- 31st March 2012
British Gravity Enduro Series: Rd 1 Innerleithen 24th-25th March
The first round of the 2012 British Gravity Enduro Mountain Bike Series got underway in Innerleithen on Saturday 24th March with practice in the morning and seeding runs in afternoon. There were 5 special stages mainly descending although some had some flat fire roads and there were a couple of nasty wee climbs thrown in for good measure. Approximates- Total distance for the complete lap was 29km with 1200m climb. The 5 special stages totalled 8700m with 900m descending. Seeding run on stage 5 of the Saturday dictated running order in the categories on the Sunday with fastest rider last and riders separated by 20s gaps. Fast, furious and fun describes the Sunday. Both female and male Elite categories were stacked featuring top International riders such as Tracey Mosely (UK) and Jerome Clements (France). Both took wins in the elites. I think I was the only Carnethy representative and got 2nd in Vets on day being demoted to 4th after some timing issues. Results here and pictures here.
Geraint Florida-James
- 29th March 2012
Whinlatter MTB Challenge - Sunday 25th March
Craig O’Donnell was the sole Carnethy member racing down at the Whinlatter MTB Challenge held within the Whinlatter forest park on a beautiful sunny and warm Sunday. The race consists of a ~30 mile XC course (over 2 laps) with lots of challenging climbing and some really fast descents with lots of loose slate covering the corners. And the odd treacherous section under the trees where the slate became almost ice like with both tyres quivering under the slightest hint of trying to turn at speed! At about 10:00 I made my way to the start line to line up for the race starting at 10:30. I managed to get lined up in about the first 50 or so people as this was a very popular event with over 500 lined up and generally attracts a high quality field. At 10:30 the horn was sounded and we were off! As ever with these events, a blistering pace was set up the first fireroad climb to the top of the forest, everyone anxious to get into position for when the track narrows. This year the fireroad climb was extended to avoid queuing at the entrance to the first singletrack section for anyone outside the first 40 or so places. I managed to plug away up this climb, picking off quite a few people before eventually getting into the course proper. The first lap is the hardest lap – both longer and more climbing involved. I maintained a good rhythm and continuously swapped places with a small group of riders. At the start of the second lap, again climbing up to the top of the forest, you get a chance to see the race leaders coming down the descent. The first 3 riders were coming down as I was going up and they were well clear of the field after setting an incredible pace for the first lap! However, I knew I wasn’t that far behind! I felt really good on the second lap so upped my efforts and managed to pass quite a few people who had probably set off too fast and were now paying for the first lap efforts. The final climb is the steepest of the day but is over in a few minutes before the final descent to the finish line. At the last corner on the course, a marshall was incorrectly directing some people out onto a 3rd lap (myself included as well as quite a few others, including the race leaders!). Luckily this was picked up in the results and positions and times of those affected were amended. So in the end, 35th place in a time of 2hrs 34. The race was won by Neal Crampton in a blistering time of 2hrs 13 minutes.
Craig O'Donnell
- 29th March 2012
Wed training
The first run after the clocks went forward and not a headtorch in sight. And warm too. After scaling Blackford hill the route wound down through the Hermitage of Braid where landscaping, erosion and trees felled or fallen are making the paths quite interesting; then around the edge of the various golf courses. Remarkable root pans of enormous gale felled trees at Mortonhall where large glowing remains of branch burning in the gloaming brought a wistful desire for sausages. 7.9 miles at a good pace on a fine evening.
Digby
- 27th March 2012
Edale Skyline
Carl Bell continued to make his mark on the English fell running scene with a big win at the classic Edale Skyline race. Though a fair few minutes outside of Gavin Bland’s course record of 2.34, his winning time of 2.41.55 was quick. He made light work of the strength-sapping 21 miles, ahead of Kim Collison and Tom Brunt. Jasmin Paris (3.18.14) of Carnethy took the women’s win from Judith Jepson. Andy Fallas finished 5th and Jon Ashcroft 13th. Mark Easton's photos
- 27th March 2012
Ladies Run at Margaret's
It was my turn to host the women's run on Monday evening. There were eight of us, including Honorary Woman, Bill. We ran over the Polofield and up White Hill, to the top of Capelaw. It was a beautiful evening for a run and the city was literally "shimmering" or twinkling with lights after sunset.
We returned to my house via Dreghorn Wood and by then it was quite dark. I had prepared two pots of soup: broccoli with Stilton and butter bean with tomato, with bread, cheese and brownie to follow. An enjoyable evening with great company.
Margaret Forrest
- 26th March 2012
Birnam Hill race
I had a look at the Portobello website bulletin board by complete coincidence and noticed my mate Tony Stapley is doing the Birnam hill race. So I thought why not? Bit short for me, but any excuse to see some fellow Carnethies at the races. I set of to Birnam with Tony and gareth from Portobello in the morning. It was great to catch up with them as I have been busy doing all that long ultra stuff.
We arrived and were met with many Carnethies and fellow runners. I did this race last year when it was a SHR championship race and I knew its well organised, so I was looking forward to see how I fare compared to last year. So the usual team photo before the race, there were the Gilmore Clan, John Hammond, Joan and Colin Wilson and many others (I dont remember everyones names old age is catching up). Adrian Davis set us off and the race started with a steep climp up Birnan hill it self, it was about a mile up. Then some up and down sections until the complete down hill to the finish line. During the first part, I admit i went of like a hound after his fox, not a great idea. I then just eased and enjoyed the race and admired the views from the top. The other Carnethies did great, I noticed Angela Mudge was second female. The other guys had a great race, top ten placings. Well, I was just happy to be there and see everyone, oh I managed a PB by over a minute from last year, not bad for a ultra runner. It was good to see my mate Gareth take 5th and Tony did good race also. Also thanks to Adrian for organising an great event as always. The Highland Boundary Hill Races 2012 results
Next up a less scenic Glasgow to Edinburgh ulltra on 31st march, part of my London to Edinburgh prep. No doubt there will be a report from that as I'm the only Carnethy competing.
Michael Nowicki
- 26th March 2012
East Lothian 3 Peaks Duathlon
Makes a nice change not to be huddling at the start in freezing winds under grey skies. It was a perfect day that caught out a few of us that bought only cold weather gear (and one of us that found the verge softer than it looked), and there were lots of folk out for the day at Traprain & North Berwick, though we had Lammer Law more or less to ourselves in the heat haze. Keith & Bärbel did another heroic job of organising the event, the large group of racers and the meal in North Berwick. Report & results.
Digby
Organisers Report
The previous day’s haar was showing signs of clearing overnight, and so it did with great drama to be replaced by record breaking temperatures and blazing sunshine all day. Lambs and skylarks welcomed us on Lammer Law. Later, on the bike approach to North Berwick Law I thought I saw Fenton Tower as a mirage above the skyline, but I might have been hallucinating in the heat by that stage.As expected, parking was problematic at Blinkbonny Wood and the local farmer was very understanding. This needs more thought if this supposedly small scale event is to be preserved.
