This show used to take place in September, but is now being put on earlier in the year in the hope of enjoying some better weather on the day. Unfortunately, when planning this change, the Young Farmers never gave any thought about the fell race and with a week to go, no race had been planned. Wharfedale Harriers normally host this race, but they could not help this year, due to it clashing with the Alva Games.
However, with the help from a couple of locals in the village, the race went ahead and even at such short notice, it managed to attract 17 runners.
First home was Ian Beresford of Barlick, who was effectively having a duel with team mate Lee "Swell" Hird. Third home was James Fieldhouse who wenet home with two trophies, one for being the first young farmer and the other for finishing first local.
The Lothersdale Show Fell Race harks back to the Victorian era and in common with races at that time, all competitors run together, bot young and old. As a result, the first lady home was under 14 Megan Wilkinson and her father took much delight in confiscating the bottle of wine which she had won, leaving her just with a rather attractive iced ginger bread figure, which she won as first GU14.
The weather was kind for the new date and hopefully, next year will attract more runners to this historic race.
1 Ian Beresford 11:51
2 Lee Edwards 13:05