Triple Crossing

Triple Crossing on Sat 23rd Apr 2022

This being the weekend of the 90th Anniversary of the Kinder Trespasses, its worth remembering that this 1932 direct action of the workers of northern towns and cities laid the foundations for us to access the open uplands of England. A right that previous generations were denied by the land owners and the state. So it is with a sense of great disappointment we note that in 2022 Trespass has been made a criminal offence. This sense of disappointment is compounded by the knowledge that only this week the government has shelved a previously promised review to increase rights to roam.

To celebrate this anniversary the Triple Crossing returned to its traditional route, with a southern start and finish. Far superior, but far more costly in parking fees! As is traditional we were complained at by one of the residents on the start line for some undefined sin, related to standing at the end of the road conversing and waiting. The older generation has given way to a new generation of discontented residents... unfortunate, but traditional!

Ten souls lined up for the various mass starts. The weather was near perfect. No rain, and no visibility above 350m. It would have been nicer if the brisk cold wind had dropped away, but you can't have everything!

It is really disappointing to find that there were no women out for the race. I'm at a loss as to how to make club races more evenly represented. So honours go to Beth Sykes. Although she only did the first climb (to make sure ageing dad was ok - I'm sure), she then took pity on the ageing RO to accompany me round the Grindslow skyline - or what would have been a skyline, had there been a sky.

Euan Patton took the race honours, with aplomb! 4 minutes ahead of second place. See what a diet of mixed sport and intelligent training can do for you!

I finished my outing to be met at the finish by some of the stalwarts who first introduced me to this race route and have inspired me in my years in the club. Them having had an early start unbeknown to me previously. Tom Tim & Graham, I tip my hat to you!
Despite the downbeat aspects, it was a lovely morning out, great to catch up with friends and brilliant racing!