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Saturday 30 June 2018

Trail Race Provisional Results

Luke Traynor cruises to the line in the 10k
We now have a set of provisional results for all of the races available at the links below. Due to quite a few people crossing the line without wearing a race number (spread across all the races), the usually automatic process of synchronising the finish time lists with the participant position lists took a bit more manual intervention than usual. It is therefore possible that we may be out of synch by one place in the mid to later results in the 5k/10k. Therefore please let us know if you notice any huge discrepancies between your time in results compared to your own watch (or if you were not displaying a number but know what your number was e.g. if you arrived too late to pick it up from registration). Leave a comment here or via the race social media links (your comments to this blog post will not immediately publish but will be recorded off-line). We will update and publish the final results through the week based on any comments. The final 2018 results will be available on our trail race results web page where you can already find the results from all previous years.

Thanks to the finish line time and place recorders for recording everything so diligently.
Alan

2018 Provisional 1k Results
2018 Provisonal 3k Results
2018 Provisional 5k Results
2018 Provisional 10k Results

Thursday 28 June 2018

Trail Race Roles

Fellow athletes,

As you know our annual Trail Running Festival takes place on Friday 29th June. It is a huge team effort and I am grateful to everyone for their help.

I have based the allocation of roles on the information you have given me in terms of what time you can arrive etc. See this spreadsheet.

If you have any concerns about specific jobs or marshalling positions please get in touch. I can be contacted by mobile on 07866984759 or on Facebook. If you can no longer help, please let me know asap in order that I can make contingency plans.

If your name is not on the spreadsheet, I apologise for missing you out. Give me a shout and I'll add your name.

I hope the courses and marshalling points are relatively clear. If not, can you catch me at training or in my absence, Frances, Davie, Ruth or Emma and we will talk you through them.​

When you arrive in the park on the day , can I ask that you find me or phone me to let me know you are on site.

Remember, we are providing a buffet for our competitors (up to 300) and really need everyone to bring food on the day or give it to me the night before at the club. Only shop bought food is permitted due to food hygiene regulations. We will be making up sandwiches on the day in the kitchen. If you prefer to contribute to that, myself and Frances are taking financial contributions and will do a shop for bread, rolls, fillings etc.

I would appreciate that on the day only those involved in Registration or kitchen duties be in the main hall. This will help the registration team immensely.

I have listed those who have indicated they would be available to come up early on the day. This list is not meant to be exhaustive. If you can be here early, I'd appreciate the help to set up courses and many other jobs.

We will be in the park from 10am!

Look out for further updates on the blog.

Jim

Trail races, last minute appeal

Due to the ridiculously high temperatures we have decided to provide a water station on the 10k route. Unfortunately it's not something we made contingency plans for and, to that end, we would ask that as many harriers as possible bring along any water containers they may have, anything from folding camping containers to empty two litre ginger bottles - everything will help.

In addition to the above, but also weather related, could we ask for as many cool bags/boxes and freezer blocks brought along too as we have 400 Tunnocks caramel wafers which are otherwise going to melt under the evening sun. If we get enough we may even manage to have some cool water at the finish too.

Thanks in advance folks,

Jim and the team

Wednesday 27 June 2018

TOTALLY TROPICAL CLYDEBANK

Well that was a HOT one
Tonight 3 Harriers made there way to Clydebank for the SVHC's clubs 5k championship.
They allow guest runners in this and tonight that swelled the field to well over 100 the largest ive ever seen at this event.
Anyway on to the run and this course is absolutely flat although it is 3 and 3/4 laps round the industrial estate which can be daunting for some if you don't like laps. Having gone direct from work I met Frances Ferguson and Stuart Waugh at the course and we were all looking for a little bit of tree cover to get out the sun. I never checked the temperature before the race but it was 28 after it was finished. Ive never liked the heat for running but found myself leading Frances and Stuart (well for 50 yds anyway) then settled in at a good pace going through mile 1 on schedule for about 23.45 but the heat was drying up the throat and found I didn't have any spit I was that dry. Mile 2 slowed a bit but was still on course for about 24.40. It was at this point I could no longer see Frances or Stuart who I had kept in sight till now. Mile 3 and the heat was now hitting me hard and I slowed a bit more.
Its the first time in a 5k I was wanting a water station. Finally finished in 25.29 which was a second faster than last year and in heat like that its a big improvement. Frances and Stuart had a close race and only separated at the end by about 5 secs, Frances running 22.17 and Stuart approx. 22.12 Not the best times they've ran here but again the heat takes its toll and its Stuarts first race for quite a while. A good event that others should look at in future if your looking for a fast time if the weathers playing fair.
Thanks to Maud for coming along to support the Harriers as it was even too hot for spectating

Tuesday 26 June 2018

Vertical Mile - Hot Performances

Twenty Harriers contested our annual Vertical Mile race at Auchentiber on a scorching hot Monday evening. Fastest time of the day went to Mark Saez recording a time of 6:36, closely followed by Andy Buchanan in 6:43 with Charlie Whall making both his first and last race appearance for the club (he is moving away unfortunately) in third place (6:46). Fastest lady was the ever impressive Julie Beveridge in 4th place overall in a time of 7:36. Frances Ferguson was next lady in 8:27 closely followed by Kirsty Wilson in 8:36. All results are here. Well done to all for a fine effort.
Alan

Wednesday 20 June 2018

Trail Race Catering

As you are aware we have traditionally put on a spread for our guests attending the Trail Race. This year will be no exception.
At the moment, our prediction for athletes taking part in the 5k and 10k races is about 300.
That's a lot of food, I hear you say:-)
We have always had a great response from club members and hopefully this year will be no different.
We have an additional challenge this year in that we are not allowed to make up food at home and bring it on the night. Any food which is made by members needs to be made on the day in the sports club kitchen. This includes sandwiches, rolls etc. This is to comply with food hygiene laws. 
Sandwiches bought pre made in a shop are ok.
So here's what we need:
Everyone to bring something (bearing in mind if there are 30-50 of us, we are each catering for the equivalent of 6-10 people)
Shop bought cakes, biscuits, etc all good.
However we do need to ensure there are also sandwiches/rolls for folk. Rolls/bread/fillings would need to be bought the evening before or on the day and delivered early to the club on raceday, where there will be folk there ready to make them up.
If you are able to do that, great. If not I would be happy to do the shopping part and deliver to club if you want to give money to either myself or Frances at training.
I would be happy to hear suggestions if there might be a better way to do this, or if I haven't thought it through,
Jim

Monday 18 June 2018

Men's Health 2018

As has been the case now for the past 4 years (3 for me), a squad of Harriers headed down the M77 on Sunday morning bound for the Riverside Transport Museum, the starting point of the Men’s Health 10k 2018.

