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Thursday 31 October 2019

LANARKSHIRE AAA XC CHAMPIONSHIP

The XC will be held on Saturday 23rd November
Races are for all age groups and need to be entered individually.

New venue is Kirkland Park in Strathaven.

Our annual Cross Country event has a new home this year as a trial instead of our normal course at Drumpellier Park.

Medals up for grabs for the first 3 in each race as well as the first 3 teams. The club trophies go to the clubs with the least number of points so get your clubs together to try and get a team in each race as it means 13 points for every event you don't field a team.
Entry is through Qbuster 
Entry code is laaaxc_19

Monday 28 October 2019

LONDON MARATHON CLUB PLACE

Anyone that entered the London marathon ballot and was unsuccessful, the club will get 1 place.
If you bring your rejection letter or email to Frances or Russell we will do a draw for the place after the Brampton race during dinner in Moffat. We will then give you details of how to enter with the club entry.

Saturday 26 October 2019

IM GOING TO BUY SPIKES (Cumbernauld xc relays)


The title of this post will become apparent later.
Today we had 11 harriers running at Cumbernauld in the National XC Relays.
The course wasn't looking too wet when I arrived to collect the numbers but the first race was just starting. The course did cut up a bit as the day went on but ive seen it a lot worse.
The heavy downpour just before the Ladies started didn't help.
First we had the Ladies unfortunately only 3 and we need 4 for a complete team.
On 1st leg duty was Kirsty Wilson who had to run fast as she was working at 4pm.

Off she went with the Calvary charge that you get on 1st legs flying round the course in 17.43 and in 48th place. Next up was Karen Allan who looked to be coasting at times but im sure she was working very hard as she finished in 17.11 bringing the team up to 38th. Next up was Lorraine Buchanan only 6 days after York Marathon and legs still a bit heavy running a little slower than last year but that's was to be expected finishing in 20.32 and putting the team in 48th after 3 legs. This was well inside the top half of the field. Well done girls.

Onto the men and we had 3 teams, a M50 (3legs) a senior team (4) and a single runner.
On first leg duty was Jim Holmes M50, Mark Saez Senior and Russell Couper solo.

Handshakes and best wishes exchanged we were lined up and away on the calvary charge. Mark pulled away very quickly but Jim was not that far away as we went round the lower field then up the big hill at which point I found my legs were quite heavy and I had to work really hard up it. On the top part we were running into a very strong wind which was real tough. Round the top part and legs were going ok again through a few muddy sections and round the loop at half way. Jim was starting to put a bit more distance between us and Mark had long gone. Again we were running into a very strong wind until we made the turn at the top of the course again. Got to the big downhill and pushed hard to it to get maximum advantage before the last climb. Think I pushed a bit too hard as there is a wee dip just after the top and lost my footing and was going down. Maybe I should get a job as a stuntman as I went into a roll which fully protected me and after about 3 full rolls I was able to pick myself up and carry on unhurt. If anyone remembers the Jurgen Klinsman roll from many years ago im sure it was a good remake. Really struggled on the last climb but I always do and round to the finish. 20.02 which was 36secs down on last year but still a good run. Mark had ran really well finishing in 15.31 with Jim in 17.57.

Leg 2 runners away Callum Wright for the senior team and making his xc debut in shiny new spikes ( they didn't stay clean for long). We also had Geo Ferguson for the M50 team. Callum ran round as if hes been doing this for years finishing with a time of 16.29. Geo on the other hand had an incentive to push hard towards the end as Callum Hawkins was running 3rd leg and was closing fast towards the end but Geo held on to finish about 30 secs in front. Onto our 3rd legs with David Wardrope for the seniors and Alan McLellan for the M50 team. David didn't look to comfortable when running and after losing a shoe at the wests 2 weeks ago what could be going wrong today. He had taped his shoes up today to make it secure but after running into the first bit of mud his foot was slipping out of the shoe. He spent the rest of the run avoiding muddy parts but still finished in a very respectful 19.13 After finishing he declared to me hes going to buy spikes for the cross countries. Alan on the other hand had a great run. After not being able to take the start line of the Aviemore half 2 weeks ago the training he had put in paid dividends today. Flying round the course in 16.35.



Onto our 4th leg runner for the senior team Andrew Buchanan also running 6 days after the York Marathon. Andrew just seemed to pass one runner after another all the way round but the Marathon was still in his legs finishing in 15.34 some 30 odd secs down on last year. A good day had by all as it stayed dry for most of the day. Thanks to Frances Ferguson for you support today and the cakes and cookies for afters.

All Frances' photos are in this album.

