The recent glorious spring weather saw Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) raise over £4000 for two local charities – Yorkshire Cancer Research (YCR) and Swaledale Mountain Rescue Team (SMRT) as part of the clubs biennial fund-raising event, BAR Endure 48 held at Bedale Sports Club and Community Centre. Over the 48-hour period which started Friday 19^th April at 5pm and finished 5pm Sunday 21^st April, at least two members from BAR, YCR or SMRT ran or walked the 5.1mile (8.2km) course. During this time 316 laps of the course were completed taking a combined milage to a staggering 1616miles (2600km) Putting this into context, that’s over £2.50 per lap and 62 marathons.

Local businesses from the surrounding area of Bedale- Askquith Butchers, Cockburn Butchers, The Greengrocer, Central Coffee House (Northallerton), Bedale CoOp, McDonalds, Cawingredients generously supported the event by donating food and beverages to feed the runners and walkers as they completed each lap.

The monies raised will be split equally between the two charities.

https://sponsorme.charitiestrust.org/event/4b4375bb-c6b6-4e4c-b245-857f8878d1fb 

On a hot humid Sunday, a small contingent of BAR athletes headed south for a flat as a pancake race in the Vale of York. A mini festival of athletes from across Yorkshire and the country met in a field on the out skirts on the little village of Wistow. Run on closed roads round scenic countryside both the Half Marathon and 10K routes weave in and out of each other, giving a fantastic opportunity to support each other. Both races had pacers for the PB hunters, although the humidity on the day made even the flat a little challenging.

Heading out first the Half Marathon athletes Victoria Maidwell 01.47.52 and Joanne Sinnott 02.44.01, followed by the 10K entries Darren Turner 00:44.52, Rab Hastie 00:49.30, and Louise Baker 00:59.43.

Getting into the festive spirit eighty-six runners braved the bitterly cold weather on Sunday 18^th December and took part in the Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) Annual Christmas 5k and 1 Mile Santa Fun Run at Bedale Park.

Thomas O’Mahoney from Richmond & Zetland Runners broke the course record by twenty seconds in a time of 18:36. The first female over the line was Emily Crisp from Poplar Runners in a time of 23:10 missing out on the female course record by five seconds. The 1-mile Santa Fun run for the junior runners saw children in festive dress and their parents run, jog or walk the frozen course. All junior runners received a drink, chocolate snack and Santa medal for their fantastic efforts. The event was kindly sponsored by Aspect CPM and entry fees raised funds for the charity British Heart Foundation and BAR club funds.

The Hardmoor series of races are known to be tough and this year’s Roseberry Trail races were no exception. The icy conditions did not deter BAR runners Sarah Pardington and Helen Shepherd from completing the 10km race, and Anna Welch and Lena Conlin completing the marathon. This saw Anna complete her aim for the year finishing all the Hardmoors Trial Marathon series, what a fantastic achievement.

Although some of the local Park Runs have been cancelled lately due the weather this has not stopped BAR members David Fox and Sarah Norman achieving their 50^th runs at Rothwell and Keswick respectively, well done and a Merry Christmas to all.

After the great success of our Christmas 5k & Fun Run in 2019 & 2021, this year thankfully we can do it all again. A 3 lap route (1 lap for the Santa fun run) taking in the fabulous Bedale Park & the woodland trail of Keepers Walk.

The Santa Run will take place at 9:00am and all the little legs will get a Xmas hat to run in and a medal at the end. We encourage everyone to dress up, parents can run with their child for free.

The 5k will start at 9:30 , and although this race is for all abilities, we do have a prize if the male/ female course records are broken;

Male Josh Hammet 18:56

Female Jo Adams 23:05

In addition there will be a trophies for 1st & 2nd Male and Female plus 1st Male 50+ & Female 45+.

Enter online now at:

https://racebest.com/races/whcqw

October 1^st, Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) enter its fifteenth year as a club. To celebrate this milestone the club has planned a series of events throughout the year, the first being a social run using the Wensleydale Railway. Catching the train from Bedale members had the choice to either run or cycle back to Bedale Athletic and Sports Association (BASA) from Leyburn. Thirteen members ran the 21km trail route whilst three cycled 30km. This being the weekend of the iconic London Marathon, Lena Conlin chose to run the route as her virtual race. Starting out from BASA and accompanied by Stuart Black, she ran to Leyburn Station meeting up with the runners to then run back to BASA. She completed her “trail” marathon in 06:11:00.

Racing continues with members representing the club in a variety of events. The Great North Run is a very popular race with first timers, seasoned runners, and fund raisers. David Fox ran the Half Marathon route in a time of 02:57:58 raising £364 for the charity Bladder Cancer UK.

The Grim up North Black Sheep is a 3hr or 6hr challenge where participants run a 3.35mile course as many times as possible in the time slot chosen. Five members took on the challenge with Matt Randall managing a staggering eleven laps of the course earning him 1^st male in a time of 05:55:06.

Further afield Karen Alford took part in the Berlin Marathon finishing the race in a time of 04:04:26 and in Scotland Andy Young ran the Great Scottish Run Half Marathon in a time of 02:08:09.

As the local Snape 10km race is part of the club championships and seven members took part to gain valuable points. Will Retchless was first BAR male home in overall 6^th place with a course PB time of 00:39:34 whilst Steve Singleton, second BAR male home took 1^st place in the M60+ Cat. in a time of 00:47:42. Ann Harrington was first BAR female home in overall 6^th place with a course PB time of 00:54:05.

Last year during the winter season we tried something for the first time, BAR joined NYSD Cross Country league and those of who went along and such fun and great team environment. Clubs across the league have tents, gazebo and shelters in the race hub, we headed along in groups to put ours up. Supporting the junior races to start, followed by the ladies and senior men (vet 65+) with the final race of the day being the men’s race. With great team camaraderie each event was different and challenging in its own way, the one thing that was resolute throughout was the team spirit. Finishing with the season with team relay’s at Darlington’s South Park, teams of 3 ladies and 4 men running 2 miles each, an exhilarating finish to the season. Personally I can’t recommend is highly enough perhaps I am biased!

This years dates are;

9th October – Acorn Centre, Acklam

13th November – Fox Rush, Redcar

4th December – Summerhill, Hartlepool *** TBC ***

15th January – Ormesby Hall, Middlesbrough

5th February – Old Racecourse, Richmond

5th March – Caedmon Collage, Whitby

26th March – Relays – South Park, Darlington

Registration will be open in September for the first event of the season, the season fee is £7 this covers all the events listed, payment to BAR in advance of receiving your race number. You can register at anytime during the season with the only restriction you must have competed at, at least one event during the season to take part in the Relays.

What would be great is if there where a couple of members who would be interested in not only taking part but support encourage people to take part, be part of the team, remind us all of the events etc as “Champions” of the Cross Country. To be part of the team competition throughout the season, the team competition runs as Ladies and Mens, with the first 4 over the line for the ladies counting for team points and teams of 6 for the men. If you are interested in taking part or being a champion get in touch it me, I will start a list ahead of registration.

