RACE REPORT BY HELEN KELLAR – 30th August 2025
Dig Deep is a brilliant series of trail races held in Sheffield, starting from Hangram Lane Farm up in Ringinglow. You can choose from a half marathon, a 30-miler (actually 32 miles), or a full 50. I toyed with the idea of doing the 30, but knowing my tendency to lean more on enthusiasm than actual ability—and my skill for picking up injuries—my sensible side won out and I opted for the half.
The organisers offer basic camping at the farm the night before, complete with portaloos, a pizza van, and running water. A mate of mine came up from darn sarf to join me. With the longer distances kicking off at 7am and the half starting at 9, we decided to skip the camping and arrive fresh for the run.
Race HQ was impressively well set up: loads of clean toilets stocked with loo roll and sanitary products—10/10 from me! There were water stations, free tea and coffee, and delicious treats from Kringle Bakery. A huge marquee offered seating, a baggage store, and stalls touting running gear, fancy coffee, and all the gubbins.
The race started with a climb up Houndkirk Moor—a windy trudge with a few stiles to break things up across Burbage Moor. We skipped, stumbled, and staggered over the rocks up to Stanage for an out-and-back section. Nick passed me on his way back from the turnaround point, about a kilometre ahead and looking strong.
The course was brilliantly marked, with plenty of cheerful marshals and a couple of refuel stations offering sweets, Coke, and water to keep us going. The descent down Higger Tor was brutal, followed by a climb back up Burbage. I love a hill and was buzzing, so I felt strong as I passed a few people on the way up—then spotted a familiar face. It was Nick, sporting bloody knees and elbows after a nasty fall. We had a quick chat; he assured me he was okay, so I carried on, energised by the fact I was on the final hill.
Back over Houndkirk, then a hop, skip, and jump through the trails of Lady Cannings before returning to base. As I crossed the finish line, I heard them announce “first F40”—amazing! I was thrilled to have bagged a position and even won a prize: a lovely new running bag.
Post-race, we were treated to more Kringle goodies, lentil stew, soup, pasta, and beer from Abbeydale Brewery.
I had a chat with the race director at the end—turns out the whole event is run by volunteers and not-for-profit, supporting two local charities. What an incredible event. I’d 100% recommend it.