Friday 25 October 2019

NATIONAL XC RELAYS CUMBERNAULD

Teams and running order for Saturday are here.
There is one place available in the ladies team for one of the reserves mentioned below (4 per team for the National). The M50 teams are 3 per team. All other male age groups are 4 per team (so we can take 2 x M50 or older or we can take 3 of any other age to complete the male "B team").

This Saturday is the National xc Relays at Cumbernauld
Ladies start at 13.20 and men at 14.45
Please pay your £6 entry fee to me preferably on Thursday night but before I give you your number.
I will be at the course to register the teams and collect numbers by 12.20.
I need Ladies there by 12.30 and men by 13.45 at the latest.
Those running are
K Allen, L Buchanan and K Wilson
R Couper, A McLellan, D Wardrope, M Saez. J Holmes, E Reid, G Ferguson, C Wright, A Buchanan.
There is some space in the teams so if any of the below listed wish a run let myself or Alan know by Thursday night.
Anyone listed above that can no longer make it again let us know ASAP.

Reserves are
C Steven, D Watt, S Waugh, A Derrick, I Hughes, K Leinster, K Farmer, W Buchanan, M Howell, C McCarron.
J McEvoy, J Beveridge, A Hayden, J Thomson, A Lessells, M Beaton, C McSorley.

Teams will be added later in the week.

Lindsays National Cross Country Relay Championships (incorporating Masters Relays)
Cumbernauld (Cumbernauld Park)
SATURDAY 26th October 2019
PARKING
Due to the New School build at Cumbernauld High School, there will be a PARK AND RIDE system
operating from St Maurice’s High School, North Road, Cumbernauld G68 9AG
There will be a minibus shuttle system operating from 0845hrs until 1630hrs between the High School and
Meadow View near the course.
Those teams arriving by Coach will be able to drop off athletes on the ring road who will then be able to walk
to the course.
CLUB TENTS can be dropped off also at Meadow View – Cars will not be permitted access to the theatre car
park access road. Car Drivers must have adequate help to drop off tents and return to St Maurice’s High
School.
Please car share if at all possible, the school car park will fill up.
There will be access to toilets at the school.
There is NO PUBLIC PARKING at the course. Officials & staff parking by permit only near the course (details
and permits will be sent out separately).
The course is approximately 10mins bus transfer from the High School.
Any Car illegally parked will be subject to local Police measures, which may include ticketing o

Wednesday 23 October 2019

Grand Prix - BRAMPTON TO CARLISLE ROAD RACE

Our annual trip to Brampton for the 10 mile race will be on Sunday 17th 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 £16 or £18 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 4th Nov. Non participants and friends are welcome too.
Entry forms are here http://www.borderharriers.co.uk/files/module_document_pdfs/b2c-2019-entry-form.pdf   
Seats on the coach will be reserved with the £15 payment 

I need forms and payments by 7th November

Monday 21 October 2019

Hills, Hills and more Hills- Queens parkrun

On Saturday I traveled down to Queens park to take part in the inaugural Queens parkrun, another one to add to the growing parkrun list which shows just how popular and friendly they are. So then I tried to run what I thought was the route in reverse, quickly realising this would be a tough outing despite telling myself to hold back after a long training week. With the normal announcements made we were soon underway into a three lap course. The route begins with a sharp right turn followed by the first hill, and a turn on to the second hill past the tennis club. A flattish straight followed before the long slog to the flag pole by this time I was sitting comfortable in fourth.place. After the downhill finish the first lap was over, phew only 9 more hills to go. In the end I was fifth overall in just over 20.40. which was pleasing considering the severity of the course, certainly not a PB course. The Marshalls were great as always, you would have never have guessed this was the inaugural event. 387 people ran, with another parkrun almost on our doorstep. I think it's fair to say that Tollcross, Drumchapel and Plean parkruns have met their match. Great event with plenty of exciting climbs.

Chris

Salomon Skyline


I might be a little late with this report but so many people seem intrigued by this event. A couple of weeks ago we travelled North to Glen Coe to take part in a Salomon Skyline event. Still fuelled by chicken pie from the day before I began my warm-up around Kinlochleven, with both nerves and excitement brewing. Next was the mandatory kit check, where a head torch, nutrition, and waterproofs among other items had be carried, as our ultra runners will know its a no kit, no race policy.

