The Guy Fawkes 10 mile race is a super hilly course taking in the stunning countryside of Nidderdale, passing through the villages of Birstwith and Hampsthwaite. The race then finishes in the grounds of the famous Ripley Castle. The route itself is very scenic travelling along country lanes, yet somewhat challenging with 4 hills and very little flat. It has an entry limit of 1000 runners. Hosted by Nidd Valley Road Runners and supported by Up & Running, this legendary race is run on scenic country roads and well surfaced bridleways culminating in an awesome (but uphill) finish into the stunning grounds of Ripley Castle. Ripley Castle has been the home of the Ingleby family for twenty six generations and Sir Thomas and Lady Ingleby and their five children continue the tradition. Did we mention this is a hilly 10 mile run? So much so that the hills have names! The three climbs of note are quirkily named – ‘Birstwith Brute’, ‘Swincliffe Swine’ and ‘For Fawkes Sake’, the scenery along the route though is stunning. It boasts a total assent of 360 metres. The start is in the shadow of the stunning Castle, the finish in the courtyard. A special mention must also go to the marshals out on the course who are absolutely amazing with their support and encouragement. Finishers are welcomed by Mr Guy Fawkes himself along with a long sleeved T-shirt and a fabulous goodie bag.
A chilly start with bleak, damp grey and overcast weather, made for ideal running conditions for this staging of the event.
Eccleshill had eight runners out in the Blue and White, those who couldn’t resist the challenge were: Mohammed Malik (01:34:44); Talhah Butt (01:34:53) both completing their first race in club colours, also Claire Hern (01:12:48); Robert Sutton (01:36:47); Sarah Myers (01:55:08); Vicky Cousins (01:45:53); Linda Bussey (01:45:56) and Garry Ellison (01:45:56). All finishers received a well stocked goody bag, a long sleeved T-shirt. Brilliant running everyone, well done!
Thank you to Julie, Maxine, Michael and Martin, our support crew, awesome job done!
PS a big shout out to Martin Steele for smashing his PB at the local “Sausage Egg & Spam butty scranning championships which were held alongside this event today!
