Peak Rail 7 - Runner vs Steam
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About the race
Matlock Athletic Club, in conjunction with Peak Rail, stages the Peak Rail 7 Runner vs Steam race. Runners race alongside a steam hauled heritage train between Peak Rail Rowsley South station and Matlock Riverside station and return on a scenic 7 miles course following the White Peak Loop extension of the Monsal Trail.
The route is almost exclusively off-road with a short tarmac section into Matlock and includes three flights of steps (two up, one down), making the course unsuitable for wheelchair users. The trail is shared with walkers and cyclists; marshals and a lead biker patrol the route and road crossings are staffed. Competitors should be able to hear marshals and other trail users, and the organisers advise against using earphones.
Practical details: the event uses Rowsley South for start, registration and free on-site parking, with additional parking on the approach road. The course is marked and the minimum age is 16 on race day. Entry is limited to 250 and entries are sold out for this running. All finishers receive a unique race memento and prizes are offered for male and female overall and for V40, V50, V60 and V70 categories, plus team versus steam prizes. Supporters can buy discounted tickets for the special charter train but only 230 train tickets are available. The event also serves as a club charity fundraiser and has raised over £21,000 since its introduction. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.
