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Written by Tony Rogers
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Wednesday, 07 October 2009 17:38 |
Results are now available at http://www.ukresults.net/2009/cracker.html and photos are available from Mick Hall Photos and Bryan Dale.
Staffs Moorlands AC are staging the 25th Christmas Cracker Race on Sunday 20th December. The event starts at Tittesworth Visitor Centre and is a challenging 8-mile multi terrain race over the top of the Roaches to Roach End then returning via road and fields back down the valley to finish at Tittesworth.
The 2008 event attracted a record number of finishers (413) from all over the UK and it is hoped that the 2009 race entry will be around the 450 mark.
Last years race was won by Matt Barnes (unattached) in a very fast time of 48:37 only 5 seconds in front of GB international fell runner Simon Bailey (Mercia). Third place went to Stuart Bond (Tommy Fell Stars) in a time of 49:32. Stuart won the race in both 2006/2007.
First veteran male runner was Michael O'Shea (Northbrook AC) in 9th place overall 54:35.
Staffs Moorlands AC had their own notable performances in the 2008 event with Matt Clowes fourth overall and Jason Burgess in 5th place. Clowes & Burgess along with Gareth Briggs 8th & Ryan Holroyd 10th took the male team prize
Moorlands Pete Martin ran well to finish 11th to take the male veteran-45 year age prize & John Walker from Moorlands claimed the male veteran 50 year age prize.
The ladies race was won by Jackie Lee (Eyri Harriers) 1:00:24 with Kate Bailey (Merionydd) 2nd in 1:00:45, Sarah Harris (Macclesfield Harriers) took 3rd in 1:02:21.
Ist veteran lady overall was Adele Salt (Trentham) 1:03:52.
There are trophies and prizes for 1,2,3, Male & Female runners + 1st male & female veteran finishers. Also prizes for all veteran age categories and a special festive memento to all finishers. There is also the 'King of the Mountain' trophy for the first runner to the Trig point at the highest point on the course awarded in memory of Moorlands founder member Mike Bishop.
The fancy dress element is a huge part of the Cracker's appeal and prizes are awarded for best individual & team costumes. The awards are in memory of the late Ron Lucas. The Cheadle International runner was a great supporter of the Cracker and always competed in fancy dress and it is Ron's family who choose the winning costumes.
Hot drinks will be provided free of charge by 2nd Leek Scouts at the finish and course safety will be provided by Staffs Special Constabulary, Buxton Mountain Rescue, St John Ambulance & Raynet Communication.
Last years race proceeds enabled more than £600.00 to be donated to both. (Buxton Mountain Rescue) & (County Air Ambulance)
Entry forms can be down-loaded from www.staffsmoorlands-ac also from Sporting Trophies, St Edward St, Leek. or by ringing Dave Owen on 01538 382438
" The 'Cracker' race is unique in that it provides what is a seriously tough race at the sharp end often attracting some of the best fell runners around, but by also providing the opportunity at the end of the racing year for runners to run in fancy dress and enjoy the lighter side of competition for a change".
"The scenery, especially off the top of the Roaches is stunning and the unique setting attracts runners and their families back year after year. The fancy dress element gives the race a carnival atmosphere that is enjoyed not only by runners & spectators but also by all the organisations who assist on race day."
" It is hoped that the 2009 race attracts a record entry as numbers have grown year on year and the popularity of the race increases as more and more runners and families come to enjoy what is a great day out in a beautiful area of the Peak District Park" The Cracker caters for all from international fell runners to first-timers wishing to enjoy a unique race experience"
" It is thanks to all the individuals & groups who assist in the race planning and on the day organisation that make the race a success and continue to boost it's popularity" especially Tittesworth Reservoir who welcome us back each year and now include the race in their annual events calendar."
The entry form for the 2009 Christmas Cracker race can be downloaded here. |
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Last Updated on Monday, 21 December 2009 09:24 |
Christmas Cracker
