woolerrunning

July 1st 2017

Full race results click here: SPORTident

227 (of an expected 286) runners started the epic Chevy Chase fell race this year on a windy but warm day. The weather during the month prior to the race had been very warm with little rain fall – two days before the weekend we had 48 hours of rain so the underfoot conditions were back to being boggy and fairly spongy. You cannot do a race of this calibre without getting muddy legs! The hills were clear of cloud making for good visibility and the runners certainly took on the challenging course with much enthusiasm and determination. On completing the 20 miles runners returned to the start point to be refreshed with mugs of tea, juice, sandwiches and cakes and also to get their well earned T shirts.

This year a new team took over the running of the race, kindly supported by the ‘old gang’ of Claire Bagness and Mary Logan – a hard act to follow certainly but the committee made up of Wooler Running Club Members and local outdoor pursuits company Reiver Guiding did a grand job and the day went smoothly thanks to the whole team.

As ever an event such as this cannot take place without the volunteers at the start/finish point, the marshalls out and about on top of Cheviot and Hedgehope as well as at the furthest flung points on the course. Also the superb assistance of The Northumberland National Parks Search and Rescue Team and the landowners who allow us access to this amazing area. Prizes were donated by Gear for Girls – a great local shop in Wooler which provides specialist sport and outdoor clothing and Salomon. Without the generosity of the above we would not be able to put on such an event, and we are incredibly grateful to them all.

John Butters repeated his win of last year in an incredible time of 2.57 – impressively dipping under 3 hours. Will Robson came in second in 3.12 closely followed by Graham Simpson in 3.17. Graham also won the prize for first local male home. The ladies also had a close fought battle with Katherine Davies winning in 3.50 and Karen Robertson 3.51 – neck and neck right to the last few metres. Shirley Cassidy came in just behind them in 4.02 and she also won the prize for first local female home.

The team prize for men went to Northumberland Fell Runners (John Butters, John Duff and Scott Gibson whilst the ladies prize went to North Shields Poly (Katherine Davies, Lisa Henderson and Jenny Simpson) The Geordie Douglas Memorial Trophy presented to the oldest and boldest competitor went to Mike Gill and The Alan Gardener Trophy which celebrates the Spirit of the Chevy Chase was awarded to Glen McWilliams. Local Wooler resident, Glen, has competed in 25 Chevys, he organises fell races and charity runs and has also created the McWilliams Round – a unique hill run starting and finishing in Wooler.

It is hoped that you all enjoyed this year’s race and we very much look forward to seeing you all in 2018. Bring it on!