Hosted by Ripon Runners, the Jolly Holly Jog boasted a ‘new route’ for 2021. The race followed a scenic, multi-terrain course of approximately 10k. Billed as an undulating route mainly on footpaths through beautiful parkland. The race started on Hell Wath Nature Reserve taking runners up Whitcliffe Lane onto public footpaths through Mackershaw Woods and through the stunning Studley Deer Park, passing Monty’s bench (in memory of our club co-founder and former club president). The mixed terrain, at times, hilly course then went out of the main gate at Fountains Abbey, right, up Plumpton Lane, and returns via a short steep climb in Mackershaw Woods, across to Whitcliffe Lane and back towards Hell Wath Nature Reserve. Following a short section through the woods at Hell Wath, the course then emerged onto the field back to the welcome sight of the finish line. The murkey, damp and foggy conditions of the last few days continued and early morning downpours made for challenging conditions underfoot on parts of the course. Thankfully though, the rain cleared before the start of the race and held off throughout. This year, the organisers have partnered with ‘Trees Not Tees’ to offer runners the option of planting a tree instead of receiving their event t-shirt. Planting a tree is one of the best things we can do to fight climate change as they remove carbon dioxide from the air as they grow. They also provide a habitat for a wide range of the UK’s most endangered and loved species, and create clean air for us to breathe. Each tree will be planted in Scotland to grow as part of a whole new forest full of native broadleaf tree species. Runners receive a certificate from Trees Not Tees that includes a picture of their tree, details of the species, and a unique geo-location address so you can even go and visit. To find out more, visit https://treesnottees.com/ to see their website.
Out in the blue and white were Eccleshill’s Annie Kisluk 1:21:58 & David Goodyear 1;11;57 doing their third race in as many days , they were joined by Julie Steele 1:07:55, Martin Steele 1:07:56 & Garry Ellison 1:07:53. Well done Team & big thanks to Maxine for her support and photography!