There were so many last minute changes of team format, start times, partner swopping and other hanky panky that we almost lost control of the timekeeping and I nearly forgot to make a start myself. Once away, my task was simpler in a way. The unfolding course showed East Lothian at its best. The main problem of the day was heat and dehydration. Kate and Richard set off very early to do the whole course on foot (in their own separate ways: Kate mainly on the roads, Richard jungle bashing through woodland, swamp and offal processing plant between the hills). I only heard of one puncture. It was great to see the large group of children on the summit of Traprain, whom I understand were doing their own duathlon over roughly the same route in reverse. The empty roads as far as East Linton High St. changed dramatically to gridlock in the village as the cyclists clashed with antiques fair, ice cream and early sun worshippers. Temporary traffic lights shortly after added to the anguish as the end-game developed on the brutal short climbs towards North Berwick.
The final outcome was largely irrelevant to the very entertaining events on the way. But the results are here anyway. Prizes were for fooling the handicapper, but risked being pretty random due to the varying formats from solo, cyclo-cross, partner swopping, use of child labour etc. Garry and team well deserved the first arrivals’ prize, however, as he and Sheena did all the summits and all three biked dutifully without drafting.
Great thanks to Bärbel and all the timekeepers for their fortitude whilst understaffed and overworked. Thanks also to the club for covering all costs.
Keith Burns
Photos on Carnethy album
- 22 March 2012
Wed training - Hospitalisation
With the talk being cancelled, it was time to take advantage and do a longer run.
After waiting for Matt and choosing what shoes to wear we took our last chance before the light nights to head to Blackford summit via the golf course. Heading down the steep descent to the duck pond we thought to recover so we went to The Astley Ainslie Hospital.
“The Astley Ainslie Institution, for the relief and behoof of the convalescents of the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh".
Suitably recovered Gordon set off at a stupidly fast pace for The Royal Edinburgh Hospital.
“The foundation of the Royal Edinburgh Hospital was triggered by the death in Bedlam, at the age of 24, of the poet Robert Fergusson. His medical attendant Dr Andrew Duncan, was so moved by the poet's plight that he resolved to fund a hospital in Edinburgh where the mentally ill could be humanely looked after”
Once I caught up with the group and found them being humanely looked after we scaled or squirmed across the massive gates and headed for The Craiglockhart Hospital
“In 1877, the estate became the property of the Craiglockhart Hydropathic Company, who set about building a hydropathic institute. The Hydropathic was built in the Italian style. Craiglockhart remained as a hydropathic, until the advent of the First World War. Between 1916 and 1919 the building was used as a military psychiatric hospital for the treatment of shell-shocked officers.”
We wound our way through the myriad paths towards the summit the ground was unusually firm so we could not say that it was truly Hydro- path-ic, but after a pleasant view over the city we were fully recovered so headed for Wester Craiglockhart and then on the The City Hospital
“In 1903 the City Fever Hospital moved to its present site at Colinton Mains, where it became the City Hospital for Infectious Diseases.”
We ran round the hospital at a fever pace and then headed for Braids (the long way round). A couple of hungry runners asked the shortest route back. We were getting tired.
After another golf course crossing we summited Braid and headed for home.
A long run (9.8 miles) and luckily none of us needed hospitalisation, but a good few of us took some medicine in the KB Bar.
Willie Gibson
- 21st March 2012
Alloa Half Marathon
The 30th running of the Alloa Half Marathon was met with (almost) perfect running conditions - clear skies, no wind and a good amount of sun to keep things warm. The route, starting and finishing in Alloa, takes in the Hillfoots villages of Tillicoultry, Alva and Menstrie, which lie at the base of the southern scarp face of the Ochil Hills, formed by the Ochil Fault, as well as Tullibody. With the exception of a couple of challenging hills at miles 10 and 11, the route is fairly flat and there was reasonable crowd support throughout.
The race was won by Robert Russell of Central AC 1:08:49, with his clubmate Lewis Millar soon behind in 1:08:54. Jethro Lennox of Shettleston was third in 1:09:04. First female was GB Athlete Alyson Dixon of Chester Le Street Harriers in 1:13:32. In her quest to secure a place for the Olympic Games, Alyson is competing with Freya Murray to secure the final place, where one of them would join Paula Radcliffe and Mara Yamauchi if selected.
There were 4 Carnethies running, although Colin and Joan Wilson were representing Perth Road Runners on this occasion. They came in at 1:36:45 and 1:40:35 respectively, with Simon Johnston in 1:41:18 and Mike Lynch in 1:31:24.
Mike Lynch
- 19th March 2012
Carnethy in the Andalucia Bike Race - February 2012
Carnethy member Bob Johnson completed the Andalucia Mountain Bike Stage race in Feb 2012. The race consisted of a prologue plus 5 stages of off-road racing near Cordoba and Jaen, southern Spain. The race covered a total distance of 400k (240 miles) with 11,600m of ascent (35,000ft) and (surprise surprise) 11,600m of descent. There were 220 teams (pairs) taking place.
The race was won by TEAM Multivan MERIDA (1) with a time of 16hrs 33:30 (riders Jose Antonio Hermida and Rudi Van Hoots) with TEAM Multivan MERIDA (2) second in a time of 16hrs 42:02 (Hannes Genze and Andreas Kugler). The Danish Olympic Team (honestly!) was 3rd with a time of 17hrs 11:33 (Benjamin Justesen and Klaus Nielsen). The first Brits (ney Scots) were local Edinburgh pairing of Dave Henderson and Gareth Montgomerie (GT Racing UK/Scotland) with a time of 18hrs 6:24 for a superb 10th overall. Hoping that these lads will come and do a talk for club members - awesome riding in such a high class field.
You have to scroll down until your fingers practically catch fire to spot Bob Johnson and Tim Kirkus in 41st out of 116 Master teams (over-30's) with a time of 23hrs 18:24. Pics of Bob shown attached. No punctures and no mechanical issues all week but not enough fitness (Bob) to ever stay in touch with the top 20 masters.
Bob Johnson
- 19th March 2012
D33 - Deeside Way Ultra
A clutch/collection/calamity of Carnethies made their way up to Aberdeen for the Deeside Way Ultra (the D33) on Saturday. Clear blue skies, little wind and lots of sun, it was a lovely day for a run. Andy Millard and I walked down to the start at Duthie Park to be met by Michael Nowicki, Graham Nash, Phil Humphreys, new-guy Chris Pedley, Ian King and Graham Nash's brother Paul. Michael, Chris and I were ultra-newbies, so it was going to be an interesting day. The route mostly follows an old railway line up to Banchory, and then back the way you came to finish back where you started in Duthie Park. Fairly flat, quite a lot of tarmac, but the route was fairly simple to follow and had beautiful scenery throughout.
From the off, Graham staked a claim near the head of the field, and a group of us Carnethies formed a clot in the middle of the pack chatting through the first few miles. Andy thought we might be taking it a bit fast, and dropped-off the back. Later, Phil Humphries pointed-out that we were going far too fast and he dropped-back too, leaving Chris and I rattling along at a clearly unsustainable pace. As we approached Graham it was obvious that Chris and I had made a fatal mistake, but we didn't care, we were laughing so much at our lack of control that we just decided to keep it going. Why not! In fact, I was so misguided as to what was going on, that I decided to ditch Chris at the halfway point because I thought he might hold me back! Ahhhh, hindsight is a wonderful thing. As I approached the third checkpoint, the wheels fell off so catastrophically I could barely move, I was trying not to puke, and I was ready to quit. What remained for me was a lurching walk to the end, intermittently raising the lurch to a shuffle, and back again. Sigh. However it did put me in a good position to cheer-on the other runners, and watch how Team Carnethy were getting on: In the distance Graham never faltered, pushing hard to the end, and Phil Humphreys was powering along despite some knee trouble. Paul Nash was strong all the way through the race. Chris recovered well, to cruise past me near the end, closely followed by Andy. I managed to upgrade my lurch to a stumble and follow Andy home just ahead of Ian King and Michael Nowicki.
