THE MONSAL TRAIL HALF MARATHON & 10K – SATURDAY MARCH 26TH 2022

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A group of Eccleshill Road Runners travelled to Derbyshire for the Monsal Trail Half Marathon  and 10k. The race, hosted by Nice Work events takes in the stunning, traffic-free Monsal Trail, one of the most iconic Peak District trails with a flat-ish, good surface throughout.
The Monsal Trail, is a former Midland railway line and the route takes runners through four railway tunnels and across the spectacular Monsal Viaduct. Runners were treated to unseasonal spring sunshine for the duration of the race which made for challenging conditions when not passing through the tunnels! In addition there was a 10k on offer which was a straight 5k out and back turning round in the second of the tunnels.
Surrounded by beautiful countryside, the race is billed as is ideal for Spring marathon training. It’s brought by the same team that manages the Tissington Trail Half Marathon which regularly features in the Runner’s World top 10 UK trail races.
This race is basically an out and back route from the former Bakewell Station. 
It has a strict entry limit and it always sells out early. Whilst it is more than suitable for experienced runners it is also seen as a great introduction to the half marathon distance for runners of all abilities. Linda Bussey chose the 10k race and managed to bag herself a huge personal best time of 56:25! Leading the team home in the half marathon was Gillian Jago, again in a massive personal best of 1:46:50 and also winning an award for 1st in her ages category – big congratulations go to Gill! Classic ERR team work was on show from Daniel Jenkins 2:05:17 and Martin Steele 2:05:41 & Garry Ellison 2:06:59 and Julie Steele 2:06:57 also Jayne Robinson 2:14:53, Sarah Rawlings 2:14:53 and Claire Tailford 2:14:53 (unnofficial TBC as missed off results). Fantastic running folks and a brilliant weekend – well done all and big thanks to our support crew Tricia, Neil & Maxine!