Shepherds Skyline
November 5th, 2012 by Andy NicollLast time I suggested that racing on 3 runs a week is not a great idea – well this weekend I raced on 3 runs a week and with a bad cold – I can officially confirm that’s an even worse idea!
The race was The Shepherds Skyline expertly run by Todmorden Harriers and it’s a real favourite of mine.
Almost 300 other loonies made the start for the 6 n a bit mile mud fest that takes in the Stoodly Pike monument that reaches for the sky above Hebden Bridge.
My lack of training and goo filled pipes made me wheeze like a stuck pig up the first climb and my performance on the second and larger climb was laughably poor. I did manage to get going again once I reached the top and the mad technical dash to the finish is a favourite of mine and I managed to pull back a few places lost on the climb.
Although my overall performance was comfortably the worst I’ve ever managed over the course there was one ray of sunshine in the form of my new and very shiny (well before the race anyway) pair of Inov8 300 fell shoes.
The bright yellow and black colour scheme does cut quite a dash on the hills but for those old enough it may bring back memories of Billy Connolly’s famous footwear….
The 300 is a brand new addition to the Inov8 range and feature the mudclaw sole on a semi-stripped down upper. They were thrown straight in at the deep end and performed flawlessly (unlike their owner). The grip is superb and the midsole gives a perfect blend of cushioning and control – perfect for those of us who are not biomechanically perfect enough to wear Inov8s ultra light fell shoes. A highley recommended shoe which I’d give a 10/10 for if it wasn’t for the hefty price tag.
For performance (after one race) I’d gladly give full marks but I must knock a couple of points off for value – fell running is supposed to be a cheap sport – enjoyed predominantly by tight Northern folk. If Inov8 carry on like this they’ll play right into the hands of their competitors…..