One of the big city centre events, which isn’t everyone’s preferred style of event, as expected, we were treated to a Radio Clyde compere (Gina G was Mark’s guess), drum bands, choirs, clattering balloons and queues for the toilets a mile long. Being a men only event some inspirational event planning meant that the ladies toilets in the museum had been allocated as male facilities – this left me wondering where the “real” ladies were to go should the need take them!

Anyway – on the day me, Stephen Phimister, and Mark Saez met at Graham Ramage’s house so as we could all travel in together. Nearing our destination, the skies blackened and on it came, in sheets! Carol Kirkwood on the BBC hadn’t said anything about that being a possible turn of events. Once there we sat in the car for about ten minutes and the blue sky returned prompting us to stir, get out of our travelling garb and set about some warming up. A few perimeter laps of the museum caused us to bump in to Joey Shields, Davie Wardrope, and John McBride. The more the merrier!

All of the prep done, we took our spots in the starting grids, we convinced Mark that he should line up with the elites!

All of us had our own expectation on how the race might pan out, Mark looking for a sharp performance, me looking to build on last week at Kilmarnock, Stevie annoyed that he had picked up a virus mid-week which no doubt threatened to curtail him and Graham, with minimum training in the bank, simply hoping to get around in a reasonable time. Of the others, Davie W. was hoping to go at about the same as last week whilst Joe and John had reported that with minimum training they’d most likely be down on previous bests.

Elites (and Mark) on their way, the rest of us shuffled towards the rubber mats and off we went. The route, identical to last year had us run along past the Pumphouse and in to the SECC car-park (with the surface so bad this is like the trail running element of the course, although not intended to be so) along past the Rotunda and on to Clyde St. A sharp right turn at 3k over the squinty bridge, left along the river on the other side, back over the Oswald St bridge at the Casino and up on to Argyle St, under the Heilanders Umbrella, left in to Buchanan St, right in the St. Vincent St, through George Square (5k), heading down Glassford St, along Argyle St again and out towards Glasgow Green. Following that it’s a winding affair through the park, back up Trongate, Argyle St for the 3rd time and in to the Merchant City where two or three turns routed us to the eventual finish in George Sq.

As is becoming a bit of a habit me and Stevie started together but keen to bank some early time, I nudged ahead only to be startled at 2.5k by someone closing fast and shouting “I’ve been trying to catch you for 2k! Thinking that Stevie’s virus had somehow given him a boost I turned expecting to see him. Alas it wasn’t him, it was Ian Tomb striding out and gliding past me. That was the last I seen of him until the finish line. My first two miles went quite well, my third was rubbish and I found some reserves for 4 and 6 with 5 being pretty ordinary. Checking the watch (it’s never on the screen you need when you look!) I knew that I was going to be going tight for my first sub 40 for a while and in the closing metres just couldn’t find a stride to carry me along at the required pace, crossing the line in 00.40.10. with the Radio Clyde guy shouting on the PA “Oh there’s a guy from the Proclaimers!” If I had a pound an’ all that! They sing about 500 miles, we expect that from a pair of trainers!

Regrouping at the end, Mark and Ian were home and looking remarkably fresh, then me (not so fresh), Stevie, Joey, Graham and Davie battling to the line with Davie prevailing and then Big John.

Post-race chat pointed towards Mark being pleased with his performance, Ian being pleased but with work to do, me happy to have shaved another 40 seconds out of my previous time last week and again taking 3rd in my age category, Stephen being satisfied that running with a virus was still able to go sub 41 and Graham more than content given his recent training profile to have been only two seconds down on last years effort.

Collecting all the goody bags, medals and free Lucozade (which I thoroughly enjoyed) that we were allowed, 4 of us set about jogging back to the Riverside Museum for our much-anticipated post-race purvey and photo shoot, we are gradually working our way round the exhibits, this year it being the turn of the Ambulance as though to mock our state of wellbeing!


Anyway, here’s the scores on the doors

Mark Saez 34th     5th MV40 00.38.09

Iain Tomb 55th    10th MV35 00.39.05

Martin Howell 93rd     3rd MV50 00.40.10

Stephen Phimister 122nd 13th MV45 00.40.59

Joey Shields 365th 00.44.36

Graham Ramage 543rd 00.46.48

John McBride 1088th 45th V55 00.51.41


Martin

Sunday 17 June 2018

It is hard keeping up with Russell…

As the expression goes ‘keeping up with the Joneses’ well it has been hard lately to keep up with Russell in terms of races he has been running.  A credit to the club in representing us in so many races.  Overall reading the blog lately there has been a very good appetite for members to get out and race.

I myself have had a few races in the month of June.  I started off with the Alloa Half Marathon on Sunday 3rd June.  This had originally been scheduled for Sunday 18 March which would have been ideal for my marathon preparation but unfortunately the weather resulted in it being postponed.  I would probably not have entered a half marathon at this time of the season as I was concentrating on 10Ks but Louise talked me into going to Alloa.  Yet again, a factor of most of my races to date this year, the heat and humidity was present and I decided to treat this as a faster paced training session.  I for once did not worry about overall time or mile splits and just ran to how I felt.  My final time was 1.36.31 and while this a lot slower than some of my more recent half marathons, the average pace of 7.21 minute miles made for a good training run.  I was glad I went to Alloa for Louise’s sake.  Louise had taken part in the Edinburgh 10K the week before and had ran 48 or so minutes.  She decided to do the Alloa half marathon the week after.  This was her first races in well over a year and half since her illness and I was delighted when she finished in 1.51.25.

