Hardwolds 80
Saturday saw the 2nd Hardwolds 80. Hardmoors describe the event as following the Wolds Way from Hessle to Filey passing through chalk landscapes with dry valleys and stunning wildlife alongside market towns and ancient villages such as Brantingham, Londesborough, Thixendale and the deserted medieval village of Wharram Percy, before arriving at the seaside resort of Filey.
Four Ripon Runners were on the start line at 8am. Runners have 24 hours to complete the 81 miles. The course has 9,100ft of ascent. Due to the time of year much of the running is completed in the dark making a more challenging event. The weather forecast predicted persistent rain showers throughout the 24 hour period and unfortunately for once this was accurate. Rain fell for the majority of the race and visibility was poor throughout the day and particularly bad at night. This made running at night with head torches on much less effective. In addition, the continuous wet weather leading up to the race made the ‘dry valleys’ anything but dry. The underfoot conditions were relentless and very tiring.
First back for the club in 18 hours and 7 minutes was Claire Baker who claimed 2nd lady and 10th place overall. Claire was followed by Matthew Holt in a time of 20 hours 30 minutes and Paul Walker completed the course in 21 hours and 16 minutes, all well within the 24 hour cut off. Tony Carr completed 67 miles but unfortunately after a valiant effort he was timed out at Ganton.