Links for the league information;

http://nysd.org.uk/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100071704825537

Bedale and Aiskew Runner (BAR) were due to host Bedale car boot on Saturday 30^th July. The car boot can swing one of 2 ways; in glorious sunshine you can have a bumper day and really boost your clubs fundraising.  We all know how predictable the Great British weather is! This year was the short straw for BAR, early morning rain sadly saw the cancelation of the car boot and the fundraising opportunity washed away. Alongside fund raising for BAR the club had decided to support  a local charity by the way of Hambleton Foodshare, it very much seemed the right thing to do in these challenging times to provide support for those who need a little bit of help. The support shone through from the club and it members to provide a haul of particularly key donations from the shortages list that were very gratefully received.

Bedale and Aiskew Runners member, Debbie Thompson recently completed the Yorkshire Challenge Race, a 100km route of varied terrain in the Nidderdale Valley. Training throughout the winter months with fellow club members Debbie felt prepared for the event but found it tough going at the halfway mark of 65km. Finishing the race 65^th overall out of a field of 202 runners and 28^th female over the line; in completing the race Debbie raised £970 for the charity Young Lives v’s Cancer.

Joanne Sinnott also raised vital funds for charity by taking part in her first ultra-race, Endure 24 Leeds. Completing 16 laps of the 8km course in 24hrs a total of – 128km ran, Joanne finished 19^th out of 276 in her age Cat. and raised an astonishing £1700 for the charity MNDA.

The club championship races continue with members choosing from the Northallerton Park run and James Herriot Country Trail Run. The James Herriot is a 14km route starting at Castle Bolton and takes in the tracks and trails of Wensleydale. Three members took part and completed the race – Matthew Randall in a time of 01:08:28, Will Retchless – 01:09:02, and second club claim Paul Ellis – 01:05:27.

Endure24 was my 1st ever event aged 60, what an experience. The nerves set in as a waited at the start line with hundreds of others but Lena a very expierenced runner who was going solo she assured me this was normal, we finally set off running to the encouragement and cheering from the spectators the atmosphere was buzzing. The course was an undulating gravel track but on advise from Lena you walk the hills and run down the other side and just enjoy the journey walking if you need too.
The course itself was so pretty with “Endure24” markered on the route and signs notifying each kilometer with marshalls at different checkpoints whos support gave us encouragement to keep going.
My team “legs11” waited for my notification that I had reached 7k so the next runner was ready for handover and as I approached a fellow runner shouted “well done” which made me smile.
Thanks to Lena I completed my 1st lap in 1hr, I was so chuffed and felt honoured to have run with her over the finish line whilst she went on to complete 19 more laps. I myself had just 1 more lap to run a few hours later.
I was so emotional having achieved my 1st ever event and the hugs and support from my fellow Bedale and Aiskew Runners was just lovely.
what an absolute pleasure to have been part of Endura24 2022 with 5 teams and 2 solo runners from BAR , my 1st ever event completed and how proud I felt to be part of the club.
My admiration goes to anyone and everyone taking part wether solo or in a team it really is a runners Glastonbury. If you can cope with sleep deprivation , portaloos, queues for showers and camping and most of all support from all I highly recommend.

It’s been a couple of busy weeks for the members of Bedale and Aiskew Runners Club as the summer race season kicks into full action. Fountains 10km on the 15th May saw club runners tackling this undulating course whilst the away run on the 25th May at Melmerby, runners and walkers challenged themselves to the virtual 10km route. This being a Club Handicap Championship Race it was all to run for with some of the athletes achieving PB’s for the course. 26th May and a new event to the club, the NYMac Relays. A team of four ladies entered the F160 Cat. meaning their combined ages met or exceeded 160yrs. Having never done the event and not sure what to expect the team came in a respectable 11th out of 15. On to weekend 28th / 29th May and again the club was well represented with members competing in the Hardmoors 110 – Lena Conlin completing this iconic race on her third attempt and Northallerton 10km – Will Retchless finishing 16th overall in a time of 00:38:35.

Running Club Membership 2022/23

CLUB MEMBERSHIP FOR 2022/23 IS NOW OPEN!

We are now accepting applications and renewals for the 2022/23 membership year. We will need you to fill in the membership form whether you are a new member or an existing member please.

Membership fees for 2022/23 are £40 per year for first claim members (i.e. if you are not a member of another running club), and £31 if you are already a first-claim member of another running club.  A family discount is available for more than 2 members living at the same address, a £10 discount on the 3rd and subsequent members will be applied. The membership year runs from 1st April 2022 to 31st March 2023. Membership applications made between 1st January 2023 and 31st March 2023 will be subject to a discounted fee of £17.

Please note that your first claim membership with the club, also includes your membership to England Athletics, which in turn provides you with insurance cover, should anything happen whilst you are running, be this at races, with the club or on your own.  In addition, it includes membership to the Bedale and Aiskew Sports Association (BASA) and allows you to use the facilities there.

Please access the ‘Join Our Club’ tab through the website or click the following link.  http://bedaleandaiskewrunners-org-uk.stackstaging.com/membership-and-programs/membership/

Bedale and Aiskew Runners are completing a 48 hour endurance run starting on Friday 1st April 2022 and finishing on Sunday 3rd April 2022.

The aim is to have members of BAR running/walking at all times through the 48 hour period.
The route is a 5 mile loop from BASA, through town and back to BASA.

The club is raising money for the

MND Research and Care

https://www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/bar48endure

We have all been touched by the tragic but uplifting story of Doddie Weir, Rob Burrow and Stephen Darby and the impact that Motor Neurone Disease (MND) has had upon the lives of both themselves and their families. The uplifting element of the story is how they have used their profile to raise funds for MND research and treatment as well as greater awareness of the condition.

MND is a progressive neurological disorder that progressively damages parts of the nervous system and the brain, where the motor neurones gradually stop working and at present it is not known why this happens. It can impact any one at any age, but is more likely to affect people over the age of 50 and is a severely life-shortening condition with symptoms such as muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, slurred speech and twitches.

There is a 1 IN 300 RISK OF BEING DIAGNOSED and sadly at this time there is no known cure and that is why the members of our small running club in North Yorkshire are inspired to support MND, both the research for a cure and the care for those diagnosed with this terrible disease

The club are going to complete a 48 hour endurance running event, with a club member running at all times throughout the 48 hour period, and the club as a whole are looking to run in excess of 1000 miles during the weekend of 1st-3rd April 2022.

The ambition of the club is to raise £4800 to support two distinct charities. The My Names Doddie Foundation which is a foundation working to create a world free of MND, funding research projects and the development of new treatments for MND and the Rob Burrow Centre for MND appeal, which is looking to build a state of the art centre MND care-centre to give people with MND and their families the best possible care and support.

This disease impacts so many people across the UK, and sadly their families too.

As a running club we would be hugely grateful if you could donate towards these 2 amazing causes that are making such a massive difference to MND research and care of those unfortunate enough to be diagnosed with the condition.

Thank you to everyone who donates – every £1.00 raised will help the runners stay motivated to keep pounding the streets of Bedale and Aiskew during the 48 hour event!!

