http://www.trailrunning.co.uk Latest articles on Trail Running in the UK en-gb Copyright © TrailRunning.co.uk 2012 Thu, 17 May 2012 15:14:13 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=2AFD29BF-A748-48A6-3A9732884EFF0AD4 The opening 2012 Lakeland Trails series at Cartmel got off to a great start on Saturday 17th March from Cartmel Racecourse. The biggest field yet for a Lakeland Trails event, 1300 competitors, took part in the various events from all over the UK with overseas visitors from USA, Sweden, Holland, Germany, Belgium and France. Batala Lancaster got everyone pumping at the starts with their awesome Brazilian samba drumming. The going was distinctly soft for the course, and everyone had to work hard to earn their "survivor's" T shirts and locally produced sticky toffee puddings. To celebrate St Patrick's Day, there was even cold Guinness at the feed stations for those with Irish blood. Commonwealth Games Champion, Lizzie Adams, who now lives in Ulverston, broke the 18km women's course record, finishing an incredible fourth place overall. GB International Orlando Edwards, made the long journey from London and won the 18km Cartmel Trail Race comfortably. The Sticky Toffee Trail Run 10km was won by Chris Barnes, from Blackburn Harriers, and Sarah Ridehalgh, from Accrington Road Runners scooped the first lady's trophy. A live performance by singer / songwriter Pete Lashley before the prize giving entertained the crowds. The event was supporting the local BAY Search and Rescue charity, along with King George V Playing Field Committee from Allithwaite. Event sponsors and partners included lifestyle brand PUMA, hydration partner NUUN, Cartmel Racecourse, R and R Photos, Wilson's Kendal Mint Cake, Pete Bland Sports, Trailrunning.co.uk; TrekandRun.com; Sleepmonsters.com, Bay Search & Rescue, King George V Playing Field Committee. Race Reports Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:44:56 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=2AFD29BF-A748-48A6-3A9732884EFF0AD4 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=F8F44AD6-C909-ECFD-D12AB0165FBCF4BF Only a few days remain before the discounted early bird entry closes and the entry fees for the 2012 Spring and Marathon Lakeland Trails events go up on 1st February. There are some great multi event early bird discounts too, including a Spring and Autumn Series ticket offer of just £99.00 for six events; and a Spring Series ticket offer of just £59.00 for the first three events at Cartmel, Hawkshead and Staveley. Entries have been flooding in for the 2012 events, and Cartmel is already 80% full, and the Hawkshead and Marathon events are currently 60% full. Organisers are suggesting people enter soon to guarantee their places, and both online and postal entry options are available from the event website www.lakelandtrails.org News Fri, 20 Jan 2012 02:31:26 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=F8F44AD6-C909-ECFD-D12AB0165FBCF4BF http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=F8EE4B7F-CCFA-4201-3D5414C1C8690DFF The opening event in the 2012 Lakeland Trails series at Cartmel Racecourse in the Lake District on 17th March 2012 is proving a sweet temptation to many, and the event is currently 80% full. The first event of the day is at 11 o'clock, with the Sticky Toffee Trail Run 10km. Featuring a grandstand start and finish on the Racecourse, with amazing views across Morecambe Bay, the 10km off road course also has sections of deep mud and a river crossing near the end to wash the muck off. All finishers are rewarded with a locally produced sticky toffee pudding and an event finishers technical T shirt memento. For those wanting even more punishment, the afternoon sees the running of the Cartmel Trail Challenge 18km starting at 1 o'clock - an event geared up for the less competitive and charity runner. This is followed by the Blue Riband event, the Cartmel Trail Race 18km, for the serious guys and girls. The awesome Brazilian samba drumming band Batala Lancaster will be performing throughout the day and making sure everyone is pumped with adrenaline before they set off. The event is supporting the regional charity BAY Search and Rescue, and you can enter online vie the event website www.lakelandtrails.org News Fri, 20 Jan 2012 02:24:53 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=F8EE4B7F-CCFA-4201-3D5414C1C8690DFF http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=ABAB4562-C6D2-B406-F27A3F7ABDE16212 Saturday 4th & Sunday 5th November 2011 A new record number of 1600 competitors took part in the final Lakeland Trails Dirty Double events at Glenridding in the Lake District over the bonfire weekend. Glorious autumnal sunshine greeted visitors from all over the UK, along with a large contingent of French runners, and international visitors from USA, Australia, Belgium, Germany and Ireland. Winner of Saturdays 15km Helvellyn Trail Race was James Smith, Leeds City AC, in 53.01, with John Brown, Salford Harriers, runner up in 54.19 and Ben Hope, Woodford Green, in third in 55.34. Cambridges Emma Pooley, won the womens race in 62.51, with GB International Susan Partridge in second place in 63.54 and Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington Road Runners in third in 64.28. The Segretta Stompers New Orleans Jazz Band performed throughout the day, entertaining 1000 competitors and the crowds of spectators. Sundays event, the 2011 Lakeland Trails Finale, involved 600 competitors taking a half hour cruise on board the Ullswater Steamer Lady of the Lake whilst being