Old News Jan - March 2013
- 30th March 2013
Norman's Law Hill race
To an appreciative audience of young bovines we set off down the road. A mixture of snow and mud on the outward track led to a relatively gentle ascent of Norman's Law, a smallish sort of a hill that suddenly reveals a wonderful view of the Firth of Tay as you breast the summit. Keeping an close eye on the ground forbade any sightseeing of more than a second, and by concentrating hard on the terrain I managed to plant my leg up to the thigh in a hoof hole of remarkable depth.
Colin and Joan Wilson, amongst others, had already completed the Birnam Hill race and driven straight off to do this one. Joan was rewarded with 1st F50, and all of us with lots of soup and cake. Results (inc junior race), Fife AC photos, photomap.
Digby
Emily Hill junior race
I ran the Emily Hill Race. It was 1 mile and 200 feet of up. It was in the village of Luthrie, Fife. There was a lot of Fife runners. There was hardly any mud because it was cold. There was two Carnethy runners for the kids, me and Rachael. When the marshal said GO we ran past two markers then I was out of breath. I started walking up the hill until I saw the top. I sprinted round it, then I was away. I grabbed three places on the way down.
Andrew Nash, age 9
I ran the Emily Hill Race on 30 March. It was my first hill race. The hill was very very steep and I got out of breath. I went to the very top of Emily Hill and then it was down hill and I ran very fast to the finish line. At the end I got a box of chocolates. It was fun but cold.
Rachael Nash, age 7
- 30th March 2013
Easter Cycling in the Lammermuirs
Sunshine at last, with a light easterly wind (what else these days?).
Some of the high roads are part-ploughed to a point where the plough has given up, leaving it too far to retreat, and a hard struggle on foot to continue through the drifts.
Redstone Rigg is clear for the Sunday chain gang though.
Keith Burns
- 28th March 2013
Wed training
Social group:
A test of memory last night as we attempted the golf course sprints without the old master, who has found marginally more snow in the alps. Gordon did very well however and got us to the golf course without getting muddy, which is an achievement in itself, and found all the holes and tees in the right order. We weren't much help in this as none of us had been paying attention the last time. We weren't very sprinty but had a relaxed run of a very decent length. Cody distinguished himself again and celebrated reaching the 18th tee with a traditional fertility ceremony.
Digby
Fast group:
Five of us headed off, nearly in daylight, a promise of things to come. We starting off with the traditional climb up Blackford then on to the golf course. You could tell that none of us were golfers as we hooked shots, stumbled into the rough and generally struggled to find the hole (or sometimes even the tee!) We finished up Blackford by a interesting new route. Only Euan made it to the 19th.
Euan Boyd
- 21st March 2013
Wed training
Fast group:
Seven of us followed Andy off into the dusk including new guy Thomas, for Blackford Hill and then Braid Hill, where we met the slower group, whilst marking our territory. Not hanging about long we sped off for a tempo circuit around Mortonhall through the crispy snow avoiding all the ropes, then back over Braid Hill, pausing to refuel with a Jelly Baby, before a long speedy ascent of Blackford Hill, where we managed to lose Simon before heading back to KB for some excellent Stewarts Copper Cascade.
Graham Nash
Slow group:
Lots of faces tonight, glowing in the moonlight. Properly wet and muddy for a change as we circuited the golf courses. The lights of the fast group approached at an angle, like a ship passing in the night they ghosted through us and onwards. Cody's glowing collar a green spark following an equally mysterious course, until he started being A VERY DIRTY BOY.
- 18th March 2013
Chapelgill Congrie Conga junior fun run
Congratulations to the brave young folk who had a go. The organiser arrived after a very difficult drive before the snow plough had cleared the road into Glenholm. Then he was unable to find the steep grassy path up Congrie Hill because it was covered in deep show. And the poor old man was unable to stand on the steep slippery slope. He would have sat down and cried if Edel and Val had not come to look after him and encourage him. So many thanks to Edel and Val and to Stuart, who marshalled at the turn and collected course markings.Name
Time
Club
Course
Age
Rosie Jones
14.01
Carnethy
Half Conga
8
Ronnie Jones
17.40
Carnethy
Half Conga
8
Abi Arbuckle
18.51
Lothian
Full Conga
6
Solly Jones
20.27
Carnethy
Half Conga
3
Because of the problems we decided on a shorter course on the lower slopes. This could be repeated for the full Conga. Anyone who got round did brilliantly. We would love to see you at our next two Hill Fun Runs. Both are on beautiful woodland courses and we are asking the sun to shine on us.
Martin
- 17th March 2013
Weekend double for Andrew and Charlotte - Criffel Hill Race
Andrew Gilmore and Charlotte Morgan both won at Criffel to record two wins each in two days having already won at Chapelgill on the Saturday (see below). They must enjoy runnign in the snow ! Many of the other Carenthies who ran had also run at Chapelgill the previous day, including Joan Wilson who was 3rd woman and 1st Over 50, Iain Gilmore 4th overall and Harry Gilmore, 2nd Over 50.
Results Photos
- 17th March 2013
East Lothian 3 Peaks Recce
Those who accepted the offer of an opportunity to recce the EL3P route were unaware of the hidden agenda to capture information with which to reset their handicaps. We were rewarded with snowfields on Lammer Law and warm sunshine to finish at North Berwick Law. In between there was fast cycling with a tail wind. Lambing has started and Spring may just arrive in time for next Sunday.
The team: Karen, Senga, Patricia, Helen W, Russell, Digby, Paul R, Keith
Keith Burns
- 17th March 2013
D33 Deeside Way Ultramarathon
8 Carnethies started the first Ultra of the Scottish season in fairly miserable conditions. There were 7 finishers among the total of 252 (Michael Nowicki DNF). Graham Nash was first Carnethy home in 13th place with a great time of 4:10:31, followed by Phil Humphries (24th) in 4:20:38, Paul Nash (38th) in 4:30:17, Mike Lynch (57th) in 4:45:10, Mark Hartree (65th) in 4:51:41, Jim Hardie (98th) in 5:08:29 and Rod Dalitz (213th) in 6:17:57. Apologies if I've missed anyone. Results here
Mike Lynch
- 16th March 2013
Andrew & Charlotte win at Chapelgill Hill Race
A set of photos from a snowy Chapelgill today. 13 Carnethies raced (out of a field of 31 hardy souls, and a dog). Andrew Gilmore had a good overall victory, Charlotte Morgan won the ladies. Class wins for Iain Gilmore (2nd overall and not far behind his brother, Andrew), JBF, Keith Burns, Joan Wilson and Fionna Mackinnon.
Results
http://www.flickr.com/photos/64932248@N04/sets/72157633007420603/
Allan Gebbie
- 14th March 2013
Night run - Dalmeny
Perfect still evening, and South Queensferry looking very scenic for the night run. 18 of us set off up the hill and through the station heading for West Craigie Hill, little remarked when you pass it in the car heading to the Forth Bridge, but with hidden delights (though you may need to go there in daylight to fully appreciate them). Returning via the pretty village of Dalmeny itself the unruly herd scattered at the last and Kate led a few through to an 'interesting' finish with a lot of crackling and thrashing in the undergrowth. An unusual beer on offer at the bar of the Hawes Inn - Titanic brewery's cappucino stout, and food.