I was running the Three Mealls Skyrace, departing Kinlochleven at 8.40 a steady climb through the tree line across rivers and over rocks was taken for the first 2 and a half miles before climbing on to more serious exposed ridges and basic Grade 1 scrambling across Devils Ridge before eventually depending into Glen Nevis. at this point I passed a runner who on closer inspection happened to be Lochaber and Mountain Equipment Runner Finlay Wild, 10 time winner of the Ben Nevis race and an international elite sky runner, I was in the wrong company at least for just now. Don't worry as soon as he started running he passed me. The story goes that Finlay was leading the race only to encounter a problem, injury and so JOGGED to the Finish.  A power walk followed up the next exposed section where a steep and uneven descent was met.

The final 3 miles were completely downhill, across bog land and back down into Kinlochleven. At this point very good mountain runners from all around the world had started to pass me, and this is while I thought I was descending at a fast pace. The final 500m into Ice factor was the most enjoyable I think I had ever ran ,managing to hold my position until the final descent. I finished in 36th position overall, (3 hours 56 Mins for the 18 mile course) despite being the youngest in the field.

The race was one by Nadir Maguet of Team La Sportiva. I quickly refilled with a coffee and a well deserved piece of cake and rejoice in what I can only describe as a completely epic race, with a surprise result. The hill running certainly works. Finally this is a great event and so is sky running in general but its definitely something that requires craziness, fearlessness (which I have yet to develop), mountaineering experience and a careful build up. Back to the trails for now. This race helped me to decide that next year I want to focus on mountain running and sky running. See Kenny, there's somebody as insane as you.

Chris

Saturday 19 October 2019

Lanarkshire Road Relays


Due to various marathons, injuries, holidays and Gruffalo shows clashing with this race, a smaller than usual contingent of Harriers gathered for the Lanarkshire Road Relays in Drumpellier Park.

I saw a panicked look on Dave Wardrope’s face. The word on the street was that a huge puddle had formed under the railway bridge and the best course of action was to run straight through the middle of it!
This was meant to be a road race! And there was no sign of Frances in her wellies!

He still had the emotional and physical scars of losing his shoe in the cross country last week and subsequently getting scalped by Russell.

Dave was on first leg duty along with Morgan Beaton and Gordon McInally, and they lined up against some strong teams from, amongst others, Shettleston, Cambuslang, East Kilbride, Hamilton and Motherwell.

The 4 km course was out and back through the park and it was a pleasing sight to see Dave running strongly to the finish, both shoes still attached, in a time of 16:56.

Morgan was our only lady Harrier running today and flew home in a fine time of 17:55, setting a benchmark for her Dad to beat.
Gordon McInally was another one still smarting from being scalped by Russell last week and in a determined run he laid down the gauntlet by completing the course in 19:01.



Jim Holmes and Russell Couper took over for the second leg in what was a fine day for running. The puddle under the bridge was the memorable feature of the course and offered no real alternative but to crash straight through. Your feet weighed a ton afterwards and it took a few minutes for them to drain and lighten up, just in time to crash straight through it again on the way back! Great fun!
Jim completed the course in 16:45 with Russell coming home in 19:29.



Jim Mearns took on the third leg and had a great run, he gained four places and gave it everything in the home straight to post the fastest Harriers time of the day, 16:39.
Richard Beaton was on the anchor leg and following Morgan's great time he had to put in a hard shift, clocking 17:47. When asked if he enjoyed the run his answer was unprintable!
That’s what we like to see, Harriers giving it all!



Congratulations go to former Harrier Kay Conneff, now running with East Kilbride AC who was part of the ladies’ team who took gold in the relay.

Thanks go to Richard Lawton for volunteering to marshal, thus allowing all of us to run, and to Emma Mearns for making us all look good in her amazing photos. The camera never lies!


Friday 18 October 2019

LANARKSHIRE ROAD RELAYS

Teams added to the end of this post.
Tomorrows race starts at 1.30pm.
I would like everyone there for 12.30
I will register the running order and have the numbers in the visitor centre.
Those running are M Beaton, R Couper, D Wardrope, R Beaton, J Holmes, G McInally and J Mearns.

Running order is as follows:

Ladies: Morgan Beaton

Men A:
Leg 1: David Wardrope
Leg 2: Jim Holmes
Leg 3: Jim Mearns
Leg 4: Richard Beaton

Men B:
Leg 1: Gordon McInally
Leg 2: Russell Couper.



Sunday 13 October 2019

NATIONAL SHORT COURSE XC (Kircaldy)

This years short course XC will be at the High School in Kircaldy on Saturday 9th Nov.
This is a 4k race head to head (no reserves)
Ladies start at 13.10 and men at 13.40
Cost TBC
I need names by Tuesday 22nd Oct.
If you wish entered leave your name HERE.
Those already registered are HERE.

