Race Date: Wednesday 25th June 2025

Race Report by Martin Downham

Having dithered for too long last year and missed the opportunity to run this popular race (because it sold out), I completed my application shortly after the opening date.

The course (at just under 5 miles) makes a figure of eight, with the village at the centre, over a mix of undulating (never steep) paths and tracks. The first loop to the north is appox. 3km on dusty farm tracks. The second loop (on the other side of a village, is more off road. There is a never ending path along side a wheat field, followed by a small stretch of single track road, before the cross country return to the village and the finish line.

My strava showed a total distance of 7.69km with a total elevation gain of a comfortable 74m. It was another hot, dry evening and the tracks were hard and dusty.

A bit about Elmton

Elmton is a small Derbyshire village. It is near the border of Nottinghamshire and is surrounded by beautiful countryside. The village has a rich history dating back to the 11th century when it was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Elmton was once a thriving mining community, and evidence of this can still be seen in the village today.

A notable landmark in Elmton is the St. Peter’s Church, which dates back to the 12th century. The church is a Grade II listed building and is known for its stained glass windows and architecture. The church is still in use today.

Elmton is a beautiful, quiet country village, mostly surrounded by farmland. A lot of the land is arable. You will however see horses (in fields) nearer the village.

Race Info:

The Elm Tree Inn (S80 4LS – race HQ) is a popular country pub, offering a wide selection of drinks. hot food and a very appealing large shaded garden (with a lot of out door seating).

The race starts on the road, at 18.45 just outside the pub

The car park (on a dry grazing field) is about 100m down the road from the pub (and start).

No on the day entries. No Under 16s. Entry limited to 200 (and usually sells out)

The winner of each age category receives a bottle of wine (or equivalent). There are also prizes for first Male and Female teams (of 3).

ADDITIONAL IMPORTANT INFO

The race is run under U.K.A. rules (Licence # applied for)
Race numbers are collected on Race Day from the Elm Tree public house car park (before 18:30)
Water was is provided at the finish, which given the heat was greatly appreciated

Thanks to; Clowne Road Runners for organising this enjoyable race and the many friendly, supportive marshals at all key points on the the course.

Martin was the sole Strider among 172 runners who lined up for Elmton Chase. The men’s race was won by Matthew Martin of Clowne Road Runners in a time of 00:28:05. Hannah Barnett of North Derbyshire Running Club won the women’s race in a time of 00:34:52.

Striders Results