We will distribute every penny raised equally between these truly deserving charities.

If anyone wishes to explore any further information about these great charities, please see the links below:-

Rob Burrow centre for MND appeal

My Names Doddie Foundation

Running Club Membership 2021/22

CLUB MEMBERSHIP FOR 2021/22 IS NOW OPEN!

We are now accepting applications and renewals for the 2021/22 membership year. We will need you to fill in the membership form whether you are a new member or an existing member please.

Membership fees for 2021/22 are £30 per year for first claim members (i.e. if you are not a member of another running club), and £21 if you are already a first-claim member of another running club.  A family discount is available for more than 2 members living at the same address, a £10 discount on the 3rd and subsequent members will be applied. The membership year runs from 1st April 2021 to 31st March 2022. Membership applications made between 1st January 2022 and 31st March 2022 will be subject to a discounted fee of £16.

Please note that your first claim membership with the club, also includes your membership to England Athletics, which in turn provides you with insurance cover, should anything happen whilst you are running, be this at races, with the club or on your own.  In addition, it includes membership to the Bedale and Aiskew Sports Association (BASA) and allows you to use the facilities there.

Please access the ‘Join Our Club’ tab through the website or click the following link.  http://bedaleandaiskewrunners-org-uk.stackstaging.com/membership-and-programs/membership/

This Sunday should have been the 40^th London Marathon in the current situation of lockdown with many fundraising events being cancelled the London Marathon organisers have launched The 2.6 Challenge.  The idea being that from Sunday 26^th April you get involved by participating in an activity that involves 2 and 6, whether that be running of walking 2.6 miles, walking up and down stairs 26 times or building in some strength training to support your running with 26 squats, lunges or burpees I know how you all love them!

 https://www.twopointsixchallenge.co.uk/

I see a number of Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) have been getting involved with the #twopointsixchallenge, our Chairman Paul Ellis was blasting out 26 off road hill reps while Sharon completed a fantastic 2.6 miles of hill reps. A brilliant example that it can be something to suit your ability.

A number of other BAR members have been getting involved with a relay challenge organised by PB Sports Therapy, split into 43 legs with 73 runners involved #PBRelayChallenge covered a total of 180.34 miles. Helped be BAR members Paul and Nicola Simpson completeing Harmby / Spennithorne to Hunton, Ann Harrington with Rookwith to Spennithorne for a scenic run across the fields, Becky Smith with Masons Gin to Bedale Sport club. After a false start on Saturday and needing some medical treatment Lena Conlin went virtual to Bedale beck to Snape, hope you mend soon Lena.

https://www.facebook.com/PBSportsTherapy/

Coming up from BAR we are introducing a Virtual C25k, to help those who are struggling, may have fallen out or love, are returning from injury or simply want to seize the moment to start. There will be 3 sessions a week Monday, Wednesday and Saturday over 9 weeks, following a downloadable App, with the support of the Bedale & Aiskew Runners club coaches on hand to message and ask question of. Sharing of your personal activities and achievement will be encouraged within a Virtual C25k group, for more information https://www.facebook.com/groups/246587016537438

So lockdown has been extended, as the day light gets longer and hopefully the days warmer I hope we are all staying safe and looking after ourselves both physically and mentally. To keep the ideas flowing for solo running I took note of a challenge the other week for an off road route, so here goes…

Bedale to Snape 10k

A route many with recognise large parts of as Snape 10k with a different start position in the route heading off from Bedale towards Exelby down Southend. Leaving town and following the road initially until you reach a track on the right, Lord’s Lane. Passing Lord’s Moor Farm continuing on, as the track bends to the right of the second time take the footpath. Crossing the field and sweeping round to the left to pick up the field boundary. Crossing a ditch, continuing to follow the field boundaries until you reach a track; Ings Lane. Turning right towards Snape as you reach the village take the track to the right Bogs Lane, the lane turns to field boundaries. Following the footpath through a short section of woods and out into pasture land, crossing this new undulating ground towards a track baring right to roughly follow the track until the footpath turns left for a short distance to reach to road in Firby. Reaching the road turning right, returning to Bedale down Firby Road, to make it a round 10k cross Masham Road continuing straight on until you reach The Wynd turning right and then nearly immediately left. Take the road past the Fire Station following it round through the arch way and out onto North End. There are various options to add a little more to this route.

https://www.strava.com/routes/25815902

Firby across the fields 5k

Again heading off from Bedale down Southend, to Iddison Drive turning right then first left on to Stapleton Close following the curve of the road round the green space to the 3^rd left Nattrass Walk. At the end of Nattrass Walk pick up the footpath to the right initially along the back if the houses. Then on along a well-trodden path across the fields, before popping out through the trees onto Firby Road. Turning right on Firby Road returning to Bedale, cross Masham Road continuing straight on until you reach The Wynd turning right and then nearly immediately left. Take the road past the Fire Station following it round, turning left through the pedestrian gate in to Bedale Park then turning left and following the footpath round anti-clockwise to reach the 5k target.

https://www.strava.com/routes/25870179

With tonnes of interest in the previous Routes Specials, this week we are heading to Crakehall for the route ideas. Crakehall is approx. 2 miles west of Bedale, these routes offer potential extensions or modifications if Bedale was your starting location.

Crakehall Langthorne loop

Heading off towards Kirkbridge on the lane passing Crakehall Cricket pitch, winding your way down the lane next to the beck. The lane becomes walled with hedges as you head on towards Langthorne, passing through the village and continuing on. Turning left on to Hallow Moor Lane at the end turning left again onto North Road, distracted by the scenery and rolling towards Little Crakehall. Cross the main road taking the foot bridge, following the foot path round the road side to the village green at Crakehall. This shortish loop is 7.2k / 4.5m, can easily be extend by 2.6k / 1.6m by on leaving Langthorne continuing straight along the lane to Hackforth, taking a hard left onto North Road picking up the route back to Crakehall.

Crakehall uphill and down dale!

Setting off from Crakehall leaving down Station Road this is an undulating challenge! Over the level cross of the Wensleydale Railway and crossing Sinks Lane on to Cowling Lane. Starting the main climb of the route, on the infamous Burrill Bank before dropping down sharply into Cowling. At the bottom of the decent tunring right on to the metalled road of High Lane with a subtle incline the terrain is the challenge on here. Following High Lane to the end where it reaches the road turning right toward No Man’s Moor Land and on to Brompton Road through Newton-le-Willows.

Straight through Newton-le-Willows, continuing to challenge the leg. On reaching the A684 turning right to Patrick Brompton, picking up the foot path at the side of the road round the first bend in the village and on past the church. At the second bend take the junction to the left passing Pastures Green and following the lane as it leaves Patrick Brompton. At the end of the road turning right onto North Road, returning to via Little Crakehall and reaching the A684 again. Cross the main road taking the foot bridge, following the foot path round the road side to the village green at Crakehall.

Lock down is here and we are having to work out what is our new normal! To continue to give a variety of ideas here is a couple of routes; one short one and a longer one. Keeping close to Bedale, enabling routes to be adapted to setting off from home.