My second race of the month was the Simplyhealth Great Womens 10K on Sunday 10 June.  The women’s 10K was the first ever race I ran back in 2007 and it has been a race I have done more often than not over the years.  I had missed the last two years and when I saw I had a free weekend due to the Dechmont Law trail race being moved this year I thought I would run a 10K.  I decided to try the women's 10K and this would be the first year of me trying it since it moved to the West End of Glasgow.  Like Alloa it was going to be another warm day.  I was right at the front for the start and this meant I got a good clear run on traffic free roads.  The course takes you along the Quayside of Glasgow, passing the Transport Museum at around the half way point, passing by the BBC studios and then across the Squinty Bridge.  From here you wound yourself around the streets before arriving back at Kelvingrove Park.  There were a few undulating parts of the course but overall the closed roads made for a fast race.  I did feel as if I tired a bit towards the end and this has been something which I have been encountering in quite a few of my races post London this year.  I ran most of the race with another women by my side and and we were in 4th and 5th position.  When I crossed the line I discovered I was 3rd and (later found out that the women in 3rd place had been directed the wrong way).  My time was 40.39 (gun time).  I was disappointed for the person in 3rd and I would have been more than happy with 4th.

The race was won by top GB athlete Gemma Steel in a time of  34.09 and second place went to a top Scottish athlete in Annabel Simpson in a time of 36.23.

Less than a week later I then took part in the Brian Goodwin 10K on Friday 15 June.  This was a race I first took part in 2016 and it is now a race I look to do each year.  It starts outside Cartha Queens Park Rugby Club in Pollok Country Park.  The first 3 kilometres are straight through the park passing by Pollok House and the Highland Cows before coming out of the park onto Pollokshaws Road.  This year Bellahouston Harriers had introduced a change at this stage where instead of running the next two kilometres on the pavement they had instead closed one lane of Pollokshaws Road / Haggs Road and Drumbrek Road.  This was a brilliant addition to the race.  This brought you back round to the rugby club and then you had the same route over again.  i enjoy this race and would recommend it as the route is fairly flat and has a great PB potential.  The race this year was won by Luke Traynor in a course record time of 28.32.  This race had featured a few weeks back in Athletics Weekly in being one of the fastest 10Ks in Britain last year due to the times ran by Luke Trainer and Callum Hawkins last year.  The winning time for the ladies was 35.10 set by Jenny Bannerman which was also a course record.  After this race there is the post-race barbecue where you can get a beer and burger (included in your race entry fee).  I would recommend this race to the Harriers as, mentioned before, it has great PB potential and attracts a good field of runners.

Julie

Friday 15 June 2018

The World Championship of Chatelherault 2018

In the midst of our Scottish Summer (4th June 2018) the annual Chatelherault World Championship took place in blazing sunshine. The event is the only occasion where we run the 7 mile lap of Chatelherault Country Park as a race rather than as a controlled training run. It is something to look forward to and fear in equal measure as a well paced lap can be exhilarating but go too fast early on and it can be a painful experience.

An impressive turnout of 20 Harriers set off en-masse along the narrow riverside trail leading to the first severe climb after only a half mile. To make sure everyone was really enjoying themselves, Eddie Reid had positioned himself at the top of that hill to take photos. Fortunately it was a bit dark under the trees and the photos are a bit blurry so it is difficult to see exactly how much enjoyment is being had!

From there the Harriers were off into the depths of the country park for a good 40-50 minutes of hard effort before they returned to the finish line. Clear winner was Andy Buchanan in an excellent 49:22. Five minutes later, Stephen Phimister crossed the line (54:52). Thereafter the finishers were a lot closer with Martin Howell (56:13), Chris McCarron (56:41), Jim Holmes (56:50), Frances Ferguson (57:24) and Richard Lawton (58:11) all within sight of each other in the final mile or so. Alison Lessells led the next group in, sneaking under the hour (59:57) with Robin Ramsay (60:26) and Billy Buchanan (61:06) following on with his second trail race in two days. Kirsty Wilson had also been racing at the weekend (Alloa Half Marathon) and was just at Chatelherault for a "recovery" run (63:23) but still enough to keep returning to fitness Jim Mearns behind (63:58). Gordon McInally is carrying a persistent injury which this run will not have helped but got round in the clear (66:14) and Russell Couper ran his fastest time for years (69:35). In the best tradition of the Tour de France, the peleton streamed in together and were all classified with the same time despite Lorraine Buchanan leading out the sprint for the line (70:56) over Sharon Gregg, Julie Thomson, Seonaid Cruise, Davie Searil and Geo Ferguson. Meanwhile George Stewart and Morgan Beaton combined a shorter lap of the course with supporting duties.

Well done all for providing a colourful evening of enthusiastic running. Thanks to Eddie for on the course support and photos. All the photos are in an album here.

Wednesday 13 June 2018

Life Saving Training

Jim Mearns will be holding two training sessions on basic life saving procedures in the coming weeks. The first will be on Wednesday 6th June and this will be repeated a week later on Wednesday 13th June. Both sessions will take place in the Sports Club from 8pm to 9pm. These are skills that everyone should have some knowledge of, not least when we are organising and participating in sporting events (such as the Calderglen Trail Running Festival) with a broad cross section of the public. We encourage all to attend one of these sessions if you can.
Alan

Tuesday 12 June 2018

West Highland Way 2018 - a midge free zone!

One fine Saturday morning in mid-May, 17 Harriers made an early morning pilgrimage by minibus to the ultra-running Mecca otherwise known as Milngavie railway station for our annual (physical) assault on the 96 miles of the West Highland Way. With Kenny driving and already lost before we left East Kilbride, the omens were not good for a trouble free run to Fort William but at least the weather was very much on our side. As we progressed towards Milngavie, leaving a trail of scuffed kerbs to help us find our way next year, the leg assignments were revealed and the lucky recipient of the first leg was Billy Buchanan, who it transpired had not run this leg before and was already worried about the forbidden "L" word. After an incredibly efficient team photo session, Billy set off at 4:52am with a few strategically placed Harriers to get him through the first 100m or so.

The minibus then departed for Carbeth and the first changeover where a rapidly returning to form Russell Couper would take the second leg to Dumgoyne. Despite this being the 27th time the Harriers have run the WHW relay, none of us could remember the approximate time it should take to run the first leg and so a few scouts were sent back along the course to spot Billy as we became anxious after 5 minutes or so of waiting. We need not have worried and the sight of the returning scouts heralded the approaching Billy, smiling as always! Perhaps he was smiling because the usual clouds of midges were nowhere to be seen!

