Jim Holmes celebrated the big FOUR OH with a pre-party race at the Scottish National Cross Country Championships at Callendar Park, Falkirk today. It wasn't an occasion for birthday cakes and candles though as the severe winds made even standing up tricky at times.Jim and 9 other Harriers battled around 3 laps of the 4km course with 600 others in the senior men's race, well supported by an enthusiastic group of non-competing Harriers. Meanwhile, Stephen Reilly had mixed fortunes in the junior men's 8km race, twisting an ankle half way through the race but struggling on to the finish at reduced pace.
First Harrier home in the senior men's race was Stuart Gibson (44:02) followed by veterans Martin Duthie (44:36) and Scot Hill (49:30). Kenny Davidson (49:50) finished strongly and Ian Rae showed a remarkable turn of speed for an ultra-marathon runner to pick up an extra place in a sprint finish. Jim Holmes also had to sprint hard at the finish to hold his place. Next in was David Herbertson (56:11) and then steady performance of the day, Colin MacDonald, gradually overhauling Russell Couper and Chas Steven as the race progressed. Not all times are available yet so watch this space (or leave a comment with your time if I missed you at the finish).
Eddie Reid had some traffic problems en-route and missed the start of the race but was probably glad to be there supporting given his recent injury problems. Finally, it was good to see stalwart Harriers from the past, Dougie Gray (now running for Portsmouth Joggers) and Barry Cockburn there to lend their support to the event.
Further photographs here: http://www.calderglenharriers.org.uk/gallery/natxc2008/index.html
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