15km Trail (9.3mi/1460')

The first of a series of 4 Puma trail races was held at Hawkshead on Saturday in glorious sunshine. For those of you who are out-and-out fell runners, then these probably aren't the races for you - there was even some tarmac in this one and not a peat bog in sight! (disappointing really as I've just got my socks clean from the Borderer!).

The race starts in the village centre and is 15km on trails passing through Far Sawrey and winds down to a path at the side of Windermere (lovely in the sun with lots of boats etc), before the 'sting in the tail' ascent up the notorious Coffin Trail and back via Hawkshead and into the main field for a grandstand finish!

I enjoyed the race and would like to do it again, although the entry fees are fairly hefty but this doesn't seem to put off the crowds as the races fill up quickly (I think about 1000 entries in the main race on Sat plus loads more in the more gently paced Challenge event over the same course). The prizes are interesting (?) - large for the winner £200 + kit, then only kit for 2nd - 6th. No need to worry about that then as the competition is stiff. Loads of spot prizes were awarded at the presentation including trail shoes & family tickets for various Lakes attractions. I was lucky & got 2 pairs of socks!

There was entertainment for the kids - face painting (we got free tickets for this with the girls race entries), bouncy castle, ice creams etc... The junior trail races followed the main event. They were very short involving a run out and back of about 300m but well organised with all finishers receiving a medal. Jessica and Poppy wore their NFR vests with pride (well more of a dress in Poppy's case!). Jess decided to 'go for it' after a disappointing experience at the Anniversary Waltz races last year. She went off like a hare and was delighted to be the first girl home and 10th overall. Poppy held my hand all of the way and sucked her thumb some of the way! This may not be a strategy to employ in your future races, but it worked for her and she was pleased with her shiny medal! So a good day out, helped by the sunshine and a well organised (if expensive) race with something for all of the family.

Steph Scott

results (adults) | Lakeland Trails

fast descent back to Hawkshead - from the 2007 race - Rob