Sunday, 10th April
Kinder Downfall, Hayfield, Derbyshire – Marcus Taylor
Last weekend it was all about the hills. Still a little tired in the legs from Saturday on Wardle Skyline at the fell race, I was soon on route to join 300 runners for a 9.8m/1970’ stretch on the kinder moor. Again the weather was blistering hot and at 11am after the kit check, full body cover, compass, map, whistle and rations, orders were given to start. Kit is essential for all medium length fell races, on a hot day the weather can sometimes turn. Six runners had spot checks to ensure they are prepared - I commend this practise.
The start was a steep climb from the village up and along a stone path which leads to a section of grass, still climbing, known as William Clough. Most runners were already feeling the heat and with only 5 minutes gone the effort was great and many legs were moving slowly. I was happy to sit in the middle of the pack as I moved steeply up on a narrow path close to a waterfall (think this is pointed out on the map above). Still learning to determine what is a gauge, re-entry etc. Then a blast up to the top of the ridge by a number of large steps – which Mum says are quite famous in this region. All I know is that its waterfall is the tallest in the Peak District. The ground along the ridge was loose stone and in places large flat stones appeared, which required much strength to be on top or in between to move forward.
Initially the downhill was a blast down between flags and then on to a horrible stony path that leads invitingly to some soft grass. As the downhill went on and on it got harder and harder. I was feeling my muscles in the quadriceps and calves. Still I was charging and consciously felt I should be good to pass the next ten.
Eventually the last mile or so on roads and paths was upon me and then the last 100m to the finish. I really enjoyed my day.
1st Dave Aucott Dark Peak FR - 1:10:04
144th Marcus Taylor A&T RR - 1:41:38
Kinder Downfall
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