Dark Peak Stones

Dark Peak Stones on Sun 19th Jan 2025

Dark Peak Stones Race       Sun 19^th Jan 2025

19 runners

 A pleasing turn-out of well wrapped and insulated runners endured bitter temperatures to be rewarded with clear visibility and frozen conditions which provided firm running over the boggy sections.

Once again, the race was engulfed in controversy which tested the RO’s level of diplomacy. After listening to Bob Dylan’s ‘Rainy Day Woman’, the field set off over the arctic fells heading for Ox Stones. That is, all but one miscreant hiding at the back, who then sneaked off and ran down the road to arrive first at Ox Stones. He retained this advantage and finished in 1st place slightly ahead of Oli Johnson.

When questioned, the blackguard pointed out that there was no rule in the route description that disallows road running. Quite right, indeed nothing is actually written down. However, the RO took it for granted, that when taking part in a fell race organised by a fell running club, that fell runners would actually run on the fells. Obviously, a naïve assumption by the RO.  

When other runners (returned from the fells), an impromptu and extraordinary meeting involving many learned elders was convened to discuss the situation. Initially there was an icy silence and a feeling of total disbelief of what had happened and suggestions ranged from disqualification and declaring Oli as the rightful winner, to a public flogging of the scoundrel outside the Norfolk Arms. The RO then informed Oli of the deliberations. However, Oli supported and accepted the rogue’s road run and graciously acknowledged the rascal as the bona fide winner. A grand gesture by Oli that will be difficult to surpass on the fells. A true nobleman indeed. Dark Peak whippets please take note.

The final decision by the RO was for Oli to retain the much-coveted Buck Stone Trophy for 2nd place and award John Crewe the large and very heavy Principal White Stone Trophy for 1st place - which he must carry in his bum bag if he ever runs down a questionable and potentially forbidden road again.

Various illustrious stone themed trophies were awarded to thawed-out category winners who attended the presentation ceremony.

1. Ken Jones