EVENT ORGANISER’S REPORT 2009

This year’s Great Bakewell Pudding Race took place on Sunday 28 June, kicking off Bakewell Carnival week.

The turn out was slightly lower than usual, but still very good, with 102 in the senior fell run and 100 in the Junior/Fun run. The Senior Fell Run is 10.4 km (approximately 6.25 m) and follows paths up through the woods to Ballcross, to the top of Coombs Road, down to the river and then through the showground and back into the Recreation Ground.  The Junior/Fun run is 4.2km (approx 2.5 miles) and follows part of the Monsal Trail before coming back along the river to the Recreation Ground. All entrants received a mini Bakewell Pudding as the run is sponsored by the Bakewell Pudding Parlour.

We were blessed with some excellent weather, although it was very warm and humid.  Running conditions were very good

The Senior Run was won by Stuart Bond of Tommy’s Fell Stars in a time of 39.53, just outside the course record.  In second place was John Mason of Woodkirk Striders, with Paul Boler in third place.  Stuart Bond was also first to the top of the hill.   The first woman was Claire Parker of Pennine FR, followed by Wendy Higginbottom of Buxton AC and Alison Higgins of Fat Boys.  

In the Junior run (Intermediate 13 -17 years old), Amy Mellor of Buxton AC was first home  in a time of 20.42, followed by Hayley Campbell and Natasha Lindley.  Annabel Mason won the junior category, coming in second overall in a good time of 21.07. 

As always we had a varied turn-out, with many very young entrants, often running as families – we also had two dogs!

The organisers, John Scott and Joe Oldfield, would like to thank all those helpers who make it work on the day – without you it wouldn’t happen.  A particular mention to the ladies on the desks, plus all the many marshals and helpers, many from Bakewell Mannerians Rugby Club.  A final thanks to Bakewell Carnival Committee for their assistance in getting set up and providing the PA system and Red Cross for attending – fortunately they had a quiet day.

If you represent a local organisation that requires funds, please contact John Scott.  We currently have some money to donate to worthy local causes, so please write or call.

For details please see the pudding race website at “www.puddingrace.org.uk” or contact John Scott on john.scott@gallifordtry.co.uk or 01629-814217.