serenaded by singer/songwriter Pete Lashley. The race then started from the hamlet of Howtown, along the 14km Ullswater Trail, widely regarded as the most scenic lakeside trail in the UK, finishing by Glenridding Pier. GB International, Ben Abdelnoor, Ambleside AC, dominated the event, finding the undulating course to his liking and winning in a fine 54.01. Second was Bromsgroves Adam Lloyd in 57.44 and third, Ian Hunter, Kimberley & District Striders in 61.10. Another local athlete, Rebecca Sheffield, from Windermere, won the ladies race in 64.52, from runner up Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington Road Runners, in 66.09 and GB International, Susan Partridge, Leeds City AC in 69.53 Ben and Sarah collected original works of art from Lakeland Trails artist in residence, Shane Green, for winning the weekends Dirty Double award, combining their times from both Saturdays Helvellyn Trail and Sundays Ullswater Trail. However, the biggest cheer went up for the Gingerbread Man, Lee Richards, running the event for charity, who finished in an amazing 107.24. A record amount of over £5, 000 was raised for various national and regional charities, including Help For Heroes and Guide Dogs for the Blind. The event was also supporting the regional charities Cancer Care and North West Air Ambulance. Main partners of the event were lifetsyle brand PUMA, Ullswater Steamers, R and R Photos, VO2 Max Events along with Eden District Council, Pete Bland Sports, Trailrunning.co.uk and Wilsons Kendal mint cake. Discounted early bird entry is now open for the 2012 Lakeland Trails events, including a brand new series of 10km Lakeland Trail Runs at every venue, and the 2nd Lakeland Trails Marathon in Coniston, the most picturesque marathon in the UK The 2012 series opener is at Cartmel Racecourse, on 17th March 2012, when every finisher is rewarded with a locally produced sticky toffee pudding for their efforts, along with an event finishers technical T shirt memento. See the event website www.lakelandtrails.org for more details. Helvellyn Trail Race 15km  Saturday 5th November 2011 Results  Men : 1. James Smith, Leeds City AC, 53.01; 2. John Brown, Salford Harriers, 54.19 (1st V40); 3. Ben Hope, Woodford Green, 55.34; 4. Ben Abdelnoor, Ambleside AC, 55.59; 5. Marcus Scotney, Dumfries Running Club, 57.14 Vet 50 : 1st Alan Metcalfe, Preston Harriers, 64.25; Vet 60 : 1st Tony Hesketh, Horwich RMI Harriers, 70.25; Vet 70 : 1st Malcolm Ball, North Norfolk Beach Runners, 104.23 Results  Women : 1. Emma Pooley, CUH & H Greyhounds, 62.51; 2. Susan Partridge, Leeds City AC, 63.54; 3. Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington RR, 64.28; 4. Rachael Thompson, Horwich RMI Harriers, 65.10; 5. Deborah Gowans, Accrington RR, 68.41 (1st V40) Vet 50 : 1st Annette Brown, Womens Running Network, 68.53; Vet 60 : 1st Valerie Machin, Cairngorm Runners, 115.38; Vet 70 : 1st Charm Robson, St Bees Tri, 112.16 Ullswater Trail Race 14km  Sunday 6th November 2011 Results  Men : 1. Ben Abdelnoor, Ambleside AC, 54.01; 2. Adam Lloyd, Bromsgrove, 57.44; 3. Ian Hunter, Kimberley & District Striders, 61.10; 4. Joseph Peate, Keighley, 61.20 (1st V40); 5. Nik Jagodzinski, Cornwall, 62.21 Vet 50 : 1st Roger Beardmore, Wymonham AC, 65.31; Vet 60 : 1st Graham Fraser, Allen Valley Striders, 83.30; Vet 70 : 1st Malcolm Ball, North Norfolk Beach Runners, 107.16 Results  Women : 1. Rebecca Sheffield, Windermere, 64.52; 2. Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington RR, 66.09; 3. Susan Partridge, Leeds City AC, 69.53; 4. Vikki Bradley, Wymondham AC, 71.30; 5. Alix Critchley, Northbrook AC, 72.12 Vet 40 : 1st Sally Buckworth, Guisborough, 78.29; Vet 50 : 1st Ann Cummings, Cockermouth, 89.33; Vet 60 : 1st Alison Leach, Darwen, 117.37; Vet 70 : 1st Charm Robson, St Bees Tri, 127.06 News Wed, 16 Nov 2011 09:18:08 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=ABAB4562-C6D2-B406-F27A3F7ABDE16212 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=D2CB49D9-D950-681B-0B9E730F26F19F59 Local Windermere athlete Rebecca Sheffield won her first ever Lakeland Trails event in Coniston on Saturday 1st October. In warm and sunny October weather, Rebecca had a real tustle with Accrington Road Runner Sarah Ridehalgh, proving the stronger over the testing 15km off road route. GB Ironman Triathlete Philip Graves (City of York AC), the youngest ever winner of an international Ironman, dominated the men's race, winning in 59.48. Harrogate Harrier Chris Miller finished runner up in 60.15 with Scotland's international Marcus Scotney making the podium in third in 60.34. A big field of 1000 runners from all over the UK, including a large group of 40 competitors from London's Serpenine Running Club, competed in this 7th running of the event, which was supporting the local charity Coniston Mountain Rescue, along with Cancer Care and North West Air Ambulance. International visitors from USA, New Zealand, Sweden, Belgium, France, Germany and Ireland were treated to incredible balmy, warm October sunshine, making for a great atmosphere at the finish, with performances throughout the day by Milnthorpe Steel Band and Pete Lashley. Oldest competitor, 78 year old Malcolm Ball, from Norfolk, won the Vet 70 category. Sponsors and partners include PUMA, R and R Photos, Pete Bland Sports, Wilsons Kendal Mint Cake, Trailrunning.co.uk, Sleepmonsters.com and VO2 Max Events The final 2011 Lakeland Trails event at Ullswater on 5th November, including a half hour cruise to the start aboard the Ullswater Steamer "Lady Pembroke" has only a few places remaining. Further details and full results from the event website www.lakelandtrails.org RESULTS Coniston Trail Race 15km - Men : 1. Philip Graves, City of York, 59.48; 2. Chris Miller, Harrogate Harriers, 60.15; 3. Marcus Scotney, Dumfries Running Club, 60.34; 4. Andrew Reeves, Serpentine Running Club, 61.06 (1st V40); 5. Steven O'Brien, Corstophine AC, 61.41 Vet 40 : 2. Bashir Hussain, Stockport Harriers, 61.53; 3. Steven Brennan, Glaxo Hoad Hill; 63.48 Vet 50 : 1. Roger Brewster, Clayton le Moors Harriers, 66.50 Vet 60 : 1. Michael Leck, Lancaster & Morecambe AC, 79.14 Vet 70 : 1. Malcolm Ball, North Norfolk Beach Runners, 103.19 Coniston Trail Race 15km - Women : 1. Rebecca Sheffiels, Windermere, 68.52; 2. Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington RR, 69.18; 3. Judith Turner, Carnegie Harriers, 73.28; 4. Margaret Beever, Stainland Lions, 73.52; 4. Angela Jordan, Stainland Lions, 75.36 Vet 40 : 1. Erika Johnson, Swaledale Road Runners, 78.05 Vet 50 : 1. Di Ellerton, Stoke on Trent, 78.44 Vet 60 : 1. Wendy Dodds, Clayton le Moors Harriers, 79.47 Vet 70 : 1. Charm Robson, St Bees Triers, 114.39 Race Reports Wed, 05 Oct 2011 07:35:30 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=D2CB49D9-D950-681B-0B9E730F26F19F59 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=388BC6EF-A1A6-EF78-3A99963B28B41F63 Local Keswick AC international runner, Russell Maddams, dominated the 6th Lakeland Trails event in Keswick on Saturday 3rd September. In torrential rain, Russell pulled away from an early leading bunch of athletes in the blue riband event, the Derwentwater Trail Race, including Northumberland Fell Runner Philip Sanderson, Scotland's international Marcus Scotney and London's road running expert David Miller. Winning by over a minute, a delighted Russell powered into the finish in 56.50, followed by Philip Sanderson in 58.06 and in third place Marcus Scotney (Dumfries Running Club) in 58.47. Kendal AC's GB International, fresh from her recent victory in the Swiss International Matterhornlauf, lived up to being the pre-race favourite, outclassing the women's field and finishing a staggering 7th place overall in 62.37. Runner up was in form Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington Road Runners, in 67.54, with Rachael Thompson, Horwich RMI Harriers, making the podium in third position in 68.07. International visitors from USA, Australia, Holland, Belgium, France, Germany and Ireland were treated to real honest Lakeland weather, with persistent rain throughout the day. Oldest competitor, 78 year old Malcolm Ball, from Norfolk, won the Vet 70 category. Segretta Stompers New Orleans Jazz Band provided live entertainment throughout the day, with singer Pete Lashley performing at the prize giving. The event was supporting the local Keswick Football Club, along with the regional charities Cancer Care and North West Air Ambulance. Sponsors and partners include PUMA, Ay Up Lights, R and R Photos, Pete Bland Sports, Wilsons Kendal Mint Cake, Trailrunning.co.uk, Sleepmonsters.com and VO2 Max Events The next Lakeland Trails event in Coniston on 1st October has only a few places remaining. Further details and full results from the event website www.lakelandtrails.org RESULTS : Derwentwater Trail Race 15km - Men 1. Russell Maddams, Keswick AC, 56.50; 2. Philip Sanderson, Northumberland Fell Runners 58.06 (1st V40); 3. Marcus Scotney, Dumfries Running Club, 58.47; 4. David Miller, Serpentine Running Club, 60.16; 5. Phil Winskill, Altrincham & District AC, 62.29 Vet 40 : 2. Rob Sellors, Manx Fell Runners, Isle of Man, 63.07; 3. David Lockett, Salford Harriers, 63.29 Vet 50 : 1. Stephen Smith, Preston Harriers, 62.34 Vet 60 : 1. Tony Hesketh, Horwich RMI Harriers, 72.32 Vet 70 : 1. Malcolm Ball, North Norfolk Beach Runners, 99.56 Derwentwater Trail Race 15km - Women 1. Sarah Tunstall, Kendal AC, 62.37; 2. Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington RR, 67.54; 3. Rachael Thompson, Horwich RMI Harriers, 68.07; 4. Claire McKeown, Border Harriers, 68.26; 4. Pauline Munro, Bingley Harriers, 69.58 (1st V40) Vet 50 : 1. Annette Brown, Women's Running Network 81.35 Vet 60 : 1. Sally Law, Ayr, SCOTLAND 92.04 Vet 70 : 1. Charm Robson, St Bees Triers 110.35 Race Reports Mon, 05 Sep 2011 08:44:37 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=388BC6EF-A1A6-EF78-3A99963B28B41F63 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=19C954F9-E293-636E-1344F34313FD8777 Just over 1000 competitors from as far afield as Australia, USA, Holland, Germany, France, Belgium and Ireland will be running in the 15km Derwentwater Trail, starting and finishing in Keswick on Saturday 3rd September. The course has been described as "the most scenic race in Britain" by Runnersworld magazine, and takes competitors on a well marked and marshalled trail along the old railway line towards Threlkeld, then high into the hanging valley of Glenderaterra, before returning around Lonscale Fell and by the side of Latrigg. Fresh from her recent victory in last weekend's Swiss International Matterhornlauf, GB International, Sarah Tunstall, from Kendal AC, will start as the favourite for the women's title. Sarah is almost back to full fitness after injury, and will be pushed hard by Vic Wilkinson, Bingley Harriers, and last year's winner Pippa Maddams, from Keswick AC. The men's race will also be a mouth watering affair, with last year's top three all back again to do battle : Nick Swinburn, Morpeth Harriers, Matt Whitfield, Bingley Harriers and Russell Maddams, Keswick AC The event is supporting