New for 2026 -- Automated timing!
We're delighted to announce that we're using automated electronic timing for the first time this year. Each competitor will have a wristband and this will record their race time. (We will have manual timing as a back-up just in case). This should be more secure and also mean the results should be available more quickly.
Enter the race
Pre-entries are now open! Just click the logo below and you'll be taken to the entry website.
If your plans change, you will be able to cancel your entry and apply for a refund via Fabian4 up to May 18th.
The cost of pre entry to the fell race online is £10.00 which includes access to the Sheep Dog Trials. (There is a supplement of £2.00 for non FRA members)
Your race number will be waiting for you outside the entrance. Just collect your number from the lines hung up in the car park when you arrive and use it to enter the Sheepdog Trials. Please then go to the pavilion to inform us of your arrival and pick up your timing wrist watch which will time your run.
Online entry will close at 5.00pm on Sunday 24th May
You may also enter on the day in which case you will need to pay £5 to enter the Sheepdog Trials; and then pay an extra £10 at the race registration -- so £15 in total. This is CASH only, so please bring the exact money. If you wish to use £10 or £20 notes then please don’t expect change!! All ‘extra’ money will be donated to the good causes supported by the Sheepdog Trails.
A map of the course will be posted outside the pavilion. It is the responsibility of each runner to be aware of the route. It will be marshalled at 5 places and flagged along the route. We are hoping to have a time sensor at the top so you can get your time at the top of Win Hill as well.. so look out for this.
We hope you all enjoy the event and thank you for your support.”
Car parking
Follow the signs for the Sheepdog Trial parking off the main Bamford main road
The Start
The event starts at 1 pm sharp. Pre-entries should get there at least 45 minutes early to allow yourself time to park and collect your number. Entries on the day and those wanting to enjoy the show should come early and take in the sights and sounds of the sheepdog trial. There will be refreshments and toilets on site.
The Route
This race has a very quick start- think of a road race along an old railway line. Enjoy the flat while you can as once you reach the bottom of the hill it is a very steep, rocky climb up to the summit of Win Hill. Before you have time to catch your breath you begin the long gradual descent taking you more directly back to where the race starts and finishes -- fast, flowing running with great views. Then quite soon you'll be back on the railway line with a short flat section to take you to the finish line at the sports field.
RACE DETAILS
Date & time: Mon 25 May 2025 at 13:00
Country: England
Region: Peak District
Category: BS
Distance: 7.2 km / 4.5 miles
Climb: 305 m / 1001 ft
Venue: Bamford Recreation Ground.
Grid reference: 205829
Minimum age: 18
ENTRY INFORMATION
Entry on day: Yes
Pre-entry: Yes
18ys and over.
CONTACT FOR RACE INFORMATION
Race Organiser: Richard Cottrill
For more information about the race please contact Carole Parker
Phone: 07578 824310
Email: caroleparker1411@btinternet.com
History of the race
The fell race was started in 2002 by Malcolm Sowerby with the help of David Eyre who planned the route.
The Fell Runners Association asked for a long stretch to spread the runners out. There is a serious climb along Paddy line and up Parkin Clough then they run out onto the open moorland before the final ascent to the trig post at the top of Win Hill. The return is down the front of Win hill through Thornhill and back to the starting point at Bamford recreation ground (GR 205829)
The fell race is run each Bank holiday Monday in conjunction with the Sheepdog trials and is started off by the Lady President at 1pm. The entry fee is included in the admission charge to the trials. Family and friends of runners are welcome to enjoy the activities of the trials on the recreation field.
Since the race began, the numbers of runners has risen steadily. In 2015 there were 183 runners, one of our winners coming from as far away as Aberdeen. In 2023 we had 245 finishers. The race record is 29 minutes and 59 seconds! We are noted for giving a large selection of prizes including locally home baked cakes plus various spot prizes.