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Sunday 30 December 2018

Tilli 10k

Well after noticing David Searil had managed to squeeze in another race and write a report (very good reports as well throughout the year) before the end of 2018 I was not going to be out-done and managed to hopefully find the last race of 2018 and write the last race report of 2018 for the Harriers!

The race in question was the inaugural Tilli 10k organised by PH Racing.  A 10k race starting in Tillicoultry and more or less an out and back course along the Devon Way (4.5k each way) with a loop in Dollar.  The course was very flat and the purpose of the loop was to prevent the runners having to stop dead and go around a cone - a great idea.

The race was won by Commenwealth bronze medalist Robbie Simpson in a time of 30.44 with Fiona Matheson the women’s winner in a time of 37.50.

Personally I felt December was a bad month for me to put consistent training together with a lot of non-running activities taking place. Given the nature of this course and the right weather then the course has the potential for fast times and PBs.  My time was 42.02.  Not my best but given the training I had done this month probably about where I was with it.

This race represented good value for money at only £10. As well as water and a banana at the end there was a water bottle and a bottle of beer.  The post-race spread was great - I had soup and a sausage roll (there was the option of pie as well) and I didn’t even go near the spread of cakes after all that!

Oh and for the fashion conscious in our club it was nice of the host club to have race numbers which blended in with the Harriers running vest.

Julie


Friday 28 December 2018

Pub Run - New Route - Record Turnout


Whether its the last Auldhouse 5k of the season or the annual festive pub run, the mention of the word "pub" brings the harriers out in their droves. This year's pub run was no exception with a record turn out last night for the 6pm start. We then ran between 6 pubs/bars covering at least 12k or even more for the "adventurous" duo who finished off with 5k through the glen. From the above photo it looks like there are 38, although inevitably, there must be someone missing. This includes our two volunteer driver and purchasing manager, Billy Buchanan and Alan Cullie, without whom the evening could not have happened. The pubs and bars who so kindly accommodated us were The Crooked Lum, Whitehills, The Oyster Catcher, Auldhouse Arms, Langlands Golf Club and our own East Kilbride Sports Club.

This year's event was memorable for the fact that I can remember it as I was on soft drinks only having driven back to EK from Callander especially for the event but forgetting the keys to my flat. I chose to drive back to Callander after the event despite several kind offers of spare rooms and campervans. Other things that I can remember and that can be mentioned were:

  • Eddie's human random number generator used to count the participants before we started. It failed at about 19.
  • Being told that cyclists weren't allowed in the Whitehills bar. Fine, as with only a few exceptions, we were all runners and we outnumbered the 2 regulars otherwise occupying the bar.
  • The case of Gerry Mullen's vanishing pint in the historic Auldhouse Arms. CCTV and Ghost Busters have been consulted.
  • Our advance purchasing party finding that Langlands Golf Club was closed.
  • The response from Langland's bar manager on receiving the phone call from Eddie and realising he had forgotten about our event but got there within 5 minutes of the call.
  • A practical demonstration from Stephen Phimister of how easy it is to get lost in a dense forest only 100m from civilisation (or the Sports Club).
  • Probably the most remarkable demonstration of cat-like reactions I have seen when Ian Hughes knocked a pint of Guinness completely over but somehow managed to lose only a quarter of a pint.
  • The revelation (backed up by Garmin) that HSQE professional Martin Howell led Allan McLellan on a 5k time trial through the glen by head torch.
  • The fantastic company of so many like-minded friends!


Happy New Year All!
Alan

Festive fun in the sun

Having to wear sunglasses on the drive down the A77 to Ayr on Boxing Day augured well for the day ahead, and so it was to prove. Five harriers made that sunny journey along with friends, family and supporters for a very pleasant day out doon the watter.
As is becoming my habit I was the trailblazer and arrived before anyone to take part in the 5k although Ian Hughes was there early enough to give me a shout out just after the start. I ran a rather lethargic 25.21 without ever feeling 'in the mood' and only half-heartedly trying to hold off a much younger guy in a race for the line - not even Stuart and Maud's welcome encouragement could help me win that one. I was 36th out of 128 runners, only realising at home later I was first MV60 and one place ahead of the leading MV50! The winners were Mark Porter of Bellahouston Harriers and Emma Frew of Ayr Seaforth in 18.52 and 20.09 respectively.
There followed many sweaty (sorry about that folks) hugs with the wider harriers' contingent who were by now arriving for the main event.
Clearly having needed a lengthy warm-up I proceeded to run the 10k at a slightly faster pace than I had the 5k although the competition with fellow harriers was more likely responsible. I had settled in about twenty meters behind Gordon until Billy drew onto my shoulder around the 4k mark passing both of us with apparent ease. This roused me from my comfort zone and I pulled past Gordon and stayed behind Billy for a while before making what I hoped was a decisive break on the downhill from Greenan Castle. Hearing heavy breathing behind made me have another attempt and Billy eventually called out telling me to 'go on Davie' and gave ground almost immediately. Gratefully I eased the pace back too as I was breathing pretty heavily myself. I did my best to keep a respectable pace going for the remaining 4k or so and crossed the line in 49.40, 136th place from 249 finishers,  only 5th MV60 this time.
Leading harrier was Ian Hughes in 41.34 and 50th place followed by myself then Billy Buchanan in 50.36 and 147th with Gordon McInally only twenty seconds behind in 150th place.
Phil Marshall finished in 59.54 and 219th but was only second in the household as his wife had already come over the line 69 seconds earlier, go Liz!
First finisher of the wider Buchanan family was Dawn's husband Matt Williamson in 37.27 and 16th place followed by ex-harrier Andy in 39.26 and 31st place, later declaring himself well satisfied with his showing. Gordon was also second in the household as other half Marion, racing on the occasion of her 60th birthday, won her new (and old, we think) category with a time of 46.10 The results show her as leading FV60 but the slip of paper collected at the end of the race shows her as in first place FV55!


