News:
Apr-Jun 2003
- 30th June 2003
The Last Corbett
Jane Robertson and Andy Spenceley topped out on Ben Loyal at about 4pm on
Sunday 29th June, just as the clouds burnt off, to jointly complete the ascent
of all the Corbetts. After a long stop on top drinking champagne and sunbathing,
with the supporters Hilary Spenceley, Duncan Baker and Kate Friend, the party
almost came to grief on the steep scrambly descent, just avoiding a 1000ft
cliff on the southern end of the range by clawing there way down a steep
gully (a Keith Burns recommended route ?). Perhaps the alcohol made it seem
not as bad ! All told, a brilliant hill and fantastic weather to finish on.
The question is, what next ?
- 28th June 2003
Drumtochty Highland Games
Well the Highland Games season is here. The Drumtochty Games Finella
Hill Race was mostly on forestry trail which happily supplied some cooler
sections
under the thick canopy. Dan Whitehead was a clear winner with Ronnie Gallagher
a steadily-bronzing second (how many races has he run stripped to the waist
this year?) It was a wonderful low key affair - no rigid start time and nobody
noticed Ian Nimmo coming home half an hour later, dodging his way round the
tug-o-war, pipers and married ladies race! The other Highland Games can be
found on the Highland
Games website. Here's a test - the tug-o-war is one of only 4 sports
in which you go backwards to win. What are the other 3? Answer - high jump,
rowing events and backstroke swimming.
Anne Nimmo
   
- 26th June 2003
Bog and Burn : Cort-ma Law
Last night saw 52 runners taking part in Cort-ma-law hill race, a 5 mile
trot over very runable, rolling hills near Lennoxtown. The glorious summer
evening made this event even better with an amazing feeling of space around
you, as you ran across a wide ridge on course for Cort-ma-law summit. There
were a few bogs and burns, as expected and the midges were out in full force.
The race was won by Jethro Lennox of Shettleston Harriers in 48.58. Carnethies
allowed out for the evening were Jamie Thin (12th overall in 56.08), Jill
Tait (first lady, 56.27), Derek Bearhop (4th vet, 56.54) and Willie Mykura
(nursing a niggling back injury from Ben Sheann, 10th vet in 69.42).
Jill Tait
(only five this time Derek! , as Willie M was keen to point out).
Results are on the SHR
site
- 24th June 2003
The Highland Cross
A well-organised event with hundreds of keen and
enthusiastic runners at the Morvich start line. The run was a bit more
exciting than I last remembered
with big puddles and bog along the track. The ladies cake table was a welcome
site before the yellow brick road section 5 miles from the end of the run
(& tea available for Paula).
An excellent run with views you were unable to fully appreciate having to
concentrate on how deep the next puddle was going to be! I don't know how
people managed to master the change over in a couple of minutes as I took
nearly 9 and Angela had to visit the bike doctor as her pedal had fallen
off!
The bike section was painful due to the midges and my lack of bike training.
Overall a great day, although we were all glad to get to Beauly and finish.
Without full details of the results I think they were as follows:
1st. Fergus MacLean 3.20
2nd. S Smith 3.34
3rd. D Howard 3.35
1st over 50 Scott Balfour 3.56 (noted he did the 7 Hills the next day!)
1st Lady Lesley Marshall 4.06
2nd Lady Laura Mitchell 4.08
3rd Margaret Anderson 4.14
? Angela Wood 4.43
? Joanne Anderson 5.00 (might have made 4.59 if a bus did not get in the
way into Beauly)
? Paula Drouet 5.40?
I did not see Nick MacDonald or any other Carnethy people but apologies if
I missed anyone. Hope Nick is ok because I thought he was going to take part.
(that is because Stuart Ruffell's car broke down on the way!!!)
Joanne Anderson
- 23rd June 2003
Coll Half Marathon
Coll Half Had to be done!
  With
two wooden post form the Wild 70 last weekend, I was ‘micalizzily’ forced
into doing the Coll half. 12 of us chartered a boat from Tobs and
headed to Arinagour spotting whales on the way. The run made a circle
of the island, and while Coll looks flat, it was the most undulating
half I’ve ever had the privilege of limping around.
