Calderdale Way Ultra, 4 June 2016
Report by David Leslie
The Calderdale Way Ultra, organised by Cannonball Events, starts and ends in Todmorden and takes in the full 50.5 miles and 2100m ascent of the Calderdale Way, meandering over the countryside through Halifax, Blackshaw Head, Norwood Green, Brighouse, Elland, Ripponden and Cragg Vale amid the picturesque Calderdale countryside. It was a warm, humid day but runners were spared the full force of the sun, with hazy cloud for most of the day allowing some good times by the endurance experts. The winning time was 8 hours 33 mins giving an average of just over 10 minutes per mile – an excellent performance over this route. First Harrier home was Dwane Dixon in 4th position – outstanding given that he missed some months training earlier in the season through injury. Louise Stunnel was 22nd finisher (4th lady) in 12 hours 36 mins, and David Leslie was 33rd in 13 hours 47 mins. Altogether there were 45 starters and just 35 completed the full course.
Todmorden Harriers Results:
- Dwane Dixon 4th 9.28
- Louise Stunnel 22nd 12.36
- David Leslie 33rd 13.47