Callander Winter Crags Race

I know a few are interested in doing the Winter edition of the Crags race on Saturday 5th January, starting at 1pm. For those that have not done it before, it is a hill race up and down over a circular route. The first mile is straight up 800 feet on a rough footpath, then descending along the moorland ridge top on a sheep trail for a half mile before a further mile downhill on tarmac before the final half to three quarter mile on a steeply undulating forest track. It will either be very muddy or very frozen under foot, so some sort of trail shoe is usually best. Here is the latest information from the organisers, Alistair and Sheila, sent out today:

It's time to kick start your New Year with a wee run up the Callander
Crags.  Your organising committee have been working hard all year to
make this event a huge success with all the usual wonderful prizes, and,
of course, the chance to see all your results from 1986 to last June's
race.

Are you at your peak or over the hill. Find out this Saturday

Adults and children are all most welcome to come along and join us.
Children under 13 need an adult who can keep up with them!

Registration starts at High Noon in Tulipan Crescent. Look for the red
VW van/Race HQ.

For gadget lovers the postcode is FK17 8AR.

Looking Forward to seeing you.

Alistair and Sheila

New year greetings

Hi all. Carolyn and I would like to wish all at the club a very happy, healthy and successful 2013. The weather down under has been a bit hit and miss with a fair bit of rain although the temperature still in the 20's. Carolyn continues to make good progress with her new shoulder under the care and attention of her nurse, house keeper and all round good guy, AKA me!

Malcolm & Carolyn

Training Thursday 27th Dec

Training on Thursday 27th Dec will be or annual tour of local drinking venues (pub run).
The run will start at 6pm prompt and will be run as one pack at a leisurely pace for all.
Please bring kitty money and money for socialising in the club bar after the run.
Non alchoholic drinks are allowed to be consumed on this run as well as stronger refreshments.
Please don't be put off if you don't drink or have to drive its all about being social and enjoyment and if were lucky enough to have snow we may have 5mins for a snowball fight.
Any of our newer members that are not sure what this event entails please feel free to ask any of our older members who will be happy to tell all.

Christmas Handicap 2012

A very colourful lineup for the 2012 Calderglen Harriers Christmas Handicap and almost perfect running conditions (depending on what costume you were wearing!). 18 Harriers of all shapes and sizes and from fantasy, movie and cartoon worlds gave it everything over the 4 mile course, all in the name of fun. In the cartoon corner, Minnie the Mouse, faced up to a Power Ranger, Oor Wullie and Fat Boab. The battle of the superheroes saw Super-Vegas-Man (and his dog) chasing Banana Woman whilst Ming the Merciless was merciless in setting the fastest time of the day (26:10). Representing the world of wildlife, a bumblebee modeled the club colours whilst handicap of the day went to the reindeer towing a 2-tonne sledge (despite there being a couple of Santa's helpers, there were no assistance being administered, that would have been cheating!). A rare siting of a leprechaun (been missing from training for a few weeks) did not signal a mystical return to form but the smile was still there. There were some colourful characters of unknown origin and some numbered athletes on display from Mr 50 parkrun (nice of Russell to celebrate Eddie's birthday so publicly  and an always topical, 007. Then there was the fittingly gold clad Emma Lawton who caught and overhauled Russell on the last lap to win the handicap with the 4th fastest time overall (26:51) to become the youngest ever winner of the Christmas handicap.

Well done to all and a big thanks to all the supporters. A special thanks to Martin Duthie for the donations to charities of the choice of the first 3, Emma, Russell and Christina.

More photos here courtesy of Joanne and full results here.
Alan

Devils Burden Relay

The date of this event has changed to Saturday 9th February and no longer clashes with the vets relay weekend. Therefore, please add your name using the links below if you can now make it. If this change of date means you cannot now do it, then please also use the form to create a new entry and write a comment in the "additional information" section of the form.

A possible new adventure for the club, the Devil's Burden Hill Relay takes place on Saturday 26th January 2013. Kenny Leinster is a veteran of this event and with his recommendation, we would like to get some teams entered. The event comprises teams of 6 but is in fact a 4 stage relay as some of the legs require runners to run in pairs for safety. This is a full-on, Winter hill race in Scotland so there are compulsory equipment requirements for safety. Full details of the event are here on the Scottish Hill Racing web site. Kenny is going to take us on a recce a few weeks before the race and after that we will have a better idea of who is suited to which legs. The more teams the merrier as always.

Please leave your name on this form if you are interested and speak to Kenny if you want some advice on the event. Names received so far are here.

Alan
(I should point out that this event is on the Saturday, the day before the vets relays at Strathclyde Park. We have more than enough members of the veteran and non-veteran varieties to be well represented at both events! See the comments to this post for further views on this).

Christmas Handicap

Our annual fancy dress Christmas Handicap is next Sunday, 16th December, with the first runner off at 11am. Time to get thinking of a costume. The usual format is that everyone brings a small value prize up and those that bring a prize then get to choose a prize at the end.
Alan

Harriers AGM Monday 10th December

As it is the Harriers' AGM on Monday at 8:30pm, the club run will start at 7pm prompt, so please be there ready to run at that time.
Alan

West District XC - Russell was not Last!

We had several motivational performances on a cold and soggy course by Inverkip on Saturday. Not least was a strong, agricultural run befitting the venue from Russell Couper who declared with a huge grin "I was not last" to anyone who would listen having passed David Wardrope within a few km of the finish and managing to hang on by some 50m to the end. The other motivational performance was from David himself who surely will now be motivated to get his training back in gear and not let that happen again!

Russell Couper ploughing through the mud

The event had a record entry throughout all the age groups. The Inverclyde Athletics Partnership handled the organisation well, including the logistical problem of the course being 3 miles from the sports centre where registration was held. However, a slick bus shuttle was in place and there were no problems getting to and from the course. As all of our women members were allegedly preparing themselves for the evening club dinner/dance (any excuse to get out of cross country), only the Calderglen men were represented in the senior events. On the face of it the course looked very flat but complex, skirting the perimeter of 3 or 4 individual fields and taking two laps to cover the 10km race distance. However, this was not a fast course despite the lack of hills. Most of the course was at the very least soggy and at worst almost knee deep in tractor track mud baths. There was even some ice in a shaded corner of the course. The only firm, non-icy section of the course was a slight downhill section along the edge of a field, however this was only dry because the water had run off it to make the bottom edge of the field even wetter.

Andrew McCaffery quickly established himself as the lead Harrier and although he felt he was struggling, he looked strong all the way to the finish. Eddie Reid found the going tough, as did all the Harriers, and needed a few gee ups to keep him going through the second half of the race. David Herbertson and Andy Henderson traded places throughout the race, David generally the stronger the deeper the mud and Andy the faster on the slightly firmer sections. At the end David pulled away from Andy. Jim Holmes would normally be challenging David and Andy but was somewhat isolated today and thought it was possibly the toughest cross country race he has ever done. Kenny Leinster had a good run and a particularly strong finish, with a very impressive sprint to the line which arrived sooner than he thought. However, Kenny is now next on Russell's radar! Then it was Russell followed by David who seemed to be struggling from the start.

Well done to all on a fantastic effort on a tough course. More photos here.
Alan

West District XC

The West District XC is this Saturday.
we only have men entered so just one start time 2PM.
Please be at Ravenscraig sports centre (Greenock) by 1pm at the latest.
I will be there till 1pm then moving to the course so if your late i will be at the course with your number.
Anyone leaving as a group from the sports club i would suggest you meet at 11pm to leave.
I will be going direct from my work.
Please refer to previous Blog to see whos entered.