Either way an excellent result for Marion.
Making her competitive comeback, as far as I know, was Dawn Williamson coming home in 57.58 and 209th place from the 249 finishers. She declared herself very happy to be under the hour and I expect there will be a great deal of improvement in the near future.
The 10k winners were Alexander Wallace of St Cocas's AC in Co. Kildare and Avril Mason of Shettleston Harriers, 33.22 and 35.29 respectively.
All in all a very enjoyable day out rounded off with a hot shower and even hotter coffee together with home-made sandwiches and home baking along with the support of Frances, Maud and Stuart which was much appreciated by all who took part, not forgetting Jean Buchanan who enabled the other family members to take part by keeping watch over young Finlay. More photos, courtesy of Frances Ferguson and John Boyd, are here https://www.flickr.com/photos/135841033@N05/albums/72157705080064524





Sunday 23 December 2018

Christmas Handicap - Santas, Superheroes and "Strawberries"???


We had a fine turn out for the Harriers' Christmas Handicap last Sunday. It was clear that there would be a power struggle between the Santas (and helpers) and the super heroes this year, ably supported by a selection of fruity individuals, snow flakes, jesters, cowgirls, nuns, soldiers and other colourful characters. A staggered start format was used with the stagger worked out by the coach in advance based on recent race times or in some cases, a complete guess. An undulating, 5 lap, 4 mile route, mostly within the park was the challenge.
Lorraine Buchanan

Billy Buchanan
Max Jones
First across the line and certainly not clowning around was Lorraine Buchanan, holding a 30 second gap to the joker in the pack, Billy Buchanan. A minute later our junior athlete, Max Jones, flew across the line in third. A sprint for the line for 4th place was won by private Chris McCarron, sweeping past Morgan Beaton on the line and overcoming a "monumental" final effort by William Wallace himself, in the form of Robin Ramsay. An Incredible run by Jim Holmes saw the first of our super heroes cross the line. Even Jim said he runs better with that costume on than he does normally so will be looking for a larger size club vest for future races. Julie Thomson glided across the line next, winning the race of the Santa's Little Helpers as a similarly attired Gordon McInally was in close pursuit. Late arrival Kay Conneff, who had already taken two gym classes that morning, was well warmed up by the finish line and had a comfortable lead over the perspiring Forest Gump aka Richard Lawton. Having debuted the costume last year, Russell Couper was striding out in the sequel as Batman Returns, before the next of our Santas, Jim Mearns breezed across the line. Last year's winner, Marion O'Connor was suitably handicapped this year but jived comfortably around the 4 mile course. Next of our juniors was Lewis Moir, who along with the other juniors, had already completed the junior fun run a half hour previously and was still running strongly. Gerry Mullen was a true blast from the past as the 1980's shell suit was dusted off along with the tash and curly perm. Nun on the Run Kevin Farmer was the fastest runner (and nun) of the day, gathering up his cassock and flying. Junior, Aiden Hamilton, was held under a tight reign by cow girl Frances Ferguson, until the final 100m when he took off and sprinted to the line leaving Frances in his dust. A very bat-like Alison Lessells kept another Christmas pudding at bay in the form of Sharon Gregg as the runners continued to stream across the line a millisecond ahead of the the very lean Andy Henderson as the skeleton who was definitely not in the cupboard.

After being mistaken for a strawberry, Eddie Reid was clearly crushed as he crossed the finishing vine as a bunch of grapes. Meanwhile, it was snow fun for Kenny Leinster as he froze his icicles off dressed as a snow flake. Andrew Buchanan went to the dogs as Santa tried valiantly to keep the easily distracted dog, dressed as a reindeer, motivated for 5 laps. Alan Cullie seeemed to be in quite poor elf gathering by the puffing and panting that was going on but was clearly not suffering as much as hottest favourite of the day, Davie Searil, who found that a wet suit made him very hot and very wet indeed as Davie shed litres of sweat on each lap.

Well done to all for fully entering into the spirit of the event. The first three across the line were each asked to nominate a charity to which the Duthie family generously made substantial donations.

Fastest time of the day went to Kevin Farmer 25:24, followed by Chris McCarron (25:39) and the super power that is Jim Holmes (27:23). Fastest lady was Kay Conneff (28:09) with Marion O'Connor second (29:19) and Frances Ferguson third (29:33). Fastest junior was Max Jones (28:08) followed by Lewis Moir (28:22) and Aiden Hamilton (29:30). Full results are here. Note there is a bit of uncertainty over Julie T's time as I made a last minute adjustment to her start time which I noted on a piece of paper which I now no longer have!

More photos will be added here (anyone can upload to the album)

Merry Christmas!
Alan

CHRISTMAS PUB RUN

Just a reminder that training on Thursday 27th Dec is the Christmas Pub Run with an earlier start of 6pm prompt. All groups will run together and will start at 6pm prompt so don't be late. If you are late you can catch up as the first pub will be the Crooked Lum followed by the Whitehills Farm before moving on to others. Remember your kitty money. Teetotallers are welcome too with a reduced kitty fee.