An excellent race, made better by possibly the coolest medals ever handed-out at a race (made from reclaimed debris from Hurricane Bawbag). Also, a bottle of D33 beer, made by Brewdog. Simple race, excellent marshalling, great cakes at the end, and great fun too - what more could be asked? Results here: http://deesidewayultra.webnode.com/
James Hardie
Full report
- 18th March 2012
Journey run, Trossachs
On a sparkling day in the best of Scottish hill country we looped up into Glen Finglas from Brig o' Turk through sun dappled mossy trees, into wide open glens with views to snowy mountains and back down by ancient trees and peaty streams. 17 miles and 3000ft of climb. Deserved refreshment followed at the Lade Inn at Kilmahog, which serves its own very tasty ale. Map and Report
- 18th March 2012
Carnethy 1,2,3 at Chapelgill
Despite the non response to my lift share suggestion Carnethy made up 20% of the field of 52 for the 29th running of the shortest and steepest hill race in UK founded by Dick Wall and ably organised by Robin Morris on a lovely warm day in the Borders. Route choice is the key at the start - whether to go straight up or head to the left. Cali and I chose the latter and headed up to Ian Nimmo who was on the summit - which took me 19 minutes. John Hammond led us back finishing in 3rd place with Charlotte Morgan 1st lady in 5th place followed by me in 12th, Bob Waterhouse in 14th and 1st V60 and Jane Jackson 2nd lady just behind. Great performances all round with many first timers. This is what hill racing is all about!
Gordon
- 15th March 2012
Night Run - Aberlady
Once again the last night run of the year begins with a glimmer of light still in the sky, heralding long warm summer evenings and the drowsy buzzing of bees... oh wait, I forgot. Well never mind, a large group enjoyed a tramp over dunes and golf course, with an interlude on the beach and a chance to fill our shoes with sand. The tide was in so looking for the rusting mini subs out in the bay was not a good idea. Cody, after a refusal on the way out, braved the scary bridge on the return, leading home the troops. KB should come to Ducks at Kilspindie to find out how good a pint of IPA is supposed to taste! - and the food was good too. Where we went
Digby
- 11th March 2012
Wuthering Hike
They say "If you can't beat them, join them", so after competing against - some my say being soundly beaten by - Jasmin in last weeks High Peak Marathon, we teamed up for the Haworth Hobble (a.k.a. Wuthering Hike) this Saturday. The day didn't get off to a good start, as a snapping tent pole curtailed our breakfast, but eventually we made it to the start for the hobble, which runs a 32 mile loop over the moors west of Haworth. After the most informal of starts on Haworth's quaint main street, we made our way out onto the moors, fog and wind creating an atmosphere fitting for the setting of Wuthering Heights. The route follows mostly bridleways and good path with gentle climbs and going through the third checkpoint we were informed that we were the leading team - n.b. there are pairs and solo categories - which came as a bit of a surprise, at least to me, as Jasmin had insisted this was meant to be a pleasant gentle run due to a sore ankle from last weekend. Shortly after that we foolishly (en mass) followed a local who knew a good route to where the next checkpoint used to be, alas it had now moved up the hill a bit. There are few things more depressing then having to run backwards along the race route to a checkpoint, luckily this checkpoint provided hot dogs helping me to overcome my disappointment - although realising, after we had set off again, it had also offered doughnuts provided a new low. After the next checkpoint - which to my delight also provided doughnuts and, for those thus inclined, Jura whiskey - Jasmin announced that we were not going to catch the two remaining Bingley teams ahead of us, and true to her word we were level with them come the following climb. From there on, the weather improved and the wind was behind us making for a pleasant run back towards Haworth, although Jasmin's ankle was now giving her some trouble, allowing a Bingley mixed team to pull ahead and stay a couple of minutes in front of us.
Avoiding any last minute navigational disasters we were happy to finish in 4:57 - Jasmin beating her previous times by over an hour - for 2nd team and 16th place overall.
Matt Davis was also spotted running, as were Kate & Craig Mattocks with spaniel Jess, and all must have finished not too far behind us, but having missed everyone at the finish we don't know how they fared.
Konrad Rawlik
- 11th March 2012
Circo Edinburgh
A good turnout of runners and 4 cyclists for the annual exploration of the edges of Edinburgh, which vary from the hills of the Pentlands to hills of rubbish in Millerhill. Under grey skies we set off only to have a faller in the first mile. Sarah went down on a stony track suffering nasty cuts to both knees and was escorted to the nearby garden centre cafe to be rescued by her dad. The rest of us carried on to Straiton joining the old railway track as far as the Drum Estate to be greeted on climbing out of the cutting by a spouting sewage pipe. Welcome to East Edinburgh! The badlands of Millerhill are a disgrace replete with fly tipping and every sort of domestic rubbish. Maybe the arrival there of the resurrected Borders Railway will result in a cleanup? (but I doubt it). Andy and JimBob arrived back at the group after their 1st aid mission and we headed to the much nicer environs of Newhailes, then along to Portobello, meeting up with the cyclists (who'd apparently been riding self destructing machines) and a mass dive in to cafés for bacon rolls, and a mini diveout of runners. The next section was a little featureless, slogging along into the headwind and Richard's knees forced his retirement. We were denied the variety of the railway walkway by fencing & some sort of works so carried on along the road to the Scottish Government at Victoria Quay, (formerly the Scottish Executive which has re-branded itself!) where we picked up Matt. Then more slog along to Cramond Inn and the joy of beer.
A few more left at the pub and the refreshed peloton continued along the River Cramond through to Cammo, exiting by the recycling centre near the airport, then up the road to Gogar where my legs absolutely refused to go any further. A pity with the best of the route still to come. Report
Digby
- 8th March 2012
Wed training - human golf
Before it gets too light and conventional golfers rule the roost we enrolled old and welcomed new members for a round of human golf. The full moon shone a bright light en route, and Willie engaged in a determined effort to dim the head bound rivals, with a good degree of success, and the spectral band wove around to the first tee on the Braid Hills course. While Willie called the shots on each hole - par, distance, sandtraps - Gordon was running an astronomy class, pointing out the unusual sight of Mars, Jupiter and Venus simultaneously visible in between the occasional snow shower. We managed to avoid the sandtraps and after 18 very brisk holes we were definitely looking to the next round - in KB, and a hot shower! Map
Digby
- 6th March 2012
Handicap Results - Marching into spring with a new record
With a spring in our steps and the sun on the crags it was a perfect day to get out and clamber over the Arthurs seat hills in pursuit of the runner in front.
18 of us thought likewise and headed off up the crags with a spring in our steps and a runner in our sights (or on our tail).
On a day of post-race excuses after the Bishop Hill/Lasswade10 double header it was old hand Tom that provided the hare for the rest of us. With Tom now back down to closer to his racing weight (if anyone has seen a couple of old stones lying around on the seat since Christmas they probably were his) he took almost 5 minutes off his handicap, bringing him back within a minute of his all-time pb. Not far back Ross and Mike were making the most of their handicaps as were Chloe, Cameron and newbie Dan.
