The Bovey Beauty 10-mile fell race is becoming more popular by the year and, in September 2018, the number of entrants at the start line was a record 65. Though the forecast predicted wet and breezy conditions at the Pullabrook Woods start point, the race day weather was expected to clear and, sure enough, the Dartmoor weather obliged.
Following the Old Manaton Road and over the River Bovey at Hisley Bridge, the runners tackled the long, steady climb through Hisley Wood.
Leaving the woods and striding out onto Lustleigh Cleave, the competitors enjoyed the view as the heavy, grey clouds cleared over Hunter’s Tor. After the panoramic views, the descent saw the runners winding their way down through Peck Farm and into the boulder strewn woods and the tricky path along the river Bovey.
Back in the bottom of the valley, the route continued on along the Old Manaton Road, following Becka Brook, before climbing Trendlebere Down.
Weary legs carried the runners down through the heather and bracken, past the camp fire and up the last push through Pullabrook Woods.
The big finish … that “winning feeling!”
Dave Rickwood, the race organiser reviewed the day, saying, “It was a new course record for the men, we had the largest field to-date and the new parking area worked well. It was a great success!”
Congratulations to all the runners who took part. Runners can view the race results on the Fellrunner Association website here Bovey Beauty 2018 Results
by Matt Parkins
Photography: Paul Moody, Matt Parkins and Rachel Harries
East Dartmoor Woods blog 