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28 December 2008 - Hebden DVD update

If you are a fan of superb country programmes like 'Dales Diary' and 'Countryfile', then this DVD is worth watching in it's own right. If you add a touch of nostalgia by marking an anniversary of a classic country show with its links to an Olympic champion, the appeal is significantly increased. Add the links to BOFRA, fell racing and Bank Holiday pilgrimage to the Dales, you don't get much better than this fantastic DVD. Mark Saville has produced a great record of Hebden Sports which is worth every penny, so contact Patrick Wiegand on 01756 752840 to reserve your copy - at just £5 a piece plus £1 to cover postage and packing, you will be more than satisfied.

5 December 2008 - Photo updates

Photos have been added for Burnsall and Rylstone races.

27 November 2008 - Hebden DVD update

The Hebden Sports DVD will 'unveiled' at the 'World Premier' at Hebden Village Hall on 12 December 2008. See attached flyer. Entry is free, but tickets must be obtained in advance.

Copies of the DVD will be on sale at the event for £5 but can be sent out for £1 extra to cover postage and packing.

Anyone wishing to purchase a copy should contact Patrick Wiegand on 01756 752840, and he will send you a copy direct after December 12th.

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19 November 2008 - Caption Competition

It is competition time. And this time, our photo takes us back to our second race of the season at Coniston Gullies. Your entries should be sent to and the person who sends in the most apt and amusing entry will be the winner.

Click on the thumbnail to enlarge the picture

Entries should be submitted by 24 December 2008 and the winner will be announced in the New Year.

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15 November 2008 - BOFRA 2008 Review Booklet

A Booklet reviewing the 2008 season has been made and this is now available at just £1 per copy.

A limited number have been printed, so please contact to reserve your copy.

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6 November 2008 - Hebden Sports DVD

If you were at the 2008 Hebden Sports, you may have noticed that the event was being filmed. Mark Saville is a professional film maker who volunteered to make a video record of the sports at no cost to the organisers. He has now produced a DVD which will be on sale through local village outlets. Arrangements are being made for copies to made available through the BOFRA website at a cost of £5 each plus £1 postage and packing.

Limited numbers will be printed, so if you would like a copy please contact to express your interest.

Mark also produces a regular DVD magazine called - "Around & About Yorkshire" which can be found at at www.oneyorkshire.co.uk

30 October 2008 - BOFRA presentation dinner - latecomers

If you are intending to go to the BOFRA presentation dinner, but have not already booked your places, please contact Pauline Scholes as she needs to notify the Carleton of our final numbers by Tuesday 4th November at the very latest. Thank you

22 October 2008 - BOFRA presentation dinner reminder

Just a reminder that the presentation dinner is ticket only and the deadline is rapidly approaching. If you are intending to go, please phone Pauline Scholes on 01535 631755 and return your application at your earliest opportunity.

20 October 2008 - Rylstone Race report

The wet weather this summer has had a dramatic effect on the BOFRA championship this year with the cancellation of the final counter of Wasdale. The committee decided that we would stage an alternative race at Cracoe, obviously it could not be compared with Kirk Fell but our President Kevin Rogan did us proud giving us probably the hardest championship race this year taking in both the Obelisk above Cracoe and then across the skyline to Rylstone Cross. Given the messy conditions which made the rocky path across the top very hazardous, you had to keep your wits about you. Our juniors did the same routes as the normal Cracoe summer event but with a lot more mud to think about, one consolation it didn't rain while the runners were out but the wind made it hard work in sections.

The senior's event saw Clayton runner Tim Edward put in a convincing performance coming home clear of Adrian Pickles who was first BOFRA counter and first v50. This was an outstanding result for him in a tough race, talk about going out on a high. Sam Watson needed a good result here to clinch the under 23's title so his 3rd place nailed it for him, Mark McGoldrick's 4th place ended what has been a great championship for him. Jack Holt came home strong in 5th place closely followed by Andrew Alton with Andy Smith and Jonathan Gibson in 7th and 8th places. This put Jonathan's name of the v40's trophy this year, Gary Bastow came home in 9th and 1st v45. The ladies were led home by Wharfedale runner Kathryn Bradley with Judith Marshall putting in an impressive run in second and Dawn Richards coming home 3rd (also BOFRA lady v40 champion).

The under 17 race set off with the seniors but they turned at the Obelisk, it's just as well seeing that Jonny Bradshaw and Jack Smith were leading both sets of runners up to it. Jonny came home just under a minute up on an in-form Jack Smith with Rossendale's Jordan Beard in 3rd. The first 3 in the girls were Melanie Hyder who has had a great BOFRA season with other classy runners Jenny Dybeck in second and Emma Spencer in third.

