Burnsall Fell

Burnsall Sports Fell Race, 19 Aug 2017
Report by Paul Alexander

The Burnsall Classic Fell Race, which forms part of the Burnsall Feast Sports Day, dates back to circa 1870 when a group of villagers allegedly discussed the idea in the local pub leading one local, as the story goes, to test the course by moonlight by running naked to the top of the hill and back again. Fortunately, kit expectations now extend to clothing but it remains a very short 1.5-mile route consisting of a short road section leading to a steep climb over the fell to the top of the nearest hill and then a headlong descent over rocks and heather back into the village. The men’s race was won by Sam Tosh of Rossendale Harriers in 14.28 with Bingley’s Victoria Wilkinson the first lady back in 16.52 and 9th overall. Only one Tod Harrier, Helen Hodgkinson took on this demanding course finishing in a time of 26.49 and securing a £10 prize for being 3rd V40 lady.

Matt FlanaganBurnsall Fell