A tag at the gate and Russell was off and we could relax as Russell is very familiar with this leg. Kenny drove us onwards to Dumgoyne in relaxed fashion and we parked up as usual outside the Beech Tree Inn. Our early arrival was not welcomed by the goat family in the field adjoining the car park who proceeded to carry out the "bleat" test, sprinting back and forth along the fence line until a short while later, Russell appeared puffing along the old railway line and running very well.

Gerry Mullen has covered every inch of the WHW and every type of weather over the years so would have no problems with the clear skies and undulating route to Drymen. Russell wanted to to be dropped off part way along Gerry's route on the Killearn Road to continue his day of running with a gentle stride out into Drymen, a sign that Russell is returning to good form.

A peaceful morning on the edge of Drymen was interrupted by the minibus reversing beeper as we arrived ready to launch Davie Watt over Conic Hill to Balmaha. The last time Davie ran this leg we had our minibus flat tyre incident and Davie had to keep running until we had that fixed. This time Davie made sure that he did not take his mobile phone with him to be absolutely certain that we could not give him the "Davie, we've got a problem, just keep running and we'll catch up with you somewhere" phone call. About 10 minutes after arrival, Russell and then Gerry appeared, winding through the morning dew covered field to the changeover on the Drymen Road. Then Davie was off and so were we on the road to Balmaha.

After an absence of many years, Alan Cullie has made a very welcome return to the Harriers and the WHW. However, before Alan got his chance to run, we had more than enough time to get various projectiles stuck up trees in the Balmaha car park. We also had the benefit of a fit and agile Stuart Gibson to climb the tree!

I am sure Davie was delighted to see the minibus and Alan Cullie waiting to take over when he emerged from the forest into the car park, running as smoothly as ever. As the first half mile or so out of Balmaha is a little bit tricky to navigate, I had taken Alan on a little recce of that section whilst waiting on Davie. Once Alan was off and running, we were confident he would stay on course with the age old instruction of "keep the loch on your left, the sky above you and the ground beneath you" as we headed along the twisty road to Milarachy lay-by.

As the Harriers contributed to the raising of global water levels by skimming stones from the beach into Loch Lomond, our esteemed club president Kenny Leinster "disappeared" for his traditional secret warm-up further along the beach. Just in the nick of time he returned as Alan soon appeared on the beach after a strong run. The stage to Rowardennan is a real test of strength and after missing some weeks of training with a persistent injury, this would not be a comfortable run for Kenny.

Rowardennan was not its usual self. There were plenty of walkers and some runners but NO MIDGES!! The skies had also clouded over but this was no bad thing as I was on the next leg along the lochside and the underfoot conditions would be enough of a distraction without sweat in the eyes. As we waited for Kenny, Sandy started her warm up with a highland dancing demonstration; at least one Harrier is light on her feet at that time of the morning.

The "run" along the lochside was going as well as it could given the un-runable underfoot conditions after the first 4 miles of forest trails and I was glad to eventually emerge into the open a few miles from the end of the 14 mile leg and actually start running fast again. Unfortunately, having negotiated the most treacherous part of the route safely, I clipped a rock and "hit the ground running" on a downhill section, landing heavily on my right side. My right elbow took the main impact on the stony path and after a few seconds lying face down wondering how that had happened, I established that my elbow and right side were a "bloody" mess but my legs were OK. So I got up and started running again. I'm not sure if it was the rush of Adrenalin from the fall or the 20 seconds rest I had lying on the ground but my legs actually felt more lively over that final ten minutes than they had before the fall. By now the sun was back out again and I was a little dehydrated so I was glad to round the corner and see the new wooden bridge with Jim Holmes at the far end waiting to take over for the next leg to Crianlarich. A big thanks to Dr Billy Buchanan and Frances the Pharmaicist for quick and effective first aid to my elbow using the extensive medical facilities of Beinglas Farm (the tap outside the toilet block, a tube of Germaline and a sterile dressing). I was soon fit and ready to walk back to the minibus and head for the hills of Crianlarich. For the first time though, I wasn't fit enough to make it up the hill to the changeover, so apologies to Jim and Andy for missing that.

In the days when Jim could rarely manage to get away for the full weekend, he used to drive up to meet us, do this leg and then drive home. So he knows the trail well. Today would be one of the hottest Jim has experienced on that exposed climb but the upside was that the river of "coo poo" near the top was solidified by the heat, a major benefit! When Jim arrived at the changeover, he was met by an idyllic scene as numerous Harriers and walkers lazed in the warm sun. Andy Henderson was ready for action and would have Stuart Gibson in tow to keep him company. This next stage from the deer fence to the A84 crossing at Ewich has a lactic acid inducing uphill start but finishes with a steep, rocky downhill but is otherwise quite straightforward. Despite this (and I'm not saying who) one of those two runners tells me that the other runner actually went off course up a dead end and had to turn back to get back on the correct path! Is there no part of the WHW that we are absolutely confident with after 27 years of trying!

Davie Searil was on the next stage from Ewich to Tyndrum. Now there is no chance of Davie getting lost, of that I am confident (although we have lost someone on that leg too in the past) given that he spends a large proportion of his Spring training on various sections of the WHW. Davie had a few volunteers to accompany him on this leg, who probably forgot that Davie is motoring at a fair pace these days and this would certainly not be an easy run in the midday sun. It was therefore no surprise to see Frances and Gerry gasping in Davie's wake as they ran to the changeover at the main road crossing in Tyndrum.

After last year's off-piste excursion to the Mamore Lodge and an unscheduled close inspection of the ground, Allan McLellan was on the traditional "rehab" leg from Tyndrum to Bridge of Orchy, a real confidence builder with good running and easy navigation. Tragically there had been a serious motor bike accident just outside Tyndrum which delayed our progress to Bridge of Orchy slightly and dampened the atmosphere on the bus for a while. However we had time for reflection on arrival at Bridge of Orchy and time to get Sandy psyched up for her first leg of the day up and over the hill into Inveroran; a right wee tester. When Allan appeared down the steep hill from the railway station, Sandy was ready to take over and had a few others to accompany her (plus a few toasting her departure from the bar I think!). Once again, these runners (Jim Holmes and Davie Searil) underestimated just how fast Sandy is, particularly on the steep, rocky descents and suffered a lot trying to keep up!