Sery did a PB and Crawford gave an amazing performance in his first half
just keeping his mum at bay. The turn out was good for the first Coll half
and the organisation was low key, well thought out, and could not have been
more enthusiastic. Every white house, in their green garden, set in a back
drop of turquoise sea, sand beaches and grey sky had their own water/beer
station where you just felt obliged to stop and say thanks. 
The journey back took that little bit longer as Captain Micalizzi took over
the wheel and thought the Rum peaks were Mull!
John Coyle 1.24
Sery Coyle 1.43.20
Crawford Whyte1.44.55
Babs Whyte 1.45.07
John Coyle
- 23rd June 2003
West Highland Way 96 miles, 11,600ft. 21st June 2am.
Despite being adamant that I was pulling out at Tyndrum, I managed to push
on, only due to faultless support, including Rodger Boswell who cycled all
the way from Fort William to meet us at Bridge of Orchy, so I had to get
there! I fell asleep twice on Rannoch Moor while running and landed face
down on the track, but still pressed on for fear of feeling as bad as last
year for pulling out. Being accompanied by Davy over from Kingshouse for
the last 23 hilly miles improved things, except for the agony in the legs,
and I made it to the end after several tantrums at the never ending Lairig
Mhor, as 1st lady and 4th overall in 19:29, unfortunately a good 2 hours
off my best. A Hungarian chap (N Csaba) won in 16:37:32, 12 mins off Wim's
2000 record, followed by an Austrian (17:50)and Ian Murphy (17:55). 71 starters,
49 finishers. Checked the legs out with a wee jog along the Great Glen Way
last night! Recovering fine...
Kate Jenkins
- 22nd June 2003
The 7 Hills of Edinburgh
 The
weather was fine as we gathered at the start for the race. There
was the usual rush to name the teams as the organisers require
named team members before the start (4 for the men and 3 for the
ladies). There were lots of Carnethy vests and some very successful
2nd Claimers, Claire Williams won the Ladies racein 2:09:23 obviously
finding running the Pentlands overnight on friday excellent preparation
(as promised). Gillian McKelvie was 2nd Lady in 2:15:40.
Martin Flynn was 3rd with Mark Johnston 5th, Jamie Thin 8th and Willie Gibson
9th. John Littlewood was first V60 in 2:19:22
Report and Photos
- 22nd June 2003
Durisdeer - SHR Championship Race
There were about 4 times the usual number of runners in this normally low-key
but tough and picturesque race. On an overcast but warm day, Jill Tait broke
the ladies' record and Phil Davies broke the men's record. Carnethy won the
team prize with Adam Ward , John Blair-Fish and Jill Tait counting and the
Carnethy ladies look to have won the Championship by completing this medium
race. Photos
- 21st June 2003
Midsummer Midnight Madness
Last night 10 Carnethy members met at the Steading at 11:45 and headed round
the Pentland Skyline route picking up Alan Hogg at Green Cleugh and ending
at Allermuir for the dawn at 4:26 in the morning. Anne and Ian Nimmo were
there on time but the sun decided to be about 15 minutes late due to cloud
on the horizon.
Photos and Report
- 18th June 2003
Ravensheugh Handicap
Philippa Headley returned from injury to win the Handicap on a lovely night
for a beach barbecue.
  
Report and Results
- 17th June 2003
Glen Rosa Horseshoe : Isle of Arran
A small field of suncream clad runners set off in sweltering conditions from
the grounds of Brodick Castle last Saturday. Taking in the high tops of Arran,
this race ran clockwise, with the last descent off the highest point on Goatfell.
The ground was pretty dry and runable in many places, but there were the
typical boggy stretches, compulsory heather and rocky out crops to challenge
us. Although the sunshine meant crystal clear conditions, my navigation skills
still let me down as I ran too low before heading to the saddle; found myself
following paths which seemed to lead me to precipitous rock faces; missed
the start of the tourist path off Goatfell (!!); and took in an alternative
route back through the forest! I said it was because I was worried about
the finishing straight through a field of Highland Cattle!
