Lostock AC Take on the Hills at The Hebden Challenge
A fantastic turnout of 16 Lostock AC runners made an early start on Saturday morning, travelling to West Yorkshire to take part in The Hebden — a tough and much-loved event set around the surrounding hills of Mytholmroyd and Hebden Bridge.
Organised annually by the Halifax Sea Scouts as a fundraising event, The Hebden is a demanding long-distance walking and running challenge known for its strenuous climbs, varied terrain and old-school approach. Competitors can choose between a 15- or 22-mile route, both of which require full self-navigation, with the reward of food and drink awaiting at the finish line.
The event sells out every year and attracts a wide range of participants, from social walkers to serious fell runners. This year saw a bumper turnout from Lostock AC, featuring a mix of hardened road runners, first-timers and familiar faces returning to chase personal bests.
Conditions on the day were almost perfect from a weather perspective, providing ideal temperatures for running. Underfoot, however, the Hebden delivered exactly what it is famous for — muddy and slippery trails, cobbles, endless steps and numerous stiles that tested both legs and concentration throughout.
Five Lostockers initially set out on the full 22-mile route: Janet, Dan, Greg, Josie and Tony. Due to illness and injury, Tony and Josie sensibly dropped down to the 15-mile course, where Josie finished strongly in 2:57 and Tony followed in 3:08.
Janet and Dan ran together over the full 22 miles, crossing the line in an impressive 4:45. Greg made a characteristically speedy start but took a wrong turn along the way, adding an extra four miles to his day and finishing in 5:26— proving that navigation really is part of the challenge.
The 15-mile route also saw plenty of strong Lostock performances. Mike and Kerry ran together to finish in an excellent 3:20. Mary, Bev, Heather, Rachel H and Sally tackled the course as a group, with Mary leading the way and the group finishing in 3:29. Matt took on the challenge solo, completing the route in 3:31.
Rachel S and Paul enjoyed a relaxed and chatty run, perhaps spending a little too long at the food stations, but still finishing happily in 3:37. Katie ran alongside her friend Jaeda and crossed the line shortly after in 3:50.
With great performances across both distances and plenty of teamwork on show, it was another memorable day out for Lostock AC — muddy, challenging and thoroughly enjoyed by all who took part.
