The Osmotherley Phoenix 2011 - by David Jelley

Jim Rogers and Simon Deakin running north up the Cleveland Way

If you have not done this race, you must put the first Saturday in July 2012 in your diary now! The sun always shines. There is a wonderful relaxed atmosphere at the start and by the time you finish, the Osmotherley summer games is in full swing. Crockery is being smashed, a brass band is playing, children are doing races down the high street and there are wonderful cakes and cups of tea in the village hall. The 33 mile race route takes you northwards on the Cleveland Way with stunning views and well-marked trails. From the start the race climbs slowly onto the moors, with a stunning view north to Roseberry Topping. There is another long climb up to the top of Carlton Moor followed by a fast undulating section of trail to Clay Bank. The climb to the Trig Point at Round Hill is hard and I realised I am not the world’s greatest climber when I was overtaken by Jim Rogers who was walking and not even breathing heavily. After the Trig Point the race doubles-back southwards on a moorland track. The views are again huge and the running is easy on the downhill track. After the third checkpoint there is a very steep climb back up onto the moors. I had overtaken Jim on the downhill but he again strolled past me uphill with an amused look on his face. Finally after the cairn there is some wonderful fast single track and hard packed trail running. By checkpoint four Jim and I were together again. This section brings a change of scenery, for a few miles the trail winds through fields and woods until you reach checkpoint 5. This section is definitely worth reccying before the race as it can get confusing, especially if you are hot and tired. By checkpoint 5 Jim had pulled away again and I knew he must be feeling strong still. From the checkpoint you certainly need a bit of mental toughness, as the trail that ascends back onto moor is apparently endless! I managed to keep running but I knew my pace was slowing down. The final 5 miles is run on the Cleveland Way again and if you are feeling strong, there is some good running. Sadly, I was not feeling strong at this point and I could see the leader Jim Rogers getting further and further away. Behind me, I sensed the wolves approaching, but I could not make my legs go any faster, so I didn’t bother to look back. I made it to within a quarter of a mile of the finish, before I was gobbled up by Steven Neill, who finished in second place, and Martin Beale who was third. They had paced themselves much better than I had, by starting slowly and working their way through the runners. Out in front, Jim Rogers ran a great race, judging his pace perfectly and only slowing a little at the very end to win in 4.40. First lady, Clare Walton ran an excellent race to finish in 5.22. The organisation of the race is faultless and if you have friends who don’t fancy 33 miles, there is a 26 mile or 17 mile race as well. Thanks to everyone who makes it such a special event.