IMPORTANT NOTE Because this race is in November your membership must be valid for November at the time of entry. So if your membership expires at the end of October you must renew before I submit the entries.

West District XC Relay - Kilmarnock

Let's start off with the important part of the message. Davie Searil is thankfully doing fine in hospital and I am sure all Harriers will join me in wishing Davie a speedy and full recovery from yesterday's traumatic event. He tells me he should be out in another 3 days or so, all going well. Please also join me in thanking the on-site first aid team, the ambulance staff, Frances Phimister for bringing her professional expertise before and during the ambulance journey to Hairmyres and to all the Harriers present who helped in one way or another. Thanks also to John Gebbie and the marshals and volunteers from Kilmarnock Harriers for their organisation and preparedness for this sort of eventuality. As Stephen said afterwards, it was a team effort. Get well soon Davie.


And so to the race. Given the weather of the past week, we could not have wished for a better day to run a cross-country relay. The sun was shining and the winds were light. Our new black tent was like a sauna inside such was the solar heating. Add to this a perfect cross country course with a mixture of fast grassy surfaces, some muddy paths, tufty fields, a bit of trail and of course a 20m section of mud and water filled ditch to run through.
Alison having fun in the sun.
Our ladies were off first. Although we did not have a full team, Alison Lessells and Morgan Beaton gave it everything and posted fine times towards the middle to top end of the large field. Alison finished in 18:41 and Morgan in 18:54. Somehow they both finished remarkably clean too! As the racing season progresses, I am confident that both of them will be showing a clean pair of heels to many more runners.
The rapidly improving Morgan looking smooth.
We had two and three quarter men's teams, all of which were in the masters (over 40) category. As always, this was going to be a pretty competitive challenge between our teams. On the first legs we had Jim Holmes pitched up against Davie Wardrope and Gordon McInally. This was Davie's first cross-country for a while and Jim was fired up after having his time increased by a few crucial seconds in the Houston official results which put him behind Eddie. Jim got the A team off to a great start recording a time (on his watch) of 17:55 (pretty much identical to the time he recorded at Houston the week before). Davie Wardrope was meantime having a relative nightmare. He was tracking Jim closely on the initial loop within the park but on exiting the park under the bridge and through the muddy ditch, his trail shoe was sucked off.
Where's my shoe!
A minute or so later, the shoe surfaced, looks like Gordon almost tripped over it!
Retrieved by Frances (Photo courtesy Bobby Gavin)
As his shoe had not re-surfaced, Davie made the decision to carry on with one shoe not realising that just around the next corner there was a section of broken, stony tarmac (and broken glass I noticed on our recce) and this was not pleasant with one bare foot. This section would have to be crossed again on the way back from the "rural" loop, so not good news. When his shoe did resurface, Frances waded in with the wellies and retrieved it and Martin Howell ran after Davie to give him his shoe, although I don't think he put it on and he carried on to the finish with only one shoe. Davie's significantly handicapped time was 20:05 but hopefully no injuries. If it ever happens again, he will definitely stop and put his shoe back on! After an exuberant start, Gordon settled down to a steady pace, finishing in 20:42.
Jim looking focussed
Jim was handing over to Eddie Reid, David was handing over to Kenny Leinster whilst Gordon was handing over to Davie Searil. There's always some psychological warfare where Kenny is involved and this time, Kenny was looking to set himself up for a head to head with Eddie (again). Davie's shoe mishap put paid to that so Eddie had a free run, finishing in 17:55 (on his watch). Oh no! Another tie with Jim. However, referring to the official results, Jim has been given 17:54 and Eddie 17:57, a reversal of last weeks result but confirming a very closely matched pair. Not only that, Kenny recorded 18:00 in a run which was very much part of his marathon taper, sensibly resisting the temptation to get involved in any finish line sprints (unless it was with Eddie). Before he set off on leg 2, Davie Searil had told me his hamstring/glute was acting up during the warm-up and I advised just to take it easy and get around. Little did we know.
Eddie floats through the mud.
On leg 3 we had Stephen Phimister, Geo Ferguson and Russell Couper. Stephen has had a really good spell of training through the summer and gets better and better with each week of uninterrupted training. This week was no exception and Stephen ran strongly to finish in 16:40. Geo is always strong on tough courses and this week he ploughed round in 19:24. Meanwhile, I was on the line waiting to take over from Stephen with Russell still there waiting to take over from Davie. At this point we were really wondering where Davie could be. I mentioned to Russell that his hamstring was giving him problems before the start and that he might just be walking the lap. Then Stephen appeared and I took off on leg 4.
Geo ploughs through.
Also on leg 4 we had Martin Howell using this as a recovery run from last weekend's Loch Ness Marathon. I had a pretty good run, with a steady line of teams to chase and pass throughout the whole lap. In the final km along the river bank I picked up the pace to my limit and made a long final burst to catch a few more veteran teams (identified by a "V" on the back of their vests) and even tried a sprint in the final 50m to pass a Cambuslang vets team (I failed), finishing in 15:16, which as it turns out was 6th M50 and 13th Masters team.
Martin wishing he was at mile 18 of a marathon again!
It looked to me that Martin's legs were well on the way to recovery as he ran a very creditable 17:23 making him third fastest of the Harriers. Meanwhile, as Davie had not appeared, the officials had let Russell start on his own. Running on adrenalin from a combination of frustration and worry, Russell had a very speedy run, finishing in 19:54.
Looks like the ditch had emptied a bit by the time Russell arrived!

