CHAMPION fell runners of the future showed their potential on a testing course in Ulverston.

Tasked with running up the steep banks of the Sir John Barrow Monument and then back down Hoad Hill, the youngsters displayed great strength, fitness and agility.

Hosted by Glaxo Hoad Hill Harriers, the Hoad fell race saw Harriers youngsters, plus Leven Valley and unattached runners, set off on the scenic climb with spectacular views of surrounding fells and coastline.

A stream of juniors were seen to disappear over the top as anticipated onlookers waited for them to reappear after a gruelling climb over the back before climbing back up to the monument and descending the front.

A tough course for seniors and juniors alike did not seem to faze them as the first runner appeared a little under seven minutes before taking the steep path down to the finish.

Edward Sargent, of host club Glaxo Hoad Hill Harriers, was first over the brow and sped fast to the finishing line in a time of seven minutes and 58 seconds. He was closely followed by William McNally, of Leven Valley, who crossed the line in exactly eight minutes.

Third home was Hoad Hill’s Justin Corbishley in 8.42 before the first female junior Bethan Saunders (Leven Valley) crossed the line in 8.48, just ahead of Hoad Hill’s Warren Flemming (8.50). Oliver Oldham was next in 8.56, followed by Hoad Hill’s Felix Cooper in 9.26.

Race director Louise Thompson said: “There was some great racing from the juniors on a stretching course.”

Results

Junior Boys: 1 Edward Sargent (GHHH U12) 7.58; 2 William McNally (LV U10) 8.00; 3 Justin Corbishley (GHHH U14) 8.42; 4 Warren Flemming (GHHH U12) 8.50; 5 Oliver Oldham (UA U10) 8.56; 6 Felix Cooper (U10).

Junior Girls: 1 Bethan Saunders (LV) 8.48.