Race Date: Monday 22nd April
Report by Fran Cummins
This is only the second year of running this (already very popular) race held by Matlock AC. This year there was a mini Easter heatwave so conditions were perfect…if not a little hot by the end of the race!
The main concept of the race is to try and beat the Heritage Steam Train on the 7 mile return trip from Rowsley to Matlock, with the train taking 59 minutes. The actual route isn’t the most inspiring as is pretty much a flat, straight out and back alongside the track (with 4 sets of steps and 6 road crossings) but the brilliant atmosphere makes up for it.
The train is full of supporters and it passes the runners at least twice, so there is plenty of opportunities for photos and cheering. The support on the course was fantastic too – with Matlock AC providing numerous happy marshals along the course.
There were 7 striders out of the 215 runners and 129 of those beat the train. It was won by Greg Hopkinson from Beeston Harriers in 39.25 (2 minutes ahead of the next runner!) I (ed. Fran Cummins) managed to come first lady in 48.40 and got my favourite prize yet – a super cool train cap!
Position Name Time
28 Fran Cummins 48.40
29 Regan Hanson 48.45
60 Jude Stone 51.57
67 Sarah Allcard 52.26
91 Cara Hanson 55.07
153 Peter Brash 1.02.27
163 Caroline Brash 1.05.09
Full results available: https://www.webscorer.com/racedetails?raceid=177017