This is one of the most scenic short fell races around, and only its remoteness in the wilds of the Black Mountain (not to be confused with its plural version in south-east Wales) can account for a field of just 21.

Two other potential entrants found their way to the start well after Race Organiser, John Sweeting, had sent the mighty few on their way up the track to the lake. The latecomers weren’t to be denied their run though, and enjoyed their own race arriving at the finish to the applause of the waiting 21.

Women’s record holder Helen Fines found herself in the lead by the top of the track. “This was a new experience for me, and I thought I’d make it a special training run by pushing hard up the hills, and cruising on the downs – the opposite to my usual style,” she recalled.

Over three minutes behind, Pontypridd’s Rhodri Evans and Cardiff Harlequins’ Adam Smith did their best to keep Helen’s rear from disappearing over the grassy horizon. I imagine that she’d let her dogs out of the van by the time the second and third placers had reached the finish line.

As he handed out the prizes, John wondered whether this had been the first fell race won by a woman. We’d be interested to hear of any others.