Russell

Club Dance Arrangements

This Saturday is the Harriers dinner/dance at the Sports Club. Could everyone be seated by 6:30pm when dinner will be served. If there are any special dietary requirements, then please contact Eddie, Russell, Frances or me asap or leave a comment to this post.

If you can, please bring a prize for the raffle. Finally, bring your dancing rather than running legs.
Alan

Thursday Training - AGM

As this Thursday is the Sports Club AGM at 7:30pm and as there is a proposal for a fairly significant increase in membership fees across most membership categories (see the noticeboard in the entrance foyer for details), it is important that the Harriers are well represented to take part in the vote on this proposal. THERE WILL THEREFORE BE NO TRAINING ON THURSDAY. YOUR ATTENDANCE AT THE AGM IS OF GREATER IMPORTANCE. If we have the same turnout that we have on a good training night then the Harriers stand a good chance of being in the majority at the AGM. (note that the Harriers committee was supporting an alternative proposal to make a substantial donation to the sports club from Harriers funds, with perhaps a small increase in membership fees so as to protect our members from greatly increased costs. The other sporting sections were expected to do the same).

Alan
(note that I am unfortunately away with work till Friday night so cannot attend)

Grand Prix Race Update

The final Grand Prix race of 2012 is the West District next weekend. It could be that the University Road Race is re-scheduled for January and presuming it does not clash with anything else we are doing, it will be back in the Grand Prix.

DEVILLA FOREST 15K CORRECTION. THE DATE IS ACTUALLY 24TH FEBRUARY, THE DAY AFTER THE NATIONAL SO THIS IS DEFINITELY NOT IN THE GRAND PRIX.

For the vets, the Scottish Masters XC Championships (not a grand prix race) are on 2nd February up in Forres for anyone who is interested.

Alan

Big Sur Half Marathon on Monterey Bay

Inside the last two miles

I wasn't going to report this PW too widely but seeing as the Uni Road Race was cancelled, we need a race report of some sort!

Although the main purpose of my recent trip to California was in connection with my other hobby (cars), I couldn't go all that way without fitting in a race. Former Harrier, Jimmy Stewart, had suggested that following some car related meetings just north of San Diego, a race of about half marathon distance should be possible to fit in. The first suggestion was The Death Valley Half Marathon but this was going to involve thousands of miles of driving (and possibly death) so I had another look. Monterey, a beautiful seaside town a few hundred miles north of LA, seemed the best option as their half marathon was celebrating its 10th anniversary, had a good quality field of many thousands and was a scenic, non life threatening, out and back course along the edge of the Pacific.

All the preparations were in place well in advance except the training due to the back injury I picked up back in September. So on arrival in California, barring a miracle, I had no intention of running the race, only having run twice in the previous three weeks and being in some pain just walking about. This was just going to be a relaxing holiday for a change. Fortunately (or unfortunately), two days before the race I was going through my usual stretching regime when something clicked audibly in my back and the pain in my lower back and hip suddenly disappeared. A miracle! Clearly a trapped nerve had become un-trapped. A trial run proved that I could sort of run although the legs were stiff as boards and I was blowing out my ears at a reasonably gentle pace. But there was no pain. So race day saw an early start (7am race start California time, which equals 15:00 UK time so not too bad really). Jogging the two miles from the hotel to the race start in the pitch dark provided a good warm up in perfectly still conditions. The early morning forecast was for rain but this was clearly not going to happen as there were no clouds visible. The start line band (some old guys who were somewhere between the Beach Boys and the Eagles and who obviously knew what they were doing) built the atmosphere up nicely as the sun rose at 6:45 and the field of around 9000 gathered in their assigned "corrals". A smattering of Kenyans in the elite field promised a fast pace that I would clearly not be a part of, so when the hooter went, I eased away gently. This was going to be about getting around only.

An initial circuit around the quaint old town split the field up nicely before heading south along the coast. Every few miles there was a live band to spur you on and even a kilted piper giving it laldy inside a 400m long tunnel! There was no wind, the surf was crashing against the shoreline, the sun was shining and the temperature was perfect. This is what running is all about. I was quite comfortable until about 9 miles when the wheels started to fall off and then it was a case of hanging on to the finish. This was not a surprise given the lack of miles in the legs but I wasn't losing many places so I wasn't bothered. With one mile to go the crowd were lining the coastal path and cheering enthusiastically, including one particularly Californian shout which I shall use at the Club sometime ("half mile to go man, SPEND IT NOW!" Little did he know that I was already overdrawn.)

Race Winner

On crossing the line the impeccable US organisation kicked in with medals, goody bags, kit bags and refreshments all brought straight to me which was just as well as I couldn't walk, everything having seized up completely as soon as I stopped. Free beer and minestrone soup (separate cups) preceded the prize giving which was extensive to say the least, with prizes for the first 3 in every 5 year age group from 15 to 85 years old! My time, a PW by over 5 minutes, was 86:31 and 7th M45 in 68th position overall. The race was won by an American athlete in 64:45, leaving at least 3 Kenyans in his wake. His wife also won the ladies race in 72:18, so a big pay day in that household. Jimmy Stewart finished in 1:48:21 and was 9th M60.

To prove how wrecked my legs were, on walking back to the hotel along the perfectly flat cycle path, I was easily passed and dropped by the woman who had won the F75 age group (in just over 2 hours!). If this race was not thousands of miles away, I would thoroughly recommend it to the club.

One for Billy and Kenny - Special treatment for Kayakers in Monterey

Alan

University Road Race -CANCELLED

.... due to black ice. The latest news (via Robert Rogerson on Facebook) is that GU Hares & Hounds hope to re-schedule the race for early 2013.
Alan

Brampton Postscript

Now that we have had time to gather breath, a few facts and figures from Brampton.

This year Gerry Mullen and Chas Steven completed their 27th Brampton to Carlisle road races, Gerry 27 in a row and Chas with just one absence last year due to injury. Incredible! Andy Henderson is not far behind with 24 Bramptons.

Karen Allen got within 8 seconds of the club women's Brampton record which has stood for 22 years, recording 67:13. Not only that, Julie Beveridge set the third fastest Calderglen women's time of all time with 68:28 and Joanne McEvoy gained her third entry into the Calderglen top ten with an 8th place spot. Well done to the ladies. Surely new records are on the cards for next year. I won't dwell on the men (no top ten records since 1998 - we need some young guns :-)).

Ladies
Rank			Time	Year
1	Amanda	Brunjes	01:07:05	1990
2	Karen	Allen	01:07:13	2012
3	Julie	Beveridge	01:08:28	2012
4	Joanne	McEvoy	01:08:31	2007
5	Joanne	McEvoy	01:08:50	2010
6	Melanie	Fraser	01:09:03	2004
7	Frances	Maxwell	01:10:38	2011
8	Joanne	McEvoy	01:11:14	2012
9	Karen	Allen	01:11:15	2011
10	Frances	Maxwell	01:11:46	2008

This year, excluding those running Brampton for the first time, 6 pb's were set (previous pb in brackets): Karen Allen 67:13 (71:15), Julie Beveridge 68:28 (72:37), David Herbertson 66:13 (67:10), Kenny Leinster 69:26 (70:54), John McBride 73:52 (74:44) and Stephen Phimister 66:06 (66:49).

Four Harriers took part in Brampton for the first time: Christina Emans 92:02, Alison Lessells 78:11, Phil Marshall 78:37, Stevie McIntyre 83:30.

Multiple 10-mile performance award standards were achieved. Watch this space for an update soon.

Well done to all 28 Harriers who kept the tradition going this year.

