Richmond continues his good run of form in the Narradale fell race

The long-category Narradale fell race (roughly half-marathon distance) took place on Saturday in favourable conditions.

Infrequently held, the latest round of the Callin Wild-sponsored series included various route choices, with a couple of considerable ascents, notably from the river crossing, upstream of Block Eary to Snaefell, where low cloud and mist was touching the peak later in the day.

A healthy entry of 76 took part, starting from the lane leading to the Ohio plantation track near Sulby Claddagh.

The uphill trek continued beyond the plantation for some distance before reaching checkpoint one where runners were presented with a choice of route which split the field.

All converged beyond the green lane (part of the Millennium Way) and descended then climbed alongside the plantation towards checkpoint two; the cairn of stones denoting the peak of Slieau Managh.

Then came a myriad of options in terms of the most direct route, but over rough and indistinct terrain or to follow the comparative luxury of joining the Millennium Way path, skirting past the impressive tholtan.

Next came the inevitable wet feet of the stream crashing, making checkpoint three then the seemingly never-ending ascent to the top of Snaefell. The checkpoint had to be slightly ahead of the actual trig point marker due to the continued construction.

The next two checkpoints could be taken in the runner’s preferred order but most traversed round Victory cafe towards the Black Hut to the Mountain Box.

A flagged section across private land led to Glen Auldyn and the check at the lowest possible point by the river. Then another thigh and lung punishing ascent towards the tarns (small pond).

Onwards and downwards, the latter stages were just as tough, in parts almost riverbed-like conditions, back to Sulby and the finish line.

The leading runners were Dan Richmond, winner of the inaugural Back Yard Ultra, Sam Jones, Mathew Christian, Liam Parker and fifth-place finisher Oliver Harrison, the latter (first U23) continuing great promise following his win in the tough Spirit of Axnfell race.

Nikki Arthur was the first women in ninth place overall, while Jessica Blackly produced another impressive run in 21st overall. Rosy Craine was next (first V50), followed by Jan Gledhill (1st V60) and fifth Harriet Hancox (V40). Jane Rose was the first female over 60 in 4:31:38.

Many thanks to Callin Wild, DEFA and landowners for access, the organising team, timekeepers and especially the hardy marshals out on the course for hours.

The next race will be the new Snaefell and More Tholtans on Saturday, December 5 (full details on MFR Facebook page).

Narradale fell race results (top 20): 1, Dan Richmond 1hr 55min 57sec; 2, Sam Jones 1:58:20; 3, Matthew Christian 2:00:00; 4, Liam Parker 2:03:06; 5, Oliver Harrison 2:06:41; 6, Tom Felton-Smith 2:09:53; 7, Andy Cannell (1st MV40) 2:21:45; 8, Tom Cringle 2:22:36; 9, Nikki Arthur 2:23:06; 10, John Wood 2:24:38; 11, Matt Callister (MV50) 2:25:47; 12, 26 Adam Fretwell 2:28:45; 13, Tom Williams 2:29:16; 14, Mark Teare 2:29:51; 15, Paul Kneen 2:30:18; 16, Paul Sheard (MV60) 2:36:26; 17, Kewin Kerruish 2:37:39; 18, Gordon Crowe (MV60) 2:38:41; 19, Ryan Hampson 2:39:49; 20, Chris Addy 2:41:08.

LEE ALSTEAD