New Route for 2009 + A History on this Traditional Fell Race.

Author: David Wing

22 Apr

2009

Is the Hope Wakes Fell Race already on your hit list in the FRA fixtures calendar? If not, you may like to consider it. We have made some improvements to the course AS category of 5. 6 miles with 1483ft of ascent. By changing the course to take in the summit of Win Hill and reducing the road section dramatically, we aim to appeal to more runners who want a traditional fell race.

The inaugural race took place in 1946; it started on the Junior School playing fields and was won by a local, Bateman Eyre. In 1954, the start line moved to the sports ground. The course and distance stayed pretty much the same over the years. The new course for 2009 will, therefore, be a significant change and will offer variety under foot, two good climbs, a summit and a fast descent back home to the sports ground.

The Watson family, Mr Hubert Eyre and Severn Trent Water are very generously allowing us to cross their land during the race. This means that we have been able to extend the course, reduce the road section at the beginning & end of the race and replaced it with a cross-country route.

Last year we re-introduced a Fun Run for children (aged 6 – 9) and a Junior race (age 10 – 15). With the promise of a medal for each participant, over 30 children took part in the Fun Run. This was a wonderful turnout and more medals had to be ordered. This year we are placing a bulk order for medals in anticipation of another enthusiastic turnout. The Junior Race followed a new cross-country route (3.25km) and is being more widely publicised for this year so as to attract locals and club runners.

We must mention Derek Jewell who for 25 years has tirelessly helped organise the event has relinquished his role but will help out on the day. Derek won the race in 1979 with further top finishing places thereafter. The race in the past has run a rocky path but his enthusiasm for fell running has kept this race alive. Thank you.

So with the promise of tea, cakes, flapjacks, and spot prizes and, above all, a friendly well-organised evening it just leaves me to say, we look forward to seeing you there.

Mark Bartley

C0-Organiser