The spine race: a 270-mile route from Edale in Derbyshire to Kirk Yetholm, Scotland, tracing the Pennine backbone of England. This distance did not deter Calder Vet 50 ultra running zombie Bill Johnson from competing and completing in 12th overall despite the dreadful weather, comprising double helpings of gales and snow for most of the event.
With no sleep in the final 40 hrs It was a huge relief for his wife Anne when he finally made it to the finish in the early hours of Saturday morning, after beginning the trek on the Sunday! Bill was rushed straight to the nearest health clinic for a well deserved pedicure.  Read Bill’s step by step account HERE

Locally, the ever popular Hebden 22 set off at 8am Saturday morning, also unphased by the harsh conditions under foot. Lone Ranger Ben Mounsey completed the 21 mile slog-fest individually in 3:04 hrs as he ploughed through the snow and mud to select the best cakes at all check points. Next in was Ian Symington in 3:23.5. Third man on the long course was Matt Cope after he ditched his comrades on the tops of Cragg Vale as Matt said he was unnerved by their camaraderie/manlove. First Lady to return for Calder was Dr. Catherine Texas Holden. The LDWA event is a firm favourite for all local clubs. Everything about the Hebden is perfect, from the tea and toast reception to the 3 course meal after.

The Hebden 2018 – Toby Cotteril

On Sunday, again despite testing Winter conditions, cvfr were out on the moors around Todmorden in the harriers 3 hour mini moors marathon navigation event. Notable performances included Rachel Johnstone 2nd woman and 1st LV50, Jon Emberton (who had teamed up with Mark Seddon) 2nd and 1st v50 (Pair). Amongst those in attendance were Calvin Ferguson and Tim Brooks.

And finally who would want to be a race organiser when there is snow and ice (and mud) to contend with. Captain Philip and wife Harley D. Beecroft bravely rescheduled the Mytholmroyd vocational fell race after it was cancelled before xmas for the same reasons. With loads of local cvfr talent the ladies and the men both took first team prizes with Lee Shimwell first back for the club in 8th place. By default, Anthony Costello was awarded (ate) as 2nd v50.
Joanna Stevens lead the race home for the ladies as she made her to return to the fells after a bout of motherhood

Mytholmroyd Fell Race 2018 – Paul Gilbert

There is also a rumour that Stephen Smithies was involved in a 5k race and collected first prize as vet 50.?

– Calder Valley News Reporter: Gavin Mulholland