No conspiracy theories here, there really were three Harriers who took on day three of Rochdale Harriers’ weekend event and the demanding Knowl Hill fell race.
A challenging six mile fell race, with 1299ft of ascent, which skirts alongside the Greenbooth and Naden Reservoirs, before an all-fours scramble up to the moors. From there it’s round the Knowl Hill trig point, a fast descent to the reservoirs and one further climb before descending to Doctor Dam and then 200m to the finish line.
Taking place on what was to prove one of the hottest days of the year, there was very little chance of breaking records on the day, with many of the 122 entrants just being happy to complete the race.
That said, our three tenacious Harriers took flight at 11 am for what could arguably be their hardest race of the year, particularly given the complete lack of water stations on route.
Katie Walshaw, as is customary, set off with the leaders with Phil Hinchcliffe in close pursuit. Katie continued her great form this season to finish 6th overall in 50.50 and 1st lady by eight minutes.
Phil finished in 43rd position in 67.31 with Jessica O’Brien in 91st position completing the race in 81.17.
