One of the long established and popular valley races which regularly attracts a field of over 200 runners and which takes in Win Hill and its spectacular views.  The route has the advantage (or disadvantage if you need to break into a walk) of not having any bottlenecks after the initial dash across the field.

The course record of 28 ’07 is held by Stuart Bond of DPFR and the ladies’ record of 31’30 is held by Jo Smith of Dark Peak Fell Runners.  Of course the race is not just for elite athletes many runners are pleased to complete the race in whatever time and the sense of achievement that it brings.

The course is 4½ miles long with just over 1000’ of climb.  Start from the Recreation Ground (GR 206829) go along Water Lane to Thornhill Lane where you turn right before climbing up to the hamlet of Thornhill.  In the middle of Thornhill you turn left followed by a right 200 metres later up Townhead Lane.  Follow this track up through some woods to the triangle at the boundary of the open countryside.  After a short steep ascent the course level out and cuts across to Parkin Clough where it turns left for the final steep climb to the top of Win Hill.  After admiring the views over Ladybower Reservoir continue about 100m before turning sharply left and return to Thornhill over the fields.  In the middle of Thornhill follow the narrow footpath by the side of Barleylands to return to Recreation Ground. 

The descent makes use of paths that are not rights of way and the co-operation of the farmers is much appreciated.

Registration takes place on the night and costs £4.00.  It would be helpful if you would register before 7.00pm