Official Charity Partners Cancer Care, North West Air Ambulance, Fix The Fells and Keswick Football Club. A family friendly festival atmosphere is guaranteed at the finish venue of Fitz Park in Keswick, with delicious local food stalls, children's entertainments including face painting, bouncy castle, climbing wall and fun runs (start 12.30pm); retail and trade stands, PA commentary with MC, bar and live music from the Segretta Stompers New Orleans Jazz Band throughout the day, and a performance by singer / songwriter Pete Lashley for an hour before the prize giving (3.30pm-4.30pm). See the event website www.lakelandtrails.org for full details The event partners include PUMA, High 5, R and R Photos, Ay Up Lights, Pete Bland Sports, Trailrunning.co.uk and Sleepmonsters.com. News Tue, 30 Aug 2011 09:23:37 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=19C954F9-E293-636E-1344F34313FD8777 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=DBCEC49F-B7AD-DD46-89787A91A2647F1E Just over 1000 competitors from as far afield as Australia, New Zealand, USA, Japan, Dubai, Ethiopia, Switzerland, Germany, France, Belgium and Ireland will be running in the very first Lakeland Trails Marathon, starting and finishing in Coniston on Sunday 3rd July. The course is described as "the most picturesque marathon in the UK" and, being the first off road marathon in the Lake District, has captured the imagination of many. Taking in a complete circuit of Coniston Water, including the beauty spots of Tarn Hows and Beacon Tarn, the off road course is an accurate 42.2km marathon distance. Over £100, 000 is expected to be raised for various charities from the event, and some of the remarkable charity marathon runners include : Noel Bresland - one of the charity stars from the London Marathon, Noel is aiming to complete his 223 marathon challenge - one for every day of his son Ethan's life, for the charities Bliss and Children with Leukaemia. The Lakeland Trails Marathon will be his 31st marathon and he has so far raised an amazing £65, 000 - see www.223challenge.com Rik Vercoe - wearing race number 18, Rik is running his 18th marathon in 18 days in aid of the Elizabeth Foundation Charity, supporting infants and pre school children with hearing loss. It is the charity's 30th birthday, and to mark the occasion, Rik is aiming to complete 30 marathons in 30 weeks. He is almost half way to his target of £5000, having so far raised £2430 ! To sponsor Rik go to : www.justgiving.com/30Marathons Lee Richards - aiming to raise at least £4000 for Wakefield Hospice, in memory of his best pal's mum, who lost her long fight with cancer in 2006. Lee was working in Australia at the time and could not return for the funeral. As a big thank you for the care and support of Wakefield Hospice, Lee is aiming to raise as much money as possible by running the Lakeland Trails Marathon as part of his 15 challenges with 1500 miles. To sponsor Lee go to www.justgiving.com/2011thechallenge The event is also supporting Official Charity Partners Cancer Care, North West Air Ambulance, Fix The Fells, Coniston Mountain Rescue and Bay Rescue. A family friendly festival atmosphere is guaranteed at the finish venue of John Ruskin School in Coniston, with delicious local food stalls, children's entertainments including face painting, bouncy castle, climbing wall and fun runs (start 3pm); retail and trade stands, PA commentary with MC, bar and live music from singer / songwriter Pete Lashley. See the event website www.lakelandtrails.org for full details The event partners include the National Trust, Forestry Commission, LDNPA, PUMA, High 5, R and R Photos, Pete Bland Sports, Trailrunning.co.uk and Sleepmonsters.com. News Wed, 29 Jun 2011 15:30:19 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=DBCEC49F-B7AD-DD46-89787A91A2647F1E http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=D924E0F4-F52F-2AAF-1EB498D6A121C74F GB Internationals Gary Priestley (Horwich RMI Harriers), Phil Winskill (Keswick AC) and JAPAN's Yujiro Iida swapped the lead between them throughout Saturday's Hawkshead Trail Race. Early leader Phil Winskill was dropped around half way, and the battle for victory began with the tiny Japanese athlete Yujiro Iida, running in his first UK trail race, neck and neck with Gary Priestley. Torrential rain made underfoot conditions treacherous in places, and Priestley took advantage of his international mountain running experience to win by just 20 seconds from Japan's Iida in 66.04. Winskill made the podium in third in a time of 77.14 GB Marathon international Susan Partridge (Leeds City AC), in her first race snce breaking her personal best in the London Marathon, where she ran 2hrs 34 minutes, had to settle for runner up behind the in-form Pauline Munro (Bingley Harriers). Junior International mountain runner Mel Hyder from the local Helm Hill Runners, produced a fantastic performance to make the podium in 3rd place in 83.39. Almost one thousand runners from all over the UK, including visitors from Japan, New Zealand, Sweden, Holland and Ireland finished the various events on the day. Boom Dang Samba Dumming Band provided live entertainment throughout the day, with singer Pete Lashley performing at the prize giving. Jackie Newton, from event sponsors PUMA presented over £1000 worth of prizes. The event was supporting the local Coniston Mountain Rescue, along with the regional charities Cancer Care and North West Air Ambulance. The next event in the Lakeland Trails series is on 4th June at Staveley with only a few places still available. Further details and full results from the event website www.lakelandtrails.org RESULTS : Hawkshead Trail Race 16km Men - 1. Gary Priestley, Horwich RMI Harriers, 66.04; 2. Yujiro Iida, JAPAN, 66.27; 3. Phil Winskill, Keswick AC, 67.14; 4. Martin Roscoe, Leeds City AC, 67.58 (1st V40); 5. Adam Lloyd, Bromsgrove, W Midlands, 71.04 Vet 40 : 2. Steven Bennan, Glaxo Hoad Hill Harriers, 71.35; 3. Chris Gibbins, Harrogate, 73.25; Vet 50 : 1. Alan Metcalfe, Preston Harriers, 77.43; Vet 60 : 1. Tony Hesketh, Horwich RMI Harriers, 89. 