Unfortunately, those of us on the last leg crossed the line to the sight of Davie receiving urgent medical attention and at that point all thoughts of the run disappeared.
Davie still looking OK.
As always, a big thanks to all those who ran and came to support and take photographs (Frances P, Frances F, Stuart and Maud). It was much appreciated as were the excellent cup cakes and carrot cake which Frances baked. All the many photos from Frances, Alison and me are in this album.
Alan
Done in.

Linlithgow 10k

After a two year absence I returned to Linlithgow to a race I have really enjoyed running in the past.  This was my 5th time (and I would have run it more had I not had the Chester Marathon last year and the training camp in 2017).

This Sunday afternoon race starts on the closed road of the high street.  After heading up the high street you take a right turn and then after about 1.5 km you come to what I would describe as the ‘Auldhouse dip’.  This start makes for a fast 2km.  From the start it is about a loop of 4k before you reach the top end of the high street again before you head down to Linlithgow loch.  Here you follow the perimeter of the loch, on trail paths before exiting the loch section at approximately 6k.  The next 3k is around some country lanes before arriving at the other end of the high street.  If you were to try this race in future then note that once you turn off the high street to head towards the finish at Linlithgow Palace then the finish line is not too far around the corner so get your sprint finish prepared in plenty of time!  A really good organised race and a great finish against the backdrop of Linlithgow Palace.

My finish time was 40.07 (3rd female)

Julie

PS This may be one for Chas but does anyone remember an Evelyn Bain who ran with the Harriers?  She took the time to come across to me at the start and mentioned that she ran with the Harriers some time ago.  I think she now lives through in the east.  She spent some time asking about the club which I thought was really nice of her.

Friday 11 October 2019

West District XC Relay Teams 2019

Teams for the relays are listed here. For those needing a lift, the plan is to leave the Sports Club at 11:30 so that we are there in time to get numbers from Russell (see the separate post on that).

Can we just highlight again, as Russell mentioned several times before the entries closed for the West XC and National relay over the past few weeks, Scottish Athletics have tightened up the procedure for entering teams for Championship events. Now we can only enter club members to these events as either a team member or a reserve if their Scottish Athletics membership is valid at the time the event entries close. With the new online SA system, Russell cannot even select someone who does not have an up to date membership. At least one of our members has missed out this time because of this. So make sure your SA membership is up to date now for the season ahead.
Alan

WEST DISTRICT XC RELAYS (Kilmarnock)

This is the following details for Saturdays race.
Start times are 13.10 for Ladies and 14.10 for Men.
I will register the teams and bring numbers and chips to the start.
I need the Ladies there for 12.20 and men for 13.20 to allow time for distribution of numbers and allow warmups etc.
Those running are
A Lessells, M Beaton.
A Derrick, R Couper, K Leinster, D Wardrope, G McInally, E Reid, M Howell, D Searil, J Holmes,
M Saez, S Phimister, G Ferguson

There are reserves listed so if anyone wants a run let myself or Alan know and we can see if your on the list. Teams will be added when ready.

Tuesday 8 October 2019

Deer Stalker and Shepherds Crook at the Ready!

So, on the back of my attempt at the Marathon earlier in year and wanting to find out if I had anything else to help me go a bit better – I signed up for the Baxter’s Loch Ness event back in May, just to see.

“Don’t worry Lorraine – I’ll stick to the training plan this time, I’m sure it’ll work” I calmly re-assured my long-suffering wife. “Well, I think you’re a headbanger” was her encouraging retort.

