Report by Graham Robinson
On Saturday 12th February Olly Pratten, Elaine Stone, Beth Nadin and I joined a field of 180 other runners on the Tour of Bradwell Winter Half. This unmarked 28km route with an overall ascent of 1km, was my first proper fell race. It tested my navigation, stamina and will power.
A very steep start gained Shatton Ridge, which then followed Brough Lane round and down into Shatton. A flat, sheltered couple of km’s lead to Ladybower Dam and made you think this fell running lark is quite easy and pleasant! The route then climbed through boggy forest before coming out onto open moorland, with the strong wind making a reappearance. Soon views of a distant looking Lose Hill, the next checkpoint, helped focus your mind. Fortunately, stunning views of the Vale of Edale helped distract the gut-busting effort needed to ascend the shoulder of Lose Hill, all whilst trying not to get blown away! This summit ridgeline was followed to Back Tor, before making a quick descent into Castleton. Quick was not a word I would use to describe my Castleton exit up Cave Dale! The effort needed to ascend this smooth, slippery wind tunnel of running wet limestone certainly had a negative impact on my, up until then, friendly greetings to fellow path sharers! At least once out of the dale I knew all significant climbing was done and it was time to head home. I wasn’t even bothered it had started raining! The approach back into Bradwell took in the bumpy Dirtlow Rake track. A steep, and a little confusing, drop into Pin Dale. Then finally routing through the not so pretty Hope Cement Works.
I was so happy to finish, it took me a while (valuable seconds lost!) to let the marshal scan my timing chip! One of the many lessons learnt for next time – sprint finish and dive across the line!
I could not recommend this well organised event, highly enough. It had such a friendly and encouraging atmosphere. You were even presented with a bottle of beer!