23; Vet 70 : 1. Lawrie Woodley, Tattenhall Runners, 122.13 Women - 1. Pauline Munro, Bingley Harriers, 79.09 (1st V40); 2. Susan Partridge, Leeds City AC, 82.30; 3. Mel Hyder, Helm Hill Runners, 83.39; 4. Angela Armstrong, Carlisle Tri Club, 85.31; 5. Christine Holmes, Trentham Running Club, 85.37 Vet 50 : 1. Annette Brown, Bridlington, 107.43; Vet 60 : 1. Brenda Robinson, Rochdale Harriers, 143.05; Vet 70 : 1. Charm Robson, St Bees Triers, 135.16 Race Reports Tue, 10 May 2011 10:02:43 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=D924E0F4-F52F-2AAF-1EB498D6A121C74F http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=BA1F954A-E2BC-48C6-B62958F039654EAD One of Japan's top International runners, Yujiro Iida, from Tsunami hit Tohoku, starts as the favourite for this weekend's sell out Lakeland Trails event at Hawkshead on Saturday 7th May. Yujiro heads a capacity field of 1100 competitors taking to the 15km course, described by Runnersworld magazine as "the most scenic race in Britain". Yujiro says : "It is a huge honour that I can run in this great event as one of the invited runners and can compete with some of the UK's top athletes like James Walsh. I very much believe that I can make a great impact on the Hawkshead Trail Race and hopefully win the race and cheer up people in the Tohoku disaster hit area. I have set up my own fundraising webpage www.justgiving.com/yuji to help with funding for Japan's earthquake and tsunami appeal. My answer to help is through my running, and I am going to donate all the prize money earned from running races this year to the charity. I believe my attempts can also give hope and courage for the victims of the earthquake. I am really proud of being Japanese, we are moving forward and never give up - this is our Samurai spirit !" Other International visitors are taking part in the event from the United States, New Zealand, Sweden, Holland, Germany, Belgium and Ireland, along with people from all over the UK There are two main events during the day, with fitness walkers, charity and fun runners setting off at 1 o'clock on the 15km Hawkshead Challenge. This is followed by the blue riband event, the 15km Hawkshead Trail Race setting off at 2 o'clock, following exactly the same course. Favourites include Japan's Yujiro Iida (Team Salomon Japan), last year's winner and course record holder, GB International James Walsh (Leeds City AC), GB International Martin Roscoe (Leeds City AC), Scotland's Marcus Scotney (Dumfries Running Club), and Cumbria's Phil Winskill (Keswick AC). In the women's 15km race, a great race is expected between former World junior mountain running champion and GB International Victoria Wilkinson (Bingley Harriers) and Scotland's Commonwealth Games Marathon runner Susan Partridge (Leeds City AC), fresh from breaking her personal best in this year's London Marathon, with GB International Triathlete Vicky Graves (York City AC), last year's winner, Sarah Ridehalgh (Accrington Road Runners) and GB Junior International Melanie Hyder (Helm Hill Runners) all set to feature. The oldest male competitor is David Deaville from Chorley, aged 75, and the oldest lady is Ann Dukes, from Southampton Running Sisters, who is 73 Boom Dang samba drumming band will be performing live throughout the day, there are children's entertainments, bouncy castles, face painting, fun runs; retail and trade stands, food stalls, PA commentary and a great atmosphere. Singer /songwriter Pete Lashley will be performing his new song "Lakeland Trails" at the prize giving, and taking part in the Challenge event beforehand. The event will bring a huge economic boost to the region, expected to be in the region of £250 K. Official charity partners for the event include Cancer Care, North West Air Ambulance, and Coniston Mountain Rescue. The event is being sponsored by lifestyle brand PUMA, Pete Bland Sports, R and R Photos, Wilson's Kendal Mint Cake, Trailrunning.co.uk and Sleepmonsters.com News Wed, 04 May 2011 09:28:42 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=BA1F954A-E2BC-48C6-B62958F039654EAD http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=2F1BB93E-DB5E-98E6-CC25044318828924 Sub 4 minute miler and Commonwealth Games 800m runner Neil Speaight, from Belgrave Harriers, swapped his track spikes for trail shoes and won Saturday's opening 10km event at the Lakeland Trails in Cartmel on Saturday 2nd April. With torrential overnight rain, the going was distinctly soft to heavy underfoot. Yet the spring sun shone as the field set off from Cartmel Racecourse at 11 o'clock, and Neil made light work of the mud, winning the Sticky Toffee Trail Run 10km in a new course record of 39.08. Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington Road Runners, was a runaway winner in the ladies race, setting another course record of 42.59, and finishing off her preparations for the London Marathon in two weeks time where she hopes to run under three hours. The Blue Riband event of the day, the 2 o'clock 18km Cartmel Trail Race, was won by bookies favourite, GB International and in-form cross country runner, Gareth Raven, Sale Harriers, in 67.54, knocking almost two minutes off the previous course record - an outstanding performance given the soft conditions. Runner up was Alex Whittem in 73.38, from Calder Valley Fell Runners, with former course record holder, Nick Leigh, Altrincham & District AC finishing in 76.20, in third. Winner of the ladies race by several lengths was Ulverston resident and GB International Lizzie Adams, running for Hallamshire Harriers in 79.34. Second place went to Pauling Munro, Bingley Harriers in 87.25 with Angela Armstrong, Carlisle Triathlon Club, making the podium in third place in 91.30. Over one thousand runners from all over the UK, including visitors from United States, Holland, Belgium and Ireland finished the various events on the day, all earning themselves a Sticky Toffee Pudding for their efforts, along with an event T shirt memento. Milnthorpe Steel Band provided live entertainment throughout the day, with singer Pete Lashley performing at the prize giving. Richard Leafe, Chief Executive of the Lake District National Park Authority, finished the 18km Trail Race in 1 hr 49 mins and then presented over £1000 worth of prizes sponsored by lifestyle brand PUMA at the prize giving. The event was supporting the local King George V Allithwaite Playing Field Committee, along with the regional charities Cancer Care and North West Air Ambulance. The next event in the Lakeland Trails series is on 7th May at Hawkshead, with only a few places still available. Further details and full results from the event website www.lakelandtrails.org RESULTS : Cartmel Trail Race 18km (2.00pm Start) Men : 1. Gareth Raven, Sale Harriers,67.54 (course record); 2. Alex Whittem, Calder Valley FR 73.38; 3. Nick Leigh, Altrincham & District AC 76.20; 4. Chris Barnes, Unattached 80.18; 5. Breton Holdwsorth, Burnley 80.48 Vet 40 : 1. Chris Gibbins, Bingley Harriers 81.01; 2. Paul Boardman, Horwich RMI Harriers 88.07; 3. Chris Sanderson, Northumberland FR 88.11; Vet 50 : 1. Marcellus Springer, Horsforth Harriers 82.50; Vet 60 : 1. Tony Hesketh, Horwich RMI Harriers 91.42 Women : 1. Lizzie Adams, Hallamshire Harriers 79.34; 2. Pauline Munro, Bingley Harriers 87.25 (1st V40); 3. Angela Armstrong, Carlisle Tri Club 91.30; 4. Caroline Hellming, Spectrum Striders 92.09 (2nd V40); 5. Mel Hyder, Helm hill Runners 92.36 Vet 50 : 1. Ann Cummings, Cockermouth 113.44; Vet 60 : 1. Heather Thistleton, Cheshire Hash HH 140.45; RESULTS : Sticky Toffee Trail Run 10km (11.00am start) Men : 1. Neil Speaight, Belgrave Harriers 39.08 (course record); 2. Rodger Wilkins, TRI Clan 39.24; 3. James Rigby, Clitheroe 41.24 Women : 1. Sarah Ridehalgh, Accrington RR 42.59 (course record); 2. Elizabeth Collins, Clitheroe 49.52; 3. Shirley Wilson, Kendal 52.09 Race Reports Thu, 07 Apr 2011 09:37:16 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=2F1BB93E-DB5E-98E6-CC25044318828924 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=00F91E86-EC50-48A6-78DBABEC899D634E A huge field of almost 1300 competitors will take to the first 2011 Lakeland Trails at Cartmel Racecourse on Saturday, 2nd April, nearly double the number that took part last year. International visitors from the United States, Holland, Germany, Belgium and Ireland, along with people from all over the UK, will be making their way to the picturesque Cartmel village, home of the Sticky Toffee Pudding. This sweet treat is included in the finisher's goody bags, but first everyone must complete what has been described as a "Beauty and Beast" of a course. Setting off from the Cartmel Racecourse grandstand, the courses head along bridleways into open countryside, covering terrain which includes knee deep mud and a river crossing. There are three main events during the day, with the 10km Sticky Toffee Trail Run starting at 11 o'clock. Sub 4 minute miler and GB International 800m runner, Neil Speaight, from Belgrave Harriers, who represented England in the Commonwealth Games, looks likely to be the bookies favourite for the men's 10K title, with GB International Triathlete, Vicky Graves, from York City AC favourite for the women's 10K title. Fitness Walkers, charity and fun runners set off at 1 o'clock on the 18km Cartmel Challenge, with the blue riband event, the 18km Cartmel Trail Race setting off at 2 o'clock, following exactly the same course. A three horse race is expected from last year's winner, Scotland's Marcus Scotney (Dumfries Running Club), taking on the course record holder and 2009 winner Nick Leigh (Altrincham & District AC), along with GB Mountain Running International, Gareth Raven (Sale Harriers). In the women's 18K race, local athlete World Cross and Mountain Running medallist Sarah Tunstall (Kendal AC), looks a likely favourite as she returns from injury, but GB Internationals Lizzie Adams (Hallamshire Harriers, Sheffield), and Melanie Hyder (Helm Hill Runners) will give her a race. The oldest competitor is Malcolm Bell (race number 1021), from North Norfolk, who celebrates his 78th birthday on 10th April Milnthorpe Steel Band will be performing live throughout the day, there are children's entertainments, bouncy castles, face painting, fun runs; retail and trade stands, food stalls, PA commentary and a great atmosphere. Singer /songwriter Pete Lashley will be performing his new song "Lakeland Trails" at the prize giving, and Chief Executive of the LDNPA, Richard Leafe, will be taking part in the 18km race, and helping present the prizes afterwards. The event will bring a huge economic