Very much in-form Joanne McEvoy was trusted with the infamous "long road to Oban", otherwise known as Rannoch Moor. This is a two thirds up hill, one third down hill leg over very exposed terrain covering a distance of 8 miles and offers the chance for some fast running if you are confident enough over the rocky terrain. Joanne was clearly confident and running well as we traced her progress as a rapidly approaching dot on the horizon as we waited at Black Rock Cottage. Sandy would take the next leg to Kingshouse from where Gordon McInally was to officially take over. There were quite a few escorts up for these legs, buoyed by the prospect of being picked up at the bottom of the hill in Kingshouse if the legs didn't feel up to continuing with Gordon.

Sandy and her entourage were off and we drove down the hill to the main road and on to the single track road down to Kingshouse where we were met with a security fence!! Kingshouse hotel is being demolished and rebuilt hence the site was out of bounds to road traffic! News to me..... From our position high on the hill in the comfort of the minibus, we had a fine view of the pack as they arrived in Kingshouse a good quarter of a mile away from us. They looked happy enough from that distance and I certainly couldn't hear any shouts of "come and get us" over the main road traffic noise, so we turned around and carried on. Turns out there was a subsequent case of minibus mistaken identity as the entourage detoured off the WHW to intercept a white minibus in a lay-by which they thought was us. Of course there is no way we would spoil their run by taking them off route into unknown territory, so the detour was a wasted effort. There must have been another white minibus in Glencoe that weekend.What are the chances of that!

Anyway, Gordon wasn't bothered. He had his leg to run and was leading the grumbling pack along the surprisingly undulating trail parallel to the main road in fine form. The good weather meant that the lay-by at the bottom of the Devil's Staircase was full so we had a job off-roading in the minibus to get a parking space. We eventually succeeded and Geo Ferguson headed out to warm-up. Geo would be required to put both his mountaineering strength and his running ability to good use on this steep climb and fast descent into Kinlochleven. And that's why he was given this leg; a good match. When Gordon arrived, Geo set off, whilst Gordon warned us that there might be some slightly disenchanted members of his pack yet to arrive. We braced ourselves. But we needn't have as Frances is a true runner and the extra distance of the detour was just miles in the tank and more training impact!

The longish drive around to Kinlochleven passed smoothly and there we prepared Stuart Gibson for the scene of last years mishap; the run from Kinlochleven over the Larigmore to Lundavra; a leg that Stuart had never set foot on before. Never has anyone been so well briefed by so many Harriers in advance of a WHW leg. Even my map was brought out! We also heard rumours that a new forest road had been built up top associated with some hyrdo power works. That wasn't on my 1990's map; so what could possibly go wrong? Well with Stuart on the leg, the only thing that could go wrong was that he could get to the changeover point quicker than we could drive around there and of course he does not know the leg so how would he know where to stop and wait for us? And how would we know if we had arrived at the changeover after Stuart had gone through?  Forget the big climb and the rocky surface up top, the real challenge on that leg is the minibus drive (only kidding Stuart).

We had quite a steady and smooth drive around to Lundavra and we waited pensively for a sight of Stuart. After waiting all day for her leg, Frances was lined up for the final solo leg into Glen Nevis. It would have been very disheartening if Stuart had already passed through as we were driving up there. However, after about 5 minutes we got the shout that he was approaching and we gave a collective sigh of relief as we were now guaranteed a good finishing time (possibly a swim in the hotel pool and definitely dinner). Stuart had definitely given everything and was bent over double as he handed over to Frances who accelerated away up the trail for a great 5 mile run in to Glen Nevis.
The re-modelled Braveheart car park was the scene of the final changeover and the start of the final leg, a 0.8 mile pack run into Fort William and the finish. It was good to briefly catch-up with friend and former Harrier Jimmy Stewart (a Roy Bridge resident for the past 20 years) who was waiting to meet us having run over the Glen Nevis section before our arrival. We had no sooner arrived and found Jimmy in this much extended car park when Frances came flying down the hill and the final changeover took place (amid some confusion as to how to get out of the car park!).

A few minutes later, the first group of Harriers arrived at the finish in Fort William setting a great time of 13 hours 51 minutes for the 96 miles. It was great to be back under 14 hours again and more to the point, in time for our 8pm dinner booking! There is no doubt that this was a fine effort by all.

Swims and jacuzzi's were enjoyed to the full and we were then treated to a great feed at the Ben Nevis Hotel. As my drinking arm was injured, I retreated at about 1100 (I think) but I understand that  the party continued for many hours in the bar and at various planned (and unplanned) locations throughout the hotel! Second favourite part of the weekend for me (after the running) is always the cooked breakfast on the Sunday morning and this year was no exception. Some even managed a pre-breakfast run (more of Kenny's secret training) or swim. I had a post-breakfast bandage reapplication from Dr Buchanan. The weather wasn't as nice on the Sunday so we restricted our plans to a gentle drive down to Glencoe Chairlift where we based ourselves in the cafe and filled ourselves with cake and coffee. After a few more hours of driving, we were back in EK and all too soon another magnificent West Highland Way weekend was over.

These things don't just happen, so a huge thanks to Frances for organising the hotel and dinner, to Kenny for arranging the (right size of) minibus (on the right date), for Jim and Kenny for sharing the driving with me, for the unfortunately absent Eddie for arranging the pick-up schedule and most of all for the hugely entertaining company and enthusiasm of the Harriers present. As I said, the WHW relay dosen't just happen but it is happening again next year on 18th and 19th May. Mark it in your diary!
Alan

ps a link to the split times will be inserted soon.
pps an alternative WHW report in pictures (with captions) will be published on a blog near you soon! Take cover; you have been warned!