Alan

BRAMPTON RACE REPORT

We had 30 runners from the bus plus D Herbertson making his way by car taking part this year. One other did make his way to Carlisle by foot (Jamie) and im sure all the runners appreciated the vocal support from Maud, Irene, Stephanie and Scot cheering us in at the finish. Full results can be found on the sportsoft website or via the Border Harriers website as their are too many to type but congratulations to all who took part. A few that have to be mentioned are Louise Beveridge who took 4th Lady, Frances Maxwell took 3rd L45, S Waugh took 1st M60 and Billy Buchanan took 3rd M60.
Calderglen Ladies were 4th Ladies team with the men taking 8th team and 7th male Vet team.
Refreshments were enjoyed in Carlisle before heading to Moffat for a fantastic meal and you could tell we all enjoyed it as every plate was cleared. A good day out again and many thanks to Eddie for securing us a good bus deal and to everyone who came along and made it another special day in the history of Calderglen Harriers.

Russell

POSPONEMENT OF AGM

Apologies again but the Sports Club are having their AGM on the 6th Dec and therefore we shall have to have it on Monday the 10th. Again training will now be at 7pm on this date.  
Due to unforeseen work commitments the AGM has been postponed from Monday 3rd Dec and moved to Thursday 6th Dec.
Training will be at 7pm instead of 7.30pm and the AGM @ 8.30pm.
Apologies for any inconvenience.

BRAMPTON

This Sunday is Brampton day and the bus will depart at 8.00am prompt DONT BE LATE.
The bus will go direct to Brampton (no stops) so bring something to eat and drink.
The race starts at 11.30am. Those not running be on the bus at 11.20 to go to Carlisle.otherwise you will have to walk.
We will depart Carlisle at 15.30 to go to Moffat for dinner.
Depart Moffat approx 19.30 to head back to the sports club.

WEST DISTRICT XC (GREENOCK ravenscraig sports centre)

This years west district xc is on 8th Dec at Greenock.
This is GP event no 9
The course is several miles from registration and no parking is available at the course.
Transport will be provided but you will need to be able to arrive in plenty of time.
Distance is 6.4k for ladies and 10k for men.
Cost is £4.50 per head.
Start times are 1pm for ladies and 2pm for men.
Please leave your names on this form. Names received so far are here.
Names required by Monday 19th Nov.

National 4k Cross Country

Another nice day greeted a large contingent of Harriers contesting race 6 in our Grand Prix series, the National 4km Cross Country Championships at Bellahouston Park. Typically the course was soft underfoot but not as soft as last year, so perfect for fast running. Our ladies were off first and once again were racing hard. Julie Beveridge made the break from the start and finished very strongly in 17:23. As the course reverted to its usual circuit this year, we cannot directly compare times with last year but the time did give Julie 31st position out of a field of 60. Joanne McEvoy chased hard and was close behind Julie for the first lap but dropped back a little on the second lap to finish in 18:31 in 41st. Frances Maxwell had tackled the somewhat hillier Tinto Hill Race the day before and began to feel the pain in the quads on the second lap but nevertheless kept the pace going to finish in 18:53. Joanne leads the Grand Prix whilst Julie leads the scratch championship.

In the men's race, the club were well represented with 13 Harriers competing. Andrew McCaffery cycled over to the race and was well warmed up for an excellent 14:56 finish, running strongly throughout. Martin Duthie is just getting his speedy legs back again after the marathon and despite a calf twinge finished the race in 15:09. Stephen Reilly extended his lead in both the Grand Prix and Scratch Championships with a competitive 15:24. Eddie Reid was clear of his club mates and looked strong, finishing in 16:09. Andy Henderson reversed recent trends to lead in Jim Holmes in 16:43 compared to Jim's 16:47. David Herbertson had just returned from altitude (I won't say training) in South Africa and was positively choking on the thick air at Bellahouston, finishing in his usual committed style in a time of 17:09. George Stewart was happy enough with his run and please to be closing in on Julie for the first time in a while, with a time of 17:42. Richard Lawton is having his best season so far and looked very comfortable, finishing in 19:07, ahead of David Wardrope in 19:14. Not far back, John McBride is quickly adapting to his first season of cross country, finishing in 19:22. Hugh Simpson was even more relaxed (to the extent that he forgot to bring his trail shoes and was running in trainers) but finished with his usual smile in 19:53. Finally Russell Couper is still struggling but got around in 22:43.

Well done to all. More photos here. Some great action shots of the men's race taken by Frances now added to the album 12/11/12.
Alan

TINTO HILL RACE

Four Harriers headed for the hills today for the Tinto hill race. For those that dont know Tinto is one of only two volcano's in Scotland but luckily enough for the runners today there was no eruptions as its been dorment for several hundred years. As they set off you could see the cairn on top of the hill but as a spit of rain started the top became shrouded in mist which came down a bit further as they reached the top. The winner from Shettleston was up and down in just over 32 mins not bad for a 4.4ml race with a 1500 ft climb. Kenny Leinster came in 46mins dead but running as a Lomond Hill Runner today so cant count as the first harrier to finish. Frances Maxwell wasnt far behind in 49.01 to claim the first harrier spot. Chas Steven doing this for the third year in a row took over 4mins off his previous best to record 54.10. David Searil wasnt far behind to clock 58.19 so all Harriers in under the hour. The course itself is very muddy on the bottom half and stoney trail on the top half so needless to say on the descent there was a few slips towards the bottom. Great event to watch as you can see the train of runners most of the way up then you dont have too long to wait till the leaders approach the finish. Well done to our four adventurers.

British & Irish Masters Cross Country - Belfast

A Titanic but not unexpected disappointment for me today in this, my 4th appearance in a Scotland vest. A change of venue from Stormont to Queens University playing fields should have suited me as it was a fast, 4 lap course totalling 8km. Each lap took in the perimeter of 3 playing fields, each on a different level with steep, very muddy banks to negotiate. Imagine Brancumhall but with 2 to 3 times higher banks but similar degrees of quagmire on the soft bits. Lovely! I was in the final international race covering the M35, M40 and M45 categories and having missed 2 weeks of training completely with injury and sporadic training since September with a lower back injury, I knew I could be in trouble. With 6 per country per age group giving a field of 90, my only option was to start off cautiously and see if I could work my way through. The cautious start went to plan as I immediately found myself second last but unfortunately that is where I stayed until with one and a half laps to go I managed to ease past a team mate and hold on to third last but still 4th counter for the team (we had a DNS due to flu). My worst ever race result and as Russell said to me on Thursday, now you know how I feel! Scotland did have successes in other age groups, particularly F50 and multiple world record holder Fiona Mathieson who won her category out the park and was 5th overall in the F35 to F60 race. Phenomenal.

As for me, it was perhaps an omen that I forgot to bring my watch, so no time to report. And the message is that at this level, any missed training, injuries or illness and you will be found out. So either shape up or ship out (but maybe not on the Titanic, the exhibition of which is well worth a visit by the way).
Alan

Bella XC Travel Arrangements

Some will be meeting go leave the Sports Club at 11am on Sunday to share cars to the race. For those going direct, please try to be at Bellahouston for around 11:30 where Russell will have your numbers.
Alan.

Harriers Christmas Dinner Dance

Calderglen's social event of the year takes place on the evening of Saturday 8th December at the Sports Club from 6:30pm. A two course dinner will be served followed by the entertainment, a DJ this year,  for the price of only £7.50 per person. The main course is home made steak pie. Tickets on sale on club nights from Eddie who will be glad to sell you as many tickets as you want! Harriers, families and friends welcome.
Alan

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

This years AGM will be on Monday 3rd December immediately after training (training will start a half hour early at 7pm).
Please make an effort to attend as it is your club.
If anyone wants to consider taking on any of the committee posts then please let any present committee member know as we are quite happy for the committee to be freshened up.