boost to the region, expected to be in the region of £250 K. Official charity partners for the event include Cancer Care, North West Air Ambulance, and King George V Allithwaite School Playing Field Committee. The event is being sponsored by lifestyle brand PUMA, Pete Bland Sports, R and R Photos, Trailrunning.co.uk and Sleepmonsters.com News Tue, 29 Mar 2011 10:36:56 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=00F91E86-EC50-48A6-78DBABEC899D634E http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=8F814604-A1E2-C0DA-623FE14AD7375EF0 All entry has now closed for the first Lakeland Trails event in Cartmel in the Lake District on 2nd April, with the event filling to capacity by 6th March. The event entry has almost doubled from last year, with almost 1300 competitors registered for the various events, all starting from the picturesque Cartmel Racecourse. At 11 o'clock, the 10km Sticky Toffee Trail Run sets off on the trail, followed at 1 o'clock by the 18km Cartmel Challenge, and finally, at 2 o'clock, the 18km Cartmel Trail Race. Live music from Milnthorpe Steel Band throughout the day will entertain both competitors and spectators alike. Singer / songwriter Pete Lashley, is performing for an hour before the prize giving. Kid's activities include bouncy castles, slides, face painting and children's Fun Trails, starting at 12.30pm. There will be food, retail and trade stands attending the event. Charity partners include Cancer Care, North West Air Ambulance and Fix The Fells. The event is being sponsored by lifestyle brand PUMA, R and R Photos, Pete Bland Sports, Trailrunning.co.uk and VO2 Max Events. News Mon, 07 Mar 2011 08:48:57 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=8F814604-A1E2-C0DA-623FE14AD7375EF0 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=EB157F01-DD12-4158-32F4D6FA5613163E A record number of competitors have already entered the 2011 Lakeland Trails at Cartmel Racecourse on 2nd April - a "Beauty & Beast" of a course. Organisers have increased the entry limits to cope with demand, and the final places are available on a first come, first served basis. Sticky Toffee Trail Run 10km (start 11.00am) - currently 82 places left (as of 2nd February) Cartmel Challenge 18km (start 13.00pm) - currently 61 places left (as of 2nd February) Cartmel Trail Race 18km (start 14.00pm) - currently 55 places left (as of 2nd February) Every finisher receives a locally produced sticky toffee pudding, and specially designed T shirt memento as their reward for completing the course. Over £2000 worth of prizes and a huge list of Spot Prizes Lakeland Trails make an awesome day out for all the family, with live music from Milnthorpe Steel Band and singer/songwriter Pete Lashley; kid's entertainments including fun runs, bouncy castles & slides, face painting; PA commentary, trade stands, retail stands, local food stalls, bar, onsite parking, camping facilities (Friday & Saturday), grandstand start and finish, professional photographers. See the event website www.lakelandtrails.org for more details Event Partners : Cartmel Racecourse, National Trust, Ullswater Steamers, PUMA, Pete Bland Sports, R and R Photos, Trailrunning Magazine, Sleepmonsters.com, Trailrunning.co.uk, Fix The Fells, Cancer Care, North West Air Ambulance and Cartmel School Playing Field Committee News Thu, 03 Feb 2011 10:33:30 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=EB157F01-DD12-4158-32F4D6FA5613163E http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=CCA09CC0-C42D-2AFF-56872B27717059E4 There are only a few days left for the discounted Early Bird Entry for the 2011 Lakeland Trails events, as the offer closes on 31st January. The first event, at Cartmel on 2nd April, has already achieved a new entry record of almost 1000 competitors, and the organisers are planning to increase capacity to cope with the unexpected demand. Each of the three events, the 10km Sticky Toffee Trail Run (start 11.00am); the 18km Cartmel Challenge (start 13.00pm) and the 18km Cartmel Trail Race (start 14.00) will have an entry limit of 500 per event. Online entry is available via this site, and for more information, please check the event website www.lakelandtrails.org News Fri, 28 Jan 2011 12:37:14 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=CCA09CC0-C42D-2AFF-56872B27717059E4 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=723FE7ED-A507-46A2-FF60318403F86838 The Lakeland Trails team are delighted to announce a new, shorter distance 10km running series to be incorporated into their 2011 events programme. "Our events are fun, friendly and all-inclusive. We want to cater for everyone, and our new 10K Series will appeal to novice and younger runners. They will also make an ideal stepping stone to the longer, more challenging Lakeland Trails events" says Race Director, Graham Patten The new 10K Lakeland Trails Series kicks off at Cartmel Racecourse on 2nd April, with the 10km Sticky Toffee Trail Run - everyone finishing gets a locally produced sticky toffee pudding along with an event T shirt memento. The second event, the 10km Kentmere Trail Run is at Staveley on 4th June, with the final event of the series, the 10km Helvellyn Trail Run at Glenridding on 5th November. There's a minimum age of 14, and there are discounted entries for those under 18 and for those entering all three events before the 31st January. Further information and online entry is available on the event website www.lakelandtrails.org News Mon, 10 Jan 2011 23:25:46 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=723FE7ED-A507-46A2-FF60318403F86838 