The February heat wave was firmly extinguished as the weather decided to give the 300+ competitors (solos and pairs) an even greater challenge at the Haworth Hobble on Saturday, as if 32 miles off road wasn’t sufficient.

Calder Valley was well represented and first back, 15 mins off the winning time was Kevin Hoult in a time of 4hrs 37 mins, 5th overall. Kevin has completed the hobble several times and has been awarded the keys to the city for his efforts.

Next to return, just under 5 hours was John Allen who said the course was a bit flat for his liking. And only 3 mins later, Michael Hyde returned to the fold.

The first Calder females to complete was Jackie Scarf as part of a F50 winning pair. First solo back was Elina Eady, out sprinting her rivals to finish in 7hrs 17 mins. The final CVFR home, and still drying out, was Carolyn Shimwell, and Diane Wright in a time of 8.31, with no coffee breaks permitted.

Calders map men were showing the rest of the country how to orienteer with Welsh champion (m55) Phil Scarf taking the honours at the Northern championships, with his fellow cartographer, Jonathan Emberton taking 2nd place in their age category

– Calder Valley News Reporter: Gavin Mulholland