Sat 22 May 2021, Rydal Hall, Ambleside The classic Fairfield Horseshoe Fell Race made a welcome return to the fell running calendar, still missing most races due to the pandemic. 218 runners were on the start line, with some still missing due to traffic congestion on the Windermere – Ambleside road, despite the start being delayed by 15 minutes.
Two runners from Preston Harriers made the start line for the 14.5km race with 914m of climbing, on a cold, windy day promising rain. The rain mostly held off with no mist on the summits, making navigation straightforward. First home was Jacob Adkin (Keswick AC), breaking the 21 year old course record by 26 secs, in a time of 1:14:45. First lady was Sarah McCormack (Ambleside AC) in 28th position with a time of 1:33:35.
Alistair Palmer had an excellent race to finish 25th in 1:32:41. Dave Parkington (Vet50) finished 106th in 1:55:52. Both had excellent support from other Harriers around the course. John and Sarah Griffiths from Dove Crag, Steve Taylor, taking photos on Hart Crag and Mick McLoughlin, recovering from a cycling accident, jogging round the course with Anna Keller.