The origins of the club lay in road running, hence the name of the organisation. However, running is a more varied sport than people often appreciate. Our 150+ adult members are encouraged to represent the club at competitions and races if they have a competitive streak!
ROADS
You’ll see “Nidds” in our gold and black colours pounding out on the roads from 5K to full on marathons in all local races, county-wide and further afield. Local free Saturday morning “parkruns” are proving very popular and are both a great introduction to running for the beginner or a super speed session for the seasoned athlete.
FELLS
Fell running is almost as old as the hills themselves! It’s a superb way to experience the great outdoors for those with an aversion to tarmac. From craggy Lakeland tops to the mud soaked Pennine moor and the summer beauty of the Yorkshire Dales, the gold and black ‘core’ will be out and about. There are many beginner-friendly races over grassy terrain whilst some races are indeed tough and gritty events for those experienced in scrambling up steep-sided hills and careering down the other side.
TRAILS
Trail running is becoming increasingly popular and our members keenly travel to races in the Lake District, the Dales and some trail races use local path networks.
ULTRAS
Considered to be anything longer than the marathon distance, ultra-races attract a number of “Nidds”. These range from local LDWA style events to serious endurance mountain challenges. Amongst our membership we have 100 mile race finishers as well as those who have completed events such as the Fellsman, Hardsmoor series and a Bob Graham Round completer.
You’ll also see Nidd Valley people at Triathlons, Cross Country and Orienteering such is the varied nature of running sport and we are proud to be part of the long running Harrogate District Summer Race League. The latter provides 4 or 5 midweek races during the summer months where local clubs compete in a team based league. The team spirit rolls onto the fells with regular appearances at the British Fell Relays.
CLUB CHAMPIONSHIPS
Club members test their mettle against one another through our annual club championships, one for the road runners and one for fell. A selection of cracking races are chosen by our club captains which inspire members to get out there and race, from old local favourites to exciting and challenging routes further afield. Just see our championships tab on the website for the variety offered to members this year.
The club recognises members many and varied achievements together with success in the club championships with a significant array of awards at our sell-out annual dinner.