As most of the action here took place well infront of me I have to rely on on-spot reporter Cam
"I thought conditions were pretty good today but was alarmed at how easily Dan cruised past me - you should have seen how he leapt off Haggis, two steps and he had cleared the crag and was sprinting over the grass. It appeared that Tom had a very generous handicap coupled with a good run as he was sunbathing when the next bunch of us came in. By the finishing straight Dan had eased past Chloe who wasn't going to let him go that easily and picked up the pace - second home for Dan, 3rd for Chloe. I furiously kept chasing but couldn't find the speed to close the final 4 or 5 seconds to Chloe so I was 4th home followed by Mike L and Gordon".
A new pb for Allister almost saw him join the sub-30 club and with Mark also recording a pb and Martin running his best time for several years (could it be a v60 record?) it was a case of making the most of the conditions.
A wee bit back down the field Chris Anderson was keeping the handicapper happy by running almost exactly to his predicted handicap on his first ever run, Chris Henty and Jamie Thin made welcome returns with Jamie using Lasswade as an excuse to raise his handicap for the next time for an easier paced return. I just failed to catch Eddie or Martin and Digby and Mark were also too far in front.
Congratulations to Chloe, after taking another couple of minutes of her pb we now have a new ladies record holder, and a time that is only going to get faster as her descending improves in leaps and bounds
Congratulations too to Dan whose debut run has put him within touching distance of Paul's overall record and could even be the fastest debut time we've had - all that after running the Lasswade 10 milers.
18 runners out with a few of the regulars missing is a great turnout - next month, being April, may well see a return of the pacindah. Thanks for turning out - see you all next month.
Results (as usual - the times don't quite match the finishing order but our budget doesn't quite stretch to a bloke with a clipboard yet!)
Bruce Smith
- 6th March 2012
High Peak Marathon
This weekend I headed southwards to my childhood stomping grounds in the Peak District, to take part in the infamous High Peak Marathon. This is a 42 mile night time navigation endurance race run in teams of four. The route traverses the Derwent Watershed, starting and finishing at the Edale Village Hall in Derbyshire. I was lucky enough to get a place on a well-established local team (a.k.a. ‘The High Peak Rollerbladers') composed of good friends from Glossopdale Harriers and Pennine Fell Runners. Start times were staggered in one minute intervals between 11 pm and midnight, and by the time we set off there was already a beautiful display of head torches lighting the way up the first climb of the night. Pre-race butterflies were rapidly replaced by excited enthusiasm, making for a rather fast start to such a long race.
Leaving Loose Hill and Win Hill behind, the pace settled down in the pull up to Stanage Edge. Dropping down to the checkpoint at Moscar, we were met with the welcome sight of enough drinks, sandwiches and cakes to feed an army. Well-fortified, we headed on into the ever-darkening night and up on to Derwent Edge. The sections that followed are hard to imagine without experiencing them in person. Suffice to say that they involved several hours of copious bog, drizzle, and tussocks. Having witnessed our leader fall in up to his waist (2 x) and neck (1 x), I quickly learnt to avoid going first at all costs! The bleak plod was lightened by occasional encounters with other teams (not always going in the same direction), a run in with a grouse which nearly de-capitated our leader (he had rather a rough time all considered!), and the sight of the checkpoint at Swains Head, complete with blow-up palm tree and marshals dressed as pink fluffy teddy bears (yes, I did consider whether I might be hallucinating).
The surreal feeling continued as we dropped into Far Black Clough, and found ourselves in the company of at least 5 other teams, including that of Carnethy HRC (Konrad, Andy, Matt and Craig). Slightly amazed at the unlikeliness and lunacy of it all, and inspired by the sense of camaraderie and common adventure, we climbed as a group to Bleaklow Stones. Teams split up again thereafter; following tried and tested lines to the next checkpoint at Bleaklow Wainstones. Dawn (which I had been assured would be spectacular) was welcome but rather un-inspiring; merely a succession of black, then dark grey, and then grey. Still, it was great to be on the final leg, and we set off from the Snake Road checkpoint chasing the one mixed team still ahead of us (Nicky Spinks' team of ‘3 Blind Mice and a Farmer's Wife '). The plod along the paving stones to Mill Hill seemed never ending, and we were relieved to see the familiar shape of Kinder Scout appear. Having negotiated the notoriously boggy Brown Knoll, we were rewarded by the not-too-distant sight of our mixed team competitors, and we put in a final (rather painful!) effort to steal ahead in the descent down to Edale. Thanks to the excellent navigation of my team mates we were second overall and first mixed team in a new record of 9 hrs 25 mins. Carnethy HRC finished 8th, in 9 hrs 51 mins, an impressive run given the navigational complexities of this event for those with less local knowledge. Most importantly, the whole thing was great fun, and more than a little bizarre.
Definitely one to try!
Jasmin Paris
- 6th March 2012
Meadows (ultra-)Marathon and (not-quite) Half Marathon
The meadows marathon has been running for a couple of years now, but (confusingly) it has always been just a half marathon. This was the first year that they've tried a marathon distance in addition to the half marathon. Well... they said it was 615m over a marathon, and in my book that makes it an ultramarathon! Also, they said the half was 1411m shorter than a half marathon, bless ‘em. It's an event organised by Edinburgh Uni students, and the vast majority of the field were students, so it had a good lively atmosphere. The race starts in Bristo Square and takes in a loop of the meadows before returning to Bristo Square for a loop, and repeat another 6times for a half marathon, or another 14times to make a marathon (7 and 15 laps in total). Not a very exciting course, but the organisers added some music at different points, a cheerleading squad and some kind of brass band to make things more fun.
I decided to enter on the day. I bumped into Michael Nowicki at registration, and new Carnethy Rosie at the start line. Rosie was doing the half, Michael and I were doing the full marathon. From the off I tried to keep a steady pace, and chit chatted to Rosie over the first couple of laps. Once into a rhythm we went our separate ways. It's a fairly short loop, so pretty soon you started to lap the walkers, those in fancy dress, and three-legged runners, with good banter all the way round. Time rumbled on, and you were forever passing people and being passed and had no idea where you were in the field. The cobbled climb up from the meadows to Bristo Square started off as a novelty but soon became a real chore, and the brief spell of hail didn't help much either!
Once the half marathoners started to leave the course it was clear how few actual marathon runners there were (a guy at the finish said only 40-odd people started the marathon). Michael was recovering from illness and probably shouldn't have started the race, he retired after 25k so he could prepare to fight another day. Rosie finished the half in 1:35. I got round in 3:23, a PB by a good margin, and somehow came 5th (out of 33). A really good fun event, fantastic support from the marshals and cheerleaders, and a special thanks to Olly for a mid-race Carnethy cheer as he was walking into town! Results here.