This is a classic race and, if you've not done already, comes highly recommended.
Well organised with lots of juice, tea and rolls at the finish. Ronnie Gallagher
led the 26 (I think) finishers home in around 2hr40.
Carnethies out bagging points were Willie Mykura (4hrs) and Jill Tait (1st
lady-3hr23).
Jill Tait
- 16th June 2003
Edinburgh Marathon
Mark Johnston : 7th in 2:47:36 (last man not to be beaten by a woman) writes
" Fifteen minutes after finishing yesterdays
Edinburgh Marathon I shuffled on painful legs round to the hall to collect
my bag. Why would someone want to
run a marathon?, seemed like a reasonable question!!. But over-riding the pain
was the great sense of joy and relief having got to the finish and also the good
memories from the race. The highlights included the scenic start round Arthurs
Seat, having a nice traffic free journey through my home city, and most of all
the great support round the route. There was plenty Carnethy support with folk
popping up all round the course, too many folk to mention, it was much appreciated.
The course was tough, though I found the headwind from Portobello along the coast
to Silverknowes tougher than the hills. Apart from the last hill off course,
Lochend Road proved a cruel sting in the tail, but this is where the crowds gave
the biggest lift just when it was required. Once the pain subsides, no doubt
I'll start thinking about next years race!!.
Gordon Cameron : 67th in 3:10:05 writes
"Race was hard. 3.10 so not a PB, 18-20 was a killer and I took 25 mins
to do last 3 miles. Not much of a crowd but lots of Carnethy support--it must
be the vest or maybe the stars and stripes shorts Debbie said. I got to halfway
point in 89.45 so was on schedule for the magic 3 hours but the wind on foreshore
was tough and the hill to the cycle track was punishing. I was hailed in Silverknowes
with "come on Carnethy--Willie Gibson"--I thought he was about to overtake me!!
Came into stadium on my own so Carnethy got a mention on the tannoy system. Family
and Dice were in the grandstand but I didn't see anyone else."
Stewart Barrie : 72nd in 3:10:51 writes
Sunday was my my first marathon, so I didn't know
what to expect, but had the somewhat fanciful notion of getting under three
hours. Things appeared
to be going nicely as I headed to the turn at Silverknowes thinking that
as soon as I got out of the wind I'd be able to pick it up on the cycle path
to the finish. Well, there was certainly a change of pace, but not in the
direction I'd hoped as my legs just "went" and the last 6 miles were at a
painfully slow 8.45-9.00 min pace and I thought at one stage that I'd be
lucky to finish. Jelly babies from Moria saved the day though. I was going
so slowly that I never noticed the hill just before the stadium that others
have mentioned.Good atmosphere and a thoroughly enjoyable day. I think some
road training would be a good idea for my next one!
Brian Howie : 178th in 3:24:04 writes
"It was a struggle all the way -I hobbled
in at about 3-23 -a PAW by 8 minutes -got a groin strain at 15 miles,
but seemed to recover at about 20."
Bill Fowler : 182nd in 3:24:18 writes
" Enjoyed the run until mile 22 or so. Unfortunately
the hills to the finish after the cycle ways were brutal and lost 5 minutes
on the last 3 miles. It was
a bit depressing to be struggling to pass the guy in the deep sea diving suit!
Overall a good event but next time I think I'll look for a flatter course. The
encouragement from the Carnethy members round the course was much appreciated
(Thanks to Bill G on Arthur's Seat, Steve/Kristy at Holyrood and Moira on the
cycle way with her jelly babies) Time 3.24.19."
Dave Walker : 256th in 3:30:07 writes
"The physical effort of a marathon relates conversely
to the mental stimulation
of 26.2 miles on road.
In other words it's hard & boring, whereas the hills give a freedom of mind
irrespective of the intensity of effort. "
Andy Lennie 354th in 3:36:45 writes
A grand day out!, was I the only Carnethy in disguise? I was running for
the RNLI. I enjoyed every mile until the 24th!, I got quite excited at 23
miles at the prospect of doing sub 3:30, however this quickly evaporated
as cramp set in, at one point I could walk quicker than I could jog?. To
the best of my knowledge the only fancy dress runner ahead of me was 'Super
Woman' having passed the chicken on Arthurs Seat and overhauled the 'man
dressed as nurse' at 20miles. I might even be persuaded to do one a marathon
a year!