Monday 11 June 2018

Roon the Toon

Six harriers limbered up on the synthetic track at Ayrshire Athletics Arena in Kilmarnock on Sunday, part of an impressive start list of 1,137 runners for the third running of the Roon the Toon 10k. Conditions were warm but not as oppressive of late but as this was my third race in eight days I didn't expect to break any records despite the lower humidity.
Scottish Athletics chairman and WHW Race director Ian Beattie was the honorary starter but, as a former Ayrshire athlete (Troon Tortoises), intended to run the course too as did his wife Sandra. He had threatened to bolt off down the road shouting 'go!' over his shoulder but sensibly did as he was asked, started the race and slipped quietly into the field. 
I won't bore you with the details of my run largely because there was nothing of note to mention. I did briefly think I might catch Paul but that optimism faded on my way up the gradual hill to Kilmarnock railway station, slowing as I went. Finishing on the track is always enjoyable and I did put in a bit of an effort over the final couple of hundred meters to the line. The course is fairly flat and fast should anyone fancy a pb attempt here next year.
Some of you will be aware of Richard Cooper and his son Kieran, impressive runners in normal conditions, who ran from the south side of Glasgow to Kilmarnock, a distance of some 20 miles, then proceeded to run 39.20 for 50th place and 35.52 in tenth respectively - wow. These are the same guys who hatched a scheme last year to run to every single turbine at Whitelees Windfarm - absolutely nuts! Kieran by the way is still a junior. Dad Richard tells me his son is responsible for all these crazy ideas but I can only assume Kieran takes after his father and it's more like fifty-fifty. They did rather wimp out and accepted a lift home from a friend. I love folk that do daft things!
Last year's collage of pictures of Kieran standing by the numbered turbines, all 215 of them
Martin running alongside the afore-mentioned Richard Cooper, did I mention he runs ultras too?
The female race winner was Elspeth Curran of Kilbarchan AAC in 36.37 while Neil Renault of Edinburgh AC took the men's title in 32.11. Ex-harrier Kevan Harvey was third in 32.46 (or, as I said to him afterwards, rubbish - should have been sub-32! Sorry Kevan...)
Finished
Leading harrier on the day, in twentieth place, was Kevin Farmer in 36.42, next home was Martin Howell, fresh from his 3rd overall and first auld guy (his words, not mine!) at Eglinton parkrun the previous day, crossing the line in 40.51 for 69th place and, I think - correct me if I'm wrong Martin, 3rd MV50 (sadly no prize though). Not far behind was the flying Joanne McEvoy in 41.53 for 89th place followed by Paul Rooney in 48.39 with me not too far behind in 49.15 and John Boyd coming home in 50.49.
Occasionally I entertain notions of maybe getting an auld guy's placing too but today spotted the first MV60 was a guy from Cambuslang in 37.01!! Shakes head and gives up...
For the record Ian Beattie ran 44.35 and Sandra came over the line in 47.55. Talking to them afterwards I did jokingly attempt to blag my way onto the start list of the WHWR a week on Friday but was given short shrift, guess I'll have to content myself with supporting Ruth after all. All joking apart Jim and I are really looking forward to our support roles, complete freedom to cajole and shout at Ruth for hours on end - just like our training runs really.

Many, many thanks go to Ruth and George who were out and about supporting, quite literally in George's case by helping someone to the finish who could barely walk, a nice touch G. Folk like George helped keep down the dnf tally to only four, pretty good given the size of the field. A few photos from out on the course
Kevin

Joanne

Paul
Me smiling/grimacing at Ruth
John
Photo credits go to Ruth, George, Richard Cooper and, as always, the one and only Kenny Philips.

Postscript, I almost forgot to mention the very impressive goody bag. In addition to the quality tee shirt and medal we were given a stuff bag, mars bar, an empire biscuit made by Brownings (makers of the famous Killie pie), a key fob/bottle opener, pen and a voucher for two free tickets to Rugby Park at any game over the coming season, sadly not including games against Celtic. Oh, and a Specsavers balloon!

Saturday 9 June 2018

A HARD WEEKS RUNNING

I guess as I was the only Harrier at Carluke and Corstorphine it falls to me to give you a race report of sorts.
As most of you know I do like a race or two but ive had one of my toughest weeks yet.
It all started last Saturday at Strathclyde parkrun where I wanted a testing 5k but it was warm and ive never really enjoyed the heat doing most of my best times during the winter months. It didn't go well as after a good 2k I lost all my pace and dropped 2 mins over the last 3k. Never mind it was warm so I just accept this wasn't one of my better days. Onto the Sunday and I headed for Carluke for a 10k which was on a different course from which I done over 10 years ago. It was threatening to rain and I was praying but it never came and was still warm and really muggy. The course starts on the track for three quarters of a lap then downhill to 1k. A good start and felt good but the course then bites with the next 3k all uphill with no wee flat parts. Throw in the mugginess and I think I lost a gallon of water in this part. You then have a kilometre or so of downhill before climbing again for about a k, some flat to just before 8k then big downhill to 9k and picking up some good speed and recovery but the last k has a sting back up the first k to the stadium and round the track to the finish. I ran 58 mins which is slower than ive been running lately but it was so warm and hilly I was reasonably happy with that. Just a note for everyone, don't go here looking for a PB, its not going to happen but it is a good test of your strength. On Monday it was our own Chatelherault race, Having run the course 2 weeks before with my fastest time since 2013 I was a bit apprehensive after the previous 2 days but managed to run faster and ran my best time since 2011 so happy with that and the fact that the legs where still ok even if a bit tired. Bit of a rest day on the Tuesday with a very gentle 5k easy run with the Tuesday Harriers. Onto the Wednesday and a trip to Edinburgh for the Corstorphine 5 miles. Ive done this race a few times over the years and knew it can be a good course for times as the start and finish are fast. Your first 1.5 miles are slightly downhill giving that fast start but at 2 miles your hitting some undulations which can be testing but with a little shortening of the stride I was able to keep a good pace going. Through 3 miles and you have about half a mile that's flat before the biggest climb on the course and with the heat it was a real struggle but I only lost about 30 secs to mile 4. Last mile which is a big downhill except the last 400 yards which inclines slightly back to the start. Finished in 41.50 which was my fastest since 2011. Very happy with that considering the Saturday and Sunday hadn't gone as well as I had hoped for. Onto the Thursday and our own Auldhouse time trial. For the last few years ive not done the run out and back but just taken the car to Langlands. This time I decided just to do the run out and back too. Alan soon had us gathered and off we were at 30 secs intervals. Legs felt tired but working well and ran a good steady 26.30 which on that course and after the previous runs I was happy with and looking back at previous years my fastest since 2015.
This hard running has all been leading up to this Sunday Im on my 2nd rest day at the moment but tomorrow im heading to Bishopton for a 10k that ive been led to believe is pan flat and im going to try and get back under the 52 min mark. Would really appreciate a thunder shower just now to clear the air but will take it as I find it. For someone that has never ran well in the heat its probably some of the best summer running ive had for years.