Jim Hardie
(We made the news! Rosie and I feature on the lower photo in the Evening News report )
- 4th March 2012
Bishop Hill Race
The forecast being bad didn't stop a large contingent of Carnethies descending on Bishop Hill and making up about 20% of the field of 97 finishes in this short sharp race. Shane was going so I joined him and in perfect conditions we set off - only to be hit by a brief hail/snow storm just before the summit. This time I reached the top well before the winner Mark Harris finished. It is a mad descent of all terrain and there were a few fallers. Victories for Charlotte Morgan and Bob Waterhouse (V60). We can't have missed the team prize by much but it went to Carnegie despite good finishes from Steven Fallon and the Gilmore trio. Some Carnethies completed their first hill race so many congratulations to them. Photos Results
Gordon Cameron
- 1st March 2012
Wed training - Arthur's Seat
A good long run on a fine night with something of a return to a long standing ethic of minimal head torch use. A dash through the badlands of Craigmillar, and for the first time ever finding an open exit from the playing fields at the back of Holyrood High School (will we ever find it again?), brought us to the back of Dunsapie Crag after a determined attempt by Willie to find us some mud in the maze of tracks in the mini woodlands adjacent to the park. Then it was a reverse of the route we usually run on a Monday lunchtime - up the long ascent to Crow Hill (to find a shivering Matt), over to Arthur's Seat, down to Whinny Hill (with some dispute about the high point - allegedly another top, verified by Bill Gauld and a spirit level!), then led down the slippery gorse & scree descent by Gordon and finally the haul up & over Salisbury Crags. Total ascent around 1700ft and 8.43 miles.
Digby
- 28th February 2012
Carnethies in action at the inaugural Devilla Forest 15K trail Race
The inaugural Devilla 15 was a superb success with 354 runners completing the 15km trail race in Devilla Forest, starting and finishing at the Scottish Police College at Tulliallan. The route followed a relatively flat 15km anti-clockwise loop of Devilla Forest, taking in a mix of fire-roads, paths and single track. The route skirted 3 lochs and went through a variety of sheltered woodland. Ground conditions varied from boggy to hardpacked.
Steven Lawley (Unattached) won the race in a quick 54.57 finishing two seconds clear of Graeme Campbell (Carnegie Harriers) who timed at 54.59. Hunters Bog Trotter Ross Clark took 3rd place in 56.11.
The ladies race was won by Jillian Gordon (Kinross Road Runners) in a fast time of 1.01.10 while Fife AC's Sheena Jack was 2nd lady in 1.05.40. Michelle Hetherington (Helensburgh AAC) finished 3rd lady (1st F40) in 1.07.17.
3 Carnethies ran, Craig O'Donnell finished 45th in 65:02, Mike Lynch 51st in 65:36 and Simon Johnston 91st in 69:38.
Mike Lynch
- 26th February 2012
Glentress Duathlon - Long
Carnethy collected a fair amount of silverware at todays Glentress Duathlon
It was the Long one and the last in the series.
Andy Fallas was part of the first team, Mark Higgingbottom was 4th V40 , Adam Anderson was 5th V40, Willie Gibson was 3rd V50, Bob Waterhouse was 1st V60 and Cali Ingham was 1st FV50.
In the series Adam Anderson was 3rd V40, Willie Gibson was 3rd V50, Bob Waterhouse was 1st V60 and Cali Ingham was 1st FV50.
Full results are on the Glentress Duathlon site Photos are here
- 26th February 2012
3 men go for a Cycle
Having received apologies from a few regulars a diminished Carnethy peloton headed out of Edinburgh to enjoy some rolling hills to our south. Inspired by the recent coverage of the track racing World Cup Paul Ritchie, Robin Haynes and Richard Bush briefly attempted a period of organised riding in the style of a team time trial. Like Alberto Contador, a “contaminated meat product” was responsible for Robin's “form” so the trio soon resigned themselves to observing the wildlife at a steadier pace. At the time of writing, the identity of one bird remains inconclusive, but likely candidates are a merlin, peregrine or out of season hobby. The next ride will be at the end of March where we hope to see a few more faces and a bit more wildlife.
Richard Bush
- 23rd February 2012
Wed Training Run & Winter Talk No. 5
We thought we did rather well to get a 4 mile run in on a breezy mild night before the talk. Any heroic thoughts were gradually whittled away as Jonathan Whitehead related to us the epic Dragon's Back race from south to north through Wales which he took part in some years ago, in a legendary time of hard man runners (and the very occasional hard lady), equipped only with a pair of Walshes and beetling sideburns. 220 miles in all over 5 days virtually unsupported. Basically a list of possibly manned checkpoints strung across the country. How you got to them was up to you to work out, as was how you ate, drank and survived. The only comfort at the end of the day a communal tent and a bucket of warm water supplied by the paras.
Swinging to the modern era guest speaker Stuart MacLeod is involved in organising a new triathlon race in Scotland, equal to the Ironman events. His own preference for triathlon racing is the Olympic category (1.5 km swim, 40 km ride, 10 km run), and he detailed his training for this, along with a lot of interesting observations about the whole triathlon 'industry'.
The 'warm up act' Willie Mykura inspired us with the many and varied ways in which green energy can be a warm up act. All of which he seems to be trying out himself! And expect to see a video shortly of how to make your bum burn, after a reprise of Graham Nash's demo.
Digby
- 21st February 2012
Long run with all the ingredients
Myself and Nigel thought about getting a long run in the Pentlands organised but we needed extra bodies for company. So we had Chris, Andy, Arthur, Jim and my mate Roly from Portobello join us.
At the start the weather was nice and no cloud in the sky, so I though fantastic the BBC got it wrong AGAIN. We start was turnhouse followed by the usual climbs. We had the wind against us and it reminded me of the Pentland skyline race of last year where the wind was right in my face. We approached drove road, so instead of taking the skline route, we headed straight. Aim was nice and simple, we are heading to East Cairn Hill. Suddenley we saw some very grey clouds and it looked like snow showers. We just continue running down and we had a slight snow shower into our faces, it felt like getting battered by stinging nettles. So we were down and suddenley the sunshine appeared, perfect timing for food break. We ran towards East Cairn Hill through nice boggy narrow paths until we reach the bottom of the climb. As soon as reach the top, Jim points to the next set of clouds, they do look serious. Quick photo and we are off again. We start heading towards the now snow covered kips, skald law etc, the snow continued for some time.
When reaching Skald Law, we had the full force of the blizzard. I actually quite enjoyed that part. Then Carnethy and Turnhouse followed, until the last descent down to Flotterstone.
This whole idea of this run was Nigels as I wanted some variety in my training for my London to Edinburgh run and he picked some route. It was great having the guys with me, so much better than training alone on the road. A special mention has to go to Roly who never ran up hills and he had a baptism of all the extremes what our beautifull local hills had to offer. The banter from Jim and Andy was non stop, meeting Chris and Arthur was fantastic also.
All this is great training for my run from London to Edinburgh.
Also here is the route which we did: http://connect.garmin.com/activity/150520075
Michael Nowicki
- 19th February 2012
Borders XC - Floors Castle
The last race of the Borders XC series was held in Kelso in beautiful weather over a dry but completely mad circuit that involved numerous loops, zigzags and, taking advantage of a XC course laid out for horses, numerous jumps and high steps. Just slightly too high to actually jump, having gained a purchase on the top you might find an enthusiastic competitor sweeping away your arm or leg and replacing it with their own. Quite interesting though! The Carnethy turnout was not quite as spectacular as on recent outings, being 6 in all - me, Gordon, Jane, Jim, Charlotte & Bill. Charlotte & Jane stormed in to first places by running fast. I stormed into first place because the other M60s didn't turn up and Bill stormed into first place in a class of his own. Charlotte was outright ladies winner in 17th overall; Jim 25th (10th in cat) & Gordon 35th placed (4th in cat).