Mike Browne 687th in 3:52.49 writes
I enjoyed most of the course but when interviewed by the Scotsman reporter
said I was not happy with the last uphill bit in Lochend short of the Stadium.
I also commented that on a warmer day, probably too few drink stations available
and basically only water except for one offer of gels etc. Last grumble was
youngest son passed me at the cycle path section and beat me by 6 minutes
(was I moving so slowly in the last 5 miles?). One of the photos, head down
on the last hilly bit could suggest I was. However finish line photo shows
a real runner in action! As it was the second half was run faster. And then
there was the Highland Cross 6 days later and my slowest time ever.
Ian Jackson : 783rd in 3:56:20 writes
" A slow course, with a lot of hills and
9 miles into the wind from Portobello to Cramond. Numerous Carnethy spotted;
Moira, Steve and Kirsty spectating, Joanne
manning a water station and Paula marshalling"
Rod Dalitz : 892nd in 3:59:42 writes
" The organisation was a mixed bag. I thought
the initial announcements were arrogant, taking it for granted that the marathon
would be oversubscribed,
though I have only come across one man who failed to get in. The bus and car
parking arrangements were crazy, the leaflet announced that whether you were
a runner or a spectator, certain bus services would get you to Meadowbank ...
failing to mention that the first service on a Sunday arrived too late! The previous
marathon, Dunfermline to Edinburgh, used the Holyrood playing fields for parking,
this time we were supposed to park on the street somewhere, or proper carparks
like George Square - on the basis that it's not even two miles from Meadowbank!
On the day, the stadium was chaotic, not even the officials knew where things
were happening. But, the run itself was very well done. It started on time,
plenty of water, plenty of toilets, well signposted, I think the mile markers
were accurate (unlike one Loch Leven half marathon, and the Dunfermline to
Edinburgh marathon which had the even miles accurate and the odd ones somewhere
in between ...) I expected the final miles up the cycle tracks to be dull,
but they were not too long, and there were a lot of spectators scattered
around. The course was full of interest: Arthur's Seat, Cowgate, Princes
Street, Holyrood Palace, Portobello Prom, the Britannia, lots of sea-front.
I spoke to many people at the finish, the majority thought it was an excellent
day and only a couple thought it was too hard.
I don't mean to be negative, it just seems to come out that way. It is always
easier to pick holes than to organise, and it is rare to find any event which
is uniformly excellent, but then the odd hole stands out.
It was an excellent training run for the Lairig Ghru Race in two weeks."
Charlie Ramsay 1217th in 4:12:46
Margaret Forrest :1636 in 4:29:04 writes
" It was wonderful to see so many Carnethy
people supporting this race: husband (Ian) and Bill in Queen's Park,
sister (Linda) at Silverknowes, Moira
on the railway path. I got a bit lost and don't know the names of the roads where
I was greeted by Joanne Anderson and Paula. Many thanks to you all!
I know some other Carnethy's were running, but it wasn't until after the
race when I met Ian Nimmo, contemplating a cycle ride home to round off the
marathon. My finish time was 4:29.05 hours, not a PB, but much better than
I expected (given the little and at times, non-existant training I did for
this race, due to colds, etc, etc). I was hoping to run this with my sister,
Linda (who did lots of training and preparation for what would have been
her first marathon attempt). However, Linda's dancing on the day of a long
run a couple of weeks ago, resulted in a torn calf muscle. Plan B is that
we run the Loch Ness Marathon together on my birthday in September.
