This was the first running of this new race on the calendar, and the only one of the South Wales winter series this year to start in England. An out-and-back course over 3.2m/1150ft ascent provided a bit of tarmac, a good steady climb and a fast descent.

The men’s race was another exciting affair, and the closest winning margin this season. Martin Shaw, representing Mynydd Du, won by just 1 second after passing Pete Ryder (Brycheiniog) in the final fields. The winner was in great form after a recent top 10 finish in the Welsh National Cross Country Championships. Ryder looks to have the winter series sewn up providing he can maintain his form at the final fixture. Welsh International Matthew Collins was 3rd, returning from injury.

The MV40 winner was again Mike Duxbury of Stroud AC, and John Aggleton was very excited to take the MV50 award for MDC. His son Hugh was 4th overall. Another on the comeback trail after injury was Hereford’s Steve Herrington, first MV60. John Collins (Swansea) won the MV70 prize to complete a good day for veterans.

In the women’s field Helen Fines made it 5 out of 5 this series for Calder Valley Fell Runners, with Helen Bennett (MDC) 2nd and Daniella Woodbridge (Griffithstown Harriers) 3rd.

However, it was a sad day for fell running in Wales as news arrived of the death of 28 year old Kate Auchterlonie, after being hit by a car whilst cycling up Caerphilly Mountain. Kate, who recently came 3rd at the Kymin, was not only a gifted runner, but excelled at cycling, rowing and polo, as well as being a talented musician and Oxford graduate.

HF