Wednesday 12 December 2018

CHRISTMAS HANDICAP REMINDER

Just a reminder our annual festive event is now only 4 days away on Sunday 16th December @ EKSC Clubhouse.

The clubhouse will be open from 9.30am with everyone meeting in function hall.

First event of the morning is the Juniors Relay starting at 10am. Afterwards all juniors will get their pressie, selection box and event t-shirt.

The last event will be the Senior event starting at 11am which is 5 continuous laps covering a distance of 6.4k or 4 miles. Make sure you have best 5k time to give to Alan so he can suitably time handicap you and make sure we have that lovely blanket finish of all runners!

Remember to wear something festive for the run wither it is a full costume, a hat or a bit of tinsel.  If you want a present bring a present costing max £5 and wrapped.

After we have cleaned ourselves up the presentation of pressies and winner's trophy will be in the Sports Club bar.

I have arranged with Bruce the Bar Manager there will be mince pies and tea/coffee post race in the Sports Club bar for everyone...so bring all the family for a morning of festive frolics and fun.

Richard
 

Saturday 8 December 2018

BIG MUDDY PUDDLES GALORE

At last we had a cross country this year that wasn't like running on the road. The course got cut up badly and with slippy, muddy bankings it made a good West District XC. After the junior races which im sure Richard will post about on the junior blog we had our senior ladies running the supposedly 8.5k course (turned out to be just over 9k ). Four ladies running for us today over the two and a half laps. The course is fairly flat with a few twists and turns and it was some of these turns that were pretty treacherous as they were sharp and badly cut up. As they finished the first short lap we had Kay Conneff just in front of Frances Ferguson then a little gap to Lorraine Buchanan who was running for the first time in really muddy conditions but im sure the experience will make her even stronger the next time. Sandy Hayden was our fourth but Sandy has been suffering with an illness and she found this a struggle today. Through the finish area for a second time and onto the last lap and Frances had passed Kay and opened up a considerable gap with Lorraine and Sandy still going strong but finding the conditions ( mud, wind and rain ) difficult. Into the finish with Frances finishing in 43.16, Kay in 44.36, Lorraine in 48.24 and Sandy in 54.49 with the team finishing in 11th place.

Onto the men and seven harriers Kenny Leinster, Jim Holmes, Richard Lawton, Alan Cullie, Kevin Farmer, Andrew Buchanan and Russell Couper. Same course as the ladies and round the short lap before the race settles and you find whos in front of you and whos behind and whether your catching or being caught. I found myself with a Westie on my tail and as much as I tried to drop him I think the most I was getting was 10 metres then back on my tail.

The extended lap was under the M77 and into the fields but was shorter here from in previous years due to the reduced distance. It was the only hilly part of the course but not much, they did however manage to place a log over the course just to give us something to skip over. Onto the last lap and I was still ahead of the athelites that ive been beating lately but still had the Westie on the piece of elastic behind me. As we came under the M77 for the last time he just about got onto my shoulder and I was having none of it and started my push to the finish and even managed a sprint to the line beating him by a clear 7 secs.

The men finished with Kevin 38.32,  Andrew 38.50, Alan 42.50, Kenny 43.27 (chicked by Frances) Jim 44.00. Richard 45.20 and Russell 48.15 with the team in 18th place. A good day of racing and some fine performances from our members. Lets see if we can get more out for the National in February.

(Thanks to Frances for the photos, a few more of which are here).

Thursday 6 December 2018

WEST DISTRICT XC

This Saturday is the West District xc at Kilmarnock ( Ayrshire athletics arena )
Ladies start is at 13.15 and the men at 14.15.
I need the Ladies there for 12.30 and the men by 13.30.
Anyone not able to make it please let me know asap to save me picking up your number.
I will collect the numbers and take them to the course for 12.30.
Jim will be leaving from the Sports Club at noon if anyone wants to travel together.

CALDERGLEN HARRIERS AGM 2018

This years AGM will be held in the Sports Club on Thursday 6th December at 8.30pm
The run that evening will start at 7pm to allow time to get back and changed for 8.30pm.
Any motions should be made in writing to Frances Ferguson before the AGM.
Any nominations for committee positions should also be made to Frances Ferguson.
Please try to attend as this is your club and its important you have an input in what we do.

Sunday 18 November 2018

Glen Ogle 33

The Glen Ogle viaduct 
It had been a lovely week, but we had been keeping an eye on the weather forecast, and it didn’t look good. On the start line it was raining cats, dogs, and chickens! I’ve run in fowl weather before so I was prepared!
It’s a race that I’ve run several times now. In fact it’s where I popped my ultra cherry a few years back (don’t go looking that one up….it’s not an injury). It’s an out and back from Killin to Strathyre…a figure of 8 really (you get used to seeing figures of 8 when you run ultras…I’ll never know how some of them beat me!)
Davie, Ruth, and I went up with different expectations. Davie has terrible memories of running this race a few years back when he finished with a touch of hypothermia due to some truly awful weather. He expects bad weather, and he’s almost always rewarded. Ruth (West Highland Way Race legend…..still waiting for the race report Ruth!) hasn’t been running much of late due to a displaced Mojo (that might be an injury), and hoped to use the race as a wee chance to stretch her legs on the trails again. I’ve had a challenging year in terms of injury….in fact my first race this year was not until August (a 42 mile stagger over the latter half of the WHW). I like to come back gently. I have been trying to get my speed up recently (pause for laughs) over shorter distances so wasn’t sure how I’d cope with the 2nd half of the race. It’s all in the preparation though and we got up to Killin in plenty of time to get our usual seat by the open fire at the Falls of Dochart Inn for a bit of pre race hydration.