Digby
- 11th March 2013
Howarth Hobble
Myself &John Ryan had a nice run round the Bronte moors in the Howarth Hobble at the weekend. Running as pairs it was full circle for me as this was my first venture into running an "Ultra" not that anybody talked about them in those days, they were just long hikes. The break in the weather mid week meant it was pretty inclement for most of the run, but this at least had the advantage of softening up the surface a little so it didn't feel like a road run too much underfoot. I was surprised to see Kim Collision flying past up Stoodley Pike, later finding out he and a couple others had overshot a turn half way adding a few extra miles and ending any hopes of glory so they were gunning it to line in the hope of some damage limitation. Also it was nice to see some friends who'd braved the trip out to see us at Widdop and Top O't Stairs before later hooking up with them for curry & beer in the evening. John had to suffer the indignity of being prematurely aged and promoted to Vet status as the organisers averaged our years between us. However, on looking at the results they have somehow got us down for being out longer than we were. I maybe be slower, but I can do without them adding on time. At the time they have I was having my post race recovery snooze in the car! So hopefully they'll sort it out. As an event it's well worth the trip down especially if you want to run a race as a pairs for some practice.
http://kcac.co.uk/events/hobble/13_hobble.html
Matt Davis
- 10th March 2013
Bill's 80th Birthday Bash
The run:
We arrived through heavy snow showers for the pre party run. As the time available to run got shorter and shorter (people WILL stop and talk to each other!) so did our ambitions - Blackford Hill changed to Arthur's Seat, which changed to Craigmillar Castle. The new venue in Inch Park, and the park itself were a surprise to a few people, though the park is well known to Wed night runners. At the castle the snow was falling again for the group photo. Then we thought we might extend the run to take in the ruins of Edmonstone House, another little known place which was once the centre of a major estate, now almost obliterated and being incorporated into the new research park. Major works and fencing at the rear of the ERI at Little France brought the sort of challenge that seems to attract Carnethies, who started to scale bridges and ford streams until Bill sensibly brought us back to reality - we had to return! So we did, but not without stopping to play on the ropes and slides in Craigmillar park. We had our own changing rooms with customised Bill themed his and her's labels thanks to the centre.
More photos on report page
- 8th March 2013
Lasswade 10 Road Race - Sunday 3rd March 2013
After an unseasonally hot Saturday in Edinburgh I was a little worried that it would be too hot to pound the pavements, but thankfully come
Sun(day) the sun didn't last and conditions for the race were overcast, although I still managed to overdress for the conditions.
The race itself starts from Rosewell and after a couple of miles you drop down in to Roslin Glen before immediatly climbing out the other side, where I was able to make up a few places after the hill climbing practice gained on the Carnethy 5 a few weeks earlier. After that it was a case of settling down and zoning out to block the pain of the relentless running (no hills where you can do nothing but walk and recover).
A few miles from the end I remember becoming accutely aware of the fact that I was flagging badly, perhaps the cycle to the start line from Edinburgh was a bad idea, but enjoyed a few battles where I passed a couple of people suffering more than me, but also got passed by others who were going strong. I managed to pick up the pace in the final 200 meters to finish (offically) 10 seconds under the 70 minute mark, although my watch read 1 hour 7 min 49 sec, followed shortly by a well deserved handshake with a Gala Harriers runner who'd passed me in the closing mile.
Thankfully the finish line was only a minute from the post-race feast of sandwiches and cake, as well as the most amazing mountain I'd ever seen - made of Tunnock's Caramels. I also managed to spot a custard yellow hoodie to prove I wasn't the only Carnethy there.
Results for Carnethy runners (who declared affiliation during
registration): Pamela Whittle (1:20:51); Fionna McKinnnon (1:14:29); Russell Sommerford (1:09:50).
Full results
Big thanks to the organisers and marshals.
Russell Sommerford
- 7th March 2013
Wed training - fast group
8 miles, 78mins. 2000ft ascent approx. Seven of us departed and seven returned from a brisk route over the Braids, Wester Craiglockhart, Easter Craiglockhart and Blackford Hill, Euan playing a odd sounding trombone with increasing crescendo. Andy ensured everyone stayed together in the descending mist, until we managed to lose Matt D on Blackford.
Graham Nash
Leaving work later than planned, I reassessed my evenings run and decided to head out on the Seven Hills route starting from Arthur's Seat, hoping to bump into friendly faces on the Craiglocharts.
But it wasn't to be. And on an evening not designed for solo running on a pavement heavy route, there was not a glimpse of a head torch, and I bailed at Morningside.
Stopping off at Bennetts bar to 'warm up' with a beer and some snacks (rude not to), I headed home after what was a fairly unrewarding evening out.
I'm sure everyone else had a fabulous time, but being home, showered, and warm before even KB bar closes, feels rather good right now!
Chris Henty
- 7th March 2013
Mad March Handicap
Congratulations to Tom McN who is this months winner.
Great turnout and conditions were excellent underfoot, resulting in almost everyone beating their handicap. Close times too, with almost half the field finishing within a minute of each other.
PBs for Neil, Chris, Tom E, Mike R and Stewart. Mike was especially chuffed he pipped Stewart to the post, by 2 seconds, both having started at exactly the same time.
Newbie Ray, ran a wee while later, due to an inconvenient meeting. As this was his first handicap his start time has been reset to match it.
Next month we will have our traditional April pacidnah (reverse handicap), starting with Haggis and finishing with the Crags. As the first Monday of April (1st), is Easter Monday and a public holiday, I propose the handicap will be held on the 8th.
NB. Bruce is leaving Standard Life this month, so make sure any future emails re. the handicaps or Monday runs are sent to me.
Results here
Mike Lamont
- 5th March 2013
Andalucia Bike Race
Craig O'Donnell (30yrs old) and Bob Johnson (considerably older) completed the Andalucia Bike Race last week. The scheduled 6 stages were reduced to 5 when overnight snow spoiled things somewhat towards the end of the week. The Carnethy pairing raced in the Master-30 category with some 107 other pairings. Bob and Craig finished 74th in 22hrs 36mins. The approximate distances were 220 miles and 11,000m of climbing. Craig experienced a puncture on day one while a slight crash for Bob (final stage) meant that gear changing was more troublesome than usual. The Carnethy pair joined the Pure Mountains team as per the photographs provided below... More to follow when action photos come out...
Bob Johnson
- 4th March 2013
The Carnethy "Dream Team" storms High Peak Marathon - 2nd/3rd March
An amazing run by the extremely strong Carnethy Ladies team of Angela Mudge, Jasmin Paris, Jill Mykura and Helen Bonsor, who stormed round the 42 mile High Peak Marathon in a new ladies record (by a hour) in 9hrs 40 on the way to finishing 8th team overall. They could have been below 9hrs if they hadn't made a navigational mistake of about 45 mins crossing Derwent Moor, although as this event is run overnight and crosses the roughest moorland in Derbyshire - Bleaklow, Kinder Scout etc, making the odd mistake is not unexpected.
Race details here. Full results here
"Friday saw myself & Konrad down in the Peak, I as a late replacement into his youthful squad of "The Iced Spiked Collective". With nigh on perfect conditions it made for good going as was born out by the finishing times of the first two teams. For once all the bog was well and truly frozen up and many of the cloughs and groughs were filled to make nice snow ribbons to follow. Navigation & route finding was pretty straight forward and fortunately my memory of the area seemed to serve us well. With the clear night skies it was great when you looked about to see the hills lit up with torches for miles around and likewise as sunrise came the views were great. A great way to spend a Friday night. "
Matt Davis
- 4th March 2013
Bishop Hill Race - Sun 3rd March
1/2/3/ for the Carnethy girls with Charlotte Morgan, Jackie Higginbottom and Joan Wilson all winning their classes on a calm cloudy day with gliders and para-penters soaring above us. Excellent performances from the Gilmore trio with Andrew 5th and Ian 8th and Dad, Harry, in his first race as an Over 50 ! Ally Robertson, John Hammond and Bruce Smith also did well whilst I managed to hold off Colin Wilson on the mad descent to finish in 50th place. Results
Gordon Cameron
- 3rd March 2013
Black Combe Fell Race
Black Combe is a fell in the south-west corner of Cumbria, on the edge of the Lake District. I used to live just up the A595 outside of Bootle, yet this was my first time running this race on along with my brother-in-law Tristan who was running his first fell race. Black Combe Runners club organised superbly. It's a great AM (8 miles, 3281 ft climb) course with a steep opening and a brutal re-ascent to the summit. There was a great field for the day, Ricky Lightfoot of Ellenborough taking the win ahead of Rob Jebb, and Tim Ellis of Calder Valley in third. It was a nigh on perfect spring day, no hail storms like last year, although a bit of cloud on the top resulted in a few nav errors for some on the final checkpoint (not me surprisingly!), shame as on a good day the views from the top are brilliant. Fantastic pie n' peas at the end, horse-free I'm pretty sure! I thought I was the only Carnethy running but it was nice to speak to Andy McLeod and his wife afterwards. I really recommend this race to everyone.
