Nicholas Riggs Comes Up Trumps in Scarborough

Beverley AC runner Nick Riggs was one of the winners in the ‘Scarborough Rock’ on Saturday 10th January.

The event is bi-annual, alternating with the ‘Filey Flyer’ and is one of the excellent events organised by the Long Distance Walking Association. Although officially walks, these events have gained popularity with off-road runners over the years, due to their scenic and often very challenging routes.

Around half the participants at Scarborough were runners and although these events are not classed as races by the organisers, everyone is keen to get back in the fastest time possible. The conditions on the day were great for running, but with some lengthy sections into strong winds.

The route starts at Scalby, dropping down onto the seafront in North Bay, climbing up to the castle, dropping down onto South Bay, climbing up the cliff by the Spa, before an ascent of Oliver’s Mount. After this the route heads inland for a picturesque tour of hills, woods and trails.

First back on the ‘short’ 16 mile route was Nicholas Riggs of Beverley AC in 2:06. A full 15 minutes ahead of the next competitor. First in the long 25 mile route was Steve Coates of East Hull Harriers in 3:30.

All participants were rewarded in the usual way at the end by a slap-up feed of pie and peas and all the cups of tea they could handle.

Over all the general consensus was that these LDWA events are the best events around for runners interested in getting their shoes muddy.