Report from Gary Jones:

Pendulum Fell Race 2017

Ever since Glen and Jack Mcwilliams created this A class brute of a race I thought I’m going to have a go at that, but having said that looking at the pictures of the 2016 edition I was pleased I was greeted on arrival with near ideal conditions apart from a bit of wind. It was nice to catch up with a few NFR new and old as well as some faces from further afield like Paul Butler and Joe Blackett. As I’ve not being on scene much in recent years I didnt know what to expect. Jack done the briefing Whilst some motivational music played which was definately unique in any fell race I’ve ever been to. The race stated and after the first stile a group of 4 headed by Edis of Keswick went on the more runnable but longer Track to the right Whilst myself and a little further back fellow NFR Scott Gibson took the more direct left trod. The front of the race stayed much the same all the way up Cheviot which was marvellously dry with a prevailing wind. On the top the leaders had already opened up a fair lead with Edis, Kurt Heron,and 2 DFR runners ahead with Andy Blackett and NFR Lee Bennett not far behind me. I descended quite well but conserving energy was joined by Andy who I know is a good climber.
Passed back down by the bridge ready for the steep initial climb to the Crags and I could see 4th not too far ahead. I was filled with trepidation at the prospect prospect of a bog before the very tough climb up Hedgehope but after the Crags whilst in pursuit of Blackett it was really quite dry!
The climb up Hedgehope was a case of head down and yomp trying to bridge the gap ahead.
On the descent off Hedgehope despite a jelly legged descent I Passed Heron to go to 6th which would never of happened in a road race (the more fell races he does with his raw speed then look out!). The run in accross to the Crags and down to the finish was most enjoyable and finished 6th.
This 11.2 mile 3689ft classic certainly is a tough one but a brilliant route and great event put on by the Mcwilliams and very well done to all my fellow NFR and all other runners for completing.
I hope this becomes a permanent fixture on the Fell running calendar.

Gary