From Rebecca Mon-Williams…

The Rombalds Stride always marks the beginning of the “racing” year for me (being a bit slower off the mark than some). Having not done it for a couple of years I was looking forward to going over familiar ground again and having a “grand day out”. It’s a 21/22 mile race which starts in Guiseley, meanders up Baildon moor, loops round Ilkley moor (it’s hard not to feel the pull of home at that point) and then heads back to Guiseley again via the Chevin (somewhat cruelly).

The race is organised by the LDWA which means: 

(i) There are lots of walkers as well as runners, giving the whole event a more relaxed feel.

(ii) There are plenty of food stops – I was particularly appreciative of the fig rolls, chocolate raisins and jaffa cakes this year.

(iii) A well deserved pie, peas and rice pudding is waiting for all competitors at the end

Support on the course was fantastic – big thanks to Jean, Richard, Lucy, Jane and the crew at Burley, to Dan who I spotted a couple of times on Ilkley Moor, and to all others who were cheering and encouraging.  

It was great to see so many Harriers participating, and there were some fantastic results, including Oli Murphy who won the race in an excellent time of 2 hours 38 minutes and Kate Archer who was 3rd lady in a time of 3 hours 27 minutes. Amazing. Congratulations to everyone who took part and hopefully enjoyed their own personal victories.