Matthew Curry
Race report from Fell Running Briefs here
Results from Black Combe Runners website here
- 28th February 2013
Wednesday training
Where the fast group went. The route was 9.5 miles with about 500m of ascent, including 3 ascents of Blackford Hill, and 2 of the Braids.
- 26th February 2013
Bedrock 50 - Christchurch - 23rd February
The Bedrock 50 is a 52k(ish) ultramarathon with over 1100m climb about an hour away from Christchurch in New Zealand that looked like fun, so I decided to enter it as it was a good three weeks after we were due to get over there.
My training went well. It went well in that after the Boundaries of Edinburgh mid January I ate, drunk and partied until we left Scotland at the end of the month and then went to the beach, trawled around to buy a car, unpacked a household full of belongings , got the cats back, applied for jobs, prepared for and did a couple of job interviews, found the local decent pubs/beers and did just a little bit of running. It should be noted that this is not the best way to prepare for longish race, especially if you are not that good at running to begin with.
Race day. I drove to the finish (to get a bus to the start) which left at 6:15 so an early start as I had an hours drive up there from ChCh and all for a race that started at 8:30. Although still summer here it was a chilly feeling 6 degrees or so at that point although clear skies indicated that the hot stuff was on the way. Good chat with some folk before the off, another Scot and his English mate (both been in NZ for some years) chatting about races they had done in the UK such as the Lairig Ghru etc. made me feel at home.
The race itself. We started off at Coopers Creek and headed along a track for 6k, mostly ascending until we hit the Wharfdale track which we followed all the way along to the Lees Valley. Most of this part is woodland with tree roots, some sharp dropoffs and great views. At Lees valley there were a couple of river crossings (I managed to keep it just below my knees but is has been very dry here!) and along the valley. There was a food/water station at about 24k which was welcome although, thanks to the local farmlife, just a little but smelly... then on to the valley proper. This was the soul/energy sapping bit for me as from about 29k to 37k was along a shingle road. A lovely bit of country, very flat and a very nice road I'm sure but a very straight road that had no shelter. Like none. The breeze had vanished. The sun baked. As did I. According to the other longer settled locals I was chatting to "this isn't hot". According to me it was. Somewhere in the twenties and sunny, not something I am too accustomed to.
Having filled my water bottle at the 24k stop I'd drunk it all by the final one at 37k part due to heat and part due to my lack of training but boy was I ready for a refill. I got more water, some juice, a couple of crisps and a lovely lady rubbing sun-cream on my shoulders and back of neck (nice) and I was all set for the fun part...
The fun part was only about 14k, what could possibly go wrong? Here was the kicker for the race. After about one an a half km of track including another river crossing you start ascending through farmland and then ascend Mt. Richardson (1047m) from the west and onto the Blowhard track (approriate name for what I was doing by then) down the eastern flank of the mountain to the end. From 38k to 42k the 600m or so climb was really tough, well for me anyway! Runner after runner overtook me on the climb and then cramping problems at the top meant that the ridge and descent that could and should have been flown along and down were a fairly slow event but at least that meant I got to really enjoy the views. Next time a camera is required.
I only managed to overtake one of the folk who got me on the climb (a fireman from Dunedin airport, really nice bloke) on the descent and sauntered over the line a mammoth 6hr 45 mins after I started, nearly two hours behind the winner but still managed to somehow scrape into the top half of the field.
I also managed somehow (possibly for the first time?) to be the first Carnethy home in a race, a feat that I managed to achieve simply by moving to the other side of the world to ensure that nobody else from the club would be there. Next year I'll actually do some training for it and give it a proper go!
This event is a lovely, low key (76 starters), relaxed race which I would highy recommend should anyone be over here next year and some of you Carnethies would absolutely fly it! Though hopefully you won't as then I wouldn't be first Carnethy :o) The event website is here
for results, more info and pictures etc.
Andy Millard.
- 26th February 2013
A Winter Ramsay Round Attempt
Five minutes to 3 pm I am bouncing on the spot outside Glen Nevis Youth hostel a bag of nerves again. It has been a busy morning getting organised but thankfully I managed to get some sleep in the car. Time is slowing down as we wait for 3 pm, at 3 am the reverse will start to happen but I am thankfully unaware of that.
Then Jamie and I are off and we make good time up the first hill in the sunshine. Conditions were perfect with firm snow covering most of the rocks, clear blue skies and an alpine feel. We met Eric as arranged below Sgurr a Mhaim just as the sun was setting and I crossed the Devil’s ridge as it was bathed in alpenglow on one side and with the moon brightening on the other. The snow had made a perfect arête and I was very thankful for the footsteps as I crossed. However, on the descent of the main peak I slipped on the ice and landed on my backside, nothing dangerous but surprising and the first indication that the surface layer of snow was freezing back into ice and that the mircospikes were not up to the job in hand.
The next challenge was the ridge to An Gearanach. Jamie had told me a story about somebody falling of and dying so I made him come with me. Again I was very thankful of the footsteps in the hard neve as we crossed the airy bits.
At this point I was a bit behind schedule but nothing too alarming. The wake up call came as we traversed under Stob Coire a Chairn and found ourselves trying to cross areas of hard snow that were too steep to walk over even in microspikes. Instead we had to face inwards and use axes for safety and we kicked our way across. Time was starting to slip. Once back on the main path we moved quicky over some amazing terrain formed from the now frozen wind blown snow until we reached Binnein Mor. Here we had a serious problem - entry onto the ridges going NW, W or down into the cols on the W side involved seriously steep ice so we had to go N down a steep boulder field until we found somewhere we felt we could traverse westwards. Once there Jamie thrust a rock into my hand and with an axe and a rock in either hand I managed the descending traverse to flatter ground and took off for Binnein Beag conscious that we had lost a lot of time and energy.
We regrouped after Binnein Beag and carried on to Sgurr Eilde Mor, again hitting steep patches that required some care and which took time. On Sgurr Eilde Mor we met John Gay who had set off in the reverse direction at 8:10, he was going very well and managed to complete in 23:18 which is an amazing achievement. Report Here For the rest of my round he was with me in spirit as I followed his footsteps.
Loch Eilde Mor was a flurry of food, tea, fresh shoes and socks with
great support from Phil and Al. Then off again with Jonathan and Joel
for the second leg. They ran me along the stream and it was nice to
be running again. Joel turned back at the bothy and then Jonathan said
good-bye at the track. I trotted off to the railway line and was pleased
to be able to run most of that section so it was a surprise when I reached
the summit of Beinn na Lap and found that I had lost more time. I suspect
that I was becoming dehydrated. Although not sweating much I must have
been losing water just from panting in the cold dry air. The section
between Beinn na Lap to Chno Dearg was the low point. More steep ice
slowed me down and getting out of the corrie on the other side was alarming
as at one point as I found myself hanging off my axe trying to get my
feet to stick with a long slide into the darkness below. From Chno Dearg
to Stob Coire Sgroidain I was moving okay again and trying to drink
and eat but I was increasingly aware that I was moving too slowly and
becoming a liability. The descent off Stob Coire Sgroidain confirmed
that I could no longer trust my feet and in winter mountaineering terms
the only option was to stop or potentially get into real trouble. So
I baled out at Fersit, three hours behind schedule but relieved to be
in one piece.
Many thanks to everybody who helped, without a great team of people I would not have got off the start and experienced what is perhaps best described as an amazing winter expedition rather than a run in the hills.
Thanks are due to: Running Support: Jamie Thin, Eric Christison, Jonathan Whitehead, Joel Sylvester, (Graham Nash and Willie Gibson – Fersit to Glen Nevis sorry guys) Static Support at Fersit and Loch Eilde Mor: Phil Amos and Al Brightman On the hill: Nigel Fawthrope and Olly Stephenson (Again between Fersit and Glen Nevis, sorry) At home: My wife, Kirsti, who not only encouraged me and put up with the training but also sorted out the credit on my phone during the round! It definitely would not have happen without you.