Seven seconds parted James Hall and Pascal Dark in the under 14's they came home 1st and 2nd with Harry Sessford running his heart out to claim 3rd prize. In the girls it was a Keighley duo which led the field with Pippa Barrett ending an impressive season with another win and gaining the under 14's girls title. Erica Carter and Nicole Narey finished second and third places in what has been a good year for them with BOFRA.

Ben Johnstone was heading for some Mediterranean sun later in the day but still managed to lead home the 24 runners in the under 12's, he has competed in all our under 12's championship races this year and won them all so he deserves his holiday in the sun. William Smith followed him home in second place with Oliver Keating and Oliver Willink in third and fourth place. The under 12's girls were led home by another runner with a clean slate; Lorna Jo Nunwick, with Ellamae Gibson putting in one of her best performances just 12 seconds adrift and Sophie Marshall showing her pedigree coming home in 3rd.

The under 9's saw 18 runners compete and it was a close thing with 3 seconds parting the winner Joshua Newbold and second place Charles Smith, this was followed by the first two young ladies with Katie Horn putting 6 seconds between her and Shona Hastings. They were closely followed by the third boy Adam Gibson with Helm runners Tom Willink and Joe Kent closely following. Third girl's prize went to Ellie Keating.

Finally I would like to thank everyone who helped us put on this race at the last minute, considering the amount of runners that supported us it was well worth the effort. Next event, the Presentation Evening - if you haven't been before you are missing a treat unless you are a fun dodger. It's not too late yet to book it - but time's running out. Hope I see loads of you there.

13 October 2008 - Rylstone replaces Wasdale

With the season poised for a sensational end at Wasdale, it was disappointing that the weather beat us for the second time this season, forcing the cancellation of Wasdale show.

The BOFRA committee called an emergency meeting last night to discuss the options and it was agreed that we should attempt to put on an alternative race. Having considered the venues available, it was decided to hold it at the Cracoe fell race, extending the senior race to Rylstone Cross. Fortunately the landowners have been very supportive and we will go ahead on Sunday 19th at 1200 noon. As usual, parking is provided next to the farm food shop, opposite the Devonshire Arms at Cracoe, with registration at the track end at the rear of the pub. The race will be called Rylstone to prevent confusion with the results.

By staging the race, we are allowing the championships to be finalised on the ground and giving opportunity for a number of you to complete your 8 races. A great deal of effort has gone into making the alternative arrangements including funding of the prizes, so please do your best to support the race by competing in or watching the season's finale.

We were left with very little time to notify runners of the cancellation at Wasdale, but with your help, all but a handful of runners were notified before you set off to Wasdale. Thank you to everyone who assisted with this.

13 October 2008 - Perpertual Trophies

Could any outstanding perpetual trophies please be returned to Colin Beck by Sunday 19th October 2008, to ensure that they can be engraved prior to the presentation. Colin will be at the rescheduled Rylstone Fell race if you are coming, alternatively please pass it on via another runner. Thanks.

11 October 2008 - Presentation evening

Please notify Pauline Scholes ASAP if you are attending the presentation dinner. I forgot to put a box on the application form for you to indicate whether you require the vegetarian option, so please let her know your choice or use the updated application form.

11 October 2008 - Garmin Profiles / Motion Based software

I will shortly be adding Garmin race routes and profiles for members to access via the Motion Based website. If you have registered the user name BOFRA for this software, please contact Tim Done.

10 October 2008 - Wasdale show cancelled

I have just been informed that as a result of excessive rainfall, the river at Wasdale Head has burst its banks, flooding the showfield. As a result the show committee have had no option but to cancel the show and consequently the fell race.

Every effort will be made to contact BOFRA members to bring this to their attention, but at this late date, it is a challenging task. If you pick up this report, please make an effort to circulate the message as far as you are able and the committee will do our best.

Clearly the situation will impact upon the championships and the committee will be meeting to determine the fairest option in the circumstances. Keep your eye on the website for any updates.

5 October 2008 - Great North Runners

After a successful season beating allcomers in the BOFRA under 9's category, Charlie Lowrie has shown what a true athlete he is. On the back of a victory at the great Yorkshire run at Sheffield recently, Charlie took on 1600 other runners in his age group at the junior North run on Saturday taking first prize. A fantastic result for a promising athlete.