I read somewhere about the health benefits of Guinness (it may have been on a can of Guinness), so persuaded Davie to have a couple of pints just to make sure we got the full benefit! (I didn't need much persuasion - Davie)





The race team were so concerned about us standing around in what was now, really heavy rain, that the briefing was held indoors.

The BAM team who organise the race have lots of advice for newbies and seasoned runners alike which are designed to get you around safely. Key to getting around seemed to be “MTFU” and “don’t be a fanny!”
BAM-style race directing
My chances of winning the race were given a bit of a set back when on the start line I lost sight of my amigos only to see them at the very back of the field. As is tradition I went back to wish them all the best only to hear the starter’s orders.
As the race began, I found myself way down the field. I‘ve run ultras before and I know it’s better to start slowly and not too fast. But as the race left Killin Main Street and out onto the trail which is predominately uphill, I found it difficult not to get frustrated by folk walking and taking the best underfoot path, forcing anyone running to go around. I guess it’s inevitable as lots of folk are running an ultra for the first time.
There are 4 water stops but you have to bring your own cup! Once you start doing these kinds of races you learn that less is more in terms of nutrition. I tend to think like a marathon runner and stick a couple of gels in my pocket. There’s a option to leave a dropbag at halfway. I usually agonise over what to put in it, and frequently leave most of it on the table.
After 6 miles of climb and descent, mostly on muddy trail, the route takes runners down to the road crossing and over to the long stretch towards the Glen Ogle Viaduct. I have to stress how truly awful the weather was at this point with torrential rain and a fierce headwind.

The route from there takes cycle route 7, over the viaduct, and gently down to Strathyre. At this point, the field stretches out a bit as people find their own pace. It’s a chance to chat to folk. I find the ultra running community, on the whole, a very nice bunch of folk. Conversations cover a wide range of topics but mainly “injuries I currently have that have to be taken into account” and “races that I have taken part in carrying an injury”.

As we got closer to halfway, it was now wetter than a wet day in Wetsville, and hopes of keeping the feet dry long since gone. I was feeling ok at the checkpoint which rather cruelly seemed to be about 18 miles in. The “second half” of the race is mostly a long gradual ascent for about 11 miles, with occasional steep climbs. It was at this point where I think the health benefits of Guinness began to kick in. I suspect my lack of miles may have become evident at this point too. On the slow drag back I became aware of a familiar face running alongside me. Those of you who help out at the juniors will know Graeme Lindsay, who although not strictly speaking a Harrier, has strong connections to the club. We spent an hour or so passing each other and offering encouraging words before he left me with about 2 miles to go.
  The last 3 miles are downhill trail before finishing on the playing field in Killin. It was still raining but as I crossed the line Ruth was there to greet me. She had run for about an hour on the trail, and run back. Not sure if she found her Mojo, but it was nice to see her back. I was huckled inside for a welcome cup of soup and to collect the goodie bag and medal. Those of you who know me, will know I’ve got a thing about medals. As has sadly become the custom nowadays, it was hidden somewhere in the bag. I fished it out and asked a nice race official to place it around my neck - it’s my thing. After a wee recovery, I went over to get my dry gear from the car, just in time to see Davie finish. As is now our practice, we quickly got changed in the gents, and went in for a cup of tea. For the record, the race was won by Shaun Cumming in 3hrs 58:55. First lady home was Alison Rowatt in 4:11:27 and 5th place overall. I finished in 5:43:35, 134th of 379 starters and Davie in 6:20:28, 229th . I’m still drying my gear out...
Might as well finish with another picture of alcohol
Race report by Jim M

Brampton 2018 Photo Gallery


An album of pre-race, race and post-race activities is here.
Alan

BRAMPTON BUS

The bus will leave at 8 am DONT BE LATE.

Saturday 17 November 2018

TCS New York City Marathon 2018

Checking my emails one night in January I noticed one from a running magazine saying that entries had opened for the New York marathon. Out of curiosity I checked to see what the  qualifying time was. It was only a few minutes slower than my London time. However, it also said that only qualifying times achieved in the New York Road Runners organised races would be guaranteed entry. Once these guaranteed places had been allocated, qualifying times achieved in other races, including London, would then be given on a first come basis for any places left over. At that point I had no idea how long the entry had been open and how quickly it would fill up. So really on an impulse I filled in the application not really expecting to get in and not thinking on how it would clash with other events I had planned to do. I also thought I'd better check with Mandy to see if she had any plans for us in November. I said to her that I'll probably not get in but in the unlikely event that I'm offered a place   would she be up for it? She thought about it for about half a second and said YES PLEASE.

Two weeks later I got confirmation that I was in and panic started to set in, as I'd not really  thought it through. My "A" race of the year was always going to be the European Triathlon  Championships in Glasgow, which was now going to be right in the middle of marathon  training. Plus I also had the European Duathlon and Aquathlon Championships in Ibiza, which finished a week and a half before New York. I tried to work out a training plan, but it was always going to be a compromise. I was really excited about the European Triathlon champs. Qualifying for a home championships, especially at Strathclyde Park, where I spend  half my life training was always going to be special and would come first. The rest would just have  to fall into place.

