Darren Holloway Memorial Race (Buttermere Horseshoe)
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The Buttermere Horseshoe
The Buttermere Horseshoe is a fell race based on the original Buttermere Horseshoe route, run from Loweswater Village Hall. The course runs across the Buttermere fells and includes sections where runners must choose lines between checkpoints on open tops.
The route is flagged to the fells at Lanthwaite Green; once on the tops there is considerable route choice between checkpoints. The descent from Mellbreak uses the col between the north and south summits; the route off the north summit is out of bounds. GPS is not permitted for navigation and the route is not flagged while on the fells.
Two course options are offered:
- 35.5 km, 2515 m ascent, AL category
- 20.8 km, 1518 m ascent, AL category
The shorter option is still classed as AL and is not suitable for novice fell runners. Weather on the tops is likely to be cloudy and runners may be alone at times, so navigation experience is required. Full FRA kit is mandatory; there will be a full kit check before registration and competitors without required kit will not be allowed to race. Free parking for runners is provided in Loweswater (NY144211) and the parking cost is included in the entry fee. No dogs are allowed in the village hall. The long course forms part of the Lakeland Classics Trophy. Minimum age is 18. Entry fees listed are GBP 15 for FRA members and GBP 17 for non members. Entries open 1 April and close 3 July. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
