Persistent overnight rain and strong winds led to the Borrowdale Fell Race being cut short.  After the initial climb up Bessyboot and boggy traverse to Esk Hause, runners were directed to Sty Head as Scafell Pike was deemed to be too wet and exposed to be safely tackled.  At Sty Head the normal route was re-joined with the stiff ascent of Great Gable.  A slither off in the mist led to greasy running over Brandreth and Grey Knotts.  This just left the small matter of the slog up Dale Head, before the final descent through the slate mines.  The river was in spate, so the usual river-crossing was out of bounds and a diversion to a nearby bridge took precedence.

A cracking turnout of 18 runners from NFR completed the race.  Garry Owens was first home (and 3rd V50 overall) finishing just ahead of David Armstrong who took a tumble on the last descent.  Old Cheviot had Rachel Vincent (Tynedale) in his sights until he too fell over coming off Grey Knotts and was left to rue what might have been.  Unbeknown to Old Cheviot he was being tracked by Lewis Grundy (fresh from his round the world jaunt) until Lewis also came a cropper on Brandreth.

Louise Wilkinson was next home with some strong climbing after Honister, showing the strength gained from long adventure races.  Phil Green was happy to complete his first Borrowdale, and keen to return for the full length experience next year.  Bernard Kivlehan made it round again without the time pressure of last year, and James Tomlin brought NFR home.

In the evening, most club members stayed over for some chat and rehydration in The Scafell Hotel.  Peter Reed was to the fore in the bar, and Chris Little led the way on the dance-floor of the marquee later on.

Roll on next year.

Old Cheviot

photos on the Borrowdale FR website