It's Grim Up North
Report by Anne Cheeseman
It’s Grim Up North Black Sheep 3 and 6 Hour Challenge – Sunday 15th September
Six Ripon Runners were keen to get started in chillier than expected conditions at Masham. Hosted by the enthusiastic and supportive Grim Up North crew, all runners were set off at the same time on a 3.3ish mile loop course. Mixed undulating terrain, often on twisting narrow paths, through woods, across rough grass fields, over the golf course, along the edge of ploughed fields, and some road sections, made it a tough course, with the added attraction of numerous stiles and a variety of gates to be negotiated! We were also asked not to run into churchgoers as we ran through the church grounds, and advised that if we were scared we could be accompanied through a field of horses!
At the end of each lap you were given a wristband to wear as a way of counting laps completed. Runners then chose to finish running or start the next lap, so long as you were still within the time limit of the challenge you had entered.
An enjoyable well-organised event, with Ripon Runners taking on their challenges and achieving targets. The usual Grim Up North goodies of medal and chocolate were accompanied by a bottle of Black Sheep Ale, with the added bonus of BBQ sausage in a bun and cake at the finish.
In the 6 hour challenge Dave Nicklas placed a brilliant 7th overall, completing 9 laps, a total of 30.15 miles, 1st in 5hrs13m for the distance covered. Lena Conlin completed 8 laps to achieve her 94th marathon in 6hrs15m. A great and determined effort towards her marathon target.
In the 3 hour challenge Victoria Morris flew round 7 laps, covering 23.45miles in 3hrs15m, an outstanding 2nd overall and top lady. Jo Pears completed 6 laps, just over 20 miles in 3hrs11m, with Katherine Richardson not far behind completing the same distance in 3hrs22m. Both ladies achieving their aim and using the event towards marathon training. Anne Cheeseman completed 5 laps in 2hrs50m, 16.75miles, meeting a personal distance target.
Great performances all round from Ripon Runners. Always a friendly, relaxed and encouraging atmosphere at the Grim Up North events, whilst still having a competitive edge.