Jason Hubert
- 25th February 2013
National Cross Country Championships - Saturday 23rd February
Carnethy was represented by Helen Bonsor, Jean Jumelle and myself at the national cross country championships in Falkirk on Saturday. The event made for a sociable day out in the sun in Callender park with a surprisingly large turnout of hill runners amongst many of the country’s best cross country, road and track runners. The mens course comprised 3 laps of an undulating 4km circuit of the park with enough mud and varying terrain to make it interesting whilst allowing for a very fast-paced race. Many thanks to all those who came out to support. Whilst I was tiring around the middle of the second lap and doubting whether I could hold my pace for another lap, it was great to here familiar voices yelling at me to ‘dig in’ and calling out my position, encouraging me to move up a few places. A bit of a change from a day in the hills but lots of fun all the same. Full results here.
Andy Fallas
- 25th February 2013
Bowhill Duathlon
Several Carnethies completed the full three series of races in the Bowhill Duathlon (following its move from Glentress this year). Several others took parts in different legs of the series so sorry if I missed others who completed all 3.
The races finished with the Long event yesterday involving a fair bit of mud, steep pull ups, ‘bondo brashing’ through the woods and the odd mini ravine to cross (1 meter deep!). We had some snow (getting out of Edinburgh), hail, a bit of ice, and the odd boggy knee deep ruts to negotiate, all for the sake of a lollypop and cream egg.
Bob Waterhouse won MVINT, with Cali Ingram taking third in Female Vet. Adam Anderson won the Male vet with Mark Hartree coming in fourth in the same category.
Mark Hartree
- 21st February 2013
Wed training - golf course sprints
Slow group 6.76 miles (10.9k) - After a bit of indecision about what to do golf course sprints was settled on. A large group with a few new faces set out and failed to get muddy. Willy, you are losing your grip! Under the stars (and an amber aurora warning) we charged about the place, and I limped along behind. The will-o-the-wisp lights of the fast group now here, now there, and the rather more strident ones of the driving range definitely there, blinding us down the hill. The Carnethy secateurs are going to have to be bought out again to ease the scratchy passage back after the exciting bridge crossing - the fast group cheated and climbed another hill.
Digby
Fast group 8.4 miles (13.5k) - we had the earlier tee off time, but after a few holes struggled to find the correct playing sequence, some dodgy caddieing meant we were playing some holes backwards. Around hole 6 or 7 we saw the slower group, led by an Old Master, and sensing they wanted to play through, we picked up our game. Matt ended up in the rough and headed back to KB for an early bath, or maybe he knew they only had a few pints of Black IPA left at the bar. The back nine holes, or was it eleven, were played at a furious pace and after holing the 18th, we headed back to the clubhouse via Blackford Hill.
Graham Nash
- 20th February 2013
Happy Birthday to Bill Gauld - 80 today!
Congratulations to Carnethy legend, Bill Gauld, who is 80 today. Bill has been a prominent member of Carnethy since the mid 80s and is a Carnethy life member ; double world mountain running champion; many times British and Scottish champion etc etc and he is still running (having just completed the Carnethy 5 race!).
- 16th February 2013
43rd 'TISO' Carnethy 5 Hill Race
It was an almost perfect February day for running as 535 started the 43rd Carnethy 5 race, a record, as was the number of finishers ...530, with 115 of them Carnethy Runners.
First timer, Finlay Wild of Lochaber, won by almost a minute. Perhaps he had been having special coaching lessons about the course from his clubmate Jimmy Jardine, who completed his 43rd race (a little bit slower than Finlay)! However, Finlay had to really fight hard to get the win from 5 times winner, Rob Jebb of Bingley, as Rob kept with Finlay all the way to the top of Carnethy and kept trying to break away from Finlay. In the end it was Finlay's superb descending skills off the summit of Carnethy that won the race for him. Following in 3rd place was another from south of the border, Mark Addison from Helm Hill Runners. Club Captain Andy Fallas was first from Carnethy in a superb 4th place.
Angela Mudge won the women's race for an amazing 14th time. She doesn't appear to be getting any slower with age (she was, of course, first Over 40 woman as well) and she recorded exactly the same time, to the nearest second, as when she won last year. This year she was the only female to get under the hour, with the next two, Sarah McCormack (Moorfoots) and Charlotte Morgan (Carnethy) battling to the line seconds apart and seconds over the hour. Hilary Ritchie (Fife) was first Over 50 woman and another cross border raider, Wendy Dodds (Clayton-le-moors), first Over 60.
Kenny Richmond (Shettleston) defended his Over 40s title with a fine 6th place in 52:44 (his three wins at Over 40 level have all been within 10 secs of each other); while Stewart Whitlie broke the Over 50s record by a minute and a half, recording 54:45 and 11th overall. Scottish Over 60 champion Ewan Paterson (Moray) won the Over 60s and Keith Burns from the host club, first Over 70.
Last year Shettleston beat Carnethy to the men's team title, this year Carnethy got their revenge. The Carnethy women also won, with Moorfoots second.
A record seven runners (Gordon Pryde, Terence Brannan, Susan Davis, Alan Coltman, Brian Brennan, Tony Stapley and Colin Pritchard) completed their 21st race to win a Quaich and have been added to the 21 race club page here. Susan Davis (Northumberland) was not only the second woman to achieve this, but also became part of the first married couple to complete 21 as her husband, Geoff, has now completed 23 races! Also worth a special mention is James Rowley (Law & District) who completed his 40th race! Bill Gauld got round in 95 mins a few days short of his 80th birthday.
Full Results; Team Results and all time list of winners
Some photos from Sandy Wallace here. More photos on Carnethy Google album here
Scald Law Junior Race results are here
- 14th February 2013
Not The Carnethy 5 Recce Night Run
16 hardy souls (suckers!) and Cody turned up at Flotterstone on a foul night. We set off in very wet conditions and battered our way up a melting Turnhouse. The deep morning snow had turned into rivers as the thaw had set in. The wind was battering us on the summit. Jim took the fast group - himself! - set off last and finished first. Carnethy had lots more snow and was very icy underfoot in places but we all made it up safely only to be hit by a hurricane whiteout at the top as we tried to find the scree descent route. Once back on course we hurtled down to the gate at Charlie's Loup where we checked the padlock was working (so it can be opened on Saturday). Then it was back over the tussocks and along a new burn and back to an almost benign car park. 8 of us and Cody then dried out in front the fire in in the bar.
Gordon
Unofficial nite run report: bloody hellish. Felt like a greetin' girl and was hallucinating about warmth... Oh, and could have died on top of Carnethy... Thanks to wonderful Michael Wilkinson for being the perfect gentleman. NEVER again. Going to give up running and take up drinking to excess!
Mandy Calder
- 14th February 2013
Inov8 Tri-Trail running series - Dalkeith Country Park
The dark and trees meant much of the foul weather was hidden from view, so what better than a night time race through Dalkeith Country Park. Despite knowing the park fairly well, it seemed a lot larger in the pitch black, the mud deeper and the hills (what hills?) steeper. The Tri Centre put on a great race, with a large turnout despite the conditions. The 11K single loop took us from the stable block around the southern perimeter, then out under the A68 and back for tea and cake.
Those listed as Carnethy who ran include Tom Middlemiss (55:09), myself (55:56), Mark Chapman (56:15), Mhairi Ferguson (57:39), Becky Mackenzie (1:06:06) and Fiona Mackenzie (1:06:36). A special thanks must go to the marshals standing in the dark and rain all around the course - I hope there was plenty of cake left for them by the time they'd made it back to the race HQ.
No photos - it was dark!
Joel Sylvester
- 12th February 2013
Winter talk number 4 social night - Mon 11th Feb
Another very large turnout heard three brilliant and very different talks. Michael Nowicki's London to Edinburgh run was first (during which he suffered a lot and drank lots of beer !). This was followed by Alex McEwan's interactive and humorous talk on what makes a good sports club, which Carnethy seemed to come out of fairly well, but left a few serious points for the committee (and others) to think about. Then for something very different, we had ultra runner (not allowed to call him a legend!) Andy Mouncey's dramatic (and it was well acted!) talk on how to run ultras dealing with mental and physical aspects.
