On Sunday 17th May 2026, runners from across the region gathered to take on one of Yorkshire’s most iconic endurance events, the Calderdale Way Relay. As the main sponsor of this year’s event, Projex Solutions was proud to play a part in supporting a race that has become a cornerstone of the local running calendar.
The Calderdale Way Relay is far more than a typical running event. Covering approximately 50 miles around Calderdale and divided into six relay legs, the race challenges teams to navigate a demanding combination of trails, moorland, steep climbs, technical descents and rapidly changing weather conditions. Each leg must be completed by a pair of runners, requiring teamwork, preparation and resilience throughout the day.
For Projex Solutions, this year’s event carried additional significance as our Managing Director, Jamie Ashton, took part as a member of the “Projex HX5 Warriors” team.
Taking on the Challenge
After recently completing the New Halifax 10K, Jamie stepped up to an entirely different challenge in the Calderdale Way Relay. Together with Cathy Ashton, he tackled Leg 3 of the course, running from Todmorden to Blackshaw Head. While the shortest leg of the relay at 4.8 miles, it is known for its sharp climbs and demanding terrain, requiring runners to push hard while maintaining control and pace.
The Projex HX5 Warriors team had spent weeks planning logistics, organising runners, reviewing route information and preparing for race day. Their six-leg challenge would see twelve runners collectively cover approximately 50 miles across Calderdale’s hills and valleys.
As with many fell running events, race day brought unpredictable conditions. Teams were required to carry mandatory safety equipment, including waterproof clothing, maps, compasses and whistles, with organisers enforcing strict safety standards throughout the event.
The relay also presented its fair share of challenges. Early reports from the team highlighted just how demanding the conditions were, with hailstorms, slippery terrain and navigation difficulties testing runners from the very first leg. Despite that, the overwhelming feeling throughout the day was one of camaraderie, determination and enjoyment. As one team member summed it up after completing the opening leg:
“Quite enjoyable, shame about the hail storm and getting blind lost but all in all a great morning out.”
Leg 1: West Vale to Cragg Vale
Toby Underwood & Kevin Harrop
The opening leg covered 10.55 miles from Clay House Park in West Vale to Cragg Vale. Featuring early climbs, moorland sections and challenging conditions underfoot, it provided a demanding start to the day. The pair battled through difficult weather, including hail and slippery terrain, while navigating one of the longest legs of the relay.
Leg 2: Cragg Vale to Todmorden
Ross Charlesworth & Phil Harris
Ross and Phil took on the second leg, covering 8.46 miles between Cragg Vale and Todmorden. This section combined faster running terrain with more technical sections and navigation challenges, requiring concentration and careful pacing throughout.
Leg 3: Todmorden to Blackshaw Head
Jamie Ashton & Cathy Ashton
Representing Projex Solutions, Managing Director Jamie Ashton partnered with Cathy Ashton for the third leg of the relay. Although the shortest section at 4.8 miles, it featured sharp climbs and offered runners an opportunity to push the pace. The pair successfully completed the route from Todmorden to Blackshaw Head, handing over to the next team members ready for the challenges ahead.
Leg 4: Blackshaw Head to Wainstalls
Neill Forbes & Liam Walmsley
Neill and Liam tackled one of the longer sections of the route, covering 9.36 miles across exposed terrain where weather conditions can quickly become a factor. Strong pacing and energy management were essential throughout this demanding leg.
Leg 5: Wainstalls to Shelf
Mia Kench & Clair Taylor
Mia and Clair took responsibility for the fifth leg, covering 7.76 miles of mixed terrain. Despite suffering an ankle injury during the event, Clair showed tremendous determination to continue and help complete the leg.
Leg 6: Shelf to Spring Hall
Bogusia Plonka & Rob Eames
The final responsibility fell to Bogusia and Rob, who completed the 10.21-mile closing leg back to Spring Hall Athletics Track. After a full day of running across Calderdale, they brought the Projex HX5 Warriors home to the finish line, where teammates gathered to celebrate completing one of Yorkshire’s toughest relay events.
Teamwork at the Heart of the Event
One of the aspects that makes the Calderdale Way Relay so unique is its emphasis on teamwork. Unlike many running events where individual performance is the primary focus, the relay requires teams to support one another throughout the day.
From coordinating transport between changeover points to ensuring runners arrived on time, carrying the correct kit and navigating challenging terrain safely, success depends on every team member playing their part. The relay rules require runners to stay together throughout each leg and cross the finish line as a pair, reinforcing the importance of teamwork and mutual support.
The Projex HX5 Warriors embodied this spirit throughout the event. Team members shared route information, safety advice, live location updates and encouragement throughout the day. The focus was never solely on finishing times but on completing the challenge together and ensuring everyone returned safely.
Supporting the Local Community
As a business headquartered in Yorkshire, Projex Solutions is passionate about supporting initiatives that bring people together, encourage wellbeing and strengthen local communities.
Our sponsorship of the Calderdale Way Relay follows our support of the New Halifax 10K earlier this year and reflects our ongoing commitment to investing in local events that create positive experiences for participants and spectators alike.
The relay attracts runners from clubs and organisations across the region, while also relying on a huge network of volunteers, marshals and organisers to make the event possible. From registration and safety management to route marking and timing, the amount of planning and coordination required is significant.
Thank You to Halifax Harriers
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Halifax Harriers for delivering another outstanding Calderdale Way Relay.
The event is renowned for its organisation, attention to detail and commitment to runner safety. From comprehensive race instructions and route management through to volunteer coordination and medical planning, it is clear that a huge amount of work takes place behind the scenes to ensure the relay runs smoothly.
The dedication of the organisers, marshals and volunteers helps make the Calderdale Way Relay one of the most respected off-road relay events in the country.
Looking Ahead
For Jamie, the relay represented another rewarding personal challenge following his New Halifax 10K debut. For Projex Solutions, it was an opportunity to support an event that embodies many of the values we hold as a business: teamwork, resilience, planning, commitment and community.
Congratulations to everyone who took part, whether as runners, volunteers, marshals or supporters.
We are proud to have been involved as the main sponsor and look forward to supporting local community events for many years to come.
