Running up and down hills amid some of Britain’s most remote and rugged terrain might seem the preserve of hardy, veteran athletes, but in reality, anyone with a reasonable level of fitness can enjoy the exhilarating experience of fell running.
Heading out in a group will minimise the risks associated with running in exposed, mountainous areas, but can detract from the sense of adventure. Here are a few tips to bear in mind if you’re heading out solo:
1 Weather conditions can change quickly, so always take waterproof layers, a hat and gloves with you.
2 Plan your route in advance (including possible cutbacks) and let someone know where and how long you will be.
3 Run conservatively to avoid sustaining an injury.
4 Memorise features as you pass them to make locating yourself on a map as easy as possible.
5 Surfaces are mixed, trail shoes are recommended.
Above all, always err on the side of caution: it’s all too easy to be seduced by your surroundings, and find yourself in trouble minutes later.
In the case of bad weather we have a mandatory kit list that will be enforced and we reserve the right to refuse entry for any participant who does not have the specified kit as follows:
- Waterproof coat with hood and taped seams
- Waterproof trousers with taped seams
- Gloves
- Hat
- Emergency food
- Compass/Whistle/Map of the route
- Appropriate footwear
Random spot checks will be carried out before and after the race. The kit list requirements may be relaxed in the case of good weather and this will be emailed out in the final race instructions. You may also wish to carry some or all of the following:
- Mobile phone
- Foil bivy bag
- Spare top
The route is marshalled at important intersections but elsewhere is only partially marked. Whilst the event does not require specialist navigation skills you should make yourself familiar with the course prior to setting off.
The route is a fixed course- no shortcuts allowed!
Entrants are requested to keep to the footpaths, respect other users of the route and not to litter or bring dogs to the race.
You must inform the nearest Marshall or by the emergency number if you have to retire, this will be provided in the final race instructions.
You must return your dibber to the nearest Marshall or registration area at the start/finish. Otherwise you will be liable for cost of replacement.
Checkpoint opening times
To be sure that we don’t have marshalls having to wait for long periods at checkpoints are not open indefinitely. Also, all runners MUST register at all checkpoints or may be disqualified. This is an important safety considering
We’ve created a helpful page to aid with deciding whether to walk or run and what time to set off
Use this page to check arrival times at checkpoints
If you decide to drop out at dennis knoll there is the option of a shorter route back so you can still make the most of the day (see below). This will not be marshalled so you would need to navigate your way back.
At burbage south there isn’t much choice of a short route so you would have to come back with one of the marshalls or catch the bus that conveniently stops just near the check point.
We will do our best to give you a lift back but can’t absolutely guarantee this. It is however very important that you come back to finish as we need to account for all entrants.
Map showing short route back from dennis knoll, see dashed red line
