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Modern fell running has common characteristics with cross country running. Courses are often longer, steeper, unmarked when out
on the hills (with a few exceptions) and these longer races can demand mountain navigational techniques. Nevertheless, cross
country seems fast and furious to many fell runners. Fell running also overlaps with orienteering. Courses are again longer
but demand different techniques from orienteering.[citation needed] However, fell running does require navigational skills in a
wild, mountainous environment, particularly in determining and choosing between routes.
Modern fell running trainers use light, non waterproof material to eject water and dislodge peat after traversing boggy ground. While the trainer needs to be supple, to grip an uneven, slippery surface, a degree of side protection against rock and scree (loose stones) may be provided. Rubber studs have been the mode for two decades, preceded by ripple soles, spikes and the flat soled ‘pumps’ of the fifties. Walshes are extensively used by many UK runners, especially in the Lake District, where their sole pattern gives excellent grip on steep grass. Shoe manufacturers such as Montrail are also leading the chasing pack to try to make better and better shoes to compete with the classic Norman Walsh's design. County Durham (UK) based manufacturer Inov-8 have gained a whole swath of awards in recent years and have an extensive array of shoes ranging from studded fell shoes to ones designed for parkour running. Road trainers and spiked shoes are usually not suitable. Race Categories Ascent categories Category A - at least 250 ft (76.2 m) of ascent per mile (1.6 km) - should not have more than 20% of the race distance on road - should be at least one mile in length Category B - at least 125 ft (38.1 m) of ascent per mile (1.6 km) - should not have more than 30% of the race distance on road Category C - at least 100 ft (30.5 m) of ascent per mile (1.6 km) - should not have more than 40% of the race distance on road - should contain some genuine fell terrain Distance Categories Category L - for Long - over 12 miles (19.3 km) Category M - for Medium - over 6 miles (9.6 km) Category S - for Short - less than 6 miles (9.6 km) Equipment Competitors should arruive at events prepared to carry any or all of the following... a. windproof whole body cover b. other body cover appropriate to weather conditions c. map and compass suitable for navigating d. whistle e. emergency food Some races may require additional safety equipment. Events 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 |
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