Waddington Fell Race
The inaugural Waddington Fell Race, saw 93 runners from clubs throughout the region, take to the fells on what was a beautiful, bright autumn day, writes Matt Bourne
Lancashire was at its autumnal best for the first ever running of the Waddington Fell Race. Dry conditions made for a very fast race, which was won by Bowland fell runner Ollie Heaton in 40:25, with his clubmate Ellis Bland coming in just over a minute later in 41:30.
The women’s category was won by Katherine Klunder of Chorley Athletic & Triathlon Club in 48:17, all the more impressive given that Katherine had won at Thieveley Pike the previous day. Team prizes were won by Bowland (men’s) and Accrington Road Runners (women’s).
Race organiser Matt Bourne said he was delighted with the race, which was a great success and which had been two years in the planning: “Without local sponsors, the landowners and volunteers from Waddington, this race could never have taken place.”
All 93 runners returned safely from the 6.6 mile out-and-back course, many enjoying the sunshine outside the village club where there was a prizegiving.
The focus was very much on a community event for the inaugural race and a number of villagers, along with club runners volunteered as marshals. Sponsors of the race included Melt and Bowland Brewery and locals also came out to support the race, which we hope will become a fixture for the last Sunday in September in the FRA calendar for many years to come.
The generosity of the runners was also highlighted by the amount of money raised for two local charities Bowland Mountain Rescue, who were present on the day, and Bags for Strife, a local suicide support organisation.
Plans are afoot next year to slightly increase the climb from 1,063ft – this being Lancashire though, the weather can’t be guaranteed!
Next year’s race will be on Sunday 25th September
