Festive runners at the scenic Brathay’s Langdale Christmas Pudding 10k race

Over 700 runners got the festive season off to a racing start as they took part in the Langdale Christmas Pudding 10k, organised by Ambleside youth charity Brathay Trust.

Setting off in the Cumbrian dales, runners followed a route through the Great Langdale Valley starting and ending at the New Dungeon Ghyll Hotel. The runners passed through Chapel Stile, Elterwater and Bayesbrown Woods before returning. All those who crossed the finish line received a Christmas pudding generously provided by the Kendal outlet of Sainsbury's.

Many of the runners wore Christmas costumes and included a team of pigs in blankets and three kings as bears. The race winner (pictured above) was Pete Harrison (handicap -0.9), in 34:51 followed by Sarah McCormack (handicap 10.4), who repeated her overall second place race position of last, but this time setting a course record time of 35:33. It was the end of a great year of racing for Sarah who recently won the World Mountain Running World Cup. 

“The Christmas Pudding 10k would not be possible without some fantastic support,” said Brathay’s Race Director and Head of Fundraising Scott Umpleby.  

“Many friends of Brathay braved the elements to ensure all runners had a fun, safe and memorable run. All Brathay Running events raise funds to support our work with disadvantaged children and young people. It’s fantastic to see so many people challenging themselves in the beautiful Lake District. We really appreciate all the different ways people help by running, sponsoring and volunteering.

“We already planning our events for 2020, beginning in May with the Brathay 10in10, ASICS Windermere Marathon and Brathay 5k,” added Scott.

For details of all Brathay’s challenge events visit: https://www.brathaychallenges.com