From John Hayes…
The chances of having to navigate deep bogs or large snow drifts were significantly reduced by holding this year’s race in September instead of February. Indeed, in contrast to the usual snow, hail or freezing rain, this year’s challenge was coping with the heat. I can usually depend on the the snow/bogs to slow me down, and so it was a bit of a shock to the system to find the ground fast underfoot. Even the jungle-sized bracken in places didn’t get in the way. I assume this was a result of the enthusiastic efforts of those who “pruned” the route in advance (including my dad Spike, who likes that kind of thing). Huge thanks go to Steve and the many helpers and marshals who pull together every year to maintain this race’s status as a favourite in the fell running calendar. I remarked to Steve at the finish that today’s event had been such a success that perhaps the race should become biannual. He responded with a wry smile and a polite but firm no!