Malcolm Buchanan - Lifetime Honorary Member

A packed East Kilbride Sports Club was the venue for an evening of fine company for the Harriers to say farewell to Malcolm before he emigrates to New Zealand this week. Malcolm has inspired many, organised gladly, competed as hard as anyone and presided proudly as past club president in his 25 years at the Harriers. To round the evening off and much to Malcolm's surprise, we ceremoniously tore up his official resignation letter and replaced it with a lifetime honorary membership of Calderglen Harriers. Malcolm is pictured receiving his membership certificate and card from club president, Frances Maxwell. We collectively wish Malcolm and Carolyn continued health and fitness in their new home. A few photos from the evening are here.
Alan

Allan Scally Road Relay 2012

Twelve Harriers plus supporters descended on Baillieston's tented village on Saturday afternoon for the annual Allan Scally Road Relay. Disappointingly, the field in this once blue ribband event on the Scottish winter racing season continued its recent decreasing trend with perhaps only around 30 teams lining up on the leafy start line. Despite the small field, there were however a relatively high percentage of Olympic athletes present, with Eilish McColgan on duty for Dundee Hawkhill. Irrespective, the Harriers continue to support this event, especially as the new course provides an interesting and safe challenge to the runners both male and female and an ideal race in terms of distance and surface 2 weeks ahead of our Brampton assault. The new club tent was resplendent in the Autumn sunshine and provided a comfortable base and good publicity for the club.

Frances Maxwell was our only lady competing today but this would help even out the already close Grand Prix and Scratch championships. With such a small field, even the first leg was a lonely place to be and Frances came in relatively isolated in a time of 34:05 for the 4.8 mile leg. A good warm-up for the South Side Six, 16 mile race the following day!

The vets A team were mostly quite evenly matched on paper and it was going to be interesting to see how the times compared on this longest race of the season so far. David Herbertson took on the first leg and ran strongly, maintaining very good form to the finish in a time of 31:23, 2 seconds faster than last year. However, Stephen Reilly was leading out the B team and arrived back first in a time of 29:38, giving Stephen the happy situation of leading both the Grand Prix and the Scratch Championships. John McBride had his first time on the first leg of a relay and the first time at this event. However, John did not get the usual first leg advantage due to the lack of teams, so it was still very much a solo effort to finish in 35:31.

Leg 2 for the Vets team was assigned to Andy Henderson, who was trying to close an almost 2 minute deficit to our B team. Andy finished in 31:52. However Stuart Waugh is an optimal road runner rather than cross country and so improved on last weeks situation by finishing only seconds down on Andy in 32:04. A not well Russell Couper had what he described as his worst run ever to finish in 43:11.

On Leg 3, Eddie Reid still had a job to do to close the still close to 2 minute gap to George Stewart. Afterwards, George commented that all the young guys were flying past him and by the finish line, it was clear that one of them was Eddie, who overturned the deficit to finish in 30:34, also 2 seconds faster than last year, compared to George's 34:10. Hugh Simpson was returning from illness and looked to be back to his usual self, finishing in a well paced 36:59.

Jim Holmes was on the last leg and felt he had a good run but was disappointed with his time of 32:22, which was around 40 seconds down on last year. David Wardrope still has a lingering, heavy cold and the resulting missed training is having some impact. David finished in 35:04, but only around 15 seconds down on last year.

In the final results, the Vets A team were 4th vets team, this being quite a competitive category in the small field.

Thanks to all our supporters for their presence on a cold afternoon and for the team effort setting up and packing away the club tent. Further photos of everyone here.

BRAMPTON TO CARLISLE 2012

UPDATED 04/11/2012
I need entry forms and payment returned by 5th November at the latest and there are still a number of names on the list that have not confirmed if they could let us know if they are still going. Places are still available so please let me know if you wish to go.
This years race will be held on a Sunday 18th Nov with an earlier start and is a Harriers Grand Prix race as usual. There will be a change to the start time too now at 11:30. The probable format will be leaving EK about 8:00 with no stop going direct to Brampton, racing then a couple of hours in Carlisle then Moffat for dinner at 5pm returning to the sports club about 8pm.
As we have had enough interest the bus has been booked and we shall be going. Could those that have indicated their interest confirm there place with a payment of £15 and if we get enough confirmations going this will include a discount against your dinner. You can still put your names on this form. to indicate your interest but it will still be payment secures place. The names received so far are listed here. If your names on the list but no longer wish to be included please let us know by leaving a comment on this Blog. I will bring entry forms to the Club for you to fill out and if you return them to me by 5th Nov we will enter a block and recieve a discount that will help with the bus cost.  Alternatly you can click on this link and print the form youself and bring it along to the club for me http://borderharriers.co.uk/app/webroot/uploads/File/B2C-2012-entry-form.pdf Cost is £14 for SAL members and £16 for non members.



Thanks
Russell

Scally Teams 2012

Early November so it must be time for a trip to Baillieston! Teams for Saturday are listed here. The first legs are off at 2pm and teams need to be declared by 1:30pm at the latest. If you are on a later leg and are arriving after the start, then we will assume you are coming but if you have any delays, then please get in touch with Russell or I well in advance to reduce the panic! Similarly, if you are not listed on the team sheets but would like a run, please get in touch with Russell or I before 1pm and we will fit you in as it is entries on the day (£4/person).

Registration, changing and refreshments are at Bannerman High School, Glasgow Road, Baillieston G69 7NS as shown in the map below. The race start is about a half mile further West in the park just off Mount Vernon Avenue.
Alan


View Larger Map

Cumbernauld in the Sun

Autumn colours and sunshine graced Cumbernauld for the National Cross Country Relays on Saturday and the Harriers made the most of the better than usual conditions to record some fine times and course bests.

Four of our ladies were in action and the first team of Julie Beveridge, Joanne McEvoy and Karen Allen finished an excellent 19th out of a record field of 60 complete teams. Julie set off tracking her sister Louise for the entire lap to finish in 17:37 and handing  over to Joanne in 23rd place. Joanne had a good run, making up a further place in 18:49. Finally, Karen stormed round in 17:43, around 1:45 faster than last year and bringing the team to 19th. Frances Maxwell had a solo run in the second team and enjoyed the nicer than usual conditions to finish in 18:54, meaning that all of our ladies improved on last year's times.

The men fielded a two and a quarter vets teams (M35+) and M50 team and a mixed senior/vets team. The vets A team was led off by Martin Duthie, just back from a holiday in Hawaii, so perhaps the good weather at Cumbernauld was not quite as good as he had become used to in recent weeks! Martin finished in 15:47 (only 3 seconds down on last year) to hand over to local "boy" Andrew McCaffery who made his cross country debut at this event last year. Andrew joined the Russell Couper school of pb's by improving by 3 seconds on last year, finishing in 15:54. Eddie Reid is still on the comeback trail after a quiet year of racing and was pleased to get back into hard racing action, finishing in 16:51, only 5 seconds down on last year. I then took off rather nervously on the last leg, nursing a doctor's surgery worth of injuries and illnesses but in need of a race. After a cautious start I was starting to fly past people a mile in but then I was struck down by an injury not on my pre-race list when my right hamstring twinged and then locked up completely, bringing me to a halt and immediate withdrawal from the race. Very embarrassing having just flown past various runners who now left me standing stationary! Scotland selection jinxed me again. Two weeks to get over that injury (and the others).

For the first time there was an M50 team category over 3 legs and with a national medal for the winning team. We have a lot of depth in the M50+ category and in this case deployed Kenny Leinster on the first leg (18:03), handing over to Andy Henderson who had a great run in 17:45 before handing over to Stuart Waugh who brought us home in 8th place in 18:59.

