The race started in perfect running conditions with no wind and a wee drizzle. Just as I reached the bottom of the 2nd climb the wind picked up in our face and blew the cooling drizzle/mist away and made the one and a half mile gradual climb even tougher. Scot did manage to race to the bottom of the hill still in the top 10 but his recent foot problem was aggravated on the down hill section and had to ease back and enjoy the scenery in the 2nd half. With about 3 miles to go the race climbs the longest/steepest hill we have ever raced up. Graham was physically sick along with a fellow lady runner at the sight of it. Graham blamed his jet lag? We think it is worth it for the view you from the top of Castlbay and the Vatersay beaches and the long (calf killing) downhill to the finish. Scot finished in 19th place with a time of 1:34:39 and Graham in 66th place: 1:49:58. We would like to thank all the support from the islanders, Irene, Caroline and the hundreds of oyster catchers reminding us who where running for.
A buffet fit for a Queen & King was served to the runners and supporters during the prize giving and everyone filled the school games hall at night for the ceilidh and listen to the (world famous band?) 'The Vatersay Boys'. I just hope it does not clash with our trail race next year so a few more harriers can enjoy this weekend.
While out on a wee leg & head easing run on Sunday morning Scot bumped into Billy and Kenny about to paddle off in their Kayak's (what a small world!)
Thanks to Scot for the report. Well done!
Alan
1 comment:
Well done! But you should try (as recommended by a certain Malcolm Buchannan of the Harriers, the 10k first then the Barrathon the following week... I have both as a badge of honour but neither were quick!
Jonathan, the second related English partner of an honourable Scottish clan even though he be English...
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