More than 260 competitors ran through Slieau Whallian Plantation on New Years Day traditional curtain-raiser to the new athletics year on the island.
The race, sponsored by David Cretney as it has been for countless years, forms the opening round of the 2025 fell running league, and also raises a lot of money for charity every year.
Because of the extensive damage to the plantation caused by last month’s storm the route was significantly changed for Wednesday’s race, but was as steep and testing as ever.
The section outside the plantation to the summit and back was unaffected.
New Years Day Fell Run
Mark Burman lead the way in the men’s race and went on to take an excellent win.
He didn’t have his best running year in 2024, but has certainly started the new year in top form.
Nick Colburn ran very well to take second place, as did Harry Kneen in third.
Sam Jones was fourth just ahead of Orran Smith, and in sixth was former professional cyclist Leon Mazzone who has demonstrated a few times recently that he is a very decent runner too.
Kirsty Barber was well clear in the women’s race followed by Sian Coleman and Poppy Clayton who is an excellent young sporting all-rounder.
It was a great effort by all concerned to get the race on in difficult circumstances after the recent storm damage, and a fantastic response to get a record entry.
Let’s hope that many of the runners are encouraged to have a go at other local running events in 2025.
One thing is for certain – they will be made very welcome!
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