Denis Stitt Memorial Fell Race 2014

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14 August 2014

This year the race was moved back to its original time of August in an effort to avoid clashes with other local races. It paid off as the field was up to 60, an increase of 24 from last year.

Penistone Footpath Runners, who made it one of their championship races, brought 25, and along with 18 from host club Holmfirth made up the majority of the field. It’s a shame the race doesn’t receive a wider audience as, though short, it is extremely challenging.

Off to a fine start

However, with showers dotting the surrounding countryside, the race got off to a fine start as the runners set off down the long downhill track.  Andy Swift from Penistone held a narrow lead over Joe Washington from Calder Valley at the end of the first lap and this was unchanged as they came in to do a lap of the cricket field to finish. Mike Fanning running for Borrowdale, but now living in Holmfirth, came in 30 seconds later in 3rd place. The next eight places were filled by Holmfirth runners, giving them first and second team prizes.

Helen Berry, who is in great form at the moment, was first woman in fifth overall and along with Maggie Sykes thirteenth, and Alison Smith 58th claimed first female team.

Thanks to Cartworth Moor Cricket Club for use of their facilities and putting on a great chilli and keg of beer.

Thanks also to all the marshals, timekeepers, results team etc. without whom these events wouldn’t be possible.

John Ewart

2014 Denis Stitt Fell Race results