Our mixed team was given a great start by a very unwell Jim Holmes who nevertheless took 30 seconds out of last year's time to finish in 17:29. David "The Man of Many Jackets" Herbertson was next up and relatively jet lag free judging by his time of 17:31, also a significant improvement on last year. George Stewart did not continue the trend of improvement but did lay claim to a place in the M50 team recording 18:31. Finally, Stephen Reilly lowered the average age and average time of the team considerably to finish in 16:02.

Another team of vets was led off by David Wardrope who set a time of 20:27, reflecting heavily interrupted training recently. However Richard Lawton on leg 2 is in good cross country form and set a course best of 19:36, a 40 second improvement on last year. John McBride made his cross country debut (not an easy course to start on) and finished in 20:13, handing over to Chas Steven who had a solo run around to finish in a good 22:21. First to finish though, was Russell Couper who had a team all to himself but struggled with fatigue after very little sleep to finish in 23:11.

A great team effort on the course and an even greater team effort from all those who helped set up and pack away the fantastic, new club tent which kept the cold wind off us all.

Well done to all. A whole load more photos courtesy of Frances are here.
Alan
Note that the above times have reverted to our own, self-recorded times except in those cases where our own time was missing. This is because, on closer inspection, the official times contain a catalogue of errors affecting just about every one of us and cannot really be trusted.

National XC Relay Teams 2012

Teams for Saturday are now on-line here. A fantastic representation for the club. There is a 3-man, M50 team category this year, so we have put a team in for that too.

Parking, changing and declarations are at Cumbernauld High School as usual. Your attention is drawn to a road closure as detailed in this extract from the event information:

PARKING

Is at Cumbernauld High School G67 2UF. Access for the slip road to the school from the A8011 to Kildrum Road is closed due to road works. Take the next slip road for alternative route to the school. Please car share if at all possible, the school car park will fill up

Russell has asked that the ladies are at the school by 12:40 where he will be with your numbers and the men should be there by 13:40. Thereafter Russell will be out on the course where you can collect your number.

The ladies' race starts at 13:40 (3 x 4000m) and the men's race starts at 14:40 (4 x 4000m for all categories except M50 which is 3 x 4000m).

Any call offs then please let Russell or I know by 12:00 or earlier if possible. There are spare spaces for 2 ladies and 2 men. Chances are that you have been registered as a reserve and hence can run. Full entry lists, including reserves are on the SA web site here. Let Russell or I know if you now want to run.
Alan

Malcolm Down Under!

As some of you may know, Malcolm and Carolyn Buchanan are giving up the globe trotting lifestyle and making their move to New Zealand more permanent this time. Malcolm is going to have a wee farewell evening in the lounge at the Sports Club from around 7:30pm on Saturday 3rd November (after the "Scally") to which we are all welcome. The more the merrier!
Alan

NAT 4K XC ( BELLAHOUSON PARK)

The National 4k XC is again at Bellahouston Park on 11th Nov.
Start times are Ladies 12.15 and Men 12.35 this is a straight head to head race.
Cost is £5 per head and i need names by Monday 29th Oct as this is a pre entry event.
Please leave your names HERE.
Names recieved so far are on this LIST

The Allan Scally Road Relay

Saturday 3rd Nov is the Allan Scally Road Relay starting at 2pm.
This is Grand Prix event no 5.
Teams of 4 for Men and 3 for Ladies over the 4.8 mile course.
Cost is £4 per head
Names needed by Thursday training 1st Nov so the teams can be selected.
Again we will run incomplete teams so everyone can run but please make sure your SA number is up to date.
Please leave your name HERE if you want entered.
Names received so far are on this LIST.

Aviemore Half Marathon

Having trained properly for this one (actually running beyond 13 miles) courtesy of the Harrier's Sunday morning club, I was cruelly struck down by Man-flu in the week leading up to the race. This meant that my first run in a week was the Aviemore Family Fun Mile the day before the race which I ran with my son Mark. A good fun event for all the family run around the centre of the resort and for a small entry fee of £2 a decent goodie bag for everyone.

The Saturday night had a free pasta party to encourage early registration and ease the burden of the Sunday morning. We stayed out at Coylmbridge which gave me a 2 mile walk / jog on Sunday morning to ease off. You get bussed out to the start at Bagaduish Outdoor Centre and I found myself up at 1100 feet over an hour before the race started. However its very well organised and there was even coffee and biscuits to help keep you warm.  Most runners gather in the sports hall and I met fellow Harrier Grant Maynard here who was a bit of a course veteran, this being his 3rd run. It was a crisp morning but didn't feel too bad until the last 10 minutes when you had to load your gear into the baggage bus and were left with just racing kit and a few jogs around the site to keep warm. Nearly 900 runners gathered in predicted time groups and were led forward to the start by a piper. In a simultaneous start the 450 runners of the 10k would cover the second part of the course.

Off we went, the first half being on trails which underfoot were something like a mix of the glen or the windfarm paths (when Eddie keeps us on the right route), but generally wide enough in most sections to pass runners. At just 2k in there was a very steep drop which had me worrying that we were dropping too quickly and would use up most of the predicted 400 foot drop from start to finish. This took you down through the Queens forest and along past mountain streams, probably the most dramatic of the scenery sections in a race which didn't lack visual stimulation to take away the pain. Sure enough from 4k - 6k it climbs back, including a sharp 50m climb over just 500m but then drops just as quickly to have the last few km of trail around Loch Morlich. It was then out onto the ski road around the 10K mark and those with previous experience made the most of  the faster section on tarmac which included long downhills. The only negatives were that the traffic remained on the road although not too busy, and in some sections you could see very far in front !

The race came back into Aviemore town and finished in front of the 4 Seasons hotel.

I was a bit disappointed with 1:30:51 (67th overall and 24th Vet), falling for the talk of a downhill race but not taking account of the first half being off road.  Strangely I thought I went too fast on the trails but checking the times suggested that it wasn't as fast as I thought but perhaps took too much out of the legs and couldn't take advantage of the road section.
Grant was just about spot on with his prediction, finishing 1:37:01 (137th and 42 Vet). The race was won by a guy from  Corstorphine Harriers in 1:14 and a lady Vet set the female course record in 1:20. Prizes were also available for Vets, Supervets and Vintage so plenty of opportunities.

A really good race which is well organised and run on behalf of the Speyside Trust Charity. The race generally closes early as numbers get limited by the need to bus people out to the start. The weather was decent but 2 days later it was bitterly cold as the first flurries of snow landed so like any race in Scotland you just have to take your chances. With the mixture of trail and road its a race well suited to the Harriers and if you get your strategy right should provide an opportunity for a decent time. As it is overall downhill there might be some debate as to whether it counts towards a pb but that's not something I have to be too concerned about, this year at least ...

Thanks to Stephen for the report and well done to both of you.
Alan

West district XC relays

Today saw 19 Harriers take to the XC course at Kilmarnock in what can only be described as near perfect conditions. The earlier rain had stopped and the sun shone and the course was muddy which is only right as it is xc.