Ian Nimmo : 1976 in 4:47:45 writes
" I met Margaret Forrest after the race -
her watch had stopped at 4 h 29 min and she was thrilled. Rod Dalitz
did a bit under 4 h and was (according to
Janet) a bit disappointed. His programme for consecutive weekends takes some
beating: Edinburgh marathon then, 600 km cycle ride, to qualify for the Paris
- Brest - Paris cycle race then the Lairig Ghru race and last the Saunders MM
. I was pleased, only 2 min longer than 4 years ago, and I ran every step of
the way. "
Janet Dalitz :2536 in 5:37:37 writes
I think I enjoyed this Marathon the best I've ever
done, mainly because the weather was just about perfect, the only problem
being a headwind along from
Portobello. I only started running in 1994, aged 46, after a life-threatening
illness, and have completed 1 marathon a year to date since then. Every time
I say "never again" but like childbirth, the pain is soon forgotten!
Judging by the sprightly way I felt after the race, I guess I should have
gone faster, but it's always hard to tell. I did see quite a few people crashed
out on the way round, not to mention all those with cramp and knee problems.
So roll on the 7 Hills on Sunday....hope to see you there.
- 15th June 2003
Local residents stay away from LAMM 2003
   
There was no sign of the Midges at Glenshee for this
year's LAMM. The sun shone, a breeze kept us cool, people swam in the river
and Joanne Thin and
I lazed about from 1.30pm on Saturday and then got lost on Sunday! In the
B category, Gary MacInnes and Andy Patience finished 9th and Colin and Joan
Wilson 69th. In the C event, Linda Smith and her partner Gordon Scott were
12th, but even more memorable was their skinny-dipping. It was a thoroughly
enjoyable weekend in beautiful and remote country in as near perfect weather
as you can get and if it wasn't for my throbbing feet I'd go out and do it
again today.
Anne Nimmo
- 14th June 2003
Traprain Law Race
The Traprain Law Race enjoyed the usual perfect summer weather. The grass
on the Law was long and nettle-ridden, the sheep preferring to chew the race
flags rather than keeping the grass short. The river was almost at drought
level with farmers irrigating the fields using diesel pumps on the river
bank.
A much-reduced field of 34 runners was probably due to competition from the
Edinburgh Marathon, Rosa Horseshoe and Lowe Alpine Marathon. A new and unwelcome
feature of the course was a vast tower of formwork for the construction of
a giant bridge across the Tyne to carry the new Haddington to Dunbar expressway.
From this, we hope, an elegant soaring bridge will emerge swanlike for the
next race. But the runners will still have to wade through the river. The
next change in the East Lothian landscape will probably be the total replacement
of arable farming by golf courses, paintball emporiums, executive housing
and lunchtime lapdancing in the pubs.
Al Hart of HBT had to wait until he was off the rough descent of the Law
before hauling in Brian Marshall of HELP and coming home to a comfortable
win. Most of the usual Carnethy gang were elsewhere, leaving Kate Friend,
Graeme Carracher, Bill Gauld, Dean Sewell and Colin Pritchard to represent
the host club. Bill, with a perception only available to Bill, found the
corner of a garden which could save him 0.45 seconds +/- 1% in a close finish
and he will be carrying out accurate surveys in time for next year’s
event. Colin was fastest V60 and Bill fastest V70.
Angela Wood, Joanne Anderson and Nick Macdonald combined marshalling
with some bike training for the Highland Cross next week. Much thanks
to them for their help.
Keith Burns
Results
- 14th June 2003
70 Wild Miles
Serena Coyle and Moira Stewart completed the 70 wild miles today in 6 hours
42 minutes, not including time-out for puncture repairs.
John Coyle was 5th? in 5 hours 10 minutes.
- 12th June 2003
Ben Sheann Hill Race, Wed 11th, Strathyre
Despite the stair-rod rain, plauge of midges and bog-mire condition of the
course, the Ben Sheann race had a good attendance, and the course was well
marshalled over its short 2.5 mile distance. The first half was an un-relenting
climb through dense woods to the top, and then a more sympathetic circuit
over very muddy paths to the final descent through the wood again. Here I
just about killed myself by sliding on some very muddy rocks and had to limp
to the finish. Didn't hang around due to a traumatised body and the midges.
The things I'll do for 25points...!
Results to follow.
Willie Mykura
- 12th June 2003
West Linton Whipman Play Cross Country Race
Last nights race was won by miles ! by Davie Rogers.