Tom Sessford took 8th place at the 5km event which was a credible result in a very strong field. Tom Sessford has also had a fantastic season, winning the FRA English Uphill championships, the BOFRA U17 boys category and second place in the FRA schools Fell championship. Tom is off to Edinburgh next weekend with Johnny Bradshaw (runner up in BOFRA U17 boys' and the FRA English uphill championships) Ashley Kay, (winnner of the FRA under 16 championship) and Jack Thompson (3rd in the FRA under 18's and after a great first year standing 4th in the BOFRA seniors' championship) to represent England in the FRA competition against Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Two of BOFRA's top girls will also be in the line-up, representing England in Edinburgh. Emma Flannagan and Melanie Hyder will be racing in the under 18's and under 16's respectively. The two have had some great battles at BOFRA fixtures this year and it is fitting that they should now be racing for their country. Good luck to them all!!

2 October 2008 - Presentation evening

The championship presentation dinner/dance will be held on Saturday 8th November 2008 at the Carleton Inn, Morecambe. Doors open at 7pm and the proceedings start at 7.30pm. The evening includes a 3 course meal, presentation of awards, dancing and bar until 1am, raffle etc, plus the odd silly game or two.

Ticket prices are £22 for adults and £11 for Juniors (17 and under), and those of you who have been before will know that it is excellent value for money.To obtain your tickets, please complete the tear of slip on the application form and return to Pauline Scholes, 8 Meadow Lea, Sutton in Craven, Keighley BD20 8BY by Monday 13th October 2008 and please include a stamped addressed envelope.

Overnight accommodation is available at the Clarendon Hotel, 100 yards stagger away, on a first come first served basis and children under 14 stay for half price. BOFRA has booked a number of rooms at a discounted rate, which can be booked by ringing Pauline on 01535 631755.

We look forward to seeing you all there

28 September 2008 - Embsay race report

Our latest race at Embsay had a lot to play for in the senior race. This was the penultimate event in the championship and with the senior championship undecided, the two key players needed a result. Ted Mason and Alastair Dunn were level on points so both wanted a win. After a recent dry spell the ground was rock hard which made a nice change from what we've run in this year. It was Alastair who put in a brilliant run to come home well clear of Ted back in 2nd with Hallamshire's Scott Wilson in 3rd followed by Brendon Taylor and Lee Passco in 4th and 5th. First under 23 and 6th place went to Jack Thompson, with Mark McGoldrick in 7th, first v40 was Richard Barrett 9th followed by 1st v50 Adrian Pickles and Martin Speight collecting the v45 prize in 12th. Keighley & Craven runner Ania Sroka won the ladies race with Clayton's Carol Life 2nd followed by another Keighley runner Tracy Bailey in 3rd. 60 runners finished the senior race.

The under 17's race saw Jonathan Bradshaw claim a convincing victory followed by Jack Smith and Rossendale's Elliot Wylie in 3rd. In the girls Emma Spencer collected 1st prize with Jenny Dybeck 2nd and Rosie Hellawell 3rd in what has been a strong age group all season.

In the under 14's Pascal Dark has put together a few wins lately so it was no surprise him winning here with Declan Bulmer putting in a tremendous run to come home 2nd with David Wilson 3rd boy. Pippa Barrett has really come to the fore with a string of wins; she crossed the line with quite a big margin from Erika Carter and Nicole Narey in 2nd and 3rd.

Ben Johnstone once again showed his talent, he's been a great supporter of our events and certainly knows how to win, what an impressive season he's had. His win here is one of many - not taking anything away from the 2nd and 3rd runners Alexander Speight and Marcus Preedy who are very classy runners. The under 12's girls was a close thing with Rebecca Flanagan and Ellamae Gibson only separated by 2 seconds and Sally Handford finishing 3rd. 28 under 12's supported our race on the day.

The under 9's were led home by Silsden's Charlie Lowrie, closely followed by Charles Smith, with Joshua Newbold in 3rd. The first 3 in the girls' were Shona Hastings followed by Imogen Campion and Leonie Harry in what was a tough little race.

The next BOFRA event is Malham Relays on Sunday 5th October which gives the juniors a chance to race with the seniors and the teams are mixed, picked on the day. Proceeds go to charity so raffle prizes would be appreciated and of course your support.

Thank you!

Barry Scholes

27 September 2008 - Perpetual Trophies

Could all perpetual trophy holders from the 2007 championships please ensure that they are returned to Colin Beck by Wasdale show race at the latest. Colin will be at the Malham Relays and Wasdale Show if you wish to return them at either of these races.

