Running log

The Yorkshireman Full and Half Marathons, challenging and scenic off-road events starting and finishing in Howarth, were hosted by Keighley & Craven AC in predominantly cool and blustery conditions.

The Full Marathon (26.2 miles with 3,065 feet of climbing) can be run solo or in pairs.

A five-man group eked out a decent lead by the 11.5-mile checkpoint on the Calderdale Way at Hough Gate, before Gareth Hird (Wharfedale) stamped his authority on the race to build a three-minute gap by the climb up Dolphin Lane in Cullingworth at 18.5 miles.

Hird went on to win convincingly in 3hr 22min, with local competitor Shaun Wilkinson (Keighley & Craven) winning the battle for second from Richard Stott (Rossendale).

Calder Valley pair Martin Huddlestone and Kevin Hoult came through strongly to pass Rogan Ashton (Otley) and Neil Armitage (P&B) at the 20-mile mark and win first male pair.

First lady was Carmen Anthony (FRA) with a six-minute cushion from Leanne Hague (Pudsey Pacers) in 4hr 02min.

A 7hr 15min finish from Hilary Wharam (Horsforth) marked a fine course debut for a runner in the over-65 category.

In the Half Marathon (actually 14.8 miles with 1,750 feet of climbing) Ben Mounsey (CVR) won his fifth event title on the bounce.

Mounsey, having an injury-hit year, was a clear winner from Ilkley’s Ben Stevens in 1hr 42min 26sec.

Stevens was followed by team-mate Matt Cox and first over-40 Marc Teasey (Bingley) in third and fourth respectively.

Lisa Barrie (CLC) took the ladies title in an impressive 1hr 54min 33sec from Bingley’s Sarah Jarvis.

Tamara Hird (Wharfedale) complemented her brother’s win in the marathon with third place, ahead of first over-40 Sally Malir (Ilkley).

Baildon’s Diana Campbell improved her time of last year by 16 minutes in 2hr 36min, just three months after the birth of her daughter Seraphin.

Meanwhile, the Settle ‘Tough’ Loop – a nine-mile tour of hilly limestone countryside – was won by Tom Adams (Ilkley), continuing a fantastic year.

Next home was Matt Whitfield (Bingley), then first local Mark McGoldrick (Wharfedale).