In what proved to be as much a battle against the conditions as the (admittedly!) formidable course, 5 Teedsale AC runners departed home at 7am on Sunday 12th January to travel south for the Temple Newsam 10 Mile Trail Race, otherwise, and affectionately, known as the “Tough Not Timid” Temple Newsam TNT Race. Such is the burgeoning popularity of this event, in only its 5th year it sells out within hours of places being released and this is perhaps little surprise as the race starts against the imposing backdrop of the magnificent Tudor Jacobean Temple Newsam House and sets runners away through the Capability Brown designed grounds which encircle the House. Thereafter runners are confronted by an undulating course which weaves its way through the East Leeds environs before returning them to a finish again close to Temple Newsam House.
Most participants were anxious to know what conditions they would confront, having been made aware in the days running up to the race that certain sections of the course were flooded and that on occasion they would have to contend with wade depths of over 18 inches. The continuing heavy rain through the latter part of the week ensured that the flooded parts of the course worsened and conditions were slippery underfoot throughout almost all of the 10 mile distance. It should be said though that the testing conditions, rather than dampening the atmosphere, seemed to bring an infectious buzz of enthusiasm amongst all participants and contributed to what was almost universally acclaimed as an outstanding trail race, fantastically organised, and marshalled by volunteers who seemed to be having as much fun as the runners!
Without exception the Teesdale AC runners thoroughly enjoyed their day and all indicated a desire to do battle with the TNT in 2021. First home for Teesdale AC was Andrew Cawley posting a time of 1 hour:43:38, closely followed by Barbara Crawley in 1 hour:44:20. Simon Pettitt completed the course in 1 hour:47:28,and was followed thereafter by Judith Rodwell in 1:52:47 and Amanda Pettitt 1 hour 58 :47.