First up was the 4 Ladies 1 complete team and a single leg runner. Karen and Frances were both on first legs with Karen running 17.11 and Frances 18.13 good runs from both. On the second leg following Karen was Joanne running 17.57 and to round of our senior team was Julie Beveridge with our fastest female time of the day 16.54 and we think a top ten finish. (waiting for full results). Then came the men's race with 15 taking part for the Harriers. First legs went to Andrew McCaffery A team (14.54) in a close race with our C team Stephen Reilly (15.00) good grouping guys, for our B team Ian Rae (17.16) and for the D team or maybe the Dream Team Richard Lawton with hios best result in a long time (18.29). This was the only leg the teams were out of sequence as they then finished in the alphabetical order. Second legs were Jim Holmes (16.11) Kenny Leinster (16.50) David Wardrope out of sorts (19.25) and Chas Steven (19.32). The third legs is were some found it difficult to work their watches properly with Stuart Waugh (17.05) Billy Buchanan (16.45) Hugh Simpson (18.58) succumbing to Richard after all his boasts then Russell Couper (20.38). This was our D Team finished but our other 3 teams had a leg still to do with Andy Henderson (16.45) George Stewart (18.12) also out of sorts and finally David Herbertson (??.??). We will need to wait for results before alan can update the GP although he can do the Ladies as they all know how to work watches.We have the National XC coming up in two weeks time and we have 2 Ladies and 5 Mens teams entered, there are still 2 ladies and 3 mens spaces available so please feel free to see me at the club to check if your on the reserve list if you want a run.

Thanks to Joanne for the photos, more of which are here.

Breaking News from JFK, New York!

Grand Prix and Scratch championships updated ahead of the West XC (well you have to find something to do when your flight is delayed by 2 hours). Use the usual links on the left to access the current positions. All the best for tomorrow in Kilmarnock.
Alan

TEAMS FOR WEST DISTRICT XC

Teams for Saturdays race are as follows:-
LADIES A  1 K Allen    2 J McEvoy   3 J Beveridge
               B   1 F Maxwell

MENS VET A   1 A McCaffery 2 J Holmes        3 S Waugh        4 A Henderson
             VET B  1  I Rae             2 K Leinster       3 B Buchanan  4  G Stewart
MENS C            1 S Reilly          2  D Wardrope  3 H Simpson    4 D Herbertson
MENS D            1 R Lawton       2 C Steven        3 R Couper

There is still 2 Ladies and 1 Mens place available if anyone wishes a run but check with me first to make sure your on the list of reserves.
See details below for arrival times to collect your numbers from me and let me know before 11.30 of any call offs

West District X/C Relays : Kilmarnock

Ladies Race start time 12:30
Be there for 11:30 to collect your race numbers from Russell.
There are still 2 places available on the 2nd team.
Let Russell know as soon as you can if you have not yet entered but now wish to run.

Mens Race start time 13:30
Be there for 12:30 at the latest to collect your race numbers.
It will also let you support the girls race.

If there are any call off's let Russell know as soon as possible so the teams can be selected.

Please do not contact Alan regarding teams or call off's etc. as he is currently  in the USA.

High Heels Update

The Community Champion award went to Peter Lee, an 86 year old who raises money for the British Heart Foundation and runs half marathons playing the spoons. He truely is a worthy winner. Thanks to everyone for your interest and support. We had a great night, meeting Big Bob from River City, Christopher Biggins, The Krankies and managing to avoid Colin and Justin!

McAndrew Relays Report

A fine turnout from the Harriers today with one complete ladies team and two and a half mens teams.
With four runners lining up at the start we had Stephen Reilly running the B team ahead of the A team due to him not being a Vet, Stephen finishing in 19.42. Next in was Jim Holmes for the Vets A team in a time of 20.51 followed closely by our ladies team Karen Sturgeon 21.13 then a little wait for Hugh Simpson in a new course best 23.42. So off were all our second leg runners, their turn to face the wind on Anniesland Rd the rest of the course being fairly free of wind and with the dry cool conditions it made a pleasant change as this race is usually wet. Andt Henderson brought the B team in still ahead of the A team in 21.02 with Eddie Reid closing the gap in 20.24. Our ladies had joanne McEvoy on this leg running a consistent 22.07 followed not so closely by Russell Couper in the expected time of 27.01. This was the mens C team complete so taking the title of 1st Calderglen team to finish. Onto our 3rd legs and Andrew McCaffery overhauled our B team with our best time of the day 18.58 with David Wardrope dropping back but still with a good time of 22.57. Our ladies 3rd leg went to Julie Beveridge pulling a bit back on our B team with a time of 21.27 and possibly 3rd ladies team (need to wait for the results). That left our two 4th leg runners to battle it out David Herbertson fresh off the plane from Thailand and Mark Saez making his debut on this course.  David had enough of a start to fend off Mark running in 21.16 with Mark 20.29. Dont know the placings yet but will get them online when they are ready.

McAndrew Teams 2012

Teams and running order for tomorrow are listed here. Note that for this race men's vets teams are M40+ according to Victoria Park CoG's web site. Parking/Changing/Registration is at Jordanhill School, 45 Chamberlain Road, Glasgow, G13 1SP. Check the Google Map here. The race starts at 3pm but please be there by 14:15 if you are on a first leg such that numbers can be distributed and to allow time for  a warm up (again, a very gentle lap of the course is recommended beforehand). If anyone has to drop out, please let Russell know in advance (no point telling me, I will be on a plane to USA at that time!). Otherwise we will assume that you are running.

Have a great race, wish I was there.
Alan

NATIONAL XC RELAYS (Cumbernauld)

The National XC relays will once again be held in Cumbernauld on Sat 27th Oct.
This is a pre entry race and i need names by Monday 8th Oct either HERE or at training on Thursday or Monday.This is Grand Prix race number 4. Names received so far are listed here.
Start times are Ladies 1:40 and men 2:40.
Cost is £4.00 per head and again we will enter partial teams so everyone wanting a run will get a run.
Please make sure your Scottish Athletics membership is up to date.
sorry about the short notice on this one.
CORRECTION TO THE COST ITS £4.50 PER HEAD

Russell

McANDREW ROAD RELAYS

The McANDREW ROAD RELAY will again be at Jordanhill on Sat 6th Oct starting at 3PM (Grand Prix Race #2).
Teams will be 4 for men and 3 for ladies with a cost of £4 per head.
Again we will enter incomplete teams so everyone can get a run.
Please leave your name HERE by 3rd Oct or see Alan or Russell at training on 4th Oct so the teams and running order can be selected. Names recieved so far are on this FORM.

Baxters Loch Ness Marathon

Why would I ever want to do a marathon? I'm a track runner. Marathons are only for people who need to get a life……aren't they? I've now got nothing but respect for anyone who completes a marathon, it's now the toughest race I've ever done.

I was watching the London Marathon this year and, maybe because it was in a home olympic year, it suddenly got me thinking. Will I regret it if I don't try and experience that some day? The seed had been planted but, not being in the know on the marathon scene, I didn't realise that the London Marathon ballot was only open for about 30 seconds (Andy can you enter my name in the club London Marathon ballot?) I'd missed the ballot and my back was now up. I didn't need their flamin' ballot, surely I could find another local marathon and cruise round in the 3 hour 15 minute qualifying time. It's not even 7 minute miling, that's got to be easy?? How naïve was I. That is seriously hard to do for over 26 miles. I scanned the fixture list in June and noticed the Baxters Loch Ness Marathon at the end of September. That would fit nicely into my schedule, so my name was entered.

On my first long run of a massive 8 miles, nearly double my normal run distance, I bumped into Eddie Reid. I was still buzzing from entering and excitedly told him that I'd entered my first marathon. 10 minutes later I popped a calf muscle. I was limping home, thoroughly depressed, when I bumped into Jim Holmes. He must've thought at the time that I was a crabbit prima donna! If my dodgy calf couldn't last an 8 mile run in the glen, what chance would I have of running 26 miles on tarmac? I'd virtually given up hope of getting to the starting line. 2 weeks rest and 3 weeks easy jogging later and I was ready to try an 8 mile run again. Thankfully my calf held out, but now I had just over 2 months until race day. I really had to gradually build up
my long run to 20 miles to give myself any chance of getting round. I started off every long run expecting my calf to let me down. Surprisingly I survived the rest of my long runs without a hitch. Albeit I was running on the forgiving Whitelee Windfarm trails and not on tarmac, which would surely find me out. I hardly ever saw
another runner up at the windfarm, mainly it was just off road bikers. I would highly recommend the windfarm as an alternative place to run. Endless miles of trails, with a cushioned surface to run on and lots of tough climbs thrown in. You can also have a shower, then a lovely coffee and cake at the visitors centre.

