Christmas Handicap

The traditional Harriers' Christmas Handicap saw not only a new winner at his first attempt but also a first time with no Santas running! A very high standard of fancy dress was set by the 12 Harriers who could make the 11am start on Sunday. Characters from ancient history to superheroes from the future lined up to race 4 miles against TV characters and inanimate objects. Last year's winner, Russell Couper, was sidelined due to the injury sustained at the West XC on Saturday so that left the gladiatorial Hugh Spartacus Simpson to start off first, chased a minute or so later by Fred Flintstone (David Wardrope) and Billy Buchanan feeling the heat in his Tigger romper suit. Frances Maxwell branched out in the form of a Christmas Tree whilst Joanne McEvoy was dressed to help Santa (who was a no show). George Stewart looked uncomfortably comfortable made up as a chav and was so convincing that he almost pulled a boy racer in the golf club car park. Graham Ramage is clearly benefiting from some all over conditioning and rippled around the course as Captain America whilst Jim Holmes was shedding insects left, right and centre as he tried to "get out of there" as quickly as possible. Stephen Phimister called upon his extensive wardrobe of blue man outfits to appear today as Scottish Blue Man (really needs to get some matching shoes though). Alan McLellan continued the blue theme as a smurf, chased by the Glass Act, Eddie Reid, rattling his way around the park as a bottle of beer. Finally Martin Duthie gave himself the best possible chance of victory by dressing as an old runner (what's new you say) despite his moustache making a bid for freedom whilst passing the zoo on lap 2 (thankfully the moustache was later returned to captivity after Mandy organised a search party).

All the pictures are here.

Winner of the handicap was Hugh Simpson who managed to hang on despite a fast charging David Wardrope closing the gap to within a few seconds on the line. Frances Maxwell was first lady and Martin Duthie set fastest time of the day (22:51).

Thanks to all who stood in the cold to support and a big thanks to Martin for again donating the £100 for the handicap winner to donate to a charity of their choice, in memory of Margaret Anne.

Finishing times: Hugh 29:15, David 27:59, Billy 27:49, Frances 28:49, Joanne 28:35, George 33:08, Graham 27:02, Jim 26:28, Stephen 26:02, Alan 25:25, Eddie 27:05, Martin 22:51.

Alan