Report by: Dot Kesterton

Race Date: 7th May 2022

 A small group of Sheffield Striders, Smileys and Tri Club met up for the Staveley Trail races last weekend in a delightful carnival atmosphere. Staveley, in the Kentmere Valley, is a pleasant village about five miles west of Kendal.

A choice of 5K, 10K and 18K races are offered. Most of the group opted for the 10K which turned out to be 11.7K with 350m ascent. Starting and finishing at the recreation ground, serenaded by the local steel band, the course rose rapidly from the village to the fells around Reston Scar. Road gave way to grassy footpaths, stoney bridleways and a couple of stiles to keep us challenged. The fells of the Southern Lakes made a spectacular backdrop for the race.

I have concentrated on road races in recent months so it was great fun to leave tarmac and concentrate on the various surfaces and conditions of Kentmere. The course was well marshalled and signposted.

Kate Morris was first Strider/Tri Club runner home in 1:02.13, 3rd woman and first F50.
Fiona Jeffries hot on Kate’s heels at 1:03.05 was second F50 but because Kate won a top 3 should really have been awarded first F50.
Dot Kesterton bounced in at 1:10.11 to take first F70.
Jo Battersby completed in 1:22.20, 13th F50.

Tim Farron MP a seasoned lakeland trail runner awarded the prizes which included free entry into next year’s race so it looks as if we’ll have to give it all another go next May. A few more Striders would be very welcome.

The 10K race was won by Richard Walker, M40 in 50:54. First Female was Sheffield’s Anna Hoogkamer, senior, in 57:40. There were 267 runners in total.

Full results here.