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Buxton Half Marathon 2022

Buxton Half races back to the top

This famously hilly event put everyone’s fitness levels to the test.

Brutal and beautiful in equal measures: the Buxton Half Marathon returned on Sunday (29 May) with its tough climbs, flowing descents and stunning finish in the Pavilion Gardens. There were wins for Gareth Griffiths and Hayley Gill at this ‘bucket list’ race. 

Always a well organised event from Buxton AC, it was last held in 2019 before the pandemic arrived, resulting in a two-year absence. The 39th Buxton Half Marathon bounced back to push minds and bodies to their limits, aided by friendly marshals in the glorious Peak District, Derbyshire.

Whilst it's definitely not considered a PB race it appears on many people’s bucket lists due to the challenging route, breathtaking scenery and super enthusiastic support. Walking may be difficult for a few days afterwards but the sense of achievement is worth the pain and well earned medal. Runners come back each year after year for this one.

Over 300 runners started at 10am from the Opera House where they began the first of the ascents of the day along Axe Edge. Three miles uphill was followed by four miles downhill then up again at mile 7. Some more undulations to further tax the legs then a good long blast into Buxton and the finish.

First home was Gareth Griffiths in 1:17:22 followed by Paul Fauset of Dark Peak Fell Runners in 1:17:52.Mark Walker of Macclesfield Harriers was third in 1:19:09.

Hayley Gill of Matlock AC was the first female in 1:27:35. Diane McVey took second in 1:29:34 and Trentham RC’s Deborah Thomas third in 1:31:57. 

The last runner finished in 2:56:26. There were 334 finishers. 

All the results can be found via the runABC Midlands Race Listing page. 

The hills were alive with the sound of pounding feet once more at this ‘must do’ half marathon that delivered on expectations and satisfied individual goals.    

Image courtesy of Laura Ann Slack. 

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