Wansfell - The Return of the Jebi

Rob Jebb at Wansfell

Rob Jebb made a popular move by returning to fell racing today at the Wansfell Race in Ambleside.

He returned after a five month break following a fall at the English Championship race at Whittle Pike, where he dislocated his shoulder.

But a classy turn out meant that Rob could have been in for a tough test. Also lining up with him were Carl Bell, Phil Davies and Mark Addison.

Ben said 'Go' and Star Wars broke out
Phil Davies and Carl Bell set the pace, but half way up the road to the fell, Rob and Mark Addison cruised past them. Rob and Mark then led all the way to the top of Wansfell Pike. Phil was next to the top, followed by Tour of Helvellyn winner, long distance specialist, Kim Collison. Carl dropped off the pace a bit, as it was Mike Fanning next to turn, followed by Carl.

Rob made light work of the slippery descent  and he finished a 'considerable distance' in front of Kim Collison, who must have taken some great lines to pass Mark Addison and Phil Davies down the fell.

Kim Collison

Don't underestimate the force of the weather
The weather was perfect for dissolving results sheets, so race organiser Ben Abdelnoor may struggle to put times to the runners' names.

Results - Top Ten (plus 1)

1. Rob Jebb - Bingley
2. Kim Collison - Eden Runners
3. Mark Addison - Helm Hill
4. Phil Davies - Borrowdale
5. Carl Bell - Howgill
6. Mike Fanning - Borrowdale
7. Alistair Dunn - Helm Hill
8. Sam Watson - Wharfedale
9. Darren Holloway - Pennine
10. Chris Edis - Keswick
11. Mike Robinson - Dark Peak


Ladies
1. Sarah McCormack - Moor Foot
2. Lindsey Brindle - Horwich
3. Hazel Robinson - Ambleside
4. Sharon Taylor - Bingley

Sarah finished in the top 20, but reached the top before 11th man Mike Robinson. Well done Sarah, work on your treacherous and slippy descents and you'll beat Mike next time!

It was great to see lots of popular runners, some hopefully confirming their return to running and racing, not only Phil Davies, but team mate Gavin Bland.

Phil Davies (right) with former British Champion Gavin Bland (left) 

And also Sharon Taylor who is seen here discussing techniques with Wendy Dodds.

Wendy Dodds (left) and Sharon Taylor (right)

The Pennine Strikes Back
And Darren Holloway proved again to FRB that he can get into the top ten, even in a classy field.

Darren Holloway (right) with Stanners from Rossendale