As the weeks and months progressed, I did manage to tick off a good slice of the runs prescribed to me by the Runners World Asics Marathon Runners Training Plan! Crucially though the only ones I missed were the 20’s and the 22’s – shouldn’t matter I thought, a couple of extra laps at the Heritage Park will see me alright. In all seriousness though, I did manage some 16’s and an 18 and just about every other distance short of that together with really getting my money’s worth at this years TTC (cheers Eddie!), my endurance running was beginning to look up compared to the prep I did for Manchester.

Fast forward to the Thursday before the race, I’m driving along in my car and suddenly realised that no number had been posted to me for the event. PANIC. Going straight on their website I learned that registration was on Saturday between 10am and 6pm, ooft, glad I checked that small detail! Nice strategy to get everyone in Inverness on Saturday to boost the local economy, I mused.

Jim Mearns had made a late decision whether or not to enter the event following his WHW medical challenge but had taken the very diligent step of booking accommodation just in case. As it turned out, when he did decide that he was going to give it a bash the event was full and therefore closed to entries. A real pity, it would’ve been good to have ran another (or at least half of another) with him though in the end we simply changed the booking arrangements for me to use the room instead of him. Buddied this time with Mrs H, we set off on Saturday to be on the banks of the River Ness in plenty of time.

Registration taken care off we set off for our accommodation which was only 10 minutes from the event hub, an early dinner at a local Italian eatery and heads (well mine anyway) on the pillow by 10pm. Breakfast, much to the landlady’s disgust, had been arranged for 6am and for those of you who aren’t familiar with the event, read on and you’ll see why.

Usual breakfast before a long run and I was ready to go. Flip belt loaded with all my accoutrements, gels, more different flavoured gels, salbutamol, plasters and some paracetamol (Jim M’s great idea) I was on my way for the 10 minute jog round to the area where it seemed Stagecoach’s entire fleet of Highland based buses were parked. 7.30am departure time, no exceptions, latecomers will not be catered for, was the resounding message!

On my way, I heard my name being hollered. It was Graeme Lindsay, who along with his brother in law, Gerry, had also made the trip north. So, we all walked the remainder of the way and were efficiently herded on to a waiting double decker.

Shortly afterwards our convoy of a thousand buses set-off in the dark on a magical mystery tour of Loch Ness.

Nearing our destination (an hour and 20 minutes later), my immediate thought was that the driver had taken the wrong turn. We were in the middle of nowhere - I kid you not. The rain was battering down, the wind a relentless 40mph coming out of the West and here we were at the start, almost an hour and half until the gun!

I was half expecting to see Tom Weir come over the moor with his wooly bunnet and shepherds crook telling odes and tales of the Jacobean uprising in 1745!

Nearly 5000 runners milling around on a moor on a Sunday morning in weather best suited to penguins - it was a sight, some of the runners actually resembled penguins. There was a queue of about 500 waiting for a complimentary cup of tea and a queue 4 times that waiting to use one of the dozen portaloo’s. Brian Burnett, compere extraordinaire was there braving the elements, on the mike talking gibberish (I’m convinced these people are paid by the word). “It’s not a good look” he proclaimed as he discouraged people from having a pee in the trees! Aye right, well get another 200 bogs then.

I cowered behind an ambulance (funny they should have one at the start line?) out of the wind for 45 minutes before hesitantly making my way down the start line. Bumping in to my old pal Ian Birch of marathon madness, we had a bit of banter as we went and then I met Ian Hughes. Together we walked through the starting line up and down to nearer the front.

10am on the nose (thank the lord) the canon let loose and we were off. Through the avenue of pipes and drums just after the start line – sent a shiver down my spine – and off on the steep 3-mile downhill section which was inviting for sticking in a couple of 6 and half minute miles, but nope, this time I did have a plan and like glue, I was sticking to it.

Keeping a toe on the brake pedal I descended the hill running at the planned 8m/m pace that I had drilled in to my head time and time again. The hill rolled out and we were undulating, Ian was off, away in front, see you at the end then! A real stinger of a climb about 4m really brought my recent TTC experience the fore “kick down to 1st gear, keep jogging” was coach AD’s advice then, and before long we were up and over it.

Through 13m in 1h 44m, the plan was going well, the pace was consistent. Water stations, jelly baby offerings, High 5 Energy this that and the next thing on offer, it was like running through the Barr’s factory. I must admit though they had an Isotonic drink in paper cups which was amazing stuff – like Red Bull for runners. After a mouthful of that – whoosh – re-energised and onwards.