I worked out a 20 week training plan, also based around the Scottish/British Triathlon champs  and warm up events for Strathclyde Park. Generally my training consisted of an intense,  long Sunday run, which was mainly at anticipated marathon pace. Then an easy bike and swim to recover on Monday, followed by a steady bike on Tuesday. On Wednesday I had  just about recovered from my Sunday run. So I would do fast interval runs ranging from 1 to 3 minute efforts as preparation for the 5k triathlon race runs. Then Thursday would be a tough swim and Friday was an eyeballs out bike time trial or intervals around the Strathclyde Park bike course. I then had Saturday off. Basically this meant my marathon training consisted of only two runs a week, which I wasn't convinced would be enough.

For the first time I can remember I managed to tick off every planned training session smoothly. It included my 4 longest runs being 20 miles or over. So training had gone as well as I'd hoped although, because of the races in Ibiza, my last long run couldn't be later than 5 weeks before New York, which probably wasn't ideal.

I didn't have any expectations for New York. I felt prepared but knew I had compromised and just wanted to enjoy the experience. A decent time would just be a bonus. Naively I  also thought the New York course would be flat. I knew there were a few climbs over the  Bridges but how hard can a bridge be? It was only until I spoke to a guy on the bus on the way to the start that I realised it was going to be tougher than I thought. He casually said that he  previously got his best results by walking the bridges. I started to think that they must be a lot harder than I was expecting.

Race day started with a 5.30am queue in midtown Manhattan along with thousands of others waiting for the convoy of buses to take us to the start in Staten Island. The race has 3 pick up points, the other options being the Staten Island ferry or a New Jersey pick up. For me the bus from Manhattan seemed the most convenient and comfortable option. And Mandy very kindly got up at 4.30am with me to wave me off at the bus pick up point as spectators weren’t allowed at the race start. It was about a 60 minute bus journey to the starting village. I was looking forward to a relaxing trip enjoying the views and just chilling with my pre-pared bowl of porridge. However, it is the USA and   everyone is chatty. The guy next to me was a New Yorker, so he was always going to be chatty, especially as they love the Scottish accent. He was actually great for pre-race info as he'd done it 5 times, and even mentioned that he was having a post-race party. I'm sure we could've blagged an invitation if I'd been up for it.

The starting village in Fort Wadsworth was huge as it had to cater for up to 60,000 runners. Due to the bus timing schedule I had no choice but to be there over 3 hours before the race start. I think it was just Russell karma, getting me back for all my late race turn ups over the years. Thankfully the village was very comfortable with free tea/coffee, bagels, fruit, energy drinks/gels and Dunkin Donuts beanie hats to keep you warm. There were even hand warmer packets and, as it was only 7 degrees, I stuffed a few into my gloves and socks. They definitely kept the chill off. That along with my throw away clothes. The race organisers are  understandably not too keen on transporting 60,000 bags from the start to finish lines. So they tempt you to forgo this option. Instead they would give you a very nice warm lined waterproof souvenir poncho at the finish. By doing this you have to discard your warm up clothes in charity boxes at the start. I had searched through my cupboard and found a 2006 Rouken Glen race T shirt, a 2007 National cross country long sleeved shirt, a pair of 90's Ronhill leggings complete with toe straps and a View From shell suit type running jacket (at least I was easy for Mandy to spot in the bus queue!! It seemed like a good swap to me though. The only downside was looking like an extra from Miami Vice (the Don Johnson one) in the starting village until just before the starting cannon went off. There were loads of these charity donation boxes about the village in the unlikely event that someone wanted my cast offs.

The race organisers seemed to have thought about everything in the starting village. There  are even therapy dogs walking about to de-stress anyone who needs calming down at the  thought of running a marathon. I have also never seen so many portaloos. There were virtually no queues until an hour before race start. Even then, the starting pens were opened about 25 minutes before the start. The portaloos in there were also virtually empty when I  had a late pit stop. The only queue that caught me out a bit late on was for coffee to get that last minute caffeine boost, but by then I was on my third cup.

About 15 mins before the start there was an approx half mile walk/jog to the start line, which  was really ideal as a final warm up. This eventually got me about 100m from the elite starting line, which was just close enough to hear the introductions. As we were waiting to start, people started looking about to check out other runners near them. One guy said to me, "Hey man, where are Calderglen Harriers from?" Not surprisingly that was the only  mention of my Harriers vest for the day. Although it did help Mandy spot me on the course.

Conditions were almost ideal, about 8 degrees at race start time and quite calm. There was a rendition of star spangled banner, then the extra loud starting cannon fired and we were off.  Frankie boy was belting out New York, New York as I passed the start line. Unlike London at the start, it seemed to take ages to get moving and cross the start line. It was obvious that hundreds of runners in front had no idea of a realistic predicted finish time. If in doubt they must have just put down 3 hours. It wasn't long before the first climb of the day. A few metres after the start you are on the Verrazzano-Narrows bridge. It's a huge suspension bridge connecting Staten Island to Brooklyn. Similar to the Forth Road Bridge but longer. It is a one mile climb to the midpoint, then one mile downhill afterwards. It was very congested during this stage and you were forced to jog for most of the climb, which probably wasn't a  bad thing. If you got a bit of space then you were constantly passing the runners who had  started too near the front. I even saw one runner walking up the climb. He was ahead of me, so must have predicted a sub 3.10 time??

