Record Numbers at the 2019 Vocation Mytholmroyd Fell Race
The record turnout of 214 runners for this weekend’s Vocation Mytholmroyd Fell Race proves just how popular this local fixture has become. Well, that and the free ‘Heart & Soul’ beer for all finishers, courtesy of the generous local sponsors, Vocation Brewery.
CVFR’s Harley and Phil Beecroft pulled off another fantastic race, ably supported by an army of friendly marshals. At just under 6 miles, this is a great winter race in typically tough Pennine terrain, at just under with both lung busting climbs (1640 feet) and tricky descents. It is, however, well flagged so a good introduction for those new to the fell running scene.
Calder Valley’s record holder Karl ‘The Earl’ Gray led from the front to take 1st place and 1st V50 in 48.27 minutes.
Karl Gray’s determination to take the win – Photo courtesy of Stephen Smith
Gray was made to work hard for the win though, with Royton’s Rob James finishing just one second behind and Ian Holmes (Bingley) third place within 30 seconds.
James, Gray and Holmes. The top 3.
CVFR’s Jonny Croston and Toby Sydes put in strong performances to finish 13th and 72nd respectively to take 4th mens prize along with Gray.
Superby descending by Jonny Croston – Photo courtesy of Stephen Smith
Tod Harriers’ Annie Roberts comfortably took first women spot (20th overall) in 56.46 minutes. She helped her team take 1st women’s team prize with Ambi Swindells and Jane Leonard. Calder Valley’s Rachel Johnson (17th women), Jackie Scarf (19th woman) and Charlotte Wetton (23rd woman) ran well to take 3rd Women’s team prize.
Calder’s Jackie Scarf watching her step
Harley Beecroft, race organiser reflected on a great day: “The rain held off for the race, but it was super wet underfoot and anyone who came back not muddy was very lucky. Lots of bloody knees weirdly! We also had a good turnout from Leeds university orienteering & fell group. Wins in all age categories (inc u21 & u23) which is amazing.”
Some of the support crew
Fifteen CVFR finished:
| Position | Name | Category | Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Karl Gray | M50 | 48.27 |
| 13th | Johnny Croston | M40 | 54.32 |
| 72nd | Toby Sydes | M50 | 1.08.20 |
| 78th | Anthony Costello | M50 | 1.09.07 |
| 78th | Anthony Costello | M50 | 1.09.07 |
| 97th | Jonnie Watson | M40 | 1.11.04 |
| 100th | Tim Brooks | M50 | 1.11.39 |
| 112th | Rachel Johnson | FV50 | 1.14.20 |
| 114th | Jackie Scarf | FV50 | 1.14.58 |
| 124th | Paul Taylor | M50 | 1.17.38 |
| 134th | Lawrence Fennelly | M50 | 1.1938 |
| 137th | Charlotte Wetton | F | 1.120.22 |
| 172nd | John Nunn | M60 | 1.31.55 |
| 175th | Andy Smith | M50 | 1.32.37 |
| 176th | Di Wright | FV50 | 1.33.48 |
| 179th | Ian Law | M50 | 1.35.12 |
CVFR El Capitano’s Spanish Winter Adventures continue
Calder’s Ben ‘El Capitano’ Mounsey has been putting in some fantastic winning performances in Spain. This week was no exception with Mounsey finishing 2nd in the tough Alicante Gata De Gorges Trail Race (16km/750m climb) in a time of 1.19:19. This was just one minute behind Pol D’Olesa (1.18:18). Ben said: “Another race, another 2nd place! Time for some rest now – I’m tired after running 70 miles and climbing over 20,000ft in 7 days!”
Mounsey takes 2nd place at Gata De Gorges Trail Race (Mounsey, D’Olesa and Torres)