After the blizzard at Grisedale Grind fell race two weeks ago it was time for a glimmer of sunshine at the second race of the series, Lords Seat. Definitely the more runnable of the two races, conditions underfoot were boggy and very windy on the summits of Barf and Lords Seat itself. Despite that, Chris Arthur from Bowland Runners managed to shave 2 seconds off his existing course record, and he even went walkabout during the very last section of the Senior race through the woods. The ladies race was won by Keswick’s Hannah Horsburgh, who stormed in well inside the top ten overall and looked extremely lean and strong! 151 runners completed the course. Denise from Siskins Cafe at Whinlatter kindly opened up after hours so refreshments were on hand for junior and senior runners, marshals and supporters before and after the race, and the prize giving was held within the warmth of the cafe with a great atmosphere to go with it.
The winner of the overall series was Jack Eyre from Eden Runners and Hannah Horsburgh from Keswick AC. Many other age group prizes were handed out on the night, with a few spot prizes too, including vouchers from sponsors Pete Bland Sports. A big thank you to all involved. Keswick AC members Carl Bell and Jenn Mattinson, who organise the Forest Series, were thrilled to receive such a great turnout from both races (even 82 runners turned out for the blizzard of Grisedale Grind). They managed to raise around £1000 for community interest company Amy’s Care, from the two races and from generous donations, which will go towards funding a new all-purpose minibus, so their clients can get out and enjoy the great outdoors in whatever the weather!
Harry Greenbank who won the U18 Lord of the Forest series