LOCAL knowledge proved to be the real winner at the Beamsley Beacon fell race, as Ilkley Harriers dominated proceedings.

The race, which sets off from the field adjoining Addingham Parish Church and heads towards the suspension bridge over the River Wharfe, was certainly to the liking of a triumphant trio of Harriers.

Rob Little, Jack Cummings and Nathan Edmondson were the first three men across the line, as the club completed an impressive 1-2-3. Cummings took an early lead but soon lost it to Little who was first to the summit.

Although that does not automatically mean first across the line, Little maintained his lead to win in 33.15 from Cummings, second in 33.54, and Nathan Edmondson, third in 35.20 – the order already set at the summit.

In the ladies event, Wharfedale's Monica Padilla finished in 42 minutes and six seconds, meaning that she was pipped into second place by pacey Ilkley athlete Pauline Munro, who crossed the line in 41.32.

Completing a trio for the region, Otley’s Rebecca Harper was third with a time of 44.12.

In contrast to previous years, the race attracted some younger runners, with the Under-19 race being won by another fine Ilkley Harriers’ athlete in the form of Oscar Stapleton (35.37).

He came fifth overall, fighting off competition from Wharfedale duo Logan Hargreaves-Madhas (46.13) and Will Thompson (53.28).

In an interesting piece of course management, the course is marked as far as the summit of Beamsley Beacon but from this point on, competitors are on their own, as the race is “any route home”.

The only rule of return is that public footpaths and/or roads must be used. Local knowledge is at a premium to find the best route and navigation fails are common.