Kettlewell Anniversary Fell Race
And Shark Hunters Reward
An English Fell Running Championship Race in 2025
Sunday 22 June 2025
Start times: Midday (women’s race), 1.30pm (men’s race)
AS, 5 miles 1800 ft (8km/550m)
£13 (FRA members) / £15 (non-FRA members)
Pre-entry only via SI Entries
Entries will open nearer the time, to be announced by FRA. Look out for the announcement as places are likely to sell out quickly!
Overview
The history of the race goes back to 2009, when it was established to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Abbey Runners. NLFR have organised the race since our formation in 2014.
The route is challenging yet not too far or over difficult terrain. The going is generally on tracks but mostly over grass with a few boggy bits if the weather is wet. The climbing presents the challenge but the descents are fast and fun for those so inclined.
The course follows a clockwise direction, initially turning left up the hill for the first serious climb to the crest of the fell. A fast descent down to Arncliffe but turning right at the wall along the wood edge until meeting the footpath back to Kettlewell. The second and last stiff climb up and over the fell following the footpath back down to Moor End Farm, then along the main farm track to the finish where the race started. For this year’s race, we are likely to start and finish in the field by the river.
As an added twist there is a prize for the first man and first woman to catch either the rat runner who will be carrying a rat or the shark runner (who will be carrying a shark). Collect the animal or fish and return it to RO Mike to claim your bottle of the hard stuff.
Rules and Regs
The FRA Safety Requirements for fell races require that you bring full FRA safety kit to the race. If the forecast on the day is for fine weather, the race organiser may relax the requirements. A notice will be displayed at registration. If there are any kit requirements specified on the day there will be random kit checks. FRA safety kit requirements: waterproof whole body cover (with taped seams and integrated attached hood) + hat + gloves + map + compass + whistle + emergency food
Cancellation? In the event of severe weather or other circumstances forcing cancellation, this will be notified here and those entered will be advised.
Race Route

Registration
Kettlewell Village Hall, Middle Lane, Kettlewell, BD23 5QX
Race Records
Tom Adams (35:08) 2021
Eve Whittaker (39.42) 2022