We Need To Talk About Chevin + Chevin is BS

Otley, United Kingdom

Expected March 2028

Our best guess from a single past year. We'll firm it up when the organiser confirms.

Choose your distance

14K

Distance

14km

Climb

Mountainous·650m

Start Time

11:00

Terrain

Trail

From last year's edition. Details may change once confirmed.

Overview

A Category BM fell race on the Chevin near Otley, climbing 650 m over 14 km of rough forest and moorland tracks, with a shorter 9 km option on the same day. Registration, post-race refreshments and the finish celebration take place at The Black Horse pub.

Surprise View climb
Danefield climb
Poolscar Wood loop
Fells Plantation power-line ascent
Miller Lane final climb
Finish at The Black Horse pub

The practical side

Terrain

Trail surface; off-road fell race; Nature; Scenic; Category BM fell race with 650 m elevation gain over 14 km (2130 feet over 9 miles)

Route

Starting on Station Road, you'll face a grueling ascent straight to Surprise View. From there, it's a rapid descent to The West Gate followed by yet another climb to the acclaimed Danefield climb. Navigate through a rugged loop of Poolscar Wood before reaching the remote Fells Plantation, where you'll tackle a steep climb alongside the power lines. The journey continues as you head back to Chevin Forest Park and conquer the final climb up Miller Lane. Prepare for an exhilarating descent back to Jonny Lane Back and Station Road to complete the circuit. This Category BM fell race tests your limits with an elevation gain of 650 meters across a taxing 14 km (or 2130 feet over 9 miles).

Good to know

What to bring

Suitable footwear - for off-road running

Hat or Buff

Gloves

Waterproof Jacket

Waterproof Trousers

Compass

Extra Layer

Emergency Food

Water container - Great Owl Running events are cupless, we provide plenty of water at refill stations but you must bring your own container

On the day

ParkingParking in Otley is limited. The Black Horse car park is primarily for pub customers and may fill quickly. Use public car parks in Otley town centre and walk to Race HQ. Car sharing is encouraged, and please respect local residents by not blocking driveways or narrowing roads.

Public transportOtley is served by buses from Leeds and Bradford. The nearest train stations include Leeds, Guiseley, and Menston; from there you can take a bus or taxi to Otley. Leeds Bradford Airport is a short taxi ride away. Check local bus timetables in advance and allow extra time on race morning.

First aid on courseThere is usually first aid at Race HQ and marshals with radios around the course. Declare any medical conditions on your entry form. In an emergency, call 999 and alert the race organiser. Carry a mobile phone and know the emergency contact details from the race briefing.

Course markingFell races on the Chevin may be partially marked with tape, marshals, and checkpoints, but you should still be prepared to navigate. Carry a map and compass, know the route, and follow marshal instructions. If you get lost, retrace your steps to the last known point and contact a marshal or the emergency number given at the briefing.

Before you enter

TransfersTransfer and deferral policies are set by the race organiser. For fell races, entries are often non-refundable but may be transferable to another runner up to a specified deadline via the entry system. Deferrals to a future year are less common. Check the official registration page or contact the organiser directly for the exact policy. Do not run under someone else's number without permission.

Other questions

Race HQ is The Black Horse in Otley. You will typically collect your number, undergo a kit check if required, and attend a race briefing before making your way to the start. Post-race refreshments and the finish celebration also take place at the pub. Arrive with plenty of time to spare, as check-in and the pub facilities can get busy.

Fell shoes or aggressive trail shoes with deep lugs are best. The 14K route climbs 650 m over rough forest and moorland tracks, while the 9K option is still uneven and off-road. Avoid road shoes. Consider waterproof socks or sealskinz if the ground is wet.

Yes, Otley and the nearby Leeds/Bradford area have B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering options. The Black Horse is a pub and may not offer accommodation. Book early for the March race date. Staying in Leeds gives more choice and you can travel to Otley in the morning.

The finish celebration and refreshments take place at The Black Horse. Expect a social atmosphere with food and drink available. Bring warm, dry clothes to change into after the race. Results and prizes may be presented there, so check the race information for timings.

Entry fee

Registration isn't open yet. We'll show pricing when the organiser confirms.

Expected

Otley, United Kingdom

Expected March 2028

Provisional date, around Mar 11

We'll keep this updated as the organiser confirms.

Great Owl Running

View organiser page →

Website

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We Need To Talk About Chevin + Chevin is BS

Overview

The practical side

Good to know

What should I expect at race HQ at The Black Horse on race day?

What shoes should I wear for the rough forest and moorland tracks on the Chevin?

Can I stay overnight near Otley for the race?

What happens at the finish and post-race celebration?

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