- 10th February 2013
More Carnethy wins at Borders Cross-Country, Galashiels
The last Borders Cross-Country of the season was held on an excellent, but very muddy (of course) course at Galashiels with two stream crossings that somehow managed to slip past the Health and Safety inspectors! There was even a steep little hill. There were lots of tired legs from the Burdens but another Carnethy double as Michael Reid won the men's, with Andrew Gilmore having a storming run in 2nd place only seconds behind, and Charlotte Morgan won the women's.
In the overall series, Carnethy retained the team title; Michael Reid won the Senior Men; Charlotte Morgan the Senior Women; Stewart Whitle won the Over 50 Men and Bill Gauld won the Over 70 Men, with Ian Nimmo 2nd. Iain Gilmore took 2nd place in the Under 20 Men; there were 3rd places for Andrew Gilmore in the Senior Men and Adam Ward in the Over 50 Men. The series trophy for all participants who completed a minimum of 3 races (usually 4 but the Berwick leg was cancelled) was a rather nice horse brass. Some rather poor quality photos here. Results and series results here
- 9th February 2013
Multi Carnethy Wins at The Devil's Burdens
A large turnout of Carnethies had a good day at The Burdens in cold, damp, slippery conditions, with low cloud adding to the navigational challenges and for the first time the route was run in reverse, adding extra interest.
Carnethy won 1st Senior Men, 1st Senior Women, 1st V40 Men and 1st V50 Men (who beat the all other V40 teams home), and lots of other Carnethy teams were there too. In total we had 9 teams and an amazing 5 finished in the top 11!
There was no difficulty spotting the Carnethies in the hall with the Yellow Hoodies and the new Beanies.
A great race as ever and good organisation and food. Thanks to all that made it happen. A few more photos here with some of the finishers. Fife AC's photoalbum here
Carnethy teams:
1st - Senior Men A: Ian Whiteside; Stewart Whitlie/Paul Faulkner; Konrad Rawlik; Michael Reid/Andy Fallas
7th - Men V50 (1st): Ronnie Gallagher; Steven Fallon/Adrian Davis; Willie Gibson; Andy Spenceley/Adam Ward
8th - Senior Women A (1st): Charlotte Morgan; Angela Mudge/Jill Mykura; Helen Bonsor; Jacqui Higginbottom/Jane Jackson
9th - Men V40 (1st): Mike Lynch; Jon Ascroft/Gregor Heron; Graham Nash; Simon Titmuss/Neil Burnett
11th - Senior Men B: Ally Robertson; Tim Darlow/Andrew Gilmore; Iain Gilmore; James Hardie/John Hammond
31st - Senior Men C: Jonathan Whitehead; Neil Gilmore/Russell Sommerford; Euan Innes; Steven Yule/Matthew Jones
56th - Senior Women B: Mary Lye; Lindsey Sugden/Juliette Camburn; Joanne Anderson; Kate Friend/Helen Wise
67th - Men V60: Digby Maass; John Blair-Fish/Keith Burns; Bill Gauld; Bob Waterhouse/Brian Howie
80th - Women V50: Hilary Spenceley; Joan Wilson/Karen Meikle; Anne Nimmo; Moira Stewart/Cali Ingham
Official categories are Male, Male 40, Male 50, Female, Female 40, Open and Mixed(3M & 3F). 113 teams took part. Results here.
All previous Carnethy results in the Burdens are here (pdf) or spreadsheet (xls).
- 7th February 2013
Wednesday Run - Arthurs Seat
or
compare tracks map
9 runners set off in the fast group and an other 17 followed on at a more steady pace towards Craigmillar via Inch Park. The night was perfect for running with a cool breeze. Heading across Holyrood School playing fields and up Arthurs Seat via Whinny hill we could see the string of fast runner torches zipping across the hill. We summited via the south face and droppped down the north towards Pollock Halls and the infamous Pollock Squeeze, then it was a slowly increasing pace back to KB and some well deserved beer.
Yellow hoodies were prominent in the bar as we supped.
Willie Gibson
Last night we ran after Andy, around Arthurs seat (definitely not up it), before he ran off and gave us the slip in Newington, whereby Jim took up the pace and we sprinted back to KB bar to see if Stewarts IPA was back on draft. Sadly not. Maybe they will get a cask in for the talk on Monday!?
Graham Nash
- 5th February 2013
Arthur's Seat Handicap - February
A window in the weather allowed a dry but windy race. And no sooner had we all finished than the hail shower from hell peppered us.
Great turnout with 16 runners, of which 10 beat their handicap. Well done under the conditions.
We had a couple of newbies (Stephen H and Tom E), and Andy S returning for the first time in a while. I've reset Stephen, Tom and Andy S handicaps to todays time. Also a brave attempt from Gordon, his first run since injuring his knee. Results
Mike Lamont
- 5th February 2013
Carnethy Women's run from Colinton
It was my turn to host the Carnethy Women's run this evening, and so we took the route I'd planned a week ago, along the Water of Leith to Woodhall Farm. This first photo is of some of the group crossing the footbridge beside the farm (note Honorary Woman, Bill at the front). We then took a very muddy path up to Tiphereth and over the golf course to Torduff and finally to Bonaly. There were lots of escape routes in case needed (it was snowing most of the time), but everyone seemed keen to keep on the "high road". We were following the Circumnavigation of Edinburgh route for part of this run.
Ian had made a pot of delicious roast pumpkin soup for the runners and we rounded this off with tea and chocolate brownies.
Margaret
- 4th February 2013
Pedaling Books
Four of us cycled from Roslin round the Midlothian Libraries last year for "Love Your Library Day", this year I decided to do it again but starting and finishing at Danderhall. Seven people contacted me, I talked Helen into going on the back of my tandem so she met me at Roslin and we headed to Danderhall.
Digby and Paul were already there and we were welcomed into the Library and photographed before setting off and meeting Nick coming towards us.
The five of us headed for Gilmerton and on towards Loanhead Library (4.85miles) where the Librarian offered tea and biscuits and Cali and Bob arrived.
Then we headed onto the Bilston Viaduct and along to Roslin library (2.08miles) and some lovely home baking. with a quick WD40 stop at my house it was on to Penicuik Library by the Main Road (3.74miles) and a leisurely wander round the library.
We left through Penicuik and on to the Cycleway for Rosewell and on to Bonnyrigg Library (6.76miles) where we had fruit juice and biscuits, while being serenaded by a local girl (Jessica Addy) on guitar. We then carried on to Gorebridge Library (3.08miles) and more tea. Then uphill over icy Mossend to the very busy Mayfield Library (3.87miles) where the newsworthy pole dancing (in fact pole fitness) drew STV cameras and journalists. We had some more cakes and tea.
Downhill to Newtongrange Library (1.31miles) and some tea loaf and then through Newbattle to Dalkeith Library (2.08miles) where a 10 minute wait for the library to open was rewarded with a glass of wine and some crisps. Nick was interviewed by a local journalist and as we left the library was getting busier waiting for Quintin Jardine to arrive.
Digby led us to the cycleway and we cycled to Sherrifhall and on to Danderhall Library (2.55miles) for another cup of tea and some bscuits and chocolates to complete our circuit.
Digby, Nick and Paul headed for home and Cali, Bob Helen and I headed back to Roslin via the Straiton Cyclepath.
All in all a very pleasant cycle on a lovely day with loads of entertaining and welcoming stops. It was a real joy to see all the libraries so well attended and everyone in such good spirits.
Willie Gibson
- 3rd February 2013
Scottish Athletics National Masters XC - Forres
Angela and Jacqui represented Carnethy this weekend, coming excellent 3rd and 12th on the 6 km course in Forres. Full results here. The Borders XC race at Gala on the 10th Feb, and the National XC championships in Falkirk on 23 Feb will conclude the cross-country season. Some great running by Carnethies in the XC scene this year which has been great to see.
Helen Bonsor
- 31st January 2013
Patience at The Puffer
Ah,.... “The Puffer” or the Strathpuffer 24hr MTB race to those unlucky enough not to be familiar with its pleasures. I had been involved with most of its 7 previous runnings as a member of quad and pairs teams as well as solo. Held in January in the Highlands with its 17hrs of darkness and a very special form of highly abrasive mica-rich mud means that it is the sort of event that things go wrong in: be they mechanical, physiological or indeed psychological. I, along with most other past competitors, had experienced my fair share of all three and was keen to secure at least one “clean” Puffer – no mechanicals, no excuses etc. So I was “pleased” to be quick enough on the keyboard to get another entry for this year’s event, once again to the solo category which sells out in minutes.
