Beating the Easter Heat at the ‘new’ Newlands Memorial

Mark Wharton and Darren Earnshaw flew the flag for Calder Valley at the newly named Newlands Memorial Fell Race.

Formerly known as the anniversary waltz, this popular, but tough race was held each year to commemorate Wynn and Steve Cliffe’s wedding at the Newlands Valley church. Steve sadly passed away last year and Cumberland Fell Runners stepped in this year as race organiser to ensure this, and the seven other classic senior and junior fixtures, held on the same day, continue. By all accounts, CFR did a great job. In blistering, unseasonable Easter temperatures, 354 runners lined up to tackle this category AM race over 11.4 miles with 1,100 metres of climb.

Rob Jebb took first male spot in a time of 1 hour 40 minutes and Sharon Taylor first female (12th overall) in 1 hour 54 minutes. Darren Earnshaw was first back for Calder (92nd) closely followed by Mark Wharton (103rd).

– Calder Valley News Reporter: Eileen McDonach