Second was Gordon Cameron who just managed to hold off Sarah Blake (HBT)
Kate Jenkins was 4th
- 8th June 2003
Glas Tulaichean Uphill and Trial Race for Teenager Games
The senior race was being used to award Scottish vests to the first vet (and
member of SAL) in each age group. Considering this I expected to see more
'old faces' than I did in the 60 starters. Nevertheless it was just about
perfect conditions for a fast time with a strong wind blowing us uphill and
a spot of sunshine to add to the summit's pull. Bobby Quinn (Kilbarchan)
won the men's race from Graeme Bartlett (Forres), and Ian Donnan (Lothian),
who is still a junior, was an excellent 3rd. Angela Mudge proved to be in
fine form before her imminent departure to race on the Continent. She was
7th overall and broke her ladies' record, finishing ahead of Ronnie Gallagher
and Adam Ward. Ewan Patterson broke JBF's over 50 record and Phyllis Lemoncello
broke the ladies' over 55 record. A special mention should go to Prasad Prasad
who was 5th. He'd never run before but did do a bit of cycling!
  
It was
a bit off-putting to have all the juniors speeding past
me on the first steep uphill section above the ruins of
Glenlochsie Lodge, but I felt rejuvenated when I shuffled passed
them half way up the hill (at their finish). No Carnethy
feature here yet but Jemma Toner of Lothian won the girls'
race and Kyle Greig (Forres) the boys'. AN
Results are on the SHR site.
- 5th June 2003
Kilpatricks Hill Race (6 miles/1400 feet)
A few Carnethies made it out to the Kilpatricks race last night. Adam Ward
was first V40 and Angela was first lady (both of them setting new category
records). Carnethy also won first team.
Results
- 4th June 2003
Scolty Hill Race (4.5 miles, 1300ft)
A new hillier course faced runners at this years Scolty race. Being not that
far from Steve and Kirsty's wedding reception the night before (a good warm
up!!), there was a larger than normal Carnethy presence.
The Carnethy ladies excelled again with Tracey Brindley 1st and Jill Tait
2nd in a competitive ladies race, with Marbeth Shiell also triumphing in
the junior ladies race over the 'half Scolty' course.
Mark Rigby and Graeme Bartlett led the men home, with first Carnethy Mark
Johnston in 4th and Colin Pritchard 3rd Supervet.
Results are
on Deeside Runners Web Page
- 3rd June 2003
Carluke 10K
Desperate to ward off a hangover from a fantastic Borders wedding the night
before I ventured to the beauties of the Carluke 10km, which was actually
round really attractive country roads with a great turnout, including Debbie
McDonald- her 5th race this week. (Some HBT plot for megga points!)
In the sweltering heat and with thumping head I only managed 2nd in 41.30,
but the cash prizes were great!
Kate Jenkins
- 3rd June 2003
Haddington 5 Mile Road Race
Lyn Wilson was first lady in the Haddington 5 mile race at tthe weekend.
She ran the course in 30:09 on a very hot dehydrating day.
Debbie MacDonald (HBT) was first Lady Vet.
- 2nd June 2003
Steve and Kirsty Tie The Knot
A large Carnethy contigent gathered on Saturday to celebrate the Marriage
of Steve Rawson and Kirsty Leishman. The wedding was in Monymusk and the
reception was held in the Lonach Hall at Strathdon.
There were games before the meal and a Ceilidh afterwards. The games included
tug of war, egg and spoon races, welly boot throwing and cricket! (well thats
what John called it). Then there was a piping competition a poem and a song.
It was a wonderful event with good fun, good food and drink and an excellent
band.
- 1st June 2003
Culter Fell
Culter Fell just falls into the medium category hill race because the men's
record is inside 1 hour 45 mins (1hour 43 mins!) but with the unexpected
sunshine at the weekend, almost half the field took a thirsty 3 hours. Ronnie
Gallagher finished first, well clear of Carnethy's Brad Connor and with Derek
Bearhop 6th and John Blair-Fish 8th, Carnethy did well at the front. We also
bunched quite well at the back (equally important!). It took me 12 hours
to rehydrate..... Results are on the SHR site in the results archive.
