TTC 2011 - Some Rain, Plenty Smiles

Its Callander in September (or any other time of the year actually) so it was no surprise that after four relatively dry years we had more than a wee bit of rain on the lead up to and during this year's Trossachs Training Camp. However rain does not deter runners and in fact it was never uncomfortable.

This year we had enough participants from the Harriers and ATHelite Tri Club and jog Scotland to have four full packs ably shepherded by Russell, Frances, Genevieve, Eddie, Colin and myself.

The running sessions were to the tried and tested format with some route variations. The heaviest rain was experienced on Friday evening's run with Eddie's Cones/Domes and Sharks warm-up (I can't explain in the space available) a close second in the rain stakes. The recent opening of the new Bracklinn Falls Bridge allowed the re-introduction of the full 1200 foot climb through the forest on the far side of the falls.

Hills were never far from any of the sessions with even the railway line reps being up and down the gradual slope of the old Callander to Oban line. For Sunday the sun came out and we had perfect conditions for the long runs, ranging in distance from around 11 miles to 18 miles (and another 1000 to 1300 feet of climbing!). The running sessions totalled between around 25 to 40 miles over the weekend, a fantastic effort by all involved (just don't try to continue that volume of training any time soon!)

David Nugent gave two excellent 1 hour sessions on sports injury and prevention with the second, practical session taking full advantage of the perfect model in the shape of Eddie Reid. The evening and lunchtime food was to the usual high standard and last but not least the company was fantastic.

Thanks to all who made the weekend possible. Next year is already booked!

There are a few more photos here. More will be added when the various roving photographers can get some to me. Photos from Frances now added (plenty of Lade Inn and Sunday run photos there).

Alan