18 September 2008 - Message from Lee Pascoe

The following message was received from Lee, who had a fall at Burnsall: "I just want to say thanks to Martyn Speight and another person from Rossendale Harriers who helped me after my fall at the Burnsall fell race in which I dislocated my right shoulder. Thanks to these two, they managed to put my shoulder back in. Thanks also to all the runners who came to my aid at the end of the race. I'm making good recovery and should be at the Embsay fell race on Sunday". All at BOFRA wish Lee a speedy recovery.

17 September 2008 - Race number rescue

The 2008 season race numbers were kindly sponsored by CrossTrax of Leeds and printed by Active Numbers. Despite ordering 50% more numbers than had been used the previous season, we approached Burnsall with just a handful left. Thankfully, a couple of phone calls to Ed at CrossTrax and Active Numbers and an extra 150 of the same stylish race numbers were delivered the following day. Excellent service guys!!

16 September 2008 - Burnsall Fell Race Report

Burnsall fell race is probably one of the most hazardous races on our calendar. From the summit it's a steep rocky descent down a well worn narrow gully with plenty of drops from rocks. To negotiate through heather at speed you really need to be switched on. Once down this, the dash through the fields is a piece of cake.

The senior race saw Ian Holmes come home just 4 seconds up on Ted Mason with Alastair Dunn finishing 3rd, this made the senior championship very interesting with just 2 races to go with both Alastair and Ted level on BOFRA counters. Ladies champion Lisa Lacon had a comfortable win. 58 seniors ran so for a change let's bring in some of the club runners who ran on the day. Let's start with Wharfedale's Iain Gibbons who has been out through injury and came back late in the season. Last year he had quite a good season with us and his 16th placing shows he's on the way back. Back in 22nd we have a vet 50 John Adair in his first season with BOFRA and has had some good results on the way. Andy Smith was only 3 seconds behind, here's the guy who won the championship in the 90's and he's still a keen competitor. Dropping down to 28th we have Ben Proctor, although he hasn't regained the kind of form he had in his junior years he still remains a good competitor and keen sportsman. Helm's Paul Tuson 35th is well off where he normally is in racing but on his day he's a force to be reckoned with and he's also involved in the smooth running of some of our events which makes him worth his weight in gold. Pendle's Paul Wilson and club mate Dean Thompson have brought their families to our races for years coming home in 46th and 47th these guys are what BOFRA is about as we are a family orientated organisation.

The under 17's saw Tom Sessford come back in 1st place to put the under 17's crown this year within his grasp. First girl Melanie Hyder has her name on the girl's title this year with a string of wins. But looking beyond the top runners we have had plenty giving it their all and their day will come as this has been a very hard age group to get in the prizes. One who knows this better than most is Skipton's Robbie Swift; he has got better and better this season and is always challenging for the medals. Pendle's Sam Richards 11th place shows he's getting there it's only a matter of time. Another runner with a big heart is Wharfedale's Scott Baistow who is a lot better than his 15th place suggests. Dropping down to 19th and 20th we have 2 girls who have competed on our circuit regularly; Rossendale's Rebecca Swindells and Pendle's Sarah Wilson had 7 seconds parting them.

The under 14's saw 3 seconds separating the first 3 runners; Rossendale's Pascal Dark, Daniel Walsh and Skipton's Sam Westcott who claimed the prizes in that order after an exciting finish. Pippa Barrett is making a late surge for the girl's title getting a convincing win on the day. Looking down the list we have Faith Biddle who came back 6th girl, Faith had some good results in the under 12's and is finding her way in what's been a very strong age group .

The under 12's saw an enormous turnout of 37 runners with clubs like Keighley & Craven, Rossendale and Wharfedale Harriers turning up in force. It was Wharfedale's Ben Johnstone who crossed the tape first followed by club mate Will Smith and Alexander Speight a close 3rd. The girl's winner Lorna Jo Nunwick proved why she's been unbeatable this year with a convincing performance ahead of Rossendale runners Megan Solomon and Rebecca Flannagan. Looking down the list it's nice to see family members competing in the same age group so let's bring in 8th girl Eleanor Solomon, how long will it be before we see her in the prizes? Keighley's Holly Carter's 9th place in the girls could soon change if she follows in sister Erica's footsteps who's flying high in the under 14's races. Let's pick out a club we haven't mentioned, Blackburn Harriers have a rising star in 17th place in Leon Passco-If he's anything like his dad Lee, who knows what he could achieve. This also goes for his brother Thomas who came home 7th in the under 9's.