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=062A10BF-FA2E-7D89-4848032E2535E99D A great Christmas Special incentive is on offer for the shorter 10km events, aimed at newcomers to the 2011 Lakeland Trails events. For the next 10 days, until 31st December, there is a saving of 20% on normal early bird entry for all three 10km events : Sticky Toffee Trail Run 10km at Cartmel on 2nd April; the new Kentmere Trail Run 10km at Staveley on 4th June and the new Helvellyn Trail Run 10km at Glenridding on 5th November. Save 24% by entering all three 10km events for just £45.00 The offer ends on 31st December 2010, and applies to online entry only. More details from the event website www.lakelandtrails.org News Mon, 20 Dec 2010 23:42:56 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=062A10BF-FA2E-7D89-4848032E2535E99D http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=E75C7612-DB3A-793E-B93C6AEF9DC155C4 The Lakeland Trails team have included the Cartmel event, previously organised under the Ultimate Trails adventure racing banner, into the new 2011 Lakeland Trails Spring Series. The three events counting towards overall Spring Series points are : 02/04/11 : 18km Cartmel Trail Race; 18km Cartmel Challenge and 10km Sticky Toffee Trail Run 07/05/11 : 15km Hawkshead Trail Race and 15km Hawkshead Challenge 04/06/11 : 17km Kentmere Trail Race, 17km Kentmere Challenge and 10km Kentmere Trail Run Points are given to all competitors, based on their finishing times, with the 10km results also included. All three events count towards the overall series points and there are some fabulous prizes on offer for the class winners in both men's and women's sections. A special early bird discounted Spring Series is currently on offer of just £59.00 for all three events. Check out the event website www.lakelandtrails.org for more info News Wed, 15 Dec 2010 00:09:45 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=E75C7612-DB3A-793E-B93C6AEF9DC155C4 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=3CA9419D-9845-533C-7CCBAD60837C7543 The new 2011 Lakeland Trails Spring Series opener at Cartmel Racecourse in the Lake District on 2nd April 2011 is proving a sweet temptation to off road running enthusiasts from all over the UK, with the event already 35% full after the first few weeks of entry. The sweet temptation is a locally produced sticky toffee pudding and event T shirt memento for all the survivors making the finish line, but first the competitors have to tackle a "Beaty & Beast" of a course, with some specatcular views over Morecambe Bay and the southern Lakeland Fells. Much of the course is fast and runnable, along rolling escarpment, ancient oak woodland and around the Bigland Tarns. Then there's the short muddy sections to get stuck into, literally, with knee deep mud. The final water jump through a small river will clean off most of the muck, before a grandstand finish on Cartmel Racecourse. There are a number of events on the day, a sweet little taster to test you is the 10km Sticky Toffee Trail Run starting at 11 o'clock; later in the day there's the tough but fun 18km Cartmel Challenge with an extra hour to complete the course starting at 1 o'clock, and finally, for the serious guys and girls with a big appetite for adventure, the 18km Cartmel Trail Race starts at 2 o'clock. Last year's event saw nearly 800 line up for the start line, and the event raised thousands of pounds for charity, receiving an amazing 95% overall approvals rating from competitors via the national running website Runnersworld Organisers are expecting the event to grow in 2011, and are urging people to get their entry in soon, to guarantee their place in the event. There are discounted early bird entries available via the event website www.lakelandtrails.org News Thu, 11 Nov 2010 20:38:34 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=3CA9419D-9845-533C-7CCBAD60837C7543 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=29207AAC-B38B-D0D6-1CABEAA87018C217 The new 2011 Lakeland Trails Marathon in Coniston, dubbed "the most picturesque marathon in the UK" proving popular with trail running enthusiasts. The event taking place on Sunday 3rd July 2011, includes a 42.2km Coniston Marathon Trail Race & Challenge & including a 14km mini marathon, already has over 300 registered entrants from all over the UK. Setting off from Coniston village, the course very gradually climbs through National Trust woodland to Oxen Fell, along to the beauty spot at Tarn Hows, taking in a complete circuit of the Tarn, before crossing the minor road at Hawkshead Hill, entering Grizedale Forest, then contouring along the eastern side of Coniston Water with amazing views. A short climb to the idyllic Beacon Tarn, then downhill to the lake shore and back for 9km or so along the western side of the lake. With fully provisioned water & feed stations en route, the Marathon has a Challenge event with a time limit of 8 hours, and the Trail Race setting off two hours later with a time limit of 6 hours. There is also have a 14km Mini Marathon Trail Run, taking in the first 9km of the marathon course to Tarn Hows, then returning via bridleways to the finish in Coniston. Organisers are expecting the entry limit of 1000 to be reached well before the entry closing date, so enter soon and take advantage of the special early bird discount available until 31/01/11. See www.lakelandtrails.org News Mon, 08 Nov 2010 01:36:23 +0100 http://www.trailrunning.co.uk?action=article.read&article=29207AAC-B38B-D0D6-1CABEAA87018C217