Race Date: Sunday 3rd November 2024

The final fixture of the SCS Trail Champs (and Race 10 of 12 in the KMR Series) saw a healthy contingent of Striders make their way over to Blackburn Meadows Nature Reserve, which sits about half way between Meadowhall & Rotherham.

The route is a winding lap around the nature reserve followed by an out and back along the canal, and then a second lap around the Meadows to finish. The long towpath middle section is all tarmac; the nature reserve, a mix of grass and compacted dirt, was less muddy than last year.

Last year’s ladies winner, Kathy Liddiard, was unlucky not to hold on to the title despite a massive improvement of over 2 minutes & 30 seconds. Kathy came in second, and Lucy Broom was also among the prizes as first FV45.

Organisers Kimberworth Striders put on a great event and a nice little buffet afterwards.

I’d recommend the Trail Champs to anyone who’s tempted but hasn’t taken the plunge; I think 2025’s fixtures are yet to be decided but it usually features plenty of small local races that offer good atmosphere and great value, often with prizes and a buffet to finish.

Nineteen Striders were among 184 runners who lined up for the Canal Race. The men’s race was won by Dominic Fielding of Worksop Harriers in a time of 29:33. Fiona Davies of Barnsley Harriers won the women’s race in a time of 34:00. Category positions are not available for the entire field.

Strider Results