Isle of Jura Fell Race, 28 May 2016
Report by Rob Tyson
Seven mountain summits and 28km in distance makes the Isle of Jura a worthy challenge for any seasoned fellrunner. The total ascent of 2370 metres, takes in the three Paps and the four pips of Jura. Situated in a stunning location, the race draws teams from across the country. Todmorden Harriers have had a strong link with the race, with Mandy and Phil helping to organise the logistical challenges of such an event.
It is described as ‘one of the toughest challenges in British hill races at this distance.’ 2015 saw Finlay Wild complete the course in (3:13:27) with Hector Haines winning the top slot the previous two years setting a course record of (3:06:30) in 2014. Jasmin Paris holds the women’s record at (3:38:43).
280 runners had signed up to take on this year’s event; notably the V50 course record was beaten by Ian Holmes by two minutes. Richard Leonard came in at (5:54:01) ‘Glad to have come under the six hour mark’ were his exact words, a good effort nonetheless. The weather was also kind to the runners, with good visibility on the tops and not a drop of rain. I’m sure many a whisky was had at the local bar after the race was wrapped up.