‘It’s not Parkrun’ Exelby

Leaving Exelby heading away from the Green Dragon towards on the lane towards Exelby Close, following this to the end. Picking up the footpath to Lord’s Moor Farm on reaching Lord’s Lane turn right. At the end of Lord’s Lane turn right on to Exelby Road, passing Bridge Grange Farm crossing the narrow bridge. Shortly afterwards taking the road on the left, Westfield Lane at the end turning right and returning to Exelby for a 5.1k.

To shorten this route at Westfield Lane you can continue to follow Exelby Road back to the Green Dragon giving a 4.4k.

https://www.strava.com/routes/24752220

Round Bedale half

Setting off from the Market Cross in Bedale towards Bedale Golf club and onwards towards BSC. Before reaching BSC pick up the footpath across the back if the football and cricket pitches passing through the small gate and on across the field. Continuing to follow the field boundary over a stile and along the next field. On reaching the track turn right crossing the railway line, continuing to follow the footpath as it narrows through trees and on around field boundaries until you reach Kirkbridge. On meeting the road follow this through Langthorne and on towards Hackforth, turning right before the village on to Bowbridge Lane.

Meeting the relief road turning left following the road over the fly-over then turning right towards Kirkby Fleetham, following Low Street to Leeming Bar. Picking up the route of the old ‘Great North Road’ through Leeming Bar and on to Leeming Village, at the end of the Village take Mill Lane opposite the Willow Tree pub. Baring right on Mill Lane on to the footpath following this along the side, then under the A1, over the roundabout at McDonald’s down the short footpath to Bedale Road.

Turn left towards Bedale and on the last leg of the route, as you reach the boundary of Aiskew take the footpath to the left. Cross the railway line and on through the foot gate to the right, follow the track across the top of the fields as it bends left and down the next field, bare right across the end of a field then right again to a stile leading to Love Lane. Turning left on Love Lane, then taking the footpath to the right towards Big Sheep Little Cow and on down Back Lane at the end turn left, then bare right up Emgate to the finish at the Market Cross.

https://www.strava.com/routes/24759842

Looking ahead to next weekend and looking for a bit of inspiration! How about showing your support to the hard work of our NHS staff with #5KGardenGrind. Take inspiration from the French man Elisha Nochomovitz who spent a grand total of 6 hours and 48 minutes running 26.2 miles around a 7m balcony of his apartment in Toulouse. Imagine that….

More information about #5KGardenGrind at; https://mailchi.mp/69b111de4af1/5k-garden-grind?fbclid=IwAR2_tqjJwshC_UzorynF_OlxP9IBsrC2w7wKL_DM2pZdyUBixE-aLDySgFM

We are in very strange times as we all struggle to understand the best action to take and having dig deep for motivation to solo run while listen to the advice to ‘social distance’. As a club to we are continuing to monitor advice from England Athletics, NHS England, and Public Health England, it was through direct advice of England Athletics to suspend all activities, currently until end April.

We are all in this together, although we are not meeting and running together we can continue to share stories of our runs through Facebook; BAR club members, Whatsapp; BAR members group Strava; Bedale Aiskew Runners. I’d like to take this opportunity are feature a number of routes to give inspiration in these difficult times, coving a range of distances.

‘BAR it’s not a Park Run’

A 5k loop, fast and flat on some relatively quiet country lanes. While staying local and exploring a different route option to regular ones run from BSC. This route is great for isolation, passing only a few houses and short of running the villages. With approx. 1m warm up on Low Street by setting off from Leeming Bar. On reaching the first right your ‘it’s not a Parkrun’ starts here, taking the road to the right Fence Dyke Lane running all the way to the end. Then turning left on to Fleetham Lane towards Little and Great Fencote. On reaching St Andrews Church take the road to the left in front of the church, running to the end of the road and turning left for the final side of the square with a slight down-hill to the finish.

https://www.strava.com/clubs/598933

Kirkby Malzeard 10k

Some will remember this being part of the Black Sheep Brewery race series, the race was last run in 2014. This 10K roughly circular route on picturesque rural roads and metalled bridleways, again great for isolation. Starts on the main street Kirkby Malzeard outside of Highside Butchers running up the village then turning left back on yourself and down Back Lane until you reach Warren Lane. Turning right away from the village, to the first right on to back lane on reaching Laverton, turn right then in the middle of the village left over a little bridge over a stream. On leaving Laverton you hit the first real effort of the route, a long climb up to Missies Lanes. Turning left and undulating along at possible the highest past of the route, giving opportunity to take in the scenery looking to your left across the valley at the vista towards Kirkby Malzeard and your route to the end. At the end of the road turning left heading down-hill on Gate Bridge Road, across a narrow bridge into a series of bends. Leaving the bends on Warren Lane on a gentle climb, reaching a road on the left turning towards Laverton on reaching the village take the road on the right, retracing your early steps round the lane at the end turning left. As you re-enter Kirkby Malzeard taking the left onto Back Lane, on reaching the Green the route teases you, your nearly home! Turning left for follow the road round the Green, then left and immediately left behind the houses and on to a track leading you onto Highside playing fields to the end of your run.

https://www.strava.com/activities/3201102561

Links

Facebook BAR club members

https://www.facebook.com/groups/barclubmembers/

Strava Bedale Aiskew Runners

https://www.strava.com/clubs/bedale-aiskew-runners

Whatsapp BAR members group

https://chat.whatsapp.com/EOINT3mIU7uCnC1gEi95z3

With spring in the air on a bright and breezy morning 20 intrepid Bedale & Aiskew Runners (BAR) headed to the close by Thirsk 10. On a new route for 2020, flat and fully on roads ideal for fast times. Setting off on Newsham Road heading towards Kirby Wiske before turning and heading south though Sandhutton. With an out and back before returning through Carlton Miniott to Thirsk Racecourse and finishing in front of the Grandstand. Some excellent running and quick times, first home for BAR was Will Retchless in a personal best (PB) of 1:05:53, next was Ben Smith in 1:12:21 and Jason Ashford 1:13:25. First lady home for BAR was Karen Alford in 1:33:41, followed by Julie Elsey in 1:35:20 and Alison Grayson & Alison Barron 1:36:42 & 1:36:44.

The route lent its speed to a number of members, enabling PB’s for Nick Wilson in 1:25:39, Nichola Malton in 1:37:08, Ann Harrington in 1:38:45, Jude Newell in 1:38:56 and Joanne Sinnott in 1:41:46. For BAR 2^nd claim members Paul Simpson a PB in 1:08:21, two of the senior members of BAR also had quick times, 3^rd in M70 for Paul Bainbridge in 1:21:34 and Raymond Lightle in 1:30:28.

Finishing the field of BAR runners Henry Anderson (1:27:23), Jess Mallinson (1:46:07), Caroline Pounder (1:48:15), Claire Rogers (1:52:38), and Michelle Dinsdale (1:55:21).

