Really fun route with an undulating gradually uphill 2k on a track then 1k @ ~21% up a grassy climb, small final up through the peat trogs to the trig then the best 3.5k of gradual downhill on peaty, rocky, heathery trod but still really runnable. Followed by steep grass and a horrible 800m track to finish.
Struggling at the start and was a bit down, got to the hill just behind Tom Perry and tried to hold on as he did a good pace up the climb. Instantly starting feeling better after the steep bit and got moving catching a struggling Nathan and Billy at the summit. Did first 2k of descent just cruising behind Billy having a blast with Nathan on my tail. Then overtook and pushed the pace as Saville and Ed were about 100m ahead so went hunting for some Dark Peak pride. Got past just before the steep grassy section, kept pushing and managed to get enough of a gap to avoid the sprint finishes and Dark Peak pack behind.
Great fun and most importantly a top 6 Dark Peak to assure a relay spot which was a slight unknown and with 5 in the top 11 and 9 in the top 20 it's a crazy strong squad.
Running24:30 [2] 4.22 km (5:48 / km) +85m5:17 / km ahr:158 max:188 shoes: X-Talon 255 2
Drills10:00 [2] 1.0 km (10:00 / km) shoes: X-Talon 255 2