The months came and went with little in the way of long ride training although I was beginning to feel like a local at Glentress with regular blasts of a few hours at a time.
Event week arrived and unlike other parts of the country which had had some major dumps of the white stuff; north of Inverness had been spared the worst of the seasonal weather with only a couple of inches of snow on the course at the start which the Pugsley riders must have been gutted about. However, with the numbers of riders and the single figure temperatures, what snow there was quickly turned to slush or compacted ice. I’d seen it worse as the cold conditions in the run up to the event probably helped keep the traditional knee deep mud down to a more rideable ankle height.
My weapon of choice was my trusty “comfy chair”: a single-speed, fully-rigid Gary Fisher Rig. Virtually nothing on it that could go wrong although I had brought a few spare parts and even had an almost identical backup bike which I am storing for our German contingent (Garry MacInnes). These bikes, with their relaxed geometries and easy rolling 29er wheels had been a revelation to us both a few years back allowing duffers like us to ride trails that our 26inch wheeled race MTB bikes made us look scared and unskilled on. So, I was under strict instructions to “be careful” with The Rigs.
The reputation of the Puffer is such that teams come from far and wide with many shops and sponsored outfits descending on the event centre with giant gazebos, vast camper vans and the ubiquitous and hideous GENERATORS! I’d always favoured a more low-key approach with a small tent at most and the car boot as combined changing room, canteen and bike repair area.
This year I had the additional serious luxury of Debs as a support person acting as bike cleaner and “fixer”, cook and all round soigneur not to mention driver on the long road home after the event. Debs served up constant hot and real food and repeatedly cleaned the bike brake pads and gearing which helped The Rig and I pass the hours as the laps ticked by. This time spent on preserving pads was well spent as I only needed one brake pad change and 4+ full changes at the Puffer is common.
I had a bad patch about 7 hrs in when legs and head felt “a bit strange” but this passed and I got a second wind and felt quite strong through the mid part of the night. Laps were taking 50 odd minutes although a couple of clothes changes and extended food and bike sorting stops didn’t help the averages. I was forced to fit spiked ice tyres on the backup bike for the last half dozen laps due to the compacted ice on the course and my cumulative fatigue and limited concentration/skill levels.
I’ve always thought that 20 laps would be good for the Puffer course given “normal” conditions and was pleased when that total first became a realistic target then became a reality although but this time I was pretty knackered and the final few hours of the event when dawn slowly begins to break were fast approaching. The laps few laps were pretty grim with me searching for excuses to justify stopping and ending the pain especially in my hands, wrists and arms (due to the rigid carbon forks) rather than the legs although my knees did complain a bit towards the end being forced to walk the odd steep climb. On lap 23 I had made my peace with some cunning logic…..”its like a “modern” Ramsay’s with only 23 summits”…. and promised myself that this was the last one. Sadly, somewhere deep down I knew that I’d have to feed the knawing rat as there was going to be well over an hour remaining till the 11am deadline – the format of these events is such that as long as you start your last lap before the end of the 24hr period and complete it within 25hrs, it counts. My best “cooooked” face to the Adventure show cameras was duly ignored by Debs who finally convinced me of the “roundness of 24 in 24” which appealed just a bit too much to my OCD tendencies so I snapped and blasted the last lap as best I could.
I ended up 8th (2nd single speed) with the winner bagging 28 who was also stupid enough to be riding single speed although I hear a rumour he was cheating with some of that suspension stuff up front – bet his hands aren’t quite as numb as mine still are!
Next year? Ah…..Perhaps! Full Results
Andy Patience
- 31st January 2013
Wednesday training
While I retreated home with my new hoodie to nurse a vicious cold the lucky ones ran off into the night. This is where the fast runners went (13k, 8miles). Andy led a group that kept running away from Matt Jones, they occasionaly waited for him to catch up, but when he caught up, they all ran off again at great speed.
- 30th January 2013
West Highland Way training weekend
As many know I have been accepted for the West Highland Way race which is in June. So this me ans one thing, start training for this crazy but amazing event. The West Highland Way organisers organise this training weekend every January which is a run from Balmaha to Inversnaid and back - exactly 30 miles. Myself, Graham Nash and my family drove there on friday evening where we experienced interesting snow conditions. But we got there without any dramas. We got there and the receptionist straight away said "hi Michael Nowicki!!", I called her Mystic Meg after. We checked in and had a meal, chatted with few of the running folk. It was an early night as we knew there will be snowy/muddy conditions the next day. So Saturday we had breakfast, folk turned up for the run and there suddenly was a race like atmosphere even though it wasn't a race. Ian Beattie gave us a quick briefing and few photos were taken, then we were off. I had a brief chat with my mate Sandra at the start of the run, we both admired the first incline and its view of Loch Lomond. Then I sped up a bit, myself and Graham ran together where we were joined by Ally Robertson who ran to Ben Lomond, nutter!! But respect!! We ran to Inversnaid where we were also joined enroute by my two Portobello pals Richard Dennis and Kathy Henley, who are fantastic runners. We reach Inversnaid where I did a Graham Nash and drank beer called Avalanche in front a Munro with snow, how fitting. After that we turned back and I started to run like road runner, the beer took affect nicely. During the way back Graham was telling me various things about the great race and it was hugely encouraging to hear what I've let myself in for. We also stopped at Rowardennan where instead of a beer I had a coke, bad idea!! It gave me various stomach issues, no comment. The last few miles were snowy slush mixed with bog mud, not easy running conditions. We got to Balmaha and my mind was I'm going to be running 95 miles of this!! It was great having Graham alongside me, a huge thanks for giving me tips about this great race. We met up with Monika and Greg who went up half of Conic hill as conditions were bit bad, even though Greg had a tantrum and wanted to go all the way up. We had few drinks and meal with other runners and it was a fantastic end to a great weekend. I would like to also wish Ian Beattie all the best in his recovery after he was taken to hospital in Glasgow. Also the hospitality by the Oak Tree Inn was truly amazing and will be there for sure.
Michael Nowicki
- 28th January 2013
Sunday road bike outing
4 (fool) hardy souls pitched up on a very January-ish morning - Craig Mattocks, Andy/Frank Spencerley and our own Professor Brian Cox/Richard Bush. Before leaving the house, I knew I would struggle - I'd been out on the bike once (save communting to work) in 6 weeks and lived very well over the festive period. Indeed we only just finished the jar of Christmas duck fat on Saturday evening's roast potatoes. Yip - struggle I did, blowing up on the slight incline up Mayfield Road to KBU on my way to the start. Seeing who else was there confirmed that I would struggle even more. Richard was on his fixie (that means one gear and no freewheel) but going like a train, Andy seems to have obviated the need to work in order to run and cycle lots and Craig Mattocks's athletic credentials preceded him.
The route? 50 miles taking in Dalkeith, Humbie, Samualston, Haddington, Longniddry and back - it's here in fact: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=5800875. The description? Quiet roads, howling SW wind and the odd hail storm. Or at least that's what was observable from the back. I have no idea what the view might have been from the front. I must eat fewer pies so as to find out next time.
Robin Haynes
- 27th January 2013
Marmot Dark Mountains
In some of the most horrendous conditions imaginable Connor Cromie and Fraser Gibson took part in the inaugural Marmot Dark Mountains mountain marathon.
In melting snow and through driving rain/sleet the competitors fought through the boggy tusssock, Fraser and Connor at one time up to their chests in a bog, until wisely at checkpoint 7 they called it a night.
The event had only 11 finishers (C Course – No finishers, B Course – No finishers, A Course – 2 finishers, Elite Course – 3 finishers, Score Course – 6 finishers).
It was an experience, read more on the event website
- 27th January 2013
Bowhill Duathlon - Mudium
With snow disappearing at a vast rate of knots the worry about pushing bikes through snowdrifts was gone but instead it turned into a veritable mudfest.
