The clue is in the title of this devilish race apparently...but
that didn't stop over 4000 runners descending on Delamere Forest to
take part in Hellrunner 2010 on Sunday 14th
November.
Described as between 10-12 miles long with treacherous bogs and
steep muddy banks, the course description was somewhat concerning
after a week of constant rainfall but on the day the sun shone and
a number of Sale Harriers braved the front line.
Satan himself actually turned out to start the race. Off we went,
straight uphill to the highest point in the race but at least the
terrain was dry...until we descended into the forest. At this point
the mud started to make its presence felt but it wasn't until half
way round that wild screams signalled that the first bog was
imminent. It was cold and smelly but only reached waist height
(unless you really were lacking in inches). The fun had started!
I've certainly never experienced such laughter and camaraderie in a
race, managing a good few chats en route. Lots more ups and
some classically slippery downs followed, culminating in the race
highlight: a 100m long freezing bog of slime that reached a
breath-taking chest height. Fortunately it was surrounded with
eager supporters, all delighted when some bedraggled runner lost
their footing and plunged in face first.
First Harrier- turned- masochist back was Helen Armitage whose
immaculate training had stood her in good stead for a top 20 ladies
finish. Next came Paul Thomson, closely followed by Carla Ousey and
Lauren Davies. Despite looking like nothing of this earth at the
end, we all agreed that it was the best fun we had had for
ages.
For any Harriers interested in wading through dirty, chest-high
water, so cold that your legs are numbed to the bone in seconds, I
would unreservedly recommend entering the 2011 Hellrunner.
Carla Ousey
