The Manor Water Hill race was the first hill race I ran when I moved to Scotland 10 years ago. At that point, I had never been a member of a running club let alone a co-race organiser. But here we are. It was nice being able to divide and conquer the organization with Neil. In general, I think it went pretty well. Thanks to everyone who ran and volunteered on the day. The marshals and helpers almost outnumbered the runners! Here are some words I wrote for Peebleshire News.
After a 3-year hiatus, the Manor Water Hill race returned in 2022 for its 27th running. Twenty-eight runners took part in the 9.3-mile race organized by the Carnethy Hill Running Club in conjunction with the Manor Sheepdog Trials. The out-and-back route follows the John Buchan Way through Glack Hope and then turns south for the long heathery climb up to the summit of The Scrape. While the weather was pleasant in the valley for most of the race, there were reports of windy conditions higher up. The overall winner and first senior male runner was Peter Gardner (HBT) in 1:12:22. Peter took home the John Nash Memorial Trophy (named after the late creator of the race). The first senior female, in eighth place, was Sarah Hodgson (Unattached) in 1:22:16. The first local, third place overall and first male over 40, was David Carter-Brown (Moorfoot Runners). Other notable performances came from Colin Donnelly (Cambuslang), who was second overall and first in the male over 40, 50 and 60 categories and Michelle Hetherington (Carnethy), who finished in thirteenth place overall was first in the female over 40 and 50 categories. Well done to all the runners who came out and made the day a success. Proceeds from the race are donated to the Manor Sheepdog Trials nominated charities.
Results here.
Photos from Mike Lynch, Sandra Chandler and Andy Lamont
Sean Walker