The race was a bit short at 3.5 miles - we may collectively have missed one or two of the twists & turns, it was that confusing. Then it was all back to the Rugby club for soup, rolls, horse brasses for those who had done at least 4 of the races, and prizes. A lot of categories and Gordon was making copious notes in between leaping up to collect prizes for missing runners. Results will appear here shortly. Report on the whole series here. Charlotte Morgan's album 'Carnethy at Kelso'
Digby
Floors Castle, Kelso was the venue for last of the Borders XC races. Glorious day and an interesting XC course around the horse XC route including the jumps! Low Carnethy turnout but it didn't affect the overall results:
Ladies Categories: 1st Helen Bonsor and Charlotte Morgan; 2nd Jane Jackson and Hilary Spenceley
Ladies overall: 1st Charlotte Morgan
Ladies team: Carnethy
Men's Categories: 1st Stewart Whitlie, Ronnie Gallagher (running for Lauderdale) and Bill Gauld; 2nd Ally Robertson (under Lothian) and Adam Ward; 3rd Digby Maass
Men's Team: Carnethy
Horse Brass winners: Andy Fallas, James Hardie, Gordon Cameron, Jonathan Whitehead, Robin Sloan and Ian Nimmo
Gordon
- 17th February 2012
Box Hill Fell Race and the Punchbowl Marathon
Following our move south of the border, I've been trying to make the most of the local area. There are only two fell races in the South East England calendar and one was on the 21st of January so off I went to Box Hill. The race is 7.5 miles with 1700 feet of climb so not quite Carnethy 5 but the closest I get! The race was full at it's 250 runner limit. I had hoped to be a bit further up the field than usual against all the southern road runners but it turns out that people travel a very long way for this race so I had to be content with my usual 'back of the pack' position. However, I was first Carnethy, something I have never been able to say before and it's a great race with a very friendly atmosphere and some interesting terrain.
Following on from this, I entered the Punchbowl Marathon. This is a Long Distance Walkers event offering 20 and 30 mile routes which you can walk or run. I opted to run the 30 mile route to get to know some more of the area and identify some good spots for long weekend runs. It was very cold and icy but I had a great day out, enhanced by check points serving warm orange squash and biscuits. Highly recommended.
Steph Moss
- 15th February 2012
The Pentland run with a Matt finish
or
map
The weather looked good, mild for the time of year, the lunchtime run didn't happen, must be time to hit a Pentland from KB.
The email had gone out and as I arrived at KB spirits were high, there were a couple of new faces, but all were keen for my plan. Then Gordon arrived. "Too far" he said, well he is the President so of course we ignored him.
We set off as Matt Grove arrived on his bike, he asked for my car keys so he could put his gear in my car, "NO WAY" with his record on keys. I left the boot open for him to shut we told him the route and headed off.
At the summit of Braid we heard him about half a mile behind but headed on.
Andy and Chris turned back at Frogstone Road while the rest of us headed up Caerketton from The Steading. A stunning evening to be atop a Pentland. The descent of the screes was great and we had a fast run back to KB.
About a minute after our return Matt turned up, and so did Matt (Grove and Davis). The second Matt had been even later and they had followed us round all the way, though hidden by their torchlessness.
A great run of some 10.4 miles (and a very respectable ascent in total of 2100ft) and a lot of happy faces at the end! Where we went - map
Willie Gibson
- 11th February 2012
Fast times and record field at 42nd 'Tiso' Carnethy 5
A massive field of 523 runners (including 83 Carnethy members) finished today's Carnethy 5, the first time there has been more than 500 finishers. Although a cold day for standing around, it was a great day for running, cool and a firm ground, if a bit icy in places.
GB Mountain Running Internationalist Orlando Edwards, from Shaftesbury Barnet Harriers, running for his Scottish club HBT, pulled away from a strong chasing pack early on, to take a superb win in the 5th fastest time ever with Prasad Prasad (Squadra Porcini) taking the runner up spot half a minute down, not far in front of five times winner Rob Jebb (Bingley). Prasad was the only Scot in the top 5 as brothers Tom and Mark Addison (both GB International runners) from Helm Hill took 4th and 5th place.
For the women, Angela Mudge, wearing her usual number 13, easily won in a very fast 56 mins to record her 13th victory - who says 13 is unlucky! It was quite close for the runner up positions, but Sarah McCormack (Moorfoots) kept in front of Jasmin Paris and Catriona Buchanan (Ochil) to claim 2nd. The first 4 women were all under the hour, easily the most female sub hour runs in the race.
Once again Lochaber's Jimmy Jardine (race number 42) finished to complete his 42nd race! Even first Over 40, Kenny Richmond (Shettleston), wasn't born when Jimmy ran this race for the first time. However Kenny had a great run to retain his Over 40 title, while Duncan Ball (Penicuik) narrowly took the Over 50 from Adam Ward.
Jame Waldie had another great run in 11th place to get not only 1st Junior, but also first student in a close battle with Douglas Tullie.
After 4 years of Carnethy winning the Claymore, Shettleston finally claimed it with Carnethy taking second place. It was only the second time Shettleston had won the team prize, the last time being 1997 (nice to give them their occasional moment of glory so they don't get despondent !). However, the Carnethy team of Angela, Jasmin and Charlotte Morgan won the women's team from HBT, with Carnethy taking it for the third year in a row.
More photos on Carnethy album. Robby MacBeath's video here. Full report here
Race Results here and Full Team Results here. Scald Law Junior Race Results (race details here)
- 9th February 2012
Contact Lens Flotterstone Night Run - 8th Feb
The annual pre Carnethy night run from Flotterstone took a strange twist when one of the members lost a contact lens near the top of Turnhouse which led to a group huddle in the sub zero windy conditions which turned out to be futile. The conditions meant there was no photographic evidence of this episode which is perhaps just as well as it was an "unco sight." The runner continued with one eye vision only. Despite the full moon the cloud cover made it a dark night run and the 2 without head torches struggled especially on the Carnethy scree run to Charlie's Loup. Some elected only to do Turnhouse but we all made it back in a quick time for food and beer at the Inn.
Gordon Cameron
- 7th February 2012
Monday Lunchtime Arthur's Seat - February Handicap
On a fine a frosty day it was the experience of Tom that beat the handicapper, just winning out over the fast learning Rab, on his second only attempt at the handicap he set the days fastest time. With Mark recovering from his post Christmas blip to take a minute off his pb and Mike, also playing the long game, putting in a decent run to pop in 2 minutes faster than his handicap and Gordon returning to form also beating his handicap. Chloe, on the other hand thought the temporal handicap wasn't enough and tried wrecking the summit rock and spread a blood trail for the rest of us to follow. She still knocked another 30 seconds off her pb though.
Taking advantage of the offer to start a few minutes early Tony put in a fine run to match the weather, and debutant JBF (come to think of it, it's probably a wee while John was a debutant at many events) clipped 30 seconds off his anticipated time despite enduring (enjoying) the East Ayrshire mud of the masters cross-country on Saturday. Russell though missed his start time by 5 minutes and despite giving me a chase up the Crags dropped back and had to settle for a lonely run round. Good to see some old familiar faces out making the best of the weather and the final count of 17 runners is up there with our best ever turnout, despite a fair number of call-offs.
