The Leaden Boot Challenge. Report written by Steve Elliff
The Leaden Boot Challenge may not be the most well-known local marathon, but it is arguably the most underrated! This hidden gem starts in the small village of Alstonefield, just inside the Staffordshire border. The challenge was initially set up in 2010, as a fund-raising response to lead being stolen from the church roof. Whilst 15 years have passed since the community first pulled together following the theft, the community spirit and camaraderie was both notable, and what makes this such a fantastic event.
Before setting off on the 42.5-kilometre route, the local vicar initiates the ‘Blessing of the Boots’ ceremony. This included a reading, prayer, a primary school banger (One more step along the world I go!) followed by the vicar flicking water on your shoes with a leafy branch! This was certainly the most unique and memorable start to any fell race I have ever run.
The event, which is open to both walkers and runners, commenced with a mass start at 9am. The route weaves its way through the surrounding dales, with eight notable climbs contributing towards an impressive 1437m of elevation gain. The organisers have tried hard to keep you off the well-known paths, helping to reduce the impact the event has on tourist hotspots such as Dovedale. I initially thought this might make the route hard to follow, but it’s well marked throughout, and with 400 entrants, you were never far from a fellow competitor. Throughout the route, we were able to piece together familiar territory from previous cake runs. Talking of which, there was no shortage of cake, with a brilliant buffet of cakes and snacks at each of the seven check points! There was even chilli and jacket potatoes at the finish, all homemade and included within the cost of entry.
Representing Wirksworth was Caroline B, who completed the course in an impressive 5 hours and 38 minutes, followed by me and Kat in 6 hours and 24 minutes. This definitely is not a course for a marathon PB, but if you love spending time in the rolling fells, then this stunning event should not be overlooked.
Event Website – https://www.alstonefield.org/tourist-info/leaden-boot/
Route GPX https://www.sientries.co.uk/emails/images/43184/Leaden%20Boot%202025.gpx