As predicted and as expected my plan played out in that by mile 19 I was beginning to lose the pace and although I had factored it in I had a real wobble at 20.5m just after the big hill (which I managed to jog up most of, just a short walk near the top), having to stop and take off my long sleever whilst talking utter nonsense to a spectator. She was very supportive though “I’ve got a packet of plain crisps there if you want them?” Very sweet of her, I thought better of having a picnic at the side of the road and got on my way again. Her hospitable sentiment paid off and I managed another decent mile followed by a much slower one, then a good one, a slower one and an even jog in to the line.

It’s incredible that when you’re depleted of energy and all the stores have been used up and you literally are willing yourself to get to the end, the things that go through your head just to get you there. I had that very experience and I must say the old autopilot thing worked.

Round the river, over the bridge, along the promenade, the crowds building, Brian Burnett on the mike still wittering on, suddenly I hear Lorraine from the side-lines shouting me on for the last 200m, “I’ll meet you at the inflatable Nessie” she shouted. Eh, oh aye right you are then.

Across the line 3.43.11 on the watch and 3 seconds quicker on their chip, I was delighted to have chipped just shy of 13 minutes out of my Manchester time on an arguably harder course. But this time there was a plan, it wasn’t pie in the sky like the last outing on this distance.

My post long run demons immediately set about me as soon as I stopped running in the form of the lactic bomb that exploded in my legs. But ne’er mind Lorraine did meet me at the big Nessie with a much-needed bottle of Irn Bru. We passed on the purvey that was on offer, to be honest, a plate of stovies was the farthest thing on mind at that point.

Before long and after I had recovered a wee bit, we were in the car with Lorraine at the wheel heading south on the A9 chatting about our wee trip to the Highlands.

Another medal, another T-shirt, another story to tell, another marathon! Done and dusted!

As usual, here’s my usual round -up of the action.

Isaiah Kosgei   1st place 2.29.31 Metro Aberdeen
Katie White 1st Lady 2.42.03 Garscube

Ian Hughes 27 m50 3.26.40
Graeme Lindsay 89 m40 3.33.50
Martin Howell  58 m50 3.43.08

Sunday 6 October 2019

Houston - Season Opener



The Harrier's Grand Prix season started on Saturday with the George Cummings Road Relay in Houston with a fine turn out from the Harriers. The threat of rain loomed but apart from a few spots during the final leg, the conditions were dry, cool and pretty much perfect for running (and supporting).
First leg runners

We had one complete ladies' team of three and two and three quarter mens' teams of four. Alison Lessells, Andrew Buchanan, Jim Holmes and Geo Ferguson lead of each of the teams. The first leg is on the one hand good for potentially getting towed around to a fast time but equally bad for getting tempted to start too fast and blowing up. All of the first leg runners judged the pace very well. Alison has run here a good few times and recorded a time of 18:42. This was Alison's fastest time since 2014 when she ran only 7 seconds faster, so great to see Alison heading back to her best form again.  Andrew Buchanan is in the final stages of York Marathon preparation and could be excused for not having any speed left in his legs. However, this was not the case as Andrew blasted round in 15:35 which I believe is a course best. Jim Holmes has been running here for most of the past 20 years and knows the route like the back of his hand. However with only a week to recover from the Great Scottish Run, Jim's legs would not be at their freshest. Jim recorded a time of 18:02, a good 35 seconds faster than last year confirming Jim's return to improving form. Geo has never run here before but has spectated and sampled the cakes several times. This turned out to be a course that Geo thoroughly enjoyed, with a mixture of undulations, twists and turns on quiet country and village roads. Geo crossed the line in an excellent 18:47.

Leg 2 runners
Our leg 2 runners included a mixture of regulars and long term absentees. Taking over from Alison, Lorraine Buchanan was introducing a bit of speed to her marathon training and to good effect. Lorraine finished in 20:15, a full two and a half minutes faster than her previous best from 2016. Mark Saez took over from Andrew and is easing his way gently back into racing after an Achilles tendon injury. Mark finished in 16:02, a bit down on last year but just needs a bit of race sharpness to be back to his best form. Allan McLellan has never run on the "new" course for these Kilbarchan AAC relays, the course having changed 20 years ago. However, Allan is one of the key members of Calderglen's team when we finished 5th in this event 30 years ago and was glad to be back racing in a team event again. Allan has the Aviemore Half coming up very soon and is managing the pain of some long-term injuries to string the training together. This paid off with a fine time of 17:16, which would surely be one of the fastest M60 times of the day (age groups not given in the results so can't confirm). Davie Searil took over from Geo. Davie last ran this event 17 years ago. It hardly seems believable that so much time has past. This time, Davie completed the course in 20:27 (unfortunately my records of results from 17 years ago are archived. I must dig them out).

