Runners brave show hill race
MORE than 60 hardy runners at the Great Harwood Show braved the steep hill climb to complete the Bowley Hill Trail Race.
This is the second year the Bowley Hill race has been organised by Nick Gaskell and Trawden Athletic Club after they took over from Harry Haseley.
The race is a staple of the annual show, and is a circular 9km route – beginning in the main arena and encompassing hills, farms and footpaths.
Nick, of Gaskell Motor Bodies on Alan Ramsbottom Way, said: “We had quite a decent turnout, we had 65 finish it so that was really good.
“There is a 1,000ft climb, it’s quite a tough route but it’s in a really nice area in the outskirts of the Ribble Valley and Great Harwood with brilliant scenery.
“The weather really made it this year.
“We want to thank all the marshalls and everyone for a great team effort.
“Just doing things like this it helps residents, the clubs and professionals, it gets everyone out taking part.”
The overall winner this year was Gareth Booth from the Horwich Harriers, with a time of 40 minutes and four seconds.
The first lady was Catherine Derbyshire of Accrington Road Runners in the female vet 40 category, with a time of 51 minutes and 41 seconds.
Accrington Road Runners also picked up the female team prize, and Clayton-le-Moors Harriers picked up the male team win.