Houston 2013

It was a stunning day in Renfrewshire for the annual Houston Road Relays, with temperatures pushing into the low 20's degrees C. As this is the traditional start to the Calderglen Grand Prix season, we had an enthusiastic turnout from the club with 3 and a half teams fielded. With a mix of Autumn leaves in the shaded lanes and Summer heat on the more open roads, this was going to be a tough 2.7 mile loop. A strong vets A team comprised Eddie Reid, worrying about a knee problem that kicks in on downhill stretches sometimes, Charlie McDougall, about to turn 65 on Monday but still with the enthusiasm for racing of a 25 year old, myself, a bit ring rusty and Davie Watt, expected to be flying as usual.

Our second team was also a good vets team with Davie Herbertson on first leg duty, not having flown in from anywhere this time, handing over to Jim Holmes, looking in good shape for next weeks Glasgow Half, Andy Henderson lookingtypically fit and in-form John McBride taken out of his comfort zone and promoted to the B team for his first time at Houston. The third team had Colin Banks, a man on a mission, on leg 1, handing over to Hugh Simpson on leg 2. Hugh had to keep running at the finish as he was on his way to a family wedding in South Africa via Skype (that must be a first for the Harriers). On leg 3 Richard Lawton was having his second attempt at Houston but was worrying about the heat. Finally, Phil Marshall made his relay debut on leg 4 and ran very strongly on a course which suits his strength. Frances Maxwell led off half a team and had a tough battle against several ladies' teams which she eventually won before handing over to Russell Couper, who, you guessed it, does not like the heat!

Due to various timing non-starters, non-stoppers and non-existers, many times are missing, so I shall leave presenting any times until the official results become available (Monday evening according to the Kilbarchan web site). Well done to all for great performances and strong running. Thanks to Sandra for enthusiastic support as usual. Roll on McAndrew and hopefully the sun stays. More photos here.

Alan