All runs bright and beautiful was the case at Sunday’s (5 February) Winter Bash where runners of all standards made the most of superb trails, aided by the ‘Blinding Peakers’ events team. The firm and fast terrain helped with finishing times.

The Winter Bash and its summer sibling Brooksie’s Bash are well organised and welcoming 10 mile races from Peak Running. Held in South Derbyshire, the Winter Bash took runners in a clockwise direction (the opposite of the summer version) and required self-navigation – adding an extra dimension and challenge to the event.

Whilst the thought of having to navigate your way around may be daunting, the organisers provided as much help as possible in the form of a map, written directions and a GPX file. Their aim was to encourage more newcomers to off-road running by making it accessible and rewarding too. The option of an earlier start for less experienced runners proved to be popular and in the words of Andy Brooks: “made the race feel inclusive for all abilities.”

The race started from Ticknall Village Hall and took runners on an undulating loop consisting of parkland, footpaths and forest trails. Conditions were dry, cold and sunny – perfect for a winter run – and the atmosphere was warm and friendly.

Runners were looked after by the ‘Blinding Peakers’ volunteers on the course and the village hall who kept them fed and watered and encouraged every step of the way.

There were prizes for the top three men and women; first male over 60 and first female over 60.

Stuart Laurie of Kimberley & District Striders was the first man home in 1:08:50. Andy Hawtin of South Derbyshire Road Runners was second in 1:09:10 and Michael Perry also of Kimberley & District Striders third in 1:11:31.

It was a good one two for South Derbyshire Road Runners women with Jenny Laing the winner in 1:15:29 with a new course record. Teammate Christina Hawtin was second in 1:22:20. Pascale Holden of Shelton Striders was third in 1:25:58.

First over 60 male was Andy Earp in 1:30:42; first over 60 female was Jane Hudson of Long Eaton RC in 1:55:16.

The full set of results is available via the runABC Midlands Race Listing page. 

Hot food, drinks, cakes and snacks restored life and limb at the village hall and were appreciated by the hungry finishers.

It’s never too early to think about the summer Brooksie’s Bash trail race which has opened for entries. More information about this and entry options can be found at the Peak Running website.

Image courtesy of Mehul Vaitha Photography (via Peak Running).