About the Run
The Burn Vally Run is a 1/2 Marathon run under UK Athletic
rules. It is one the most scenic and demanding 1/2 marathons in
England. The race starts and finishes in the market town of Masham,
which is the gateway to Wensleydale.
The first run was held in 1990 and it has, exept for being
cancelled in 2001 due to the foot and mouth outbreak, been held
annually ever since. The event is organised by the Burn Valley Run
committee with assistance from local enthusiasts, most of who are
not actively involved in running.
The race HQ's are based in Masham Town Hall, so make that your
first call on race day for the latest info.
The course is run entirely on minor roads. Starting from Masham
market square and taking you through the grounds of Swinton Castle,
one of our main sponsors, the course then follows the picturesque
Burn Valley.
It rises to the Leeds Pals war memorial near the top of Breary
Banks. From there it drops down past Spout House Farm and returns
via Colsterdale and the villages of Healey and Fearby. Turning
right at Fearby Cross there is a fast downhill section before
climbing back to Swinton Castle, just 1.5 miles from the finish at
Masham School.
There are drinks stations at Swinton Castle and Kell Bank
Primary School, Pine Wood Manor, Pasture House, Kell Bank and
Swinton Castle. There will also be toilets and medical facilities
at Kell Bank School.
All funds raised from the Run go towards supporting local
schools, plus youth and children projects in the Masham area. Over
the past 19 years over 32.500 has been allocated to such
projects.