This week, on the historic occasion of the election of the 267th Pope (Leo XIV) and the 80th Anniversary of VE Day, Hen & Cock made a much anticipated and welcome return to the Hill & Dale calendar since it was ‘retired’ a number of years back. The reason for this was the logistical nightmare of managing parking for those volunteering and those taking part. Determined to resurrect this iconic race, Messers Grant and McVeigh sought a bespoke solution. After a brief conclave, there was white smoke (they used McVeigh and McCann’s hair in the fire!) and a field able to accommodate the ever-increasing Hill & Dale numbers was sourced. The Race Directors and the Race Committee would like to thank Mary Savage for her generosity in granting permission that enabled us to take the traffic off the road and ensure that the race could reclaim its rightful place in the fixture list. Listening to the chatter after the race, the decision to bring the race back was a positive one as people seemed to enjoy it – undoubtedly this was aided by exceptionally good weather on the night.

Conditions were perfect as the athletes made their way to registration. The sun was shining and Audey was in uncharacteristic fine spirits. There was one moment of confusion when Grant asked the fateful question, ‘where’s Grumpy’ and Audey, Donal, Hen (the man, not the mountain), Barney & Francie all replied ‘I’m here’ at the same time! Happy was nowhere to be seen amongst this motley crew (an assorted and ill-disciplined group of ne’er do wells – if ever there was an apposite definition!).

Notwithstanding their apathy and general indifference to everything, these fine men were central to the success of the evening and ensured that the event was a spectacular triumph. Sleepy was present in the form of Ronnie Horrox who was very tired from his drive to Birr which necessitates getting up at 4am, something he never mentions. Bashful was hiding and avoiding all photo opportunities despite her penchant for global beauty contests and there was a multitude of Dopey’s to pick from!

There was also debate and discussion at the start about veracity of the claims that it was Mary Mackin’s birthday and if it was a ‘milestone’ for her. Surely this quiet and introverted lady would not want anyone to know her age – she would definitely be keeping her lamp under a bushel! With all the wisdom of Solomon, the RDs checked her credentials against the registration data, and it was indeed true – Mary Mackin was 70 to the day! This could not be ignored, and the shy, reticent shrinking violet was called out to receive a birthday hug from her favourite Hill & Dale Race director who promised to get her a broken mug!!!

When the cheers died down, it was time for business as the 315 registered athletes focused on their thoughts on the task ahead, mindful that for many new to the series this was a new and novel experience. After a short and steady climb up Hen there is brief respite before a steeper and more technical and stiffer climb to the top of Cock.

What goes up must come down and the initial descent from the highest point of the course is a real leg burner. Another short climb back to the tip of Hen leaves only the final charge for home. While the final descent as not as steep, it is treacherous with rough and unpredictable terrain to navigate – many a runner has ended up on their bottom! To add to the drama, Uncle Frank, for reasons only known to him (some suggested he was trying to recreate Metropole Corner from the North West 200!) had created a technical twisty finale – ostensibly to slow them down, but in reality, to add drama! Since Frank had made such an effort and looked resplendent in his double-breasted tweed waistcoat and dapper brogues, no one dared to question his decision-making. Additionally, it must be noted that he would simply have ignored any comments or suggestion, helpful or otherwise!

While we watched the runners head up, it was time for Oggie Mussen to head down and get the Children ready for bed. With Ashlene carrying out the very important task of finish marshal, her ever-dutiful husband soon became a spec on the horizon as he disappeared with clear instructions to have the homework done, the dishes washed, the grass cut, the children bathed, and bedtime stories read before his wife got home from the pub. Feigning interest he simply replied, ‘Aye, that’ll do’ and away he went! To be fair to him, he made time to fix a few wiper blades and correct a few mirrors on cars on his way home!

Records are there to be broken and, in this instance, a long-standing record was not only broken but obliterated. Tom Crudgington, a young man in great form to date in the series was impressively ruthless in his domination from whistle to tape. The formidable international athlete, Robbie Bryson, set the previous best with a time of 26:59 back in 1996, long before Tom was born. As emerged from the top of Hen, the only question on those astute commentators and ‘experts’ at the bottom was the margin he would beat the previous record by. Covering the ground like a gazelle, Crudgington stormed over the finish line in 26.10 to rewrite the Hill & Dale history book (a book that has yet to be written!) and enhance an already established reputation as one of the best mountain runners Northern Ireland has produced in recent times. Attention returned to the race for the remaining podium positions as the second red and yellow vest appeared from the top of Hen. The unmistakable and muscular figure of Ashley Crutchley was eating up the ground to secure second place in a time that in previous years would have been good enough for first place. The podium was completed by the ever-consistent Joshua McAtee of Mourne Runners.

The ladies’ race was a closer affair with Ester Dickson winning by a minute from Karen Wilton. Up and coming athlete, Megan Cumming was less than 20 seconds further back in third place to add to her amazing performances to date.

With the podiums complete, the photos of the winners taken, the field returned home in a steady procession and there were some really good battles for minor places, category wins and general bragging rights with one’s peers! Lindsay Gibson definitely had that look of satisfaction having overcome her nemesis on this occasion.

Before signing off for the week, there are two honourable mentions. Firstly, to Angie Kerr, who in typically thoughtful and good-natured manner, brought a bag of treats for the race volunteers and then proceeded to thank them individually for their efforts at the end of the race – there is an attitude to be emulated! Secondly, the ‘Runner’s Romeo’,

John ‘Butcher’ Kelly who once again ensured that everyone go to the finish line safely in his role as sweeper. I overheard some of his usual crew who were spectating on this occasion comment on what a great fella he is – a view they might change when they get to know him better!!!

Race 6 of the series takes place on Thursday 15 May. Registration for ‘Lukes’ is at Meelmore Lodge with post-race refreshments in Doran’s Bar, Hilltown. Entries must be made online before 9pm on Tuesday evening and registration is between 6:00pm and 7:15pm on the night. Please try to car share where possible and arrive in plenty of time.