Rivington Pike fell race

Race: Rivington Pike fell race, Lancashire (5.2k/700ft)
Time/Position: 21.06 (55th from 356)
One of the oldest fell races of all, dating back to the nineteenth century and following a classic route from Crown Square in Horwich to the open hill beyond. The pike is a notable local landmark well seen from the M61 and beyond, and the race attracts a top quality field (today it incorporated the under 20 champs and so there were lots of very fast young lads at the front!). The conundrum presented by the route is obvious: how to maintain a quick enough speed on this ultra short race whilst not going too far into the red. The initial road section is only gently uphill and therefore very fast. So I was already blowing as I ran through some woods to enter Old Will's Lane, which curves upwards quite steeply and punishes the weak (like me). After an easing, the race heads straight for the pike up steepish cobbles (memories of two weeks ago!) to a final steep grassy bank. Round the summit tower in 13.10, then a flat out dash along the outward route. I got down in 7.50 or so, but was miles off the pace in a very impressive field. Great atmosphere, with spectators and support all the way up, not unlike the Tour of Flanders in the sense that the event is an expression of local identity with deep roots in the area.