Russell

Friday 8 June 2018

Rouken Glen 10k

Six harriers headed west last night to Rouken Glen for Giffnock North's 2018 Festival of Running. Sadly Chas was unable to run due to injury but turned up anyway to support his club mates on a lovely warm night.
Five of the six harriers, guess who's missing!
Some heavy clouds and a few minutes of rain brought the temperature down to a pleasant level on the start line. My nephew Gavin was also taking part which gave me a little extra motivation but despite pushing hard from the start he soon overtook me while still within the park. The two of us were nip and tuck until he opened up gap of around one hundred meters due to me walking up the big hill beside Deaconsbank golf course. I was able to chip away at his lead on the latter downhill sections of the route and finally eased past him on the very last slope, race experience and route knowledge still counting for something! The sun was very handily casting long shadows from behind the runners on the extended finishing straight so I was able to see that he wasn't catching me, just as well as I had nothing left and was caught just before the line by another runner who had followed my surge from about 300 meters out. I crossed the line in 49.20, pleased to be under 50 minutes after running the Alloa half last Sunday and with Kilmarnock's Roon the Toon to look forward to next Sabbath. Gavin was only seventeen seconds behind in 49.37 - if he were to join a club, as I pointed out to him later, he'd soon be leaving his uncle trailing in his wake!
Gavin and I after the race

Leading harrier on the night was Callum Wright on 45.08 with other half Kirsty Wilson closely behind in 45.24. Alan Cullie came home next in 46.17 with ex-harrier David Wardrope crossing the line in 48.40. I battled to the finish next followed by Colin Banks, a regular at this race, in 54.04 and Holly Rankin ran 57.04

Women's race winner was Ruth Fraser-Moodie of Springburn Harriers in 39.10 and the men's winner was Iain Reid of Cambuslang Harriers in 32.54.

Thanks to Chas and my brother Brian for some photographs and to both Chas and Neil Green for coming along to support, it's greatly appreciated guys.

Thursday 7 June 2018

June Auldhouse 5k Time Trial

The Auldhouse summary database is now updated and I note many fine performances. A 5k PB for Auldhouse first timer Carol Dixon and a course best by over a minute for Chris McCarron (might even be a 5k PB?). Fastest time of the night went to Kevin Farmer, a little slower than last month but still a good time (18:21). Fastest woman was Karen Allen (22:55).

On one of the warmest evenings we have ever held the Auldhouse 5k time trial, we had another great turnout from the club. Provisional results available here. I will update the Auldhouse 5k database over the weekend.
Alan

Hill of Tarvit

Well June has arrived and it brings about 2 of my favorite races of the year. Tonight's Hill of Tarvit and Sandy Slither on Wednesday, 27th. Both races are hosted by Fife AC and are a few quid on the night.

Hill  of  Tarvit
Although it has that word "Hill" in it, it's actually not that much of a hill. Its a tough 5.3 mile multi terrain race, out and back with about 2 mile track/bridal paths, 2 mile on the road (with about 3 Auldhouse dips) and the Hill in the middle - no specified path up it as it's green grazing land and usually occupied by the local flock! It was a beautiful, hot summers night and no wind, ideal. Tonight there were 3 Harries taking part - Joanne trying to beat 42.27 last year - not feeling great and not having ran for a week, but still took a minute off it with 41.35, Ian Hughes new to these parts and had been psyched up for days wanting a tough challenge and something different - he found it and came in with 41.05, and me - no one will be bothered, but 50.38, 2 secs quicker!!
I could go on and on about it being a great race...... but just ask the other 2 next time you see them as they'll still be objective about races in Fife.

As I mentioned, the Sandy Slither is on 27th...it's point to point, over 3 beaches, cliff tops and finishes at a pub! Both Ian and me are taking cars, so plenty of spare seats should anyone wish to join us. We'd need to leave at 5pm for 7.3pm start.

George

Tuesday 5 June 2018

Calderglen Harriers Trail Running Festival - Course Maps 2018

Outline maps of the courses (toddler dash, 1k, 3k, 5k and 10k) are available to view/download here.

Monday 4 June 2018

Mugdock Park Trail Race 3rd June 2018

Bearing in mind that Julie mentioned in a recent blog report that if any Harrier was running a race not in our calendar then they should write up a report about it, and also as another wee “Buchanan” ( you know who you are) has been blogging up a storm, as well as turning in several PB’s, so I thought I had better put down something about my efforts at the above race.

The reason for my entry was that Dawn and Matt live in Blanefield and Mugdock Park is on their back door so to speak and Dawn decided this should be a family affair. As the race advert stated a free beer and as much cake as you could eat at the finish no further incentive was required. Andrew had also entered but unfortunately a few days before the race he came down with a bug and could not compete or even in fact come over to support on the day.
Before
Race day was bright with no wind, and unexpected support from Jim Mearns who was their to cheer on Majella who had also entered despite as she said herself not being strictly a runner but had decided just to go for it. The course is 8.5 miles and heads out on the West Highland Way from Milngavie before branching off into Mugdock Park after about 2 miles for a loop of about 4.5 miles then the return is the same as the start 2 miles back. There are only 2 real hills at about 1 mile and then the main hill at 2 miles. I must admit that on the second hill I did walk, mentioning this to Jim later he said I have potential as an ultra runner as that is their tactic on steeper sections, I am glad I still have the potential for something , thanks Jim.

Despite my original intention of treating this as a “training run” as usual you see someone running and think they are looking quite good I shall try to stick in there and before you know it you are out of your comfort zone and into the “working hard zone”.
During.....

Anyway utilising this new motivation and with the fact that the 2 hills were done, with the remainder merely undulating and the last mile more or less downhill I managed to finish in 1 hour 14.43 which I was pleased with and 2nd V60, the 1st V60 was about 3 mins faster now why did I walk up that hill!!
To round off Matt was 4th in 57 mins 34 secs, and Dawn came in at 1 hour 31mins with a happy smile and a sprint finish. As this was her longest run for a while she did well and fully deserved her bottle of beer. Majella did very well (Jim’s coaching !!) coming in at 1Hour 38.50. A Harrier vest is waiting for you Majella. Despite what it looks like in the accompanying photo Finlay did not mention to get the screw top off, wee soul all he knew was that it was a “bottle”.
After
To round of it was a good course with great views in the open sections and some twisty trail through the woods to keep you amused. Certainly a well run event with plenty a signs and marshals and great cakes into the bargain, the scouts should be proud of their race. (and yes you really could have as much cake as you wanted).
Say no more (just eat)!

