Saturday 17th June 2006
In very, very humid conditions the 33rd Alfred Hulme Great Hill Fell Race organised by Chorley Athletic Club got underway. The 5.75 miles course has an ascent of 1300 ft and with hardly a breeze to be had on the day it wasn't surprising that the course record wasn't under any threat. Mat Nuttall, Blackburn Harriers posted his intentions from the off, by taking the lead and by the summit had opened up a 10 metre lead on the chasing pack of Horwich runners. The descent back to Brinscall and the tortuous climb to the fete field and the long run in to the finish saw that lead extended to a winning margin of nearly 20 metres. Mat finished in 37 mins 19 secs, with Newburgh Nomad, Mark Boardman only the second runner to be under 38 mins. A strong Horwich team packed together to take the next three places with Kevin Gaskell,Vet 40, Graham Schofield , Vet 50 and Steve Kenyon providing Horwich with a very deserved team win. Dave Kershaw ,Vet 50, Chorley AC was the first Chorley runner home.

The first female home Lynne Clough, Wigan Phoenix dominated the ladies section and finished 9th overall in 42 mins 54 secs. Nicola Raby, Chorley Harriers had a very good run to take second place, with Katy Green of Wilmslow finishing third, and Michelle Mercer of Southport and Waterloo 4th. Other Chorley AC runners were Paul Bass (56 mins 49 secs), Eddie Murray, second Vet 60 (57 mins 39 secs) and Les Paul, 4th Vet 60 (66 mins 12 secs). Eddie Pugh , Chorley Harriers was 3rd Vet 60 (59 mins 1 sec). A strong contingent from Liverpool's Penny Lane Striders saw them take second team and Nigel grant taking first vet 40 spot.

Earlier in the day, the Junior Fell Race took place. In the 2 mile under 13's race Katy Fisher, Chorley Harriers took first place, followed by Brinscall youngster Adam Metters. Adam's brother Josh went one place better in the under 16's 3 mile race and finished first with Lucy Fisher, Chorley Harriers finishing 2nd overall and first female. Chorley AC would like to thank sponsors Alfred Hulme and Tony Bolton Sports for their support. Thanks also go to RAYNET, the local Police and all club members to helped with the event."

Race Details

Race Results


295 Mat Nuttal, Blackburn

250 Nigel Grant, Penny Lane Striders

269 Dave Kershaw, Chorley AC

Paul Bass, Chorley AC

Eddie Murray, Chorley AC

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