BAR club Chairman Paul Ellis headed over to Carlisle for the Carlisle Half Marathon, starting and finishing at the Carlisle Football club. A fast flat route Paul had a superb run for 3^rd in age category, 33^rd overall in 1:27:20.

Bedale and Aiskew runners (BAR) took over the hosting of Catterick Parkrun this weekend, celebrating the graduation of their most recent Couch to 5k (C25k).

On a damp morning the atmosphere was brought alive with the regular Catterick spirit, supported by 27 fabulous volunteers from BAR helping the smooth running of the event. Along with the cheering, high fiving and bell ringing support, BAR swelled the running support with some extra pacers at 25min Paul Berry, 28min Will Retchless, 30min Ann Harrington hitting her 50^th Parkrun, 33min Nichola Malton, 35min Louise Baker and 38min Michelle Dinsdale. All with excellent pacing, close to their target times, chatting and cheering along the way.

A massive 25 BAR members running, including 8 first timers many of who are C25k graduates. Congratulations to Chris Pritchard, Charlotte Rudd, Poppy Bean, Nina McWhinney, Fiona King, Fiona Fieldhouse, Mel Thornton-Grace and Tailwalker Mary McDonald on completing their first Parkrun. Congratulation to Beth Capel and Claire Bean for showing that if at first you don’t succeed try again! You will come back stronger; Claire showed this with a personal best in 35:01, and Beth 4 seconds faster than her first Parkrun in 33:12.

Huge congratulations goes to BAR Chairman’s daughter Matilda Ellis achieving a PB and new JW10 course record of 21:39, taking nearly 1 minute off her pervious course record with an amazingly strong run.

A big THANK YOU to all the volunteers and especially to Stuart Black to stepping up to Run Director, it was an exceptional event.

With the break in the weather lots of members attended Lightwater Valley 10k, a bright and blowy day with spring in the air. The race brought some challenging head winds on its synonymous ‘W’ profile. It was top conditions for a number to personal bests (PB’s) leading the BAR team home was Paul Ellis achieving his first sub 40 in 39:38 and 11^th overall. Also running the ‘W’ in a PB was Paul Grayson in 43:38, Nick Wilson in 53:38, smashing nearly 2mins off her time from 2019 Alison Barron ran in 57:51, followed in by Julie Elsey achieving her first sub 1hour in 58:32, Joanne Sinnott in 1:04:17 with Caroline Pounder 1:04:19 close behind. With a massive 21 BAR members running in total there were many more fabulous times, finishing 28^th overall, then Matt Randall in 48:43, Tony Clark in 50:41, taking over 30seconds off his 2019 and 1^st in M70 was Paul Bainbridge in 51:04, followed by Andy Gibb 52:37.  The first lady home for the BAR team was and over 3mins faster than last year was Louise Baker in 54:16, Karen Alford in 55:05, Claire Temple in 57:52, Nichola Malton in 60:48, Jen Morrison Douglas in 61:18, Ann Harrington in 61:37 and Jess Mallinson in 66:00. Five minutes quicker than last year was Michelle Dinsdale 70:47, in her first 10k Sarah Pardington in 71:13.

BAR members attended at four different Parkruns last Saturday, with the majority running, or helping as volunteers, at Catterick. There, Raymond Lightle completed his 147th Parkrun and Ann Harrington reached the 49 mark, while being within 7 seconds for a 32 minute pacing target. Both will attain a significant landmark very soon. Michelle Dinsdale has already run in 184 events at all courses. This was her 24th appearance at Catterick and resulted in a course PB of 31.56. An easier target is to record a PB on your second run at the course, but an achievement to be proud of nonetheless; Andrew Young with a time of 24.09, and Becky Smith’s daughter, Isabel, in the JW10 age category, in 31.56, achieved this, encouraged by her mum.

Other runners at Catterick were Carys Samuel (23.10), Nicola Malton (28.22), Marian Hunter (28.34), Sarah Pardington (32.11), Joanne Fawcett (36.17), and Wendy Kelvin (51.24). Those who acted as officials were: John Hunter, Ruth Hancock, Claire Temple, Sarah Pardington, Ann Harrington and Paul Bainbridge.

At Darlington, Charlotte Wardle, returning from a long term injury, recorded a course PB of 23.36, and was 8th woman out of 163. While at Northallerton Will Retchless was having a steady run before the Lightwater 10K the next day, and at Keighley James and Joanne Wigglesworth ran together flying the BAR colours.

The Bedale and Aiskew Runners annual Presentation Evening took place last week at the club’s home venue, at the newly refurbished Bedale Sports Club.

The main hall looked wonderful after a great deal of hard work by committee members, when everyone sat down to a splendid three course meal. After a warm welcome from chairman, Paul Ellis, various trophies and awards were presented between courses, followed with club member Chris Pritchard entertaining with some well-chosen songs. Tables were cleared, dancing began, an excellent evening was had by all.

The Club Championship awards were after the starters, with Rebecca Smith receiving the title after several years of near misses. Rebecca had taken part in 12 of the designated races, with the best 6 performances counting towards the title. This included 1st place at Snape 10K and Sessay 6K.  Louise Baker was the runner up, after achieving a lifetime best of 53:26 at Richmond Castle 10K, a full 5 minutes improvement over the year.

In the men’s championship 12 athletes qualified, with the top 8 in with a chance of the title until the final few races. Will Retchless was the previous year’s champion and again set the pace through the year with some outstanding performances in 10Ks at Doncaster, Snape and going sub 40minutes at Snape, to retain his title. He was pushed all the way by a fast-improving James Bartram, who finished in front of Will on the James Herriot trail race. However overall, he was awarded the runner up title.

The Handicap awards are worked on a percentage taking age into consideration so that comparisons can be made. The women’s Handicap Champion was Alison Grayson, with runner up Ann Harrington. In the men’s Handicap Raymond Lightle was runner up this year after winning the previous three, with Paul Bainbridge taking the trophy for the first time. Raymond however won the award for the most consistent attendee at club night, closely followed by club secretary Mary McDonald.

There were awards for Best Individual Effort during the year. Tash Miller won the women’s award after running her first marathon in Manchester and completing 90K in the Equinox 24hour event. Club chairman Paul Ellis won the men’s award for 1st place in the gruelling Slaithwaite marathon and completing the Fellsman and Lakes-in-a-day trail races.

Matt Randall led a long list of candidates for the Parkrun award. He started the Couch to 5K programme in Autumn ’18, regularly running and/or volunteering at Parkrun events, with a sub 20minute personnel best, to be one of the fastest in the club.

The most improved runner trophy always attracts plenty of candidates, particularly this year with the introduction of several different training groups.  After much deliberation the committee awarded this coveted prize to Alison Grayson who had started on the first Couch to 5K programme Autumn ‘18, progressed through to the 10K group, and is now preparing to run in the upcoming London Marathon. 

There is an ever increasing number of Bedale and Aiskew Runners turning out on a Saturday morning to get their weekly dose of 5K exhilaration. The wind was blowing but this did not deter 23 BAR members, plus 2nd claim Lena Conlin, to run at the Catterick course.

