24th January 2026 – race report by Amy
Saturday 24th saw SRC’s Nick Boxhall and Amy Hutchinson take on Nice Works Tissington half marathon. After almost a week of near constant rain, the weather was mercifully kind-a welcome relief to the 230 runners who took part.
The trail is a site of a former railway line that ran from Ashbourne to Buxton and an was in remarkably good shape considering the recent wet weather- road rather than trail shoes were perfectly adequate.
The start is a 5-minute walk from race HQ at Ashbourne leisure which provided ample facilities for changing, toilets and pre/post run coffee. There is also a bag drop though this is unmanned. Parking is limited and payable within the leisure centre grounds- it filled quickly so leave plenty of time to find alternative street parking.
The chip timed race started promptly at 10am. Baggage can also be left at the start line though again this unmanned and outdoor. With both 10k and half marathon options being available, this did make for a slightly congested start. This is a simple out and back race with a gentle climb through stunning peak district scenery for the first half before the downhill return to HQ. Glorious sunshine emerged on the return compensating for a slight headwind. Despite a lack of marshals and spectators, 3 water stations were gratefully received, as were the post run biscuits at the finish.
Nick ran a very impressive 1.39.29 bagging himself our club M35 half marathon club record. Amy came in at 1.49. 16, happy to shave over 5 mins off last years’ time. A quick post run coffee was enjoyed before heading homeward. A well organised, small and intimate run ideal for those who don’t like huge crowds.
