Hillforts & Headaches

YC saw the New Year in with an uphill only run at Rothbury. The Hillforts & Headaches Race starts at the Newcastle Hotel, passes through Lordenshaws car park, and finishes on Beacon Hill (the first hill on the Simonside ridge). It's only 3 miles. But of course, there's then a 3 mile jog downhill again to the finish. With a record 76 in the field, YC didn't trouble the leading runners - Phil Sanderson won at a canter followed by Lee Bennett. YC crossed the line in approx 28 mins. However all that running has given him a thirst. As Rev T would say - "I've had my tea..."

left - the elite runners discuss tactics at the start. Paul Hainsworth, Geoff & Susan Davis and Keith Cooper
right - Rob Stephens at the finish
below - summit marshals Peter Reed & Paul Appleby wrap up warm against the chill at the finish.