You just have to accept you will lose a minute or so to your predicted pace in the first 2 miles. The race only really gets going when you arrive in Brooklyn. Then it is pretty flat for the  next 11 miles. Every now and then you would feel it getting slightly tougher and you knew you must be on a slight incline, although it was hard to tell visually. Then at the half way point you cross the Pulaski bridge into Queens, which had approx 400m of climbing. From mile 2 until this point I had been virtually going my predicted pace of 7 min miling. I felt comfortable and was just counting down the miles, but this bridge definitely had my legs complaining. I did recover on the downhill and was then back into my zone of 7 min miling. Then at mile 15-16 came the Queensboro Bridge from Queens into Manhattan. A beast of a bridge, just coming at the wrong time. This one had about 800m of climbing and my legs were seriously starting to suffer. Again the downhill gave you some recovery. Then it was onto the best part of the course, flat for about 4 miles along 1st Avenue in Manhattan, where the crowds were big and loud.

My pace was starting to drop a bit on this section to approx 7.15. Pre-race I had arranged with  Mandy for her to spectate around about the 17 mile marker, so I was then scouring the crowds for a bright pink jacket. It all went to plan and we spotted each other for a much needed hug and words of encouragement. Then I was back in the zone until the next pain in the butt bridge at 20 miles going from Manhattan into the Bronx. Again this was another tester of about 400m climb. My legs were really struggling and just didn't recover on the downhill. I was in serious bother, six miles to go and my legs were just about packing it in. There was another bridge at about 21 miles from the Bronx back into Manhattan, but my head was so down I can't even remember it. Pace was now down to 8.30 and I just wanted to walk. We have all been there and you just tough it out.  I managed to keep this pace going and then from about miles 22-24 we were into 5th Avenue alongside Central Park. At the race briefing we were told there was a slight incline from miles 23-24. SLIGHT INCLINE, by then even going over the timing mats seemed like a mountain. So this 1 mile climb was like Everest. Mandy had made her way to mile 25 and apparently was cheering as I ran by but my head was down and I didn’t hear her. After what seemed like an eternity I summited the climb and turned right into Central Park. That initially gave me a lift, but my  head was quickly down again as more climbs appeared. There must've been downhill's, but I never noticed them. It was all pretty much rolling from there until the finish. Amazingly, as  happens to us all, I was into the last half mile and feeling OK again. Why does your head do  that to you? From mile 26 until the finish there was another tough climb, but the grandstands just pull you up and across the finish line. I pushed up the final hill to make sure I dipped  under 3.20.

Finish time was 3.19.39. This was slower than I'd hoped, but on reflection the course seemed like a brute to me. Although the elites make it look flat, mind blowing how good they are. Maybe I had compromised a bit too much with other events and my lack of running strength was found out on the hills. I'm certainly not disappointed, my main goals were to enjoy the  experience and survive injury free. It also still gives me qualifying times for London, Boston, Chicago and New York if I want it again.

All in all it was a fantastic experience. It was a privilege to take part in the world’s biggest marathon. From race build up to post race celebrations, the event just felt huge. Bigger than anything I've previously experienced. You always felt you were taking part in something  special.

It was inevitable that I'd make comparisons to London. Once you are out on the course ticking off the miles, both are quite similar, with the crowds, music and general atmosphere. Both courses are iconic and spectacular. Pre-race Expos are also about the same size and organisation in both is exceptional. The starting village and security in New York were much bigger and the race itself felt bigger. Also the New York race start going over the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and seeing the Manhattan skyline from the top was breath taking………but give me a flatter London course any day of the week. London also wins in value for money. New York is expensive or maybe it is just that New York is good value,  as you can see where the money goes, and London is exceptional value. Another London plus is that race nutrition is given in bottles and, selfishly, much easier to drink out of on the move. New York liquids are given in paper cups, which you can never completely master, but are obviously an environmentally friendly option. A good tip I was given is to squeeze the  cup together at the top to create a funnel. A lot more then goes in your mouth than up your  nose.

New York, New York, so good they named it twice. Hopefully one day I'll do it twice. For now I'm still on a marathon high. I was checking the Abbott 6 major marathons of the world series at the Expo. I've now ticked off 1/3 of these races and I'm now seriously tempted to tick off Chicago  and Boston in the next year and a half. I'll take it from there as Berlin and Tokyo could be  harder to get in. Gerry McParland was telling me that the qualifying time for Berlin is seriously tough, 2.55 in my 50-59 age group, so that will be a big issue. He did rub it in by saying that he's already got that qualifying time. I can only tip my hat to greatness.

Finally many thanks to my amazing support crew in Mandy, she definitely ticked all my boxes.
Martin

Monday 12 November 2018

WEST DISTRICT XC CHAMPIONSHIP

This years championship will be held in Kilmarnock at the Ayrshire Athletics Arena on Saturday 8th December.
A slight change to proceedings this year that both men and women will run 8.5k.
The Ladies race will start at 1.15pm and the men at 2.15pm.
Cost is £7.00 per head and should be paid in advance.
I require names by Monday 19th November so don't delay on putting your name down.
If you wish entered leave your name HERE.
Those already registered are listed HERE.

LONDON MARATHON CLUB PLACE

Calderglen Harriers has again secured a place in the Virgin London Marathon 2019.
Anyone who entered the ballot to gain entry to the event and was unsuccessful can enter a draw to get this club place.
The draw will be done after the Brampton race on the 18th Nov during dinner in Moffat.

To enter this draw please show your rejection email to either Russell, Frances or Kenny before this day and if your successful will be given the details on how to enter under the club place.

Good luck to all in the draw.

Sunday 11 November 2018

Brampton Stats

As Calderglen Harriers taper down for our 35th consecutive visit to the Brampton to Carlisle 10 mile road race, have some fun looking back on the stats from all of our performances over the years at this link.

