The Stoop
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About the race
The Stoop is a senior fell race organised by Wharfedale Harriers at Penistone Hill Country Park. The advertised senior distance is 4.9 mile 700 ft (graded BM) and entry is restricted to those aged over 16. The senior race forms part of the Woodentops Race Series alongside Withins Skyline and Stanbury Splash, and chip timing is used for the series.
The route starts from the quarry bottom on Penistone. Runners follow a track past Drop Farm, then a footpath onto the track leading to Harbour Lodge. Competitors cross the beck via the footpath and follow the path round the edge of Harbour Lodge. The course climbs through heather to the Standing Stone (the Stoop), rounds the Stoop, then descends through boggy ground back to the track at Drop Farm. The final section crosses the road and finishes on the cricket pitch. The right hand footbridge at the side of Harbour Lodge must be used; the left hand bridge is unsafe.
Organisers advise that full kit may be required, particularly for seniors (waterproof jacket with hood, leggings, hat and gloves); the stated rule is no kit equals no run if kit is declared necessary. Entry fees noted in the event information are £9 for online pre-entry and £10 on the day. Team entries of three are free. All entrants are offered a Santa hat, and free coffee and biscuits are provided. Prize giving takes place outside the cricket hut after the race; prize categories include the first ten men and ladies, veterans by age groups, U21s, teams and spot prizes. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