The swollen rivers on the journey down prepared us for the fun to come.
After a nice Latte in the cafe and a good blether with the other competitors we started off up the hill at 12 noon. The rivers running down the track as we cycled up soon gave way to slush and snow and then alternated all the way round with mud, mud and more mud. I had a good duel with Joel on the bike, but he lost me in the end.
After transition it took 15 minutes before my legs discovered how to run again, and my that time they were too knackered to do anything anyway. It was a good plowter through interesting terrain, and yes mud, mud and more mud.
Carnethies figered well in the prizes with Adam Anderson winning the V40 and Joel 3rdV40, Bob waterhouse was first V60.
A great fun event, Roll on the long!
Results
Willie Gibson
- 24th January 2013
Carnethy Burns Supper
There was a full house for the club Burns Supper hosted by Olly Stephenson and organised by James Hardie (many thanks to both). Once again a brilliant evening with some excellent acts on display. Matthew Jones Piped in the Haggis, Willie Gibson addressed it and Ronnie Gallagher led the speeches with a memorable Immortal Memory, which included lots of audience participation. Neil Burnett toasted the Lassies which included a recently discovered Burn's poem and Mary Lye replied (not sure her George Michael joke is repeatable here!). There was plenty of food and also plenty of songs and other acts, including regulars such as Hilary Spenceley's "Tam O'Shanter" and Moira Stewart's singing and others for the first time such as Graham Nash's very impressive rendering of "C**k up your b*****r", which isn't even rude (apparently). We haven't even mentioned Bob Johnson and Nick MacDonalds' new song yet, but it is best to draw a veil on some things. A great evening.
Watch the music video on our youtube page
-
21st January 2013
Old Town Ladies Run
Nine Carnethy Women enjoyed a great run led by Senga on Monday night. We ran from Bruntsfield to the Old Town and back, going up and down cobbled streets, closes and steps. Lots of snow all the way. We returned to delicious hot soup and cake in Senga's lovely warm kitchen.
- 19th January 2013
Feel the Burns Race
The roads from Edinburgh to Selkirk looked doubtful with a fresh fall of snow but an encouraging email from organiser Sheila Cochrane threw down the challenge - "The race is still on!"
The route for this new race is very pleasant if your legs are working properly. 13.23 miles and 2,500ft (21.29k, 780m) largely on the Southern Upland Way and down the Minchmoor Road. However mine weren't; so I dropped further and further down the field until it was only the well trampled path through the snow to remind me I was in a race. And some lonely and cold marshals. I got an inkling of what it's like for the leaders to navigate as the course markers were sparse in places so with a fatigue addled brain the temptation to head off in an irrational direction was in places overwhelming. The compensation was the wonderful views in between lowering snow clouds, mist, and the snowy landscape.
Any hope of the M60 prize evaporated early on, and arch rival Tom Bowie took that prize. Jasmin was first lady in spite of running on a damaged ankle and Andy Fallas took 2nd place. Carnethy won the team prize with Andy, Konrad and Tim Darlow. The post race meal included locally made haggis, neeps and tatties and was very tasty indeed. And actually felt healthy. We recommend it to the club as post race grub!
£1000 was also raised for the mountain rescue service, who were in attendance but weren't needed by any of the 136 runners (including 18 Carnethies), instead being called away to a 2 person sledging incident!
Photomap. Results here
Digby
- 17th January 2013
All Change at The Swanston Night Run - Wed 16th Jan
It was all change at the Swanston Night Run last night, the first change was venue, Swanston Golf Club was shut so we moved the Start to "The Steading".
The next change was organiser, with Gordon injured he had to hand over the organisation to me, (he was cut up about it), at least he booked the meal.
The next change was 29 Carnethies into and out of running gear in The Steading Car park.
We headed off across Lothianburn Golf course and as we entered the Pentlands Park at the T wood the fast boys left us (Led by Andy F) and the rest of us ran along to the Dreghorn Valley and up Allermuir via the north face. We regularly regrouped to watch the "Carnethy Speed of Light" head torches of the fast boys speeding over the distant hills (head torches last night? it was daylight! in the snowy conditions).
From the summit of Allermuir it was back via Caerketton where we were joined again by the fast group, with reports of a third group (the late girls, Heather and Lindsey) met at Castlelaw. Then it was a night replay of the Caerketton Doonhiller and back to the pub.
The late non runners (Nigel and Shane) were there waiting and later Pete joined us and we all had a hearty meal. Nigel's food had already arrived and looked in some danger from the hungry hoardes.
That made a total of 34 Carnethies out, 31 of them for a wonderfully snowy winter run.
Willie Gibson
- 16th January 2013
Jasmin dominates at the Trigger - Sun 13th Jan
Jasmin Paris set a new record by almost half an hour when she completed the famous Marsden to Edale Trigger fell race on Sunday in 3hr32:45. In crisp Peak District conditions she finished an amazing 6th overall. Konrad Rawlik was not far behind in an excellent 10th place. The race was won in a new record time of 3:08:59 by Oli Johnson (Dark Peak Fell Runners) ... more details
Other Carnethies running were Alex Mcvey 39th and John Ryan 40th.
- 15th January 2013
Winter talk series
A very successful event with a large attendance (must have been 100 present !). Olly's threat of telling us his life story was mercifully brief, but slightly alarming nonetheless. We are glad you survived your eye operation and high dive! Charlie Ramsay's (world first?) talk on the legendary Ramsay Round was excellent; informative and instructive for potential rounders - whether going for the record, or slowly savouring the terrain.
Doctor Andrew Murray's (I go slowly but a long way) adventures are astonishing. From running John O'Groats to Morocco, or doing ultra marathons on 7 continents in 7 days, his epic runs may make us look at mere cirumnavigations of Edinburgh, or Pentland Skylines in a different light, and should inspire more people to undertake running as way of travel. A big thanks to both speakers and to Olly for organising.
- 14th January 2013
Tri-Trail race - Sun 13th Jan
The Tri-Trail Series is a new series of trail races organised by Edinburgh Tri Centre. This, Race 1, was a 13.65 mile loop race over the Pentlands from Balerno via Carlops, taking in Monk's Rig.
The conditions were snowy, which made running easier as the thick mud was covered somewhat, but it was still a tough race in heavy conditions. The route took in 3km of tarmac before entering the boggy trail, then turning at a farm to head on the path towards Carlops, here we skirted North Esk Reservoir, and joined the road that led us into Carlops. From there we headed up through Nine Mile Burn, where the first checkpoint was (we were issued with orienteering style-dibbers) and water and gels were available. Thereafter, we climbed over Monk's Rig, turned at the foot of West Kip and headed for home down the Drove Road and back to Threipmuir Car Park.
A good number of Carnethies had entered and we performed well. Mike Lynch led the race for the first 2.5 miles, Steve Best led at Carlops and Neil Burnett overhauled us all to finish in a great 4th in 1:48:15. Of the 88 finishers, only 16 managed to get under the 2 hour mark.
The plan is for a 10km night race in February as the next in the series. Results are here (pdf)
Mike Lynch
- 13th January 2013
A different definition to a 'good sporting week'
No, she hasn't won any trophies or even a small piece of bling.. But Philippa Ivison has certainly been papped! Last weekend Brendan Foster asked for her photograph (some artistic licence here..) and then she was featured in the latest edition of Trail Running magazine...
Surely she is the most papped Carnethy of 2013??
I will leave it to Phil to tell you about the time we both appeared on P3 of the Glasgow Herald...
Mandy Calder
- 13th January 2013
Borders XC - Paxton House. Michael and Charlotte resume business!
