24 CHEPSTOW Harriers took part in the Darren’s Dash fell race on Saturday 18th June at Longtown.

The race incorporated a mob match between Forest of Dean Athletic Club and Chepstow Harriers. Chepstow won by 100 points.

The six-mile race packed a 400 metre punch, with calm, cloudy conditions making for some fast times. The scenery was breath-taking along the Hatterall ridge which marks the border between England and Wales. Runners started in the village of Longtown and climbed through farmland and open country to reach the ridge. They then crossed into Wales with fine views of Llanthony Abbey, Pen y Gadair Fawr and the Vale of Ewyas. After a steady climb to the route’s summit, the runners blasted along the Offa’s Dyke Path, then re-traced their steps with a fast and furious descent.

The mob match worked with each person running contributing to the point score for their respective team, so both clubs tried to rally as many members as they could to race. It’s not just a numbers’ game however, as the higher the competitor’s finishing position, the higher the scoring number they receive. Both teams had strength and depth, and despite missing some of their faster runners, managed to do their clubs proud with the high turn-out.

The race was also a counter for the Chepstow Harrier’s fell series, with Harriers eager to earn points to boost their place in the series table.

The prize winning Harriers were Joc Dodd for first female vet 60, Karie Atkins for first Male vet 40, and Niki Morgan for second female overall. Others Harriers taking part were Rob Beves, Matthew Lawson, Rob Hook, James Boyle, Andy Stott, Andy Creber, Steve Owen, Stuart Duncan, Lisa Jeffrey, Karen Elvers, Sally Grant, Tim Buckley, Gareth Jones, Barry Evans, Tom Riddington, Lou Crockett, Jane Bayliss, Mike Evans, Andy Bray, Anne Jenner and Geoff Bayliss. There were quite a few Harriers making their debut appearances at a fell race and all reported thoroughly enjoying it.