Before I knew it me and Mandy were on our way to Fort Augustus for the marathon, which also incorporated the Scottish Marathon Championships. The day before we recced the course, which starts just before Whitebridge and follows the banks of Loch Ness. Going through Foyers and Dores before finishing in Bught Park in Inverness. It was taking us an eternity to drive the course, so how on earth could I run all that way? Scenery was beautiful, but I was doubting if I'd get the chance to appreciate that the following
day. The race itself is very well organised, considering the logistics of busing 4000 runners from Inverness to the start in the middle of nowhere. This was also a two hour journey. Not ideal prepartion just before running a marathon.

I decided on taking the alternative choice of a short bus journey from Fort Augustus to the start, which was only a few miles. The only draw back to this was that I was on the last bus to arrive. The sight on arriving was unreal. There must have been over 50 buses abandoned at the side of a one lane road with thousands of people squeezing their way past the buses to the start line. It was like a scene from a disaster movie. I thought that, as I was being bused to the start, there was no chance of me having my usual nightmare
time keeping problems. If I wanted to start at the back of the field then I was there in plenty time, but fighting my way through thousands of people to the start line left me with only a few minutes to spare for a warm up before the gun went.

Last minute advice from Calderglen's marathon expert, Gerry McParland, was to find a comfortable pace and then keep the mile times constant. Mandy, my expert nutrition adviser, had devised a complex refueling schedule. So complex that I thought I'll never remember it and was going to write it on my hand. Unfortunately, while sitting on the bus to the start, I realised that I hadn't even remembered to write it down. So I just had to wing it.

Finally Brian Burnett set us off on our way. The first ten miles seemed to fly by. I was feeling strong but kept resisting the temptation to push on. Everything was going to plan up until 15 miles. Then all the numpties who'd gone off too fast were  starting to struggle. I was regularly picking them off one by one. This became probably too motivating and, before I realised, I'd got carried away trying to pick off one too many. Suddenly I became the numpty and was pushing just a bit too hard. Not too much damage would happen in shorter races, but in a marathon this can be suicidal. I got to 19 miles and my legs were starting to
get heavy. This was unfortunate timing as it came at the bottom of a 1 mile climb up from Dores. My race plan was to take it easy going up this hill and to then, if I felt OK,  push the last 10K downhill to the finish. Unfortunately the hill knocked the stuffing from me and my legs started to seize up. Probably from pushing too hard and also a lack of longer training runs on the road. The last 10K seemed to take an eternity, but I dug deep and crossed the line in 2 hours 57mins. I'd secretely hoped if everything went well to
sneak under 3 hours. So I was delighted to join the sub 3 hour club.

On crossing the line I couldn't resist trying to produce a Kodak moment. I lay on the ground with arms in the air doing a goal scoring type celebration, but show offs usually get their comeuppance. When I tried to get up my legs had stiffened up so much I was stuck and couldn't get back up.

All in all it was an incredible experience which surprisingly left me feeling pretty emotional at the end. Roll on London.

Martin

Performance Awards 2011-12

Today was the last day for setting any new performance standards or pb's to qualify for an award this year. Congratulations to the many Harriers who have achived standards and pb's this year. If you qualify for an award (standards or pb's at 3 different distances since 1st October 2011), then please get your completed forms to me before the end of October.

For Performance Standard awards, then it is most likely that I have already noted your performance, particularly if it was set in a Grand Prix race. If all of your qualifying standards already appear on this list then there is no need to provide me with the details again; no point wasting paper. However, if you think I have missed a qualifying standard, please provide me with the details of where and when and a copy of or link to the official results.

For PB (either outright or age group) awards, then please provide me with details of your qualifying results. Use the Performance award menu on the left to check the rules and download the submission form.

Alan

Houston Grand Prix 2012- 2013 Race 1

Jim Holmes nears the finish

The Harriers' 2012-13 Grand Prix campaign got off to a great start with a big turnout from the Harriers and many other clubs on a blustery afternoon in Renfrewshire.

Although many of the regulars were missing due to illness, injury and other race duties, we still fielded 3 men's teams and 2/3 of a ladies team. In possibly a first for the club, most of the Harriers actually followed the coach's advice and completed a full, gentle lap warm-up to get them primed for this short (2.7 mile), sharp blast around the leafy lanes of Houston. Making his début on this course, Stephen Phimister got the vets' A team off to a good start recording a time of 16:17, handing over to Eddie Reid. Eddie has had a long break from the shorter races but still ran a great time of 16:11 to record our fastest veteran time of the day, averaging exactly 6 minute per mile. Jim Holmes was only 10 seconds down on last year, and given the head wind in the later part of the course, this was a great performance, finishing in 16:58. Finally, Andy Henderson had to fend off an EKAC challenge from Graham Haddow on the last leg, which he did comfortably, finishing in 17:12.

In the vets B team, reigning grand prix champion George Stewart started the defence of his title by going straight to the back of the pack at the start. However, this proved to be a sensible pace judgement decision as he moved through the field with only one mishap (a twisted ankle blamed on his socks) to finish in 17:41, only 5 seconds down on last year. Stuart Waugh was surely the fastest M60 in the field on leg 2 with a time of 17:18. David Wardrope overcame several pre-race scares (accidentally not selected for a team and then given the same amount of season start jokers as George) to run well inside 7 minute miles with a time of 18:19 whilst Gerry Mullen had more of a lonely experience on the last leg, recording 17:50, just 6 seconds slower than last year and confirming his good form.

Our fastest runner of the day, Stephen Reilly, was given the chance to upset the apple cart and put our third team as far up the field as possible to give (in Russell's own words), Russell the chance to lose it all on the last leg! Stephen recorded a time of 15:51. Richard Lawton had never run here before and considered it to be perhaps the toughest relay course we do (wait till you see Kilmarnock!). Richard finished in 19:21. His regular rival, Hugh Simpson was also making his début on this course, which he promptly confirmed by parking his car on the start/finish line for the duration of the race and then making a wrong turn into the Houston Inn car park inside the last 200m. Despite this, Hugh pipped Richard with a time of 19:16. Finally, Russell did exactly what he said he would do (run 22 something) by finishing in 22:22.

Joanne McEvoy, despite an extreme gym session the night before destroying her quads, still managed a respectable time of 18:01 on the first leg, just 6 seconds down on last year. Frances Maxwell was the only Harrier to improve on last year, finishing in 18:27, a 4 second improvement but worth much more given the strong winds.

After all that, normal Grand Prix and Club Championship service is resumed with George Stewart tied for the lead in the Grand Prix with Jim Holmes and Hugh Simpson and Stephen Reilly taking the lead in the Scratch Championship. Joanne leads both the Grand Prix and Scratch championships for the ladies. Full results are available by the menu on the left. Well done to all.

