and maybe the full tour next year!

All 3 striders who took part in the half tour were prize winners.

Rob Pilling 3^rd Male v40   2.21.36
Fran Cummins 2^nd Female  2.34.38
David Parry 3^rd Male v60  3.04.12

There were 128 finishers. First male Lee Kemp in 1.57.20 and first female Rosie Walwyn in 2.32.55

2 striders also took part in the full tour – an amazing 33 miles.

Andrew Fry 6.50.25
James Fletcher 7.20.51

There were 79 finishers of the full. First male Stuart Walker in 5.08.30 and first female Abigail Hathway 6.51.12

 Link to full results here.

Half