Deeside Way Ultra Saturday 12th March

A brief report on the seventh running of the D33, as it's better known, where for the first time there were three Calderglen Harriers on the start line. On a perfect day for running, cool and slightly damp with a light breeze which was mostly from behind during the second half of the race Jim Mearns finished in an excellent 5.12.30, apparently dying on his feet in an effort to get in under the five hour mark. I was next harrier home, in the best time of my five finishes at this race, 5.34.25 followed by Ruth Kelly, looking very strong, as she finished in 6.22.50. Ruth and Jim were taking part in their first D33, injury having prevented both their debuts last year and were pleased to have finally made the journey from Aberdeen to Banchory and back.

Photos above before the start, leaving Duthie Park heading to Banchory and the unusual, hand-made finishers 'medal' (which reads D33 just in case you miss it, I hadn't noticed thirty-six hours later until someone pointed it out to me!)