Race Report: Fairfield Horseshoe Fell Race

​Setting out before 6 in the morning to get to a 10 mile race that doesn't start until 11 isn't something I'd want to do every weekend but I was happy to make the trip up to the lakes to run in the iconic Fairfield race. The route is fantastic, starting from Rydal and taking in Nab Scar, Great Rigg, Fairfield, Hart Crag, Dove Crag and High Pike. You get most of the climbing done in the first 4.5 miles and then it's mostly downhill from there, with a few rocky bits to keep you on your toes. It was very hot on the day and there was pretty much no shade the whole way round which made running challenging but the views out on the fells were incredible and completely worth the hard effort.

Due to the heat of the day water was added to the mandatory kit, I had intended to take the minimum 300ml in two small bottles but after chatting to some others at the start opted instead for my 500ml bottle, which then fell out of my waist pack as soon as we started running, left me picking it up in the middle of an oncoming crowd, jostling to regain my position and having to carry it in my hand for the rest of the race, probably should have stuck to the plan. 

I felt comfortable on the first uphill section but ran conservatively trying to save my legs for the quick downhill running later in the race. There were a couple of times when all around me slowed to a walk so I did the same but later wished I'd kept running for longer and saved a bit of time. It's the first time I've gone up Fairfield from that side and it was definitely an easier approach that either of the ways from the North that I've done previously. I was already familiar with the second half of the race from Fairfield top on, having ran this section a few times before and so knew there would be some quick running, especially with the ground being so dry. I put some effort in after the turn and felt strong on the last couple of hills. I followed the example of some local runners and got a couple of great lines on the downhill, avoiding some of the worse sections. I am finding myself more hesitant than I used to be at steep downhill running since falling a couple of times last year, this ultimately cost me a bit of time, and I think I need a bit more practice to rebuild my confidence. 

The rocky path back into Rydal definitely felt like a drag (as described on the race map) and my feet were feeling a little battered by the time I made it to the finish line and I was very glad for the water sprayers and can of fanta. Overall I really enjoyed the race but think I should be able to go a bit faster at it so will go and give it another crack next year. 

Dom