Race Report: John Clark Memorial Fell Race
Gavin LauAnother balmy summers night, with the course looking in good condition for the 2023 edition of the famous grass roots event hosted by our Epping Forest neighbours, Orion Harriers. 180 hardy runners finished on the day to give a good showing for this fantastic fell race.
This is the only category A fell race in Essex or the M25. It takes several different ups and downs around the low point Yardley Valley. Finishing on Pole Hill with great views over the Lea Valley to central London landmarks. A testing 3 mile course presenting nearly 1,000 feet of climb to all those that tackle it!
Well done to our 15+ VPH&THAC runners that either returned to have another crack at the leg burning course, or had a spicy welcome as a first timers!
The race was won by an accomplished U17 junior athlete from Barking Road Runners, Joseph Grange in (21:52). Congratulations to Joe Dale and Fabien Lassonde in making the podium in 2nd (22:54) and 3rd (23:42) respectively. Congratulations to the Orion fell race veteran, Kelly Clark (28:35) who was 2nd lady and 39th overall.
Links to the: official race results and event photos. Additional photos taken by our club member Gigi Giannella are also posted to our club facebook page.