Use the "Filter" button to find yourself or specific years or gender results. Note that in 2009 the course was flooded so the route was shortened to about 9 miles. For the first few years (1984/85), we did not have times, just a list of names.

Some interesting stats I have discovered:

  • This is Chas Steven's 34th Brampton to Carlisle. Chas' fastest time was 65:21 in 1990. 
  • This is Gerry Mullen's 33rd Brampton. Gerry's fastest time was 65:10 in 2002.
  • More Mullens have run BtoC in a Calderglen vest than any other family!
  • 2018 is the 30th anniversary of the fastest recorded time by a Calderglen Harrier - Raymond Johnston running 49:51 to finish something like 5th or 6th, such was the standard that year. 2018 is also the 30th anniversary of my first BtoC!
  • Julie Beveridge holds the three fastest times by a Calderglen Lady - 65:24, 65:38 and 65:45 in 2016, 2017 and 2014 respectively.

There are many other interesting stats to be found.
Alan


Jimmy Irvine Bella 10k

Jimmy Irvine Bella 10k - 11/11/18

Four Harriers were out today taking part in the Jimmy Irvine Bella 10k hosted by Bellahouston Road Runners.  The scores on the doors are: -

Ian Hughes, 41.46
Paul Rooney, 47.01
Morgan Beaton, 51.37
Lucy Saez, 56.42

Link to results: https://www.stuweb.co.uk/race/22b

Well done to all taking part and especially to Morgan & Lucy. Both graduates from the junior section and are really enjoying their running, experimenting with longer races now. I am sure as they continue with this pursuit they will only get better.

Saturday 10 November 2018

A DAY AT THE GEE GEES

The Harriers trotted off to Lanark racecourse today for the National short course xc.
The weather was mostly dry and the course pan flat with next to no mud ( this was one for the sprinters ).  After some junior races it was the Ladies up next with the men taking up supporting places just before the end of the lap and subsequently just before the finish. As they came to the end of lap one Karen had a healthy lead over Kay and not far behind was a trio in close running order of Frances, Allison L and Lorraine sticking close to their heels. A little gap then to Sandy and a further gap to Alison J. Would there be any change on lap 2. We didn't have to wait long to find out as they were all running fast and first into sight was Karen Allen finishing in 16.51 and not far behind Kay Conneff with 17.04. A little gap to Alison Lessells who had passed Frances Ferguson but good close racing to the finish with 17.39 and 17.44. Lorraine Buchanan had not lost much on the pair on the 2nd lap running a fantastic 17.58. A little while to wait and Sandy Hayden came home in 20.37 and Alison Johnston completing our line up with 24.06.

No time to chat about how the course was and the Men were off at a good gallop down a long straight of a start. This course has no sharp turns and as said before is pan flat so round the first bend and I was about 15 metres down on Gordon with a good part of the field still behind me and the other Harriers opening up a bit of a gap. About half way round lap 1 I passed Gordon and just kept the head down as I thought he would be waiting to pounce at the first sign of weakness. Passing the Ladies now cheering us on was great as your giving it everything and any encouragement is gratefully received. Lap 2 and just trying to keep my place in the Field and even a couple of passes. Having been last in this event before it was a good feeling to know there was a lot behind me. Round towards the finish passing our cheering Ladies again and over the line. Wow delighted with my time and position in the field. The men finished with Mark Saez  14.35, Andrew Buchanan  14.52, Alan Cullie  16.33, Kenny Leinster 16.58,  Jim Holmes  17.05, Richard Lawton  17.53,  Russell Couper  18.38, Gordon McInally  19.21 and John Boyd  20.51

There were 206 finishers in the Ladies race and 470 in the Mens. It wasn't so long ago this event had fields of under 50 for the Ladies and under 100 for the Men so well done to Scottish Athletics for developing this event into a seriously good championship. Thanks today go to Joanne McEvoy who despite feeling ill came down to support us so Thanks Joanne and to Kay's kids who always entertain us while waiting to run.

Thursday 8 November 2018

National Short Course XC

This Saturday is the National Short Course XC at Lanark.
Ladies race is at 1.10pm and the Men at 1.35pm.
I will pick up the numbers and chips and take them to the course.
Can everyone be there for 12.20 to allow time for number distribution and warm up.
If anyone can no longer make it please let me know so im not collecting numbers then having to return them.
Jim Holmes and Gordon McInally will be leaving from the Sports Club at 11.30 if anyone wants to travel together with them.

Tuesday 6 November 2018

Christmas Handicap Fun Run 2018

Date for your diary.......
 
I have organised this year's Christmas Fun Run at the Sports Club for Sunday 16th December which is only 6 weeks away. So start thinking of costume ideas.

This year we are back to tradition and having the event the morning after the club Christmas Do so a real handicap for some runners! Might need to get Jim Mearns's water station from the Trail race strategically positioned on the course to avoid people running with sore heads and post party dehydration.

This year we will also revert to meeting in the function suite (which I am positive I have booked it!) to compare and discuss costumes and tactics!

As usual the better the fancy dress the more consideration Alan will give to your time handicap. The
the function suite will be open from 9.30am and our first event will be the Juniors followed by the Senior run.
 
The juniors will start for 10am with senior race at 11am. 
 
As usual for the junior and senior races its bring a prize and receive a prize.
 