Who knows, we might even break 20 in March. Results
Bruce Smith
- 6th February 2012
Forfar frozen half
A gorgeous (but distinctly ch-ch-chilly) Sunday morning awaited us Carnethies who ventured up to skate run the Forfar Multi-Terrain half marathon yesterday. The 'water feature' was replaced by frozen mud, extensive ice, and (a welcome relief to the firmness everywhere else) a dusting of soft snow on the upper grounds and only real hill around mile 10. Pre-race discussions around shoe choice were faily arbitrary with the ice proving challenging for all.
I, as usual, started too quickly and by mile 5 was feeling the pace. By mile 10 the ham strings were tightening from the conditions underfoot, but somehow I still managed to out do my expectations by finishing in 1:34. Other Carnethies participating were Adrian Davis and Ally Robertson (both top 10), Charlotte Morgan with another fine result, Simon Johnston, Pamela Whitlie, and Alistair McGowan. Perhaps also worth mentioning, a couple of HBTers were spotted, with a certain Craig Mattocks putting in an impressive performance to finish first in 1:17. And to think, before the race he was considering just taking the dogs for a walk instead!
Full results are available here (pdf)
Chris Henty
- 5th February 2012
Masters Cross Country Championship - Sat 4th February, Kilmarnock
With the ground still frozen overnight and heavy rain from early morning in the west we were not sure what sort of surface we would be running on. In the end it was muddy or very muddy though there was some hint of underlying ice in the sheltered woods. The ladies course was two laps and the men three, the first one omitting the hill which seemed strange. Even stranger most of the field slowed on the hill and the interesting twists and turns in the wood. There was very heavy rain at the end of the ladies' race and the start of the men's. Angela was second and 1st over 40. With Jacqui 9th and Joanne 33rd, the ladies managed second behind City of Edinburgh. Joan Wilson running for Perth pipped Joanne at the end. I managed to not get hypothermia in the race but was very cold after having a cold trickly shower after the race. I did not know where I finished till I saw the results but Martin Hulme told me he was half a minute ahead which means perhaps that the run was the best I could do. Brian Howe running for City of Edinburgh was a minute ahead. What else would I have done on a wet day? Results (pdf)
John Blair-Fish
- 3rd February 2012
Innerleithen XC Enduro - Sunday 29th January
The XC (cross-country) Enduro was held at Innerleithen on Sunday.
Carnethy star of the day was Geraint Florida-James who completed three excellent timed runs and just missed 3rd place on the podium by 20 seconds. This included a puncture on the first run!
The event consisted of three downhill courses - each to be completed in a 4-hour block between 9.30am and 3.30pm.
Mountain bikers with a range of abilities took part with the fastest time of the day being recorded by Crawford Carrick-Anderson (Crankbrothers/Ibis UK/POC) (Vet40) with a total time of 23:25 (run1=5:28; run2=8:50; run3=9:07). The fastest female was the 18-year-old up-and-coming star, Katy Winton (Kinesis/Morvelo Project) with total time of 29:05 (6:53/11:51/10:21). Geraint Florida-James was quickest for Carnethy HRC with a total time of 26:35 (6:23/10:09/10:03) and 4th in the Vet 40 class.
Next for Carnethy HRC was Craig O'Donnel who completed the three courses in a total time of 32:20 (7:44/13:04/11:32) - a superb acheivement considering that he was racing on summer go-faster race tyres and not mud tyres. Bob Johnson rounded out the Carnethy HRC finishers with a total time of 35:25 (9:22/14:13/11:50).
Photo shows Bob trying to get to grips with one of the jumps towards the end of the third run. Photo's of Geraint and Craig have been requested and the site will be updated in due course.
Perhaps Craig and (especially) Bob could get Geraint to do some downhill technique coaching!!
Bob Johnson
- 30th January 2012
A weekend's running
Last weekend of January meant only one thing, up the distance to 60km in one day. I planned a nice route from Edinburgh to Dunbar. I set out early morning and along the way I met up with my mate Roly who's training for an ultramarathon himself. We mainly followed the road and the conditions were ideal as there was no wind which was a change. Roly stopped at North Berwick and I continued to Dunbar where the road had few inclines which I began to feel in my legs. The last 10km were rather painfull, but I just carried on knowing that my wife, son and our friend are waiting for me in Dunbar. As I reached Dunbar I felt that I achieved something and more importantly I learnt what my body can do which is simply run continuasly.
The next day (sunday) myself, Mandy, Mike, Philippa, Joel, Kate went on the Carnethy 5 recce. My legs were rather stiff from day befores run. I thought I might as well just get this run over and done with, which was the case. During the run the guys gave me alot of encouragement as during the last summit I began to suffer a million deaths.
All in all I'm definately on target for my London to Edinburgh challenge, so its a nice recovery run on the Monday and back to long runs on a tuesday.
Michael Nowicki
- 29th January 2012
Borders XC series – Berwick
Well done Charlotte Morgan! 1st lady again today, and well done JamesWaldie, 2nd overall. More well dones to Helen Bonsor, Jane Jackson, Hilary Spenceley and Bill Gauld, remarkably all1st in their categories. And well done to the other Carnethies who came along, making 13 in all, on a grey, cold but nice and still day to wade through a variety of sand types from deep and loose to firm & wet, a wee slope up to the track/footpath then along and retrace, out and back course. Their website may sometimes lack a little information but you can't fault Borders Cross Country for the quickly putting up results & other stats, which can be found here (provisional), or for the marshalling and the race which was once again very well organised.
Digby
- 29th January 2012
Carnethy Roadies January Outing
The first of the year, and I have to fess up to my legs confirming it now I am back home. Monsieur le patron, or was it Professor Cox, escorted a smallish bunch of Jane Robertson, Andy Spencely (has anyone spotted he is to be referred to as Frank Spencelery on the forums of Edinburgh's biggest cycling club?), two welcome new faces in Neil and Shona Burnett and myself out from KBU. Neil and Shona continued the trend of emailing beforehand to say something along the lines of "not sure we will be up to it" and then manifesting themselves as strong and fast cyclists. Anyway, the good news was there was hardly any wind, the bad news being a patchy overnight frost meant the preferred back roads would be potentially icy and thus painful. So we headed out on the gritted main coast road as far as Aberlady, then braved the backroads of East Lothian to Drem, Athelstaneford, Haddington, Bolton, Pencaitland and back through Dalkeith. For those interested, our route is here, almost exactly 50 miles. I usually set off with a particular route in mind, but not today. I should do this more often as it makes it impossible to make any wrong turns. Although route choice was a bit compromised, it was pretty quiet and 2 out of the 3 buzzards (aka tourist eagles) we spotted were right beside the road.
Anyway, next outing February 26th. All very welcome.
Robin Haynes
- 28th January 2012
Carnethy Burns Supper
Not only did Kate & Craig kindly volunteer to host the Burns Supper, they then also proceeded to produce a feast which could have fed two Burns Nights. Throughout the evening Eric, who looked the part in tartan waistcoat and trousers, kept things moving along nicely through the proceeding. After the haggis had been addressed by Willie and eaten - not just by Willie - there was Nick, who hadn't been able to find either a willing substitute or his old immortal memory but coped very well. In the toast to the Lassies Bob Waterhouse presented us with surprising family histories of some ladies, while Helen replied by highlighting perceived flaws in the male approach to race preparation. There was music from Margaret and Richard on flute and guitar, Bill on the fiddle and Nigel, who hadn't anticipated the effects pudding has on guitar playing, but managed to soon overcome the sticky fingers. To everyone's delight Hillary reprised, after one year pause, her excellent performance of Tam O'Shanter. The evening also saw the first gig of Carnethy's new tribute band "Sweat, Sweat, Sweat"which was a success with a sing-along to, both, a PG and Bob's version of "Mud is all around us". Further songs were sung and poems recited and a good evening was had by all.
