Duncombe Park Running Festival at Helmsley, North Yorkshire is a new event by those nice folk at ‘Its Grim Up North’. Over 2 days it features a variation of distances from 10k to full marathon.

I was there on Day #1 & competed in the 10k race. Registration was at a public house a short drive or 10 minute walk from the start. Numbers were collection on the day only.

The course itself is in a stunning location, Yorkshire really is beautiful. Behind the beauty, the course is challenging with a couple of big hills plus steep steps to tackle of each of the 2 loops. The stifling heat made it even more testing, this certainly isn’t a PB chaser’s dream.

Top marks for safety, marshals were on hand warning runners of potential trip hazards at certain points of the race. The water stations were regular & very much needed on a hot day.

It has to be mentioned that the lead runners took a wrong turning resulting in the distance being longer than 10k. These things happen & I’m sure this will be addressed at future events. It didn’t spoil what will prove to be an even more popular race next time it’s on.

Finishers were rewarded with a solid medal, chocolate & beer.

IN SUMMARY...

HIGHS: Unique trail race

LOWS: No obvious flaws

BOTTOM LINE: Stunning but testing trail race that will grow in popularity. A real gem!