Moving on to the under 9's, 32 charged up the fields and they were led home by Ilkley's Charles Smith with Settle's Joshua Newbold breathing down his neck, Rossendale's Thomas Sumner was just 4 seconds behind in 3rd. The under 9 girls were led home by Keighley's Georgia Gray with Shona Hastings and Lucy Horrocks taking 2nd and 3rd prizes.

Just for a change I've just picked out a few names at random. We are not an elitist organisation, it's all about enjoyment as well as healthy competition wherever you are in our races, so wherever you finished at Burnsall your support is really appreciated. Keep turning up - a lot of champions started at the back in races, anything can be achieved there's always next time.

Finally I would like to thank our flaggers (including me), marshals and the guys at the start line for the tremendous job they did and a big thank you to the Coffey Family who kindly put £50.00 in towards our junior trophies. Embsay next on the calendar - see you there!

Barry Scholes

7 September 2008 - Bradley Family Day

Despite the awful weather, Bradley Family Day fell race was a huge success. There was a massive field of 109 junior runners and 60 seniors making it the biggest turnout in the history of the race. It's a pity that those attending could not benefit from the planned entertainment, after the poor weather prevented pitching tents on the playing fields and forced the show into the village hall. In the end, the sun shone for most of the afternoon and everyone had a great time

The races started with the under 9's. Thirty nine runners trudged through the long wet grass of their course in a race where the first two places were separated by just a second. Charlie Lowrie of Silsden and Wharfedale Harriers got the upper hand to take 1st place ahead of Charles Smith of Ilkley. Wharfedale's Robbie Johnstone finished in 3rd and the first local home was Alex Ridehalgh in 6th place, to add another Ridehalgh name to the shield. Georgia Gray from Keighley and Craven, is really on form and put in a storming run to finish 4th overall and 1st girl. Lucy Horrocks from Wharfedale Harriers hasn't been racing much this season, but there was no evidence of this as she finished in 8th place as 2nd girl, with another Keighley & Craven runner, Tegan Knappy in 3rd. The Bradley Brownies' trophy for first local girl went to Lucy Hutchinson who finished in 13th place overall, just a whisker behind Tegan as 4th girl. In total 10 locals competed.

It was intended to run the under 12's and under 14's together, to fit in with show schedules, but the large numbers warranted separate races, starting with the under 12's. Forty one runners thundered down the playing fields to gain pole position at the narrow bridge which takes them out of the show ground, led by two Keighley & Craven runners; Josh Ferguson and Bradley local Phil Done. The two led the way through to the turn, with Josh getting the upper hand and returning in first place. Phil Done sprinted back in 2nd place closely followed by another club mate, Oliver Keating who took 3rd. Ellamae Gibson was dominant in the under 9's last season but has been finding her feet as she moved up to the next age group. She appears to have found her form, returning in 15th place and 1st girl, whilst Sally Handford of Keighley & Craven was 2nd girl, followed by Sarah Pickering of Ilkley Harriers in 3rd. Local Brownie, Grace Waller finished as 6th girl to receive the local girls' trophy. 14 locals competed.

After a short wait, the under 14's set off through the now trodden down fields, crossing Skipton Road and making their way across the fells towards High Bradley and back. Ben Johnstone of Wharfedale Harriers has put on some outstanding performances in the BOFRA series and once again he showed his class. Racing in the older age group due to show rules, he once again came home in the lead, ahead of James Hall from Bingley Harriers. These two have shared honours in recent races, but on this occasion, Ben got the upper hand. Skipton runner Jack Beetham was a short distance behind in 3rd place. Another runner who has been on top form this season is Keighley and Craven's Pippa Barrett, who carried on her winning ways with another victory, ahead of Nicole Narey of Bingley Harriers and Annie Roberts of Todmorden Harriers. Local lad Sammy Simmonite showed he had the nerve to tackle the fast course to take the first local shield.

The senior race continues past the under 14's turn, along a walled track to High Bradley, along a farm track and up to the top of the fell, with the under 17's turn a few hundred metres below the summit. Under normal circumstances this is a fast runnable race, but the recent weather had turned much of the track into a shallow river and runners had to negotiate becks and bogs along the way to slow them down. This made for an interesting route choice on the fell between the established path and the direct but slower route.

