The 2010-11 Cumbria XC League kicked off today over the challenging course at Cockermouth, hosed by Derwent AC. Despite the national 6-stage road relays at Sutton Park today, and FRA's in the Lomonds of Fife tommorrow, the race was contested by a strong field of Cumbrian club runners.
John Nicoll of Keswick AC took up the early pace in the senior race before Ricky Lightfoot of Ellenborough AC, tipped as the pre race favourite, stamped his mark on the fixture with a powerful display at the front. Setting up chase were Phil Winskill (Keswick AC) and Russell Maddams (Kesiwck AC) fresh from a 2:31:53 at the Loch Ness Marathon. An effort from Maddams on the final lap saw him catch and overtake Winskill but he had done too much and Phil was able to ease ahead at the finish for 2nd. 
Further back John Nicoll fought well after his earlier exertions at the head of the race which must have taken a lot from his legs and John Beetham completed the strong Keswick team.2009 Cumbria League runner up Karen Bridge was setting the pace at the front of the wommens race. Last season's champion Pippa Maddams on relay duty this weekend, watched from the sidelines as Debbie Edgington and Amanda Dexter aquitted themselves well in Keswick AC colours over the tough course which varied from firm to very soft in places given the dry start to the month. Thanks go to Derwent AC for their hospitality.
The next fixture in the Cumbria League is next weekend at Penrith -Saturday 23rd October, and the Mid-Lancs league kicks off the following week -Saturday 30th at Barrow.
Photos, top to bottom: Ricky Lightfoot on form at Cockermouth. John Nicoll set the early pace. Russell Maddams carried his form from the roads. Amanda Dexter -Cumbria League debut. Debbie Edgington.
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