The Fell-Runner's Revenge
Jack Maitland winning the Mow Cop in '85
In a week of classic races, tonight sees one of the toughest running tests in the UK. Okay it’s more of a road race, but known as the Fell-Runner’s Revenge the Mow Cop Killer Mile rises over 550ft in that one mile – a killer indeed!
The “brief but brutal” race route breaks into several different sections – a gentle first 1/4 mile away from the level crossing, then a 1-in-5 section up to Birch Tree Lane. A steady climb up through the fields in full view of the horrors to come, and at last the truly killer bit – the 1-in-4 section past the most popular spectator spot outside the Cheshire View, whose front door is the 3/4 mile mark. Even the comparatively level section from the top corner to the Finish is still climbing – never have so many people “sprinted” so slowly.
Bashir Hussain still holds the record for this brute, at an amazing 6:12, with his mark having stood the test of time for over 20 years.
Bashir Hussain in 1991
With winners over the years such as Jack Maitland, the race is probably a must for any fell runner who wants to do something a little different and tread the paths that many great hill runners have covered over the years. Entries taken on the night with registration by the level crossing at the junction of Drumber Lane and Station Road, Kent Green. Post code ST7 3LR. Or simply print off the entry form here.
