Dean Barwick Dash 2026

They say you can only beat who turns up on the day, and at this year’s Dean Barwick Dash, the Bowland Fell Runners strategy was simple: actually be there. With the heavy hitters occupied at the English Championships (Blackstone Edge), Newlands Memorial, or punishing themselves on the tarmac at the Manchester Marathon, Amy, Geoff, and I found ourselves in a rare position—maximum club championship points just for crossing the line. But as any fell runner knows, "free points" usually come with a heavy price tag. What’s in this episode: The Detour: How a "scenic route" at Lord’s Seat nearly ended the race before it began. Ski Sunday: Channelling my inner downhill racer with a daring descent through the snaking wooded corridors. The Hunter: Being stalked by a Helm Hill vest for the final 3km and finding that Zone 5 gear I didn't know I had. Purgatory: Taking on the final climb before the end. Emotional Damage: Geoff finds out the truth about his MV60 "rivalry." Race Stats & Kit: Course: FRA Category BS. A circuitous 10km loop from Witherslack. Conditions: Technical limestone plateaus, earthy scree, and thick mud. Shoes: Inov-8 Mudtalon Camera: Captured on the Insta360 GO 3S. The Ambleside Takeover: A massive shout-out to the Ambleside AC contingent who turned this into a home fixture and practically cleaned the floor at the prizegiving. Are you a "points chaser" or do you only show up for the big-name races? Let me know in the comments how your weekend racing went!