More photos here.
Alan

Islay 2013 Deposit

Its a long way off, we know, but to secure the same, fantastic accommodation that we had this year, Eddie and I had to book before we left the island and pay substantial deposits. So, it would be appreciated if all those who are going in 2013 could pay £20 per person to Eddie in the coming weeks to cover the deposits. We won't bother you again until the New Year when we will come up with a structured payment plan for the balance. Having done it this year, we all have a better feel for the overall costs for the ferry, petrol, dinner and anything else you may need on the island.
Alan

Houston Teams 2012

29/09/12: Teams updated and joker start list added here.
The teams and running order for the 2.7 mile leg Houston Road Relay are listed here. The race starts at 14:30 but we need everyone there by 13:45 at the absolute latest (or confirmation by phone that you are on your way before that time) to declare the teams and allow a proper warm-up. As it is a short, sharp race and as we are all distance runners, I would recommend a full, gentle lap to warm-up to ensure that you are primed for action.

Any call off's or problems then please let Russell or I know as early as possible and certainly before 13:45.

Alan

Club Entries for 2013 London Marathon

Changes to the way affiliated clubs apply for places in the 2013 Marathon.

After the 15th October 2012 clubs have to apply on line for places in the marathon.
Closing date club applications is 16th November 2012.

I require the names of the members of the club who have applied for places in 2013 Marathon and who have had their application rejected, if they are interested in the possibility of a club entry.

Please contact me in person or by email before the 15th October when I will apply for club entry places.

As yet I do not know how many place the club will be allocated to the club.

George Cummings Road Relay

The first race in this seasons Grand Prix will be the George Cummings Road Relay held in Houston on Sat 29th Sept. Cost is £4 per head unless your'e not a member of Scottish Athletics and therefore £6. Race starts at 2.30pm and is teams of 4 for men and 3 for ladies. Club vests must also be worn so if you need one see me at the club i will be back at training on Mon 24th Sept. Again depending on numbers we will enter partial teams so everyone can take part. Distance is 2.7 mls. Anyone wishing to take part should leave their name on this form.  Names should be left by Wed 26th Sept or given to Alan or Russell Personally at training on Thursday 27th Sept so the teams and running order can be selected and posted on the Blog. Names received so far are here.

WEST DISTRICT XC RELAYS

Its the time of year again when the cross country season is fast approaching. Details for the first event, the West District relays, are always late on coming out but I've managed this year to get a head start and know the date and the venue. It will take place in Kilmarnock on the 13th Oct which means I probably need names by the 20th September but I will update this when I've got all details. Times again I dont know but should be afternoon and cost will probably be £4/£5. Those wishing to run remember you have to have an up to date SA number and any new member unsure of what this is please ask anyone at the club for information or see myself.
Anyone wishing to do this race please leave your name using this form. Names received so far are here. This is a Calderglen Grand Prix race.

UPDATE :- race start times are ladies @ 12.40 and gents @ 1.30. Cost is £4.00 and names required by 24th Sept at the latest

TTC 2012

A big thanks to all the Harriers and ATHelite Tri and JogScotland members who gave us a full and lively house at TTC 2012. Given the forecasts, we were lucky with the weather as the Trossachs micro-climate behaved itself (at least until Saturday night). The weather was not going to spoil our fun anyway, especially as we had indoor activities to occupy us. It is a few years since we have been severely stretched on a TTC but this year Mark Russell obliged by expertly taking us through two Yoga for Runners sessions which were totally appropriate to our (in)ability. Although there were plenty of grumbles, groans and other sound effects during the sessions, there was nothing but praise to be heard afterwards, so a big thank you to Mark for a highlight of the weekend. In parallel to the first yoga session, Genevieve tortured a handful of us with an upper body circuits session in the blazing sun with her usual irrepressible enthusiasm.

The four running sessions were attacked with vigour by all and once again many were taken well beyond their self-assumed running limits, some for the first time ever and some for the first time since the previous TTC. It is a running camp and seeing people enjoy running is why we keep coming back.

After shuffling the jokers in the pack (Billy and Kenny), the Friday evening run took in a 5 mile circuit of the forests above the hostel as usual; a nice, gentle start. On Saturday morning a severe climb up the base of Ben Ledi provided wonderful views of Loch Lubnaig and put up to 9 miles under our belts. A continuous hill/farlek session at Bocastle forestry commission car park proved a severe test on the Saturday afternoon which no one (except me!) failed. However, this did create the space for the second night of Lade Inn dinners and refreshments. Wind and rain greeted us for the first time on Sunday morning but un-deterred, the packs headed out by Loch Venachar to the Achray forest and Loch Drunkie. Three packs took in a circuit around Brig O'Turk giving a total of anything up to (and beyond in some cases) 17 miles whilst packs 1 to 3 handled 10 to 13 mile circuits admirably. The weather was perfect for running.

If Harriers were supposed to read maps then we would be called Calderglen Orienteers. And so it comes as no surprise that some packs experienced free-form route improvisation of a kind that only a true path finding legend such as Eddie Reid can deliver. Learning from Eddie's introductory master-class within 100m of the start of Friday night's run, both Genevieve and Colin tried a little bit of improvisation on their Saturday and Sunday runs respectively and are clearly picking up the basics well, Colin even going so far as to throw his maps away somewhere on the Sunday route. The mark of a true maestro is to leave your audience wanting more and so it was that Eddie provided only a 1-mile detour as a Sunday finale. There was so much more he could have given!

So a weekend of great running, yoga, food and banter was over. The runs would not be possible without the enthusiasm and commitment of our pack leaders (who had given up the previous Saturday to recce the routes with me and to cement them in their minds; clearly not quick drying cement in some cases). So a huge thanks to Frances, Russell and Eddie. We are very lucky to have a generous club sponsor, EKGTA Ltd, who has substantially subsidised this event from the beginning. Janet and Mark, the proprietors of the hostel, run a relaxed operation and give us free reign over the weekend to do what we do, so thanks to them both. The Lade Inn consider us regulars nowadays and we always get great service, food and drink from Frank Park and his family. This is the second year that we have enjoyed the lunches of Mhairi Taylor of Delizique in the West End (and we could well be enjoying that same lunch for a third and fourth year given the quantity that was left over) and the local bread of Mhor Bread in Callander. There is no doubt that the lunches were enjoyed. To those participants who gladly volunteered their driving services to ferry everyone back and forward to the Lade Inn, thank you; it was greatly appreciated.

So we come to my friends of the last 11 or more years, Genevieve and Colin for whom this was their last TTC before emigrating to Canada in a couple of weeks. For somebody who does not eat a lot, Genevieve always likes to have a lot on her plate and doing all the final TTC preparations over the past month on top of the preparations for leaving would be too much for most people. But not Genevieve who would not have it any other way. In fact, she enjoys being under pressure so much that she made most of the arrangements twice, having despatched the PC with all the details of the event and participants to Canada a couple of weeks ago! Colin steadies the ship, supports and guides in his own laid back way and just gets on with it no matter what (map or no map!). My biggest thanks therefore goes to Genevieve and Colin. The TTC will miss you both and I will miss you more than most.

Alan
(ps a TTC photo gallery will follow once I gather photos from the various Harriers with cameras)

TTC - How to Get There!

For Google Map directions from East Kilbride to the TTC venue, use this link. It takes about 1 hour if the roads are jam free. Simpler instructions are as follows:

1. Leave the M9 at Junction 10 and take the A84 to Callander.
2. Continue along Callander Main Street, past the square to the traffic lights at the cross roads.
3. Turn left at the traffic lights onto the A81 signposted Aberfoyle and Glasgow.
4. Follow the road over the bridge for about a half mile to the mini roundabout.
5. Turn right at the mini roundabout onto Invertrossachs Road.
6. Follow this narrow road for about 1-mile and you will see the entrance to the Trossachs Backpackers' Hostel on your left.

The web site for the hostel is here so you know what you are looking for. Janet, the owner, will be pleased to meet you if you are early. Look out for me or Genevieve to find out what dorm you are in. I will be there from about 4pm.
Alan