Laura Hewitt is nearing her century of runs on 95, and Ann Harrington ran her 48th, nearing the coveted half century. There were four all time personal bests (PBs) with Nicola Malton recording 27:50 in her 9th appearance, Alison Barron 27:11 in her 11th, Katy Bamber 30:11 in her 20th, and Sarah Pardington topping the list with 31:48 in her 27th run. David Fox was pleased with a Catterick course record of 30:59, beating his time from 2 weeks ago by a massive 35 seconds. Well done to all.

Will Retchless, 7th in 18:51, and Paul Ellis, 9th in 19:22, were under the magic 20 minute target, with Matt Randall, 16th in 20:46, the third BAR member to finish out of a total of 245 runners. Becky Smith was 4th woman overall in 22:23, out of 106 altogether.

Fountains Abbey PR attracted over 400, with Leigh Ellar (30:33) and Michelle Dinsdale (34:48) the BAR representatives. At Northallerton David and Helen Adams, and Nick Wilson took part, while further up the A1 at Darlington Paul Bainbridge ran his quickest time of the year, with Charlotte Wardle testing out a recovering injury very successfully, finishing in 23:46.

Eventually the Club Champions got under way with races this weekend, on Saturday it was a family outing for the Ellis family to High Cup Nick fell race. In the junior races the youngest Mollie leading the way coming 1^st in her age group and Matilda cutting her teeth on muddy off road races finishing 5^th. The main race of the day, a 15km fell race with 450m ascent on the edge of the Eden Valley taking you up a challenging scramble to the amazing High Cup Nick. Before returning mostly along the Pennine Way into scenic village of Dufton. In brutal conditions Paul Ellis finished in 1:27:31, 13^th in his age category.

Followed on Sunday with Harewood House half marathon, a tough hilly challenging trail run. With miles of muddy tracks, steep forest inclines and grass paths, all within the stunning grounds of Harewood House. Two BAR members took to the very muddy trails Jason Ashford finishing in 1:56:51 and Henry Anderson in 2:18:08. Taking a shorter although equally though challenge at Harewood, Julie Elsey ran the 10k event finishing in 1:00:30.

The weather continued to affect Parkruns. There were cancellations because of flooding or tree falls, or taking part in very strong winds. The exposed course at Catterick still attracted 171 hardy soles to brave the very windy conditions, including 7 BAR members. Ruth Hancock and Ann Harrington combined a volunteering role as tail walkers, with Ann nearing her half century mark on 47 appearances. David Fox was well wrapped up as a volunteer marshal, encouraging the runners on their way. Raymond Lightle was the first BAR member to finish followed by Alison Barron, John Hunter and Sarah Pardington. They all deserve admiration for turning out on such a morning.

Matt Randall completed his 49th Parkrun overall and 2nd at Bracknell, finishing 11th out of 243 taking part, with Jess Mallinson in her 1st appearance on this course, 179th. Making the Bedale and Aiskew vest a little more international; Will Retchless took a trip to Krakow in Poland ran the local 5K route in 19.12 to finish 19th out of 199 taking part.

In other events Michelle Dinsdale took a trip to Pocklington in East Yorkshire, running the Snake Lane 10miler. A fairly flat route, winding its way through beautiful East Yorkshire countryside at the foot of the glorious Wolds, enabling Michelle to a finish in 2:03:53.

The Fountains Abbey Parkrun this week was designated as the second club championship run of 2020. However like the first run last week at the Muddy Boots 10K, it was cancelled due to the strong winds and rain.

However 13 Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) turned up at the Catterick course for their 5K start to the weekend. David Fox was pleased with his course record of 31:34 after 12 runs. All time personal bests were achieved by Jude Newell after 8 runs, husband Steve after 10, but topped by James Wigglesworth with an all time PB of 22:04 after 20 appearances.

Matt Randall, who is nearing his half century, on 48 runs was first Bar to finish in 21:03, closely followed by Chris Lees with 21:16. Ann Harrington, with 27:37,  is keeping up her 100% appearance in 2020 and is now on 46 parkruns in total, with Michelle Dinsdale on 33:01 and Joanne Wigglesworth on 36:31.

Club champion Will Retchless was pacing a friend this week finishing in 29:01, while the club’s ‘more elderly boys’, John Hunter (31:28), Raymond Lightle (26:15) and Paul Bainbridge (24:19) completed the BAR finishers.

Jess Mallinson and Matt Randall logged up a well respected volunteer point on the day.

Club Chairman, Paul Ellis, and daughter, Matilda, ran the Darlington parkrun, with Paul storming to an all time PB after 15 runs, of 19:08, and a position of 7th out of 362 taking part. Matilda who is in the F10 age group finished 2nd female overall out of 139, in a time of 22:06, and an all time PB after 17 runs. How long before she catches her dad?

Carys Samuel (23:26) at Finsbury Park, Leigh Ellar (29:50) at York, and Nicky Harland (28:33) at Northallerton completed the Bar involvement last Saturday.

As Storm Ciara suspended the start of the Club Championship with the very sad news the Muddy Boots was cancelled due to the strong winds and rain. Mean-while there were some hardy souls out on the moors for Hardmoors Saltburn Trail Marathon. It was 29miles, with strong winds and driving rain making the paths like rivers in places and lots of mud making it ever more challenging, with the occasion light relief of a tail wind. Stuart Black was running from BAR finishing safely in 6:45:37.

Before the storm Saturday saw BAR members busy at Parkruns, with 20 members running at a numbers of Parkruns. A trio of personal bests (PB’s) at Tees Barrage for Will Retchless in 18:37, James Bartram in 19:00 and Chris Burton 21:53, and at Darlington South Park Paul Ellis ran a consistent 19:18 matching his PB.

A huge BAR turnout at Catterick Parkrun with 16 members and 7 PB’s, for the 3^rd consecutive week a PB for James Wigglesworth in 22:15. Followed with PB’s from David Adams in 24:11, Mark Temple in 25:55, Alison Barron in 27:13, Nichola Malton in 30:10, Katy Bamber in 30:57 and a course PB for Michelle Dinsdale in 32:16. Other BAR members at Catterick providing essential support to the running of the event by volunteering were Matt Randall, Ann Harrington and Helen Adams.

A wild and windy start to February on the North Yorkshire hills near Pateley Bridge, two Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) took to some fabulous trail running on a 5 mile loop for the Pateley Pie n Pint. Run on mixed undulating terrain, you are distracted by the beautiful scenery and a pie and pint in your goodie bag when you finish. With a choice of distances running multiple laps of the 5 mile course, thick with mud in places, Julie Esley ran the 10mile event in 2:00:36 and BAR 2^nd claim member went for the Marathon distance finishing 13^th in 5:27:33.

A cracking week at Parkruns with 10 BAR members at Catterick, a strong run for Will Retchless in a quick 19:36 to finish 2^nd, a personal best (PB) for the second consecutive week for James Wigglesworth in 22:43 and for BAR 2^nd claim member Nicola Simpson a quick time of 21:01 saw her rewarded as the 1^st lady home. In other statistics Raymond Lightle took the crown for the most Catterick Parkruns, having run 111 times of 129 events.

