Calke Abbey 10K

Simon at a previous race

Two friends from Grantham Running Club made the trip to Ticknall in Derbyshire to take part in the Calke Abbey 10k race on Sunday 15^th September.

Organised by Jack Rabbit Events, and in its seventh year, this sold-out event starts outside the small church within the grounds of Calke Abbey, then heads out on a single lap route through the surrounding country lanes, returning to the abbey along the mile-long tree-lined driveway. 

Described as undulating, the route is run entirely on asphalt and has a number of sharp hills to test the runners, totalling 150 metres of ascent over the course.  The race is chip timed and fully measured. Calke Abbey, “the unstately stately home”, owned by The National Trust, provides an impressive backdrop with parkland views, and plenty of space to accommodate the event.

With weather decent for running, if a little warm, first home for GRC was Stuart Baty, in 52:35, with Simon Hartley at 71:30, struggling with the long inclines.

The event was very well organised, with excellent marshalling providing expert direction and enthusiastic support all round the course.  This was challenging race, but the rewards were a beautiful location and stunning medal.

Of the 428 finishers, the men’s race winner was Mathias Fraga of Birstall RC (37:11) and Claire Fitzpatrick of West End Runners was the first woman and fourth overall in 38:54.