Certainly it will be in my diary for next year. What about yours !!
Billy

Victoria Parkrun & SVHC Cairnpapple Hill Road Race

Saturday 26th May was the second of the Victoria Parkruns in the grand prix. It was also the day of the SVHC Cairnpapple Hill road race at the Bathgate Highland Games.   Should I do both? It is only 6 miles! Well, I decided to wait and see how I felt after Victoria Park. I headed off to get Sandy and we then made our way to Victoria Park.  The conditions were perfect. We met the other Harriers, warm ups complete and soon we were all at the start line ready to race. First Harrier to finish was junior Harrier Lewis Moir in a fantastic time of 20.33 and another pb.   To my amazement I actually ran 20.59, a pb by 4 seconds. Nothing else for it, I just had to go to Bathgate.
Richard Lawton was next in a time of 21.06 and a pb with Jim Holmes hot on his heels crossing the line in 21.08. The other times are: Stuart Waugh 22.27, Lorraine Buchanan 23.48 and another pb, Gordon McInally 24.11 and Russell Couper 24.31.  Unfortunately,  Sandy pulled out due to a slight injury. Thanks to Marion, Andy Buchanan and the children for cheering us all on.

Russell was also at Victoria Parkrun and had decided to do the Cairnpapple hill race too. He offered to drive and picked me and Geo up just before 1pm. The weather was getting warmer and by the time we got to Bathgate, suncream was the order of the day.  The race started at 2.30pm with one lap of the games park before running out onto the road for 3 miles , all uphill to the telephone mast, round the mast and back down to the park.  Heading up the dirt track to the mast the leaders were now making their way down. It was at this point that 3 females ran passed me on their descent which meant I was lying in 4th place. I knew there was too big a gap and my plan was to hold onto 4th place which I managed to do. The first female was  Fiona Mathieson who finished in a time of 41.10.  Continuing up round the mast and down the dirt track I passed Geo and then Russell on their way up. The next 3 miles quickly pass and when you hear the sound of the bagpipes coming from the park it means 200 metres to go and a sprint finish into the park. A great finish to a tough race. My time was 48.49 and I finished 1st FV50. Geo's time was 49.53 and Russell finished in a time of 57.59. Another great day for a run!
Frances

Alloa half marathon

It was rather ironic that the rearranged 36th Alloa half should finally take place on one of the warmest and clammiest days of the year given that it was postponed back in mid March because of snow. As I am well aware I struggle to breathe properly in humid conditions (likely a throwback to the hay fever and asthma I suffered years ago) the irony certainly wasn't lost on me as I lined up on the start line along with 1,636 other runners, sweat pouring off me from only a half mile warm-up. Run ABC Scotland reported that the numbers were down around a thousand on the normal early-season turn out, some no doubt unable to make the new date and opting for the offered refund and others deferring until next year.
It was so hot that we, Gerry and I, pilfered (it was him, honest!) a bottle of water from the finish line before the start of the race! Shh, don't tell anyone...
I knew almost immediately after the gun went off that I was going to have an awful day and within the first two miles was slowing from my planned nine minute-miling. Indeed I felt so bad that I briefly considered dropping out but thought a training run in these conditions might stand me in good stead for my support duties in three weeks time. I wouldn't normally take water on board during a thirteen miler but Sunday was an extreme exception, in fact I walked for thirty yards or so at the first station in order to get plenty of fluid in without gulping and then poured the remainder over the back of my head.
Although she caught and easily passed me I was delighted to chat for a wee while to Julie's sister Louise, racing for the first time under her married name and possibly for the first time since her health problems of the last couple of years. She very soon showed me a clean pair of heels and in fact finished almost a minute per mile in front of me. I look forward to seeing her again at the start of the WHW race where she will be supporting husband Stuart, go Stoosh!
The next water station was just past the Sterling Furniture warehouse in Tillicoultry where both Gerry and I, separately, remembered Dougie Donnelly! Where is he now?
At a point on the course the organisers euphemistically called the finger loop, an annoying but necessary (to result in the required 13.1 miles) diversion into an industrial estate and back out again, I heard my name being shouted by big John McBride. He was entering the turning as I was exiting which gave me motivation to stop feeling sorry for myself and get my bottom into gear.
The four mile long (and it was long!) straight run along the A91 was made slighly more pleasant by a wee breeze developing which, by the time we reached the turn for the infamous Menstrie Brae, had begun to clear both the clouds and the oppressive atmosphere - yay! I could breathe again. I ran strongly up the hill and the next long drag up Alloa Road through Tullibody.
Having only run well for the final three miles or so I was surprised to find that my finishing time of 2.02.45 was only twenty seconds per mile slower than my original target despite my perception having been more akin to running on treacle rather than tarmac. All in all a hard workout on a thoroughly unpleasant morning for running, so not all bad.

The mens race was won by Michael Christoforou of Edinburgh AC in 1.08.13 and the female race by Fanni Gyurko of Central AC in 1.20.22. (the top runner's names aren't getting any easier to spell!) 
Mike Christoforou winning last weeks Edinburgh 10k
Harriers (and friends) results were as follows

Gerry McParland, 46th overall 1.24.44
Julie Beveridge 1.36.51
David Wardrope 1.44.09
Kirsty Wilson 1.47.04
Louise Douglas 1.51.25
Karen Allen 1.53.02
David Searil 2.02.45
John McBride 2.07.54
Sadly a dns from Sandy
It's fair to say that everyone would have run at least a couple of minutes faster in March conditions, sans snow of course.
Louise showing off her medal

Kirsty doing likewise
I've quoted chip times for everyone as these would appear to be provisional results and strongly suspect there are a few errors as my time, for one, was 16 seconds quicker than that quoted although nowhere near enough to take me below two hours, sadly.
I should add it was heartening to see the organisers allowing 21 runners to get a finishing time despite being outside the quoted three hour cut-off time and indeed the final finisher was nearer the four-hour mark, crossing the line in 3.48.40. There seem to have been only 12 dnfs, surprisingly low given the  conditions. (thanks to the organisers for including them in the results, perhaps they read my rant on the subject the other week!)
Photos thanks to Kirtsy, Louise and the Edinburgh Marathon Festival.