Seven BAR members travelled to the stunning Fountains Abbey, Nichola Malton being rewarded with a PB is 30:48. Just a few BAR members at Northallerton in slippery conditions, Paul Ellis finishing 3^rd overall in 20:32 and a second consecutive course PB for Nick Wilson in 26:05.

James Bartram excitedly travelled to Morocco to compete in the Marrakesh Marathon, and boy did he enjoy it, recording an amazing personal best (PB) of 3:09:58, he really wasn’t expecting! Conditions were perfect on a very flat route, with the distant horizon of the snow capped Atlas Mountains. On the streets you hardly know there was a marathon going on with the hustle and bustle of everyday life in Marrakesh carrying on. Dodging motorbikes and children along the way, and in the last few hundred meters a scooter crash went sliding down the road, James thoroughly recommends it as definitely a unique experience!

Meanwhile back in chilly, damp blighty Joanne Sinnott headed over to Manchester and Heaton Park, home to a Grade 1 listed neoclassical 18th century house. Running on the paths within Heaton Park, with tough weather conditions and an aptly named ‘angina hill’. Joanne finished in a fabulous 2:24:56.

There were Bedale & Aiskew Runners taking part in various Parkruns, with Paul Ellis coming 3rd at Catterick only 1 second behind his PB in 19:19. Julie Elsey smashing nearly 2 minutes of her previous PB finishing in 27:20 with Karen Alford close behind also running a PB in 27:33, and doing stunning work pacing for those aiming at 25minutes Matt Randall ran 24:54. At Northallerton there were PB’s for Nick Wilson in 26:16, Nicky Harland in 28:21, Nichola Malton in 31:53, and course PB for Katy Bamber in 31:58 and Ruth Hancock in 32:09. That’s a stunning 30% of BAR runner finishing in PB’s, shows our hard work!

A huge turnout at Parkrun with 23 Bedale & Aiskew Runners (BAR) taking part at 3 local Parkruns. The largest contingent of BAR members at Catterick, 19 in total with strong running and personal bests (PB’S) for James Wigglesworth in 22:45, Beth Grayson in 26:10 and a course PB for Will Retchless in a stunning 18:48. Very important volunteers Matt Randall pacing at 25min and Tracey Tickner tail walker.

At other local Parkruns there were to further PB’s at Darlington South Park for Stephen Newell in 25:15 and Jude Newell in 28:58.  At Northallerton strong running from 2 BAR members maintaining consistent time for Paul Bainbridge and Nick Wilson.

Two BAR members headed south to the Longshaw Estate, Derbyshire for the fourth edition of the Wildest Peaks Winter trail run. Heading northwards to do a circuit of Hathersage Moor, Carl Wark & Higger Tor before dropping into Padley Gorge followed the short route turns back to the Longshaw Estate to complete the 10.6km with 250m of climbs. The longer heads on along Curbar, Froggatt and Baslow Edges; the return to the finish is across the wide open moorlands of Big Moor and Totley Moor completing 25.6km with approx. 500m of climbs. Both routes gave some fabulous trail running with shoe sucking mud David Adams ran the long route in an excellent 2:53:47 and Helens Adams and the short route in 1:18:27 finishing 2^nd in her age category.

On an undulating quiet roads with stunning views Gargrave Half Marathon; an out and back route, a last minute change from the loop due to icy conditions, Julie Elsey ran a fabulous first half marathon in 2:09:13.

On at bright and frosty January morning 4 Bedale & Aiskew Runners (BAR), headed to Ormesby Hall near Middlesbrough for North Yorkshire South Durham (NYSD) Cross Country. At the start the ground was extremely heavy going, trying to suck the shoes off your feet. After the heavy going of the first field the runners got some light relief on the hall drive way, before entering the woods and the mud greasy like a skating rink to run on. The ladies ran 2 laps of this course, BAR members Louise Baker and Jess Mallison christening their Cross Country legs finishing well; Louise in 34:45, 69^th of 116 and  in 40:52, 98^th. As the ladies race finished the senior mens race set off on 3 laps of the course, taking part from BAR were Matt Randall and Raymond Lightle. With some stunning quick running in the men’s field, Matt finished strong in 43:29, 83^rd and Raymond Lightle 53:39, 129^th. A tough race for all taking part, a huge sense of accomplishment and a well-earned rest afterwards.

The next NYSD Cross Country is Sunday 16^th February at Richmond on the Old Racecourse. http://www.nysd.org.uk/cross-country

Sunday 26^th January is the first Trust 10 trail run of 2020. Trust 10 trail runs are monthly 10k’s organised at a number of National Trust properties around the country. Whether you’re looking for a challenge or a sociable jog with picturesque scenery of stunning National Trust properties. The closest to BAR is at Ormesby Hall. It is a turn up and register system, they are free to run events. Registration opens at 8.30am with the run start at 9am, further details available at https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/features/trust10-trail-runs .

A busy weekend at the local Parkruns, 20 Bedale and Aiskew Runners were out at 4 different Parkruns. On a bright but very blustery day 13 BAR members were at Catterick, dispite the wind three BAR members achieved personal bests; James Wigglesworth in 22:50, Beth Grayson in 26:24 and Sarah Pardington 31:56. Also putting in strong consistent runs were; Matt Randall in 21:17, Chris Lees in 21:50, Claire Temple 25:43, Mark Temple 26:54, and Karen Alford 28:43. All important for the running of Parkrun the voluntees this week supported by Michelle Dinsdale and Nicola Simpson.

At Northallerton in slippery muddy conditions there were a trio of BAR members keep up the effort; Paul Bainbridge 25:34, Nick Wilson 26:48 and David Fox 33:19. Travelling slightly further to Stewart Park at Middlesbrough with strong consistent runs were Ruth Hancock in 33:24, Karen Theaker in 33:33 and Gemma Wardle in 35:50. Taking on one of the toughest Parkruns in the country at Flatts Lane Woodland Country Park, in windy conditions on good trail paths with a tough hill Paul Ellis finished in 21:28.

The first weekend of the New Year, Bedale & Aiskew Runners (BAR) are off to a flying start with running challenges. A recent newcomer to BAR with vast experience, David Adams has been tackling the challenging terrain of Kielder Forest. Kielder Winter 10mile trail run takes in amazing trails of Kielder Forest crossing the Kielder viaduct before taking on some single track, open forest tracks, sections of the old railway, with 320m of ascent the route provides some testing climbs & exhilarating descents, David finished in a fabulous 1:31:39.

BAR members have been busy at Parkrun’s this weekend 20 members running both locally and further afield. At Catterick 13 BAR members were running and 3 volunteers, essential to enabling Parkrun’s to go ahead thanks to Paul & Sally Bainbridge, tail walker Tracey Tickner. Congratulations to Karen Alford on completing her 50^th Parkrun and only 2 seconds from a personal best (PB), two BAR members had a great start to the New Year with PB’s, well done David Fox in 31:39 for a course PB and Sarah Pardington in 32:02.