Leg 3 runners
Sandy Hayden was really excited to be running in a Harriers vest again after a few injuries and a full season of cycling and swimming. Sandy completed leg 3 in 20:47, a full 20 seconds faster than last year and a course best, proving that the aerobic engine and leg strength has been well developed on the bike! Stephen Phimister took over from Mark. Stephen had also completed the GSR last Sunday and would be a little heavy legged for sure but still ran well and beat his estimated time (18 minutes) comfortably to finish in 16:54, only about 30 seconds down on his previous best set 7 years ago. David Wardrope has had a leave of absence for a few years but is back in a Calderglen vest stronger, fitter and older (like the rest of us). David is also preparing for another marathon but finds these shorter races make marathon pace seem so much easier and is regular at local park runs. David covered the undulating course in 18:22 which David will be pleased to know is only 3 seconds slower than his most recent run from 2012, so age is not making much difference to him! Gordon McInally is managing his long-term injury well through a combination of some running and a lot of cycling. This is paying off as Gordon ran a fine 19:52, substantially faster than the past two years and only 20 seconds down on three years ago. Well done Gordon!

Fourth leg runners
There were only two of us on the last leg. I took over from Stephen with some trepidation, not having raced since March and not really knowing what would happen if I pushed. Actually nothing happened as the legs weren't capable of pushing so I finished quite disappointed with my time of 15:50. However, it turns out it was not my worst time as I ran one second slower on my previous outing in 2016 which at the time was a massive personal worst.

Eddie Reid was on the last leg taking over from David. As is a common theme, Eddie is also managing various injuries and niggles and is needing some races to get sharp. There was some consternation when Eddie crossed the line as his Garmin suggested he had run a time of well over 20 minutes. However, this seems to have been a Garmin or user failure as the official results confirm that Eddie actually ran a time of 17:50. Its actually a good few years since Eddie last ran here (2013). His last performance was about a minute faster so Eddie actually ran well given the 6 year gap.

We then retired to the very crowded church hall to enjoy the soup, sandwiches, cakes, teas and coffees on offer from the host club Kilbarchan AAC. A huge thanks to our support and help provided by Frances, the Phimisters and the Buchanans! All your shouts and cheers were heard loud and clear. Frances also took many photos which you can see along with some from me here.

Well done to all. Lets get as many names as possible down for the other forthcoming relays as running for in a team for your club really provides that extra motivation.
Alan

Grand Prix - NATIONAL XC RELAYS (CUMBERNAULD)

This years National xc relays will take place on Saturday 26th Oct.
Event will again be at Cumbernauld.
Ladies and men are 4 legs of 4km.
Ladies start at 13.20 and men at 14.45.
Cost will be £6.00 each.
I need names by Tuesday 8th Oct.
If you wish entered please leave your name HERE.
Those already registered are listed HERE.

Please make sure your SA number is up to date.

Friday 4 October 2019

Houston Teams

A good turn out for our first relay of the 2019-2020 Grand Prix season. The teams for tomorrow are listed here. Please let me know as soon as possible if you cannot make it.

The race starts at 14:30 but we need you there somewhat earlier to collect the entry fee (£5 per person) and register the teams. I also recommend a gentle warm up around the 2.7 mile course. Russell won't be there tomorrow so look for me to declare your jokers (which must be declared before the race starts).

For those needing or offering a lift, meet at the Sports Club ready to leave at 12:30.

Further details of the event on the Kilbarchan AAC web site here.
Alan

Tuesday 1 October 2019

Performance and PB Awards

Once again, its the end of the qualifying period for this year's performance and PB awards. Any performances achieved in the period 1st October 2018 to 30th September 2019 count. The qualifying distances are 5k, 10k, 10 mile, half marathon and marathon on officially measured courses that are not significantly overall downhill.

Everything is explained under the Performance Awards heading in the menu to the left of the Harriers' blog or via the Calderglen Harriers web site. But if you have any questions just ask me. Use the PB Award Self Service form or Performance Award Self-Service forms to declare your qualifying performances (also available from the menu on the left of the blog).

Times declared so far are available at the following links:
PB Declarations
Performance Declarations

Alan

Brancumhall Training Sessions

We start our fortnightly cross-country training sessions at Brancumhall on Monday 7th October. Turn up to the club as usual and we will run down to Brancumhall. Bring your preferred choice of off-road shoes (spikes or trail shoes) to change into once we get there. We may have someone who can take the shoes down in a car but be prepared to run down there carrying them if not. The calendar available in the web view of the blog has all these sessions marked in until the last one a week or so before the National XC in late February.
Alan