Konrad Rawlik
- 22nd January 2012
Glentress Duathlon - Short
With the "Burden" of tired legs a few Carnethies turned up at Glentress for the 2nd (short) Duathlon of the series.
A new route from The Peel found us running uphill for 20 minutes before a great descent back down and a sting in the tail climb to the bikes. Then there was another 20 minutes of uphill before a fast return on the Blue and Red routes back to The Red Squirrel.
The route was great fun and Carnethy figured in the prizes, with Adam Anderson 3rd in the Vets and Bob Johnson winning the M50, Bob Waterhouse winning the M60 and Cali Ingham winning the FV50. Fraser Gibson was 31st, Willie Gibson 75th (I'll get him in the long!).
Bob W and I had a great tussle with me a minute or so behind at the changeover and I was catching him all the way and got to within a wheel of him by the finish (I'll get him in the long!!).
A great race! Thanks to all the Glentress Team and the numerous marshalls. Results are on the Glentress Duathlon Site
Willie Gibson
- 21st January 2012
Three 2nds and a 1st from 9 Carnethy Teams at The Devil's Burdens!
With a record 9 teams out (54 runners!) at The Burdens today, the Carnethy machine were out in force.
The weather was kind (if a bit windy and cold) and somehow all the runners got to all the changeovers (with correct numbers).
The race was close throughout and Carnethy's Senior Men A team managed a very impressive 2nd place in the very high quality field (and out of 123 teams). But also we finished 2nd in the Ladies and 2nd in the MV40, although it was left to age and experience to go one better and get the first place with the MV50 team pulling it off!
2nd Senior Men A: Stewart Whitlie/Paul Falkner; Ali Robertson; Sam Hesling/John Mitchell; James Waldie
12th Male V40 (2nd): Olly Stephenson/Mick James; Gregor Heron; Steven Fallon/Adrian Davis; Neil Burnett
14th Senior Men B: Matt Davis/James Hardie; Andrew Gilmore; Konrad Rawlik/Jon Ascroft; Simon Titmuss
25th Male V50 (1st): Bob Johnson/Gordon Cameron; Andy Spenceley; Adam Ward/Ronnie Gallagher; Colin Elder
33rd Senior Women A (2nd): Helen Bonsor/Jacqui Higginbottom; Maggie Creber; Jasmin Paris/Angela Mudge; Kim Treadgall
40th Senior Men C: Andy Millard/Micheal Nowicki; Neil Gilmore; Steven Yule/Neil Campbell; Mike Lynch
72nd Male V50 B: Digby Maass/Bob Waterhouse; Paul Lynch; John Blair-Fish/Willie Gibson; Brian Howie
77th Senior Women B: Kate Friend/Joan Wilson; Lorna Ascroft; Joanne Anderson/Jane Jackson; Hilary Spenceley
114th Senior Women C: Margaret Forrest/Cali Ingham; Moira Stewart; Mandy Calder/Patricia McMaster; Kirsty Loudon
Results are here. Fastest leg times are here. All previous Carnethy times here
A full report here - please send your reports to the webteam. Thanks to Fife AC for a great event (as usual).
Some photos are on the Carnethy album
21st Jan 2012 - 19th January 2012
Wednesday training and winter talk no. 4
An ultra run for Wed training! Well, ultra short so we could get to the talk, which suited Fraser who had reccied the Skyline the day before, and which included an interesting ascent of a minor peak to get us in the mood for Everest. First speaker was Graham Nash with some painful looking exercises to improve strength in the bum region, a key area for balance and helping to prevent various leg injuries. Otherwise known as the 4 minute Jane Fonda workout, you can download it here.
Then James Ogilvie, only one summit short of the 7 continents, talked on his ascent of Everest with fascinating images from Kathmandu all the way to the summit. James works in the Forestry commission and has a particular interest in helping to restore tree cover, adding a broader context to the story of the trek to the snows. James performed the talk on behalf of his chosen charity TreeAid; feel free to make a donation here: http://www.justgiving.com/jamesogilvie
- 16th January 2012
Trigger
This Sunday saw the inaugural running of the Trigger race from Marsden to Edale with Alex McVey and myself taking part. The race is roughly 22miles long, taking in the three trig points of Black Hill, Higher Shelf Stones and Kinder Scout (west) with pretty much free route choice in between. I had heard horror stories about the ground and some tricky navigation, in particular across the Bleaklow and Kinder plateaus, but luckily several days of clear and cold weather tamed the man eating bogs and dressed the bleak moors into a sparkling coat of hoar, making it a glorious - if slightly chilly - day to be out and running.
From the start a small lead group formed on the long but gentle climb along the flagstones to Black Hill, but after the trig point I lost touch with the others mainly due to insisting on a more individual line. The error of my judgment was confirmed when a group of three, including two local Glossopdale runners, appeared to my right making seemingly effortless progress along a trod. This was to become a recurring pattern over the next hour and a half or so - the group repeatedly appearing from an unlikely angle, cutting in ahead of me. After reaching Snake pass I made what was to be my last attempt to drop the group and catch 4th place. I pulled ahead on the descent and climb up Kinder, however one of the Glossopdale runners ended up joining me at the trig coming in at a 90 degree angle to my direct line. As I couldn’t see 4th place on the rugged plateau and after an enquiry about the complexity of the remaining route lead to a rather involved description, I opted for a gentler pace and a guided tour across to the edge above Edale. Eventually I finished in 3hrs30 for 5th place having managed to hold off my former guide with a well judged final effort after a shortcut had given him the advantage one last time during the final descend. Alex meanwhile had an interesting pain killer fuelled run, which I’ll leave to him to tell you about, and finished 53rd in 4hrs39. Overall winner was Oli Johnson of Dark Peak in 3hrs14 and full results are here.
Many proclaimed the new race a classic in the making and I’m inclined to agree that it certainly is a very enjoyable route and, especially at this time of year, when long events are scarce, well worth the journey south. Be advised however that local knowledge is highly recommended if frustration is to be avoided and I can imagine the race being a less appealing proposition with the cloud down and the bogs in their unfrozen state.
Konrad
- 14th January 2012
London to Edinburgh Challenge
On the 29th April, I'm running from London to Edinburgh. I'll start off from in Parliament square, London and finish in the Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Edinburgh. My purpose is to promote mental health and raise money for SAMH's (Scottish Association Of Mental Health) Get Active and Suicide Prevention programmes.
Buchlyvie 10k Race
Having not signed up for the Devil's Burdens relay, I headed over to Buchlyvie for the 10k race. 225 runners took on the out and back course. The race starts in the village and is on road for the first 1.5km and then follows a disused railway line. Wet and extremely windy conditions made for tough going, however the wild weather and rough track may have favoured the hill runners amongst us! Race winner David Munro of Cambusland Harriers recorded a time of 34.20. A quick look through the results shows the only other Carnethy home to be Pamela Whitlie - 10th female, 86th overall. Apologies if I have missed anybody else. I finished in 39.03 for 11th place. A nice wee race to start the year off and gauge fitness before hitting the hills next month.
John Hammond