At other Parkruns locally at Northallerton; Ann Harrington completed her 40^th Parkrun and Laura Hewitt her 90^th Parkrun. Running at Darlington were James and Joanne Wigglesworth supporting each other to the finish. A little further afield at Tees Barrage, Chris Burton finished in 22:46, Ken Mountains headed to Oakwell Hall near Batley for an undulating two looped course, Ken finished in 34:30. Heading to South Yorkshire for a relatively new Parkrun at Cusworth Hall on only its 13^th event, Louise Baker took the scenic route through the Hall grounds, looping back and forth on its self with lots of opportunity to support fellow runners. The route is on mixed terrain; paths and fields, both mainly good under foot, with a sneaky hill returning towards the Hall before sweeping round of a speedy finish on the Hall drive, Louise finished in 27:03.

Welcoming the New Year a number of Bedale & Aiskew Runners (BAR) were out at events.

Paul Ellis BAR chairman headed to Great Ayton for Captain Cook’s Fell race. An 8km event heading out from Great Ayton up, round Ayton Banks Woods and Round Hill Woods, with 318m of climbing. Paul had a challenging run finishing 100^th in a field of 449 in 40:51, a fresh start for the New Year.

In a challenge of a different kind this time combining hills we ultra-distance Stuart Black was out supporting the Hardmoors 30. Stuart was sweeping the 30 mile circular route, ensuring no-one got stuck in the mud! The route followed the old railway lines north between Robin Hoods Bay and Whitby before heading southwards along the Cleveland Way to Robin Hoods Bay and then rejoining the old Railway lines passing through Ravenscar along the way to Hayburn Wyke.

New Year’s day was a day for Parkrun doubles, with some events managing staggered starting times enabling travel between events. Ann Harrington headed to Harrogate finishing in a time of 30:14 and then on to Conyngham Hall, Knaresborough in 34:00. Three BAR members headed north to Sedgefield completing the single lap course was Laura Hewitt in 30:01, Ruth Hancock in 35:01 and Katy Bamber in 35:02. Then to Darlington South Park with consistency Laura Hewitt finished in 29:18, followed by Ruth Hancock in 34:53, and Katy Bamber in 35:36. A few other BAR members joined them at Darlington South Park for a warm, bright New Year’s day run; Paul Bainbridge in 24:24, Raymond Lightle in 25:14, Louise Baker in 27:10 and Sarah Pardington in 34:54. Doing some Parkrun tourism Paul and Nicola Simpson were are Peckham Rye Parkrun, Paul finishing in 20:49 and Nicola in 22:07.

On a mild day for the time of year 14 BAR members were out at Jolly Holly Jog burning off the Christmas Turkey! A testing undulating route mainly on fields and tracks, with much mud along the way, sometimes felt like one foot forward 3 backwards! Setting off from Hell Wath Nature Reserve on the outskirts of Ripon, into the stunning scenery of Studley Royal Deer Park over the seven bridges looping right handed and heading out through the main gate at Fountains Abbey. Returning up Plumpton Lane for a second time before turning left for a short steep climb in Mackershaw Woods and back to finish at the start on Hell Wath Nature Reserve. First home for the BAR team was Paul Ellis in 42:18 followed closely by James Bartram in 42:52, then Ben Smith in 48:17, Becky Smith and Chris Lees in 51:18. In the M70 category Paul Bainbridge finished 2^nd in 54:32 and Raymond Lightle 3^rd in 57:49, next home was Claire Temple in 59:03, Andy Gibb in 1:01:54, Louise Baker in 1:02:32, Julie Elsey in 1:04:53, Ann Harrington in 1:08:04, Laura Hewitt in 1:10:52 and Joanne Sinnott in 1:12:28.

Fourteen BAR members were out Christmas morning for Parkrun at Catterick, on a crisp morning good to blow away the cobweb’s ahead of the over indulgence of the day. Christmas day brought personal bests for Beth Grayson in 27:06, Alison Grayson in 27:15, and Julie Elsey in 29:09. Other BAR runners were Paul Simpson, Nicola Simpson, Chris Lees, Paul Berry, Will Retchless, Paul Garyson, James Wigglesworth, Raymond Lightle, Laura Hewitt, David Fox, Ruth Hancock, Joanne Wigglesworth.

Keeping it up at Parkruns after Christmas 9 BAR members were out and about at five different Parkruns across the country. Locally at Northallerton runner were Paul Bainbridge, Nicky Harland, Ann Harrington, at Darlington South Park, Raymond Lightle. A little further from home at Albert Park, Middlesbrough Laura Hewitt was running and at Fountains Abbey; Michelle Dinsdale, Joanne & James Wigglesworth. Down in the South Matt Randall was running at Bracknell. Roll on the New Year, good luck everyone in 2020!

At Parkrun’s this last weekend Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) club members were out at a number of the local events. At Catterick 10 BAR members attended with personal bests (PB’s) for Paul Ellis in 19:18, Julie Elsey in 29:11 and Sarah Pardington in 32:29. Other regulars at Catterick where Matt Randall, Paul Bainbridge, Raymond Lightle, John Hunter, Karen Alford, Marian Hunter, Jess Mallinson. At Darlington BAR 2^nd claim member Nicola Simpson achieved a PB of 20:54, finishing close behind Paul Simpson and running at Northallerton were David Adams, Helen Adams and Laura Hewitt.

On Sunday Julie Elsey, Paul Simpson and Nicola Simpson took part in The McTaggart Trot, raising money for St Teresa’s Hospice. This is a fun team run of mixed ability, in teams of 3 setting off together from Barton village on a 10.8 mile route. Fancy dress and silliness is encouraged, running together with your team to the 3.5 mile point dropping the first runner. The remaining two continue on to the 7 mile point where the second runner will drop off and the last runner of the team will complete to total distance. Julie found this a great fun event, encouraging her to run faster than ever before.

Paul Simpson completed the total distance for his team, they finished 31^st in 1:32:09. Nicola Simpson completed the total distance for her team, they finished 74^th in 1:48:20. Julie Elsey completed the 1^st leg with her team, the remaining 2 continuing on to finish 18^th in 1:28:49.

Our club and training schedule over the break is a little different to usual:

Monday 23rd December: Monday night speed session as usual (6.30pm, Bedale Station)
Wednesday 25th December: NO CLUB – but come join us at Catterick Christmas Day Parkrun
Monday 30th December: Monday night speed session as usual (6.30pm, Bedale Station)
Wednesday 1st January: NO CLUB

Monday 6th January onward – back to usual schedule for Mondays and Wednesdays!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!

Bedale and Aiskew Runners (BAR) have recently said a huge Thank You to Pete Richardson.

Pete founded the Monday night training group on behalf of BAR approximately 8 years ago. Pete has voluntarily supported the group tirelessly come rain or shine, enduring moans and seeing us grow. Proud of what he has achieved Pete is pleased that the club has developed to a point its coaching team can take on Monday evenings.

Pete isn’t resting he is continuing to supporting running across the North East, including his role as Parkrun Regional Support Ambassador. We hope to see Pete around at events and we wish him the very best in the future.