It's becoming a bit pointless mentioning mud in report after report, but the XC circuit at Paxton House in the Borders certainly packs a copious amount into a short circuit, though fortunately the amazing cow poo(l) of last year was not included. Looking out of the window in Edinburgh the snow was beginning to fall after an absolutely freezing night. But the temperature lifted and the A1 at least was clear. A mass of cars at Paxton showed that no-one was deterred from racing, though we were missing a few runners doing the tri trail race instead. The circuit was a little different to last year and though it looked complex the marshalling and signage ensured everyone got around the figure of 8 ok. It's a pleasantly varied race with woods, stream crossing, fields and a path along the Tweed in its 3.43 mile course (and did I mention mud?). Michael Reid and Charlotte Morgan once again took the honours, with Andrew Gilmore & Ally Roberson 2nd & 3rd Carnethies and Jill Mykura very close behind Charlotte as 2nd place lady. Andy Spenceley was 2nd M 50-59 and Bill Gauld was 1st +70. 16 Carnethies ran. Provisional results here
Digby
- 13th January 2013
Circumnavigation of Edinburgh
The runners agree over directions
Report part 1. The cycling 6, or cyclists tenuously connected to bicycles. The trouble started in Cammo, as the first of the serious mud appeared. My front wheel slid away and somehow I caught my pinkie on the bars twisting it viciously back. I nearly fainted as Keith applied a big bandage and from then on my glove just perched oddly on the ends of my fingers.
After a couple of trial falls where Keith veered left and collided with various things he finally achieved a near perfect forward roll on a descent in the very boggy Pentlands, fortunately with a soft landing. John & Eric both tried out the quality of the ground as the steering became a random act, and Nick fell elegantly sideways into the mire as he tried to cross something bottomless, coincidentally rendering his brakes useless, so the last of the ride was with one leg scraping along the ground. I didn't see it but Jonathan MUST have fallen off too.
Very enjoyable, well nearly, and I'm having trouble typing now. Full Report
Digby
- 10th January 2013
Wed training
Where we went. A stupendously muddy circuit of the Braids. The - "where are we?" "no idea" - loop through the trees is at the bottom left!
- 8th January 2013
New year's handicap - old year's weather
Happy new handicapping year.
Anyone hoping the new year would herald a change in the weather would have been brought back to earth with a bump yesterday (in my case literally). The rain that dogged most of 2012 made an unwelcome return just in time for the January handicap making the surfaces squidgy, slippy and in many cases both. Conditions that, in theory at least should have resulted in slower times than normal.
If it had been a flat out race then we would have had our first ever dead heat with Rab and Mike both proving to have survived the Christmas break in fine form, running identical sub 30 minute times. They were only 2 of the 6 runners who (despite the conditions) managed to better their handicap, with first home honours going to Chloe. Despite running for the winning East district team at the cross country at the weekend she managed to take a couple of wrong turns and still come home first. Neil and Rab were next home, Neil in fact would have won if he had started on time so the spreadsheet will take that into account for next month ;>). Andy, with a time of 31:31 came closest to his pb (remarkably only 30s slower). Rab is still running off a generous handicap and next month should see another close race between him and Chloe (who's handicap also remains generous), scratch times will no doubt be pushed faster if the like of Stewart, Paul and Iain turn up too.
Starting in mid-pack myself I at least had the opportunity of watching several runners as they went past me, last months win has whacked my handicap so it was a case of watching things unfold from a distance. Results
Bruce Smith
- 6th January 2013
Junior/Senior Relay
With a turnout of 14 kids (at the last count) the organisation of the teams was fairly difficult, but with mainly family groups it was eventuallly sorted.
The first Junior home was Charlie Burnett in 15:58 (with teammates Anna and James following in 21:39), Andrew Nash was second in 17:32, the times for each junior team was averaged and added to the times of the two senior runners.
Full Report
Name Times Name Times Name Times 1st
2nd3rd
Andrew Nash 17:32 Charlie Burnett
Anna and James Burnett
15:58
21:39 average=17:47Connel MacKinnon
(with Fionna)24:19 Graham Nash 27:34 Scott Cameron
35:27 Moira Stewart 33:48 Karen Meikle 37:13 Neil Burnett 33:50 Euan MacKinnon 33:42 82:19 87:04 91:49
- 5th January 2013
Bupa XC Queen's Park
Once again Carnethy volunteers turned out to marshal at the series of races culminating in the elite men's 8k and the women's 6k. A lone Carnethy was spotted in the Great Winter Run - 5km around the road; and James Waldie ran in the Senior and Junior Men Inter District - 3 laps of the 2k long XC course. Thanks to all who turned up (and thus earned a fee for the club) on a reasonably warm day, certainly compared with the snow of the last couple of years, though it didn't stop us jumping around and flapping our arms.
- 2nd January 2013
Nine Standards Race – 1 January 2013.
Maybe early morning of January 1st is not the best time to visit Kirkby Stephen. But it does give the impression of a place that time forgot. It once boasted two railway stations, but Dr Beeching put paid to that many years ago. The development of the M6 and upgrading of the A66 left this Cumbrian market town more than a little isolated. But any town that still possesses road signs giving the distance to its neighbouring towns in miles and furlongs cannot be all bad. None of those new fangled kilometres here, and a good job too.
It has also, for the last 24 years, held a fell race to Nine Standards, or Hartley Fell as it is really known, and back on the first day of the year. 2013 was the 25th running and it was a race I had wanted to run since it first started, but I had only just got round to it.
At 12 noon a record field of 175 starters from all parts of northern England, and one from Carnethy, unless you know different, lined up in the Market Place. Advertised at 8 miles with 1801 ft of ascent the course is a mix of tarmac road, Landrover track, and in parts gloriously boggy bogs.
Infuriatingly for the hill bagger the race turns at one of the large stone cairns or standards just short of the true summit, a trig point at 2172ft point a couple of hundred yards from the escarpment edge and the line of cairns. I don’t suppose there would be too many objections should anyone wish to add on a slight detour.
After the initial mad dash from the start across a few fields a steady plod up the tarmac road ensued, and those that had perhaps supped well, but not wisely only a few hours earlier were reduced to a walk. The tarmac eventually gave way to a Landrover track, which slowly deteriorated in quality. Recent frost heave had softened the ground, so what appeared a sound surface could quickly give way, the unwary sinking knee deep. A fleeting glimpse of the Standards on the skyline gave hope that the climbing would soon be over, but a glance at my watch poured cold water on my optimism. There was in fact a lot of dead and boggy ground that lay hidden below the summit. A bridge over Faraday Gill provided innocent looking muddy pools at either side, but one was at least waist deep, as a rather startled runner just in front discovered. Eventually the cairns were reached, and I was just beaten to the cairn by the only canine competitor. Turning to descend into a bitter wind, the ascent route could be straightened and some fast running, if you avoided the boggier bogs. My battle with the canine (and owner) was now full on. As expected, there was a steady trickle of runners passing me, mostly the ones I had passed on the ascent. Nothing new there. But canine remained doggedly a few yards ahead. That was until I had a stroke of luck. A garden cane with some tape attached marking the route proved far more interesting than the race, and the dog stopped dead to check out this new attraction. Despite the pleading of its owner, it refused to move. I swept past, only to be re passed by them soon after as my route choice proved boggier than the alternatives. It then met a mountain rescue dog, and a full and frank discussion (barking at each other a lot) ensued. I never saw them again. All too soon the tarmac was reached, and a couple of surprisingly steep uphill sections had appeared that were never there on the outward run (tectonic movements perhaps?) Retracing the tracks over the field the race ended in a narrow alley just by the Market Square.
My GPS measured the course at 1 furlong and 2 chains over the 8 mile advertised distance. As for the climbing, if it measures such things, I haven’t discovered the right button to press so I will assume the 1801 ft to be correct. It is a race, perhaps not for the purists, or those that require 100% heather bashing before they get out their Walshes, but it is the longest race I can find for January 1st, and must better than the Porty Prom race.. And it’s not that far from Scotland. I certainly won’t wait another 25 years before a rerun.
Jonathan Whitehead
- 2 January 2013
Greenmantle Dash
The rain and wind held off for the race. So as it was mild it was pleasant to run. Gavin Bland who was first vet 40 said to me he had known more mud and water in the river on other years. Hector Haines whom I have known since birth but running for HBT won the race.
Carnethy had a good showing in many categories and the team of Andrew Gilmore (4th, 1st U20).
Charlotte Morgan (10th, 1st Lady), and Aly Robertson (11th) won the team prize. Ian Gilmore was 16th and 3rd U18. Bruce Smith was 2nd V40 and Matt Davies 3rd V40 and John Blair-Fish was 1st Vet 60.
Results
John Blair-Fish
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