There was strong Todmorden Harrier turn out on a glorious day at the first running of the Newlands Memorial Fell Race last Saturday in The Lake District. This race, organised by Cumberland Fell Runners, commemorated Steve Cliff who died of Motor Neurone Disease last year. The race previously known, as The Anniversary Waltz, was conceived by Steve and Wynn Cliff to mark their wedding anniversary in Newlands Valley Church in 1996. The race route traces a heart in the valley over Robinson, Dale Head and High Spy before a descent to Cat Bells and down to Stairs Village Hall in Keswick.
The 11.5 mile route involves 3,600 feet of climb and is one of the most beautiful Lakes races. Conditions on Saturday were very hot, with no relief even on the exposed tops. The race was won by Rob Jebb of Bingley Harriers in 1:40:50. Graeme Brown was first Toddie back and had a superb run to finish 8th overall, third Vet 40 in a time of 1:50.02. Nick Barber also had a strong run to finish 37th in 2:04:45 and Annie Roberts was the first Tod lady back in 2:09:22 and fourth lady overall.
Full Results:
Graeme Brown, 8th 1:50:02
Nick Barber, 49th 2:09:22
Annie Roberts 49th 2:09:22
Ricky Parish 105th 2:25:41
Rebecca Patrick 107th 2:25:48
Dwane Dixon 117th 2:28:46
Kate Mansell 141st 2:36:17
Chris Dewhurst 184th 2:48:21
Phil Hodgson 187th 2:48:47
Mandy Goth 254th 3:14:00