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Spencers Dash – 10th July 2025 (Race 2 of 3)

Race Report From Martin Downham

With temperatures close to 30c, this was going to be a hot race. A 7pm start allowed the angle of the sun to drop and and the air to cool. The last minute plan was to be cautious (and not overheat) and run without a bottle of water (as a possible neck cooler), as water was available at the finish line.

The Spencers Dash is a three race series, run on Thursday evenings throughout the year. It is based in Higham (to the west of Barnsley and is a left turn loop, which passes over, and then later under the M1 Motorway.

The race is approx. 3.8 miles and ran mostly on roads (and pavements) with a shortish (c. 700m) uphill trail section starting about 4km in. Strava shows distance at 6.01km with a total elevation gain of 105m. The start (on the road) is notable for the long (c. 1.3km) downhill. The final climb (of the 3), is also notable. It is a long visible drag, straight up the road which passes under the M1, and then heads around a gradual blind left hand turn towards the finish.

In this record breaking period of dry weather, ground conditions were near perfect for running. The trail section was dry (and even a bit dusty). All trip hazards were painted white, which is always greatly appreciated and a road start means that there aren’t any pinch points (until the trail section). The roads aren’t closed, but there is often a footpath option (to be used where possible).
The race series has been established on this route for over 20 years, so there is a lot of history associated with previous races and records.

The last race in 2025 will be on Thursday August 28th. There are 220 places available per race. It’s online entry only – ahead of the event. Previous series runners re-use their numbers (on payment). You can enter a single race: Aff £7 / Uff £9. A  T-Shirt option is also available.

Numbers are collected from Race HQ. Bags can be left in the club and toilets are available. You must run all 3 races to qualify for any prizes. All prizes are awarded on the night of the final race.
Results are available on Barnsley AC web site or via Racebest. There is limited parking at the club, so please park sensibly. Suggested nearby parking is available at: Claycliffe Business Park, PLEASE Note: Headphones are NOT allowed

Thanks go to Barnsley Athletic Club for organising this well marshalled race (especially on such a hot evening)

Striders Results
Position Name Time Age Category
62 Martin Downham 30.21 M60 (6th)
114 Dawn Jackson 39.19 F60 (7th)

The race was won by James Mumford from Penistone Footpath runners in 21.36.  First female was Vicky Shaw (F40) from Barnsley AC in 24.58.

Full Results: here
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