Richard

Saturday 3 November 2018

BRAMPTON TO CARLISLE ROAD RACE

Our annual trip to Brampton for the 10 mile race will be on Sunday 18th November.
It will be the usual format of the coach leaving the Sports Club at 8am to give us plenty time for arrival and warm up before the 11.30 start. Due to the early start time we will not have time for a pre race stop so bring something to eat and drink onto the coach.
To those new to the Harriers this is a full day out with the coach taking us to the start and meeting us at the finish in Carlisle where we will have a couple of hours to spend in the nearby hostelry to partake in some fluid replenishment then up to Moffat for Dinner in the Star Hotel and back to East Kilbride Sports Club for about 8pm.
The cost for your place on the coach is £15 and your entry for the race will either be £15 or £17 depending on your SA status. Dinner will be £12ish but will be paid on the day.
To reserve your seat on the coach please see me at the club with your £15 and bring your entry form and fee to me also and I will enter them as a block entry. Latest day for me to receive entry forms is Monday 5th Nov. Non participants and friends are welcome too.
Entry forms are here. http://borderharriers.co.uk/app/webroot/uploads/File/B2C-2018-entry-form-A.pdf  
Seats on the coach will be reserved with the £15 payment

Tuesday 30 October 2018

FAST CLOSE RACING AT CUMBERNAULD

It was probably the fastest conditions ever seen and Cumbernauld for the National XC Relays at least for a good number of years anyway. We had 7 Ladies running and 10 Men with both needing 4 legs run per team. First up was the Ladies and off on leg 1 was Kay Conneff for the A team and Allison Lessells for the incomplete team. Both found running with the main field on leg one tough but very rewarding posting times of 16.49 and 17.44 respectively. Next up was Kirsty promoted to the A team after an excellent run at the Lanarkshires last week and Sandy running for the incomplete team. Kirsty had another excellent run with a time of 16.46 pipping ahead of Kay by 3 secs and Sandy not at her best running 20.34. Onto leg 3 and with the A team now in 31st place we had Karen Allen who started to move through what was becoming a well spread out field bringing the team up to 27th place with a time of 17.03. On the 3rd leg for the incomplete team we had Lorraine Buchanan who had the biggest improvement on the day from everyone with a time of 18.44. Last leg and just Julie Beveridge to run for the A team running the fastest time from our Ladies with an impressive 16.22 and securing 26th place for the team. Well done to our 7 Ladies who all ran and competed well.



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Onto the mens race and two and a half teams. First up for the A team was Andrew Buchanan, For the B team Jim Holmes and the incomplete team Gordon McInally. Again the first leg can be tough and rewarding as you have to battle through the initial stages but also without the gaps get involved in good racing. Andrew coped best with this posting a great time of 14.39. Jim ran a very strong race to finish in 17.00 and Gordon improving week by week and getting some good form back finishing in 19.25. Onto leg 2 and Martin Howell running for the A team, Richard Lawton for the B team and Russell Couper for the incomplete team. Martin has a habit of focusing so much on his finish he sometimes forgets to stop his watch and guess what he did it again so we had to wait for the official results and Martin ran a great 16.25 and very close with Julies time. Richard who seems to keep his best running for races again didn't disappoint with a great time of 17.22. Russell found some form here and had a very close call with Gordon running his fastest on the course since 2003 with 19.26.
Onto leg 3 and the battle of the Alans that's Alan Cullie for the A team and Allan McLellan for the B team. Alan didn't by his own admission have his best run but still managed a fine 17.26 allowing Richard a 4 sec victory over him. Allan McLellan on the other hand had a flyer running 16.19 pipping both Martin and Julies time by a few secs. Last leg and for the A team Mark Saez and the B team Billy Buchanan. On the provisional results Mark was down for 32.03 so I am claiming a scalp ( sorry Mark it has to be claimed and ive got the printout to prove it ) Now the official results are out Mark ran 14.38 just one sec faster than Andy and our fastest time of the day bringing the team home in 94th. Billy had a fairly lonely run but still put in a fantastic performance with 18.40 and 111th place. Watch out Billy as Lorraine was just 4 secs away from you and closing in. Some very close times in here and its going to be interesting at the short course xc as its head to head and beyond that at Brampton. Good racing from everyone involved and long may it continue.

Saturday 27 October 2018

Lanarkshire AAA Cross Country Championships

This race takes place at Drumpellier Country Park in Coatbridge (enter the park from Blair Road, arriving near Blairhill railway station & car park). on Saturday 24th November (this is not a grand prix race).  The cost for seniors/veterans is £4.

Event
Time
Age group
Distance
Race 1
12:00
U11 Girls
1200m (1 small lap)
Race 2
12:15
U11 Boys
1200m (1 small lap)
Race 3
12:25
U13 Girls
2500m (1 large lap)
Race 4
12:45
U13 Boys
2500m (1 large lap)
Race 5
13:00
U15 Girls
3700m (1 small + 1 large lap)
Race 5
13:00
U15 Boys
3700m (1 small + 1 large lap)
Race 6
13:20
U17 Men
5000m (2 large laps)
Race 6
13:20
U17 Women
5000m (2 large laps)
Race 6
13:50
Sen/Vet Ladies
7500m (3 large laps)
Race 7
13:50
Sen/Vet Men
7500m (3 large laps)

Volunteers
The race organiser states that all clubs need to provide a minimum of 2 volunteers and failure to do so will result in club entries being declined. 


Race Entry
You can enter the race via Q-Buster using the code laaaxc_18. Entries close on Monday 19th November.

Link: https://www.q-buster.co.uk/laaa-cross-country-championships-2018

Richard