The under 17's and seniors set off together, however, the race included a number of under 17 runners who compete at the highest level and could have challenged well on the full course. Billy Pinder from Skipton AC hasn't been doing too much fell running this season, but the course suited his strong cross country skills and he had a good lead after the turning point. However he was pursued by two Silsden athletes; Thomas Sessford of Keighley & Craven and Johnny Bradshaw of Wharfedale, who have been performing at the highest standard this season and look favourable for an England call-up. In the end, Thomas Sessford put in a fine sprint to take victory by just 4 seconds. Johnny Bradshaw finished a short distance behind in 3rd. Bradley's Robbie Swift has been steadily improving over this season and put in a sound performance to finish in 6th place as first local. Emma Spencer from Pendle AC is always up in the reckoning and had a strong run to finish as 1st under 17 girl, ahead of Becky Lambson from Skipton AC. 3rd place went to another Pendle athlete; Holly Crabtree.

The seniors saw a strong performance from Ilkley Harrier Tom Adams, who seems to be in the form of his life, having recently won at Hebden Sports. Despite the conditions Tom finished in 1st place, a minute and a half off the course record in 25:41 and over a minute ahead of second placed senior, John Convery. John has been racing on the roads for many years, but this was his first attempt at a fell race, making his position all the more impressive. Third place went to Sam Tosh of Rossendale, just four seconds ahead of Skipton's Richard Barrett who had to settle for the first veteran prize after his second place last year. In what is becoming an irritating habit to some of us...Neil Pate from Skipton AC once again claimed the Bob Marchant trophy for first local, with a great run that saw him finish in 8th place overall. First Lady was Ruth Whitehead from Bingley Harriers who finished well up the field in 32:15. Catherine Gibbons of Ilkley Harriers arrived expecting to run in the under 17's, but as she had recently had her birthday, she fell into the senior age category for this race. However, undeterred she tackled the longer course in style, finishing in 2nd place. Wharfedale's Lynn Whittaker and Local Lady Val Done have had a number of battles this season and on this occasion, Lynn got the upper hand to take 3rd place, with Val finishing in 4th place to take the first lady vet prize and the Girlguiding UK trophy for first local lady. The event has been well supported by the local guides, who also provided the trophy for the first lady.

Sadly all of the planning that went into the family day was lost for another year, however the fell race was a resounding success. This could not have happened without the support of everyone who helped in their individual way. You all know who you are, so thank you once again. Hopefully next year the weather will be kinder to us.

Tim Done

6 September 2008 - Bradley Family Day update

The awful weather has waterlogged the playing fields at Bradley, preventing erection of the tents and stands. As a result, the family day has had to be cancelled. Stalls and exhibits will be moved to the village hall.

The good news is that the fell races will go ahead as planned, starting at around 2.15 pm with the under 9's. Under 12's and Under 14's will start at around 2.30 pm, followed by the Under 17's and Seniors around 3.00 pm. Depending upon numbers, the U12's and U14's may run separately as there is no schedule to follow. It is aimed to still provide refreshments and changing facilities at the cricket pavilion for those who wish to use them.

As the race is covered by FRA insurance, it is a requirement that every runner completes an entry form. These will be available on the day or can be downloaded here to save time.

Tim Done

4 September 2008 - Bradley Family Day update

Speculation is mounting over whether Bradley Day will follow Gargrave and Keighley Show and end up being cancelled. At present, there are no plans to cancel the show, and barring exceptionally bad weather, the fell races will go ahead.

Whilst Bradley is not a BOFRA championship race, the whole organising team will be ther to help, so it would be helpful if BOFRA members brought their BOFRA numbers.

If you have a perpetual trophy, please ensure that it is returned prior to the race day or contact me if you intend to bring it on the day

Keep looking at the website and I will update news as I get it

Tim Done

3 September 2008 - Muker Show report

Muker Show was quite a wet affair. Normally the race goes out and back through the river but with all the rain we've had the river was a no no. So the races went through 4 or 5 fields which also meant going through several stiles. The river was crossed via the bridge then you went along quickly to a steep climb up the fell. Once at the summit it was a dash across the ridge round a flag and back diagonally down the hill across the bridge, through the fields before finishing in the show ground...easy as that. With this being a senior counter at a crucial part of the season the big guns in each of the senior categories were all there, with the exception of our top lady at the moment Lisa Lacon.

