Open Course

The race starts with a fast descent across fields and through woods to cross a minor road at the bottom of the valley.  This is followed by a river crossing (ankle/calf deep) before the route then climbs steeply through a bluebell wood (slippery) to join the track to Shutlingsloe Farm.  Before reaching the farm the route turns left to follow the footpath to Shutlingsloe, passing through a gate and crossing 2 stiles before emerging onto open moorland above the top wall.  From this point competitors must follow the footpath up increasingly steep ground to the summit of Shutlingsloe (Checkpoint).  The return is by the outward route with the exception of the open moorland section where competitors are not required to keep to the footpath.  Particular care should be taken on the tricky descent through the bluebell wood.  The final climb back up to the finish in front of Crag Hall is surprisingly demanding and has left many a competitor exhausted but happy to have completed this classic short race course!