As an enthusiastic member of the Saltwell Harriers, I have ran for nearly three years now with the club and during this time, I have branched out, challenging myself to step outside of my comfort zone. The opportunities presented to me have been countless. However, I have always found fell running to be far above my comfort zone and not achievable. That said, I decided it was high time to participate in a beginner’s fell race such as the Cockfield Chase.
“I have always found fell running to be far above my comfort zone and not achievable.”
On the evening of the event, the weather was uncharacteristically warm, creating an inviting atmosphere. Surrounded by stunning views, I couldn’t shake off my concerns about stepping outside of my usual routine. On arrival, the atmosphere was charged with energy as runners gathered to head down to the starting line. As my anxiety built up, I was nonetheless pleased that I decided to take part. I knew that the terrain would be challenging for a first-timer like me. The anxiety was put to rest a little when I was reassured that we would all set off together for a first practice lap.
Once we got going, my concerns were immediately justified as I navigated the course. At times, I found myself uncertain about where to place my feet. However, comforted by the gentle jog to start with and the chatting to fellow runners it became less nerve racking. The downhill run towards a stream was particularly daunting, and as I looked up, I soon realised I had to ascend back-up an elevation of over 700ft. With my legs burning and feeling the heat, I made the decision to walk the remainder of the elevation. This strategy allowed me to conserve energy, even though my legs felt like jelly by the time I reached the top.
“I found the support and encouragement from fellow Saltwell runners and other competitors was so motivational…”
We were off! Another lap. This time the pack of runners quickly began to spread out. I found the support and encouragement from fellow Saltwell runners and other competitors was so motivational, which definitely help me to keep going.
Once the second lap was insight of ending, I caught my breath, picked up a steady pace, and determined to finish strong. The final stretch involved a steep climb, which tested my resolve. Each step felt heavier than the last. Controlled breathing and digging deep helped me to carry on as the sense of accomplishment propelled me forward. As the finish line drew near, I could hear cheers in the distance from fellow Saltwell members who had finished, but came back down to encourage me to push through the last stretch. I reminded myself of why I embarked on this adventure in the first place. As I reached the summit, I felt such a rush of accomplishment.
“Despite the initial anxieties, I discovered a sense of joy and fulfilment that is difficult to explain.”
Crossing the finish line was a surreal moment filled with elation. I had faced my fears and completed my first fell race. Despite the initial anxieties, I discovered a sense of joy and fulfilment that is difficult to explain. This new experience, out of my comfort zone, taught me the value of perseverance and the thrill of exploration. The view was nothing short of spectacular, and I took a moment to appreciate what I had just achieved. It was a testament to the beauty of nature and a reminder of why I enjoy running so much with such a supportive club. The experience was both arduous and rewarding, teaching me that I could push beyond my limits. Ultimately, participating in the fell race not only provided me with a new challenge, but it reaffirmed my love for running in different terrains — all the more so with Saltwell Harriers.
“I am appreciative for the opportunity the club gave me to participate in this event. If I wasn’t part of such a wonderful club, I would never have had the confidence to sign up…”
Reflecting on the evening, I am appreciative for the opportunity the club gave me to participate in this event. If I wasn’t part of such a wonderful club, I would never have had the confidence to sign up for something like that and to run on my own. It served as a reminder that stepping outside of my comfort zone is essential for personal growth. Completing the race felt like a significant achievement for me, and I am now more determined than ever to continue exploring new avenues within my running journey. This this all thanks to Saltwell Harriers.
I eagerly look forward to taking part in more fell races in the future, ready to embrace whatever challenges come my way. Watch this space!
Sarah Short