So seniors and under 17's lined up on what is a very fast race, to do well you need to be switched on from the start. Jack Thompson started off like a greyhound out of the trap but when it came to the top of the fell Lee Athersmith was in number 1 spot with Alastair Dunn and Ted Mason hot on his heels. Things were very close between Lee and Alastair in the final fields with Alastair digging in and getting himself a hard earned win and Ted coming home in 3rd. This result put Alastair in pole position in the championship, but it's still to be won with 3 races to go. Back to Muker, Brendon Taylor put in another classy performance coming home in 4th with Mark Croasdale 1st vet 40 in 5th. Next was Mark McGoldrick followed by 1st under 23 Jack Thompson then another under 23 Sam Watson in 8th, first v50 was Jack Holt in 14th and 1st v45 Colin Urmston was back in 18th.

The ladies saw 2 locals take 1st and 2nd with Avril Hunter caliming victory, followed by Erica Moks. First BOFRA counter was Val Done in 3rd with a tremendous finish, passing Dawn Richards on the way in. Lynn Whittaker finished 7th lady with Sam Morphet first under 23 in 8th.

The under 17's saw a win for Luke Croasdale with Jack Smith in 2nd and Ben Stones of Muker 3rd.

The under 14's and under 12's saw 13 runners line up in this non-championship race, it was no surprise that two of our top BOFRA u12's came back 1st and 2nd; Ben Johnstone won by a 3 second margin over William Smith. 3rd place went to Leander Schlutermann on holiday from Germany only 10 seconds adrift. Mary Stones; a local, took 1st place in the girls with Muker's Madeline Hill in second and Leander's sister Emily in 3rd.

Our thanks to all who made this event run smoothly on a wet miserable day and to all who supported this event.

Barry Scholes

2 September 2008 - More photos added

Photos now added for Reeth Show, Cracoe, Ambleside, Hebden Sports, Grasmere Show, Kilnsey Show and Rusland Show

31 August 2008 - Photo Fest

Photos have been added for Badgerstone Relays, White Wells, Kettlewell, Weets, Beamsley Beacon, Cowling, Cracoe, Ambleside, Farleton Knott, Cray, Gargrave XC and Kilnsey Show.

More photos will be added soon for Hawkswick, Cracoe, Ambleside, Hebden Sports, Grasmere Show, Kilnsey Show and Rusland Show

28 August 2008 - Results added

Results added for Malham, Hebden and Kilnsey and West Witton. These will be updated to full xl/pdf files once verified by the race organisers.

28 August 2008 - Reeth Show report

Considering the shows that have been called off recently, our junior counter at Reeth Show went ahead, the rain kept off and conditions were very good. On the day we had a few problems with events running late and other things happening in the ring when the juniors were finishing. Also the flags on the fell were vandalised by some moron but hopefully we will be able to find a solution next year.

The senior race was first off with a field of 30 runners. It starts in the ring and muddles its way up several fields before negotiating the fell and once round the summit it's a rough descent through an old quarry and bracken before hitting a road section, down a little thicket and down the fields before finishing in the ring. On the day Andy Preedy brought home the runners, closely followed by Matthew Athersmith then 1st vet Gary Bastow. Ian Pudge followed in 4th with Andy Bennett and Andy Smith taking 5th and 6th. In the ladies it was nice to see 3 keen supporters of our races come 1st, 2nd and 3rd. Val Done collected a well earned win followed by Lynn Whittaker and Sue Narey.

Unfortunately Sam Athersmith went over on his ankle while descending and couldn't carry on. Thomas Wilson was the good Samaritan and pulled out of the race to help. Both lads were running really well so sadly we had 2 non finishers. Fortunately BOFRA members were on hand to give first aid before carrying Sam down to the safety of the showground. Last report was that Sam has a broken ankle, so we all hope that he makes a quick recovery.

The under 17's saw an in-form Jonathan Bradshaw put in a flyer. He climbed out of his skin with Tom Sessford not far behind but looking at their times these lads were giving it their all Johnny's time of 16.15 was astounding with Tom 24 seconds behind him. They were well up on the other runners led home by Robbie Swift in 3rd with Jack Smith and Will Marshall in pursuit. The girls were led home by Melanie Hyder who has been stacking up quite a few wins recently. She has had a great first year in the u17's, sealing victory in the championship with this win. 2nd and 3rd girls were Emma Flanagan and Jenny Dybeck. This has been a very competitive category and everything has been hard fought for.

