A lovely Bank Holiday evening in the setting of the Corn Dolly beer garden was all it took to entice two Eccleshill Road Runners to sign on the dotted line and enter this popular Dales event. Dan Jenkins and Garry Ellison opted to run the half marathon distance representing the blue and whites. In unprecedented temperatures the race went ahead with runners receiving allocated start waves. The word Saunter in the title does not give a true representation of the terrain or character of the longer distances (1706 ft of elevation for example) but the rewards come in the form of unparalleled scenic views and of course the fact that you complete it. Runners are issued with a “dabber” and have to tap in and out at the beginning of the race, the finish as well as checkpoints along the route. The Saunter is an annual walking / running event along footpaths and bridleways taking entrants into some of the quieter and lesser known parts of the Yorkshire Dales. It passes through some picturesque rural villages and hamlets, and over some of the lower Fells around the small market town of Settle. It is organised and hosted by the Settle Rotary Club. The half marathon route visits the picturesque locations of Feizor and Austwick Dan showed true character dragging Garry round this tough route to make sure he finished the distance in the unbearable heat. Dan finished in 3:19:08 and Garry finished in 3:36:21. Brilliant effort both, well done!