The under 14's saw James Knox put in a classy performance to put over half a minute between him and James Hall with Daniel Walsh, Pascal Dark and Declan Bulmer taking the next 3 positions. Pippa Barrett put in a great descent to take 1st girls place, but not before a close fought battle with Lauren Munro-Bennett during which Lauren went over on her ankle and suffered a fracture to her leg. Incredibly, Lauren hobbled home in some discomfort to take 2nd place, with Nicole Narey in 3rd. Unfortunately Lauren will be in plaster for four weeks, making it a sad end to a great season. We all wish her well in her recovery.

The under 12's saw Ben Johnstone show why he's the boys champion in waiting with a cracking run leading home the 30+ runners comfortably, with Joe Stapleton and Phil Done finishing in 2nd and 3rd in the same time and Will Smith in 4th. Lorna Jo Nunwick carried on her winning ways leading home the girls with Rebecca Flanagan and Georgina Spencer 2nd and 3rd followed by Ellamae Gibson.

We had a few unexpected problems on the day but they were well managed by the committee and race organisers. We also had several nasty (but thankfully rare) injuries which hopefully won't keep our runners out for too long. Thanks to all who helped on the day. See you at Muker maybe!

Barry Scholes

16 August 2008 - Rusland Show

Russ Hyder sent in some photos of BOFRA members taken by Pauline Hyder, following victory in a number of races at the classic Rusland Show. They show (Left to right): Lauren Munro-Bennett, Melanie Hyder, Russ Hyder, Barry Scholes, Lorna Jo Nunwick and Tom Doyle.

Results as follows
Lauren: 1st U14 Girl and 2nd U17 Girl (Two separate races)
Melanie: 1st Lady in 5 mile senior race. 1st U17 Girl (Two separate races)
Russ: 3rd from last and suffering with the pain of it as I write this. 1.75 miles race
Barry: Not sure where he came in, but obviously miles in front of me. 1.75 miles race
Lorna: 1st U12 Girl and I think but not sure, she was also 1st overall (beat the boys)
Tom: 1st U17 Boy. Also ran 1.75 mile race but I don't know position.

Russ Hyder

16 August 2008 - Gargrave Cross Country race

The fell race had to be cancelled due to the state of the showfield, but John Thompson kindly put on an alternative race on his farm. The weather smiled kindly on the event and it was good to see all the youngsters out and about in this very picturesque setting. In fact, the whole event had a very nice atmosphere about it.

The leading U9s came in quite close together with Charley Lowrie of Wharfedale, just beating Charles Smith of Ilkley to the post.

The U12s was won by Will Smith of Wharfedale, ahead of Sam Convery of Bingley and James Broughton of Blackburn. Sally Handford was first girl, ahead of Ellamae Gibson of Wharfedale.

James Hall of Bingley took the U14s race ahead of Declan Bulmer of Pendle. Third place went to Pippa Barrett of Keighley & Craven, who was also first girl.

Jonathan Bradshaw had a comfortable win in the U17s ahead of Will Marshall and Ed Newbould.

The senior race was won by that remarkable athlete Gary Devine with a good lead on the chasers. Second place went to Lucas Payne, but with Sam Watson on his shoulder.

14 August 2008 - Gargrave show update

Following cancellation of Gargrave show, the BOFRA committee met today to discuss the implications of this on the championship. Kevin Rogan and John Thompson had decided at short notice to stage an alternative event at the Gargrave Cross Country venue on the same day. This race will go ahead, commencing at midday, with a full set of races (under 9, under 12, under 14, under 17 and seniors).

However, having considered all of the options and to ensure fairness it was decided that the Cross country race would NOT be used as a championship counter. It was also decided that we would not add another championship race in its place as it was too late in the day to arrange and ensure that all members were informed. This leaves the championship as the best 8 from 14 races.

It is unfortunate that the decision will result in a very small number of members being unable to complete the required number of races, however any number of incidents or events can occur over the space of a season which may prevent an individual from competing in a race. Cancellation of a show due to extreme weather is just another. For the small number who have been affected, the committee will look at how we are able to compensate you for this.

BOFRA is grateful for John stepping in to organise a race at short notice and would encourage as many runners as possible to support his event. Members may use their BOFRA numbers to assist with registration. Further information can be found here or by contacting John Thompson on 01756 749235

12 August 2008 - Gargrave show Cancelled

The Gargrave show committee met today and unfortunately due to bad weather, the show field has become un-useable. As a result, the show scheduled for Saturday 16th August 2008 has been cancelled. Terms of the insurance cover mean that it is not possible for the fell races to go ahead from that location.

Consideration is being given to staging the race at the Gargrave Cross country course on the same day, however it may be necessary to transfer championship status to another race

Further information will be updated on the website as soon as it becomes available

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