Anne Nimmo
PS. JBF finished the race in bare feet after his walshes fell to
bits!
- 29th May 2003
Nigel's Mystery Run
Eight Carnethy members turned up for Nigel's mystery run round and about
Winchburgh. His route took in some canal, some farmland, a large duckpond,
a large bing, 2 car scrap yards, some more canal, a Castle and a golf course.
It was quite an unusual run, Gordon found it especially interesting due to
forgetting his running shoes, descending bing screee in sandals is not a
good idea!
  
- 27th May 2003
Carnethy Wedding Preparation
 As
the countdown continues to the second of three Carnthy weddings within a
year, last night at short notice we had a stag run for Steve Rawson.
After a quick pint at "The Steading" Steve, Willie Gibson, Gordon
Cameron, Nick MacDonald, four full hip flasks and four glasses headed off
round Hillend for a short circuit taking in Woodhouselea Hill , Allermuir,
Caerketton and Hillend. The hip flasks were empty by the end and the Stag
staggered back to The Steading for a couple more pints.
All of us wish Kirsty and Steve a happy life together and a great day on
saturday.
- 26th May 2003
Cape Wrath Challenge; Durness, May 19th-24th
Four Carnethy members were up on the north coast last week taking part in
the 2nd Cape Wrath challenges. A series of 4 runs over 5 days comprising
two road runs of 11 miles and 10 miles, a 5.5 mile hill run (actually a trail
run) and a 4 mile beach run were followed on Saturday by the Cape Wrath Race
itself. Slightly shorter than last year, at 25.3 miles, the race starts on
the capeside of the ferry, out to the lighthouse and back, via the ferry,
to Durness. The organisers claim 3000' ascent. I reckon closer to 2000'.Provisional
results scribbled down from the organiser's sheet during the ceilidh:
5th ? Murdo McEwan 3.17.02
22nd Ian Jackson 3.54.21
28th Joanne Anderson 3.58.13
42nd Paula Drouet 4.32.17
55 finishers
Picture shows Team Carnethy following the hill run
Results (There
are some errors in order of finishers I think. Also, the first 11 mile leg
was only timed to the nearest minute, and Murdo missed out on 4th place (and
1st Vet50) by 4 seconds! I think a dead heat was called for. I measured the
route and agree with the organisers' claim that climb was over 3000 feet)
Ian Jackson
- 25th May 2003
Bens of Jura
Carnethy had a good turnout at the Bens of Jura Race with Angela Mudge getting
first (9th over all) in a new record by 3 minutes. Kate Jenkins was second
lady and Jill Tait was fourth. Adam Ward was first V40 and Stewart Whit-way
got lost.
Results
- 22nd May 2003
Peebles Handicap
There was a low turnout at the Peebles handicap. Whether it was due to post
Boat Race tiredness (although Kate didn't run badly), pre Jura worry (that
was my excuse anyway) or the football, I don't know, but it was a well-contested
race with Nick (I-only-went-halfway) Schierloh coming back first after being
given bad route advice by Nick MacDonald and Alan (2-in-a-row) MacDonald
winning followed by Gordon (I-enjoyed-the-run) Cameron.
  
Results
- 19th May 2003
SIPR Latest
 The
race is now complete as the last boat arrived at Troon on monday afternoon,
there are many stories to tell, including runners in the water in Oban Bay,
a runner airlifted off Ben More, boats aground off Lamlash. Watch this space
for reports.
Some Results (running times still to be confirmed)
1st Heebeejeebee Skippered by Tom McLuskey (Runners Angela Mudge and Geraint
Florida_James) in 42 hours 1 minute 28 seconds.
2nd Tricucair Skippered by G Baird 44 hours 26 minutes 07 seconds
3rd Kinetic Skippered by T Stephenson 45 hours 04 minutes 14 seconds
King of the Bens are Chris Mear and Brendan Boland in 11 hours 22 minutes
55 seconds
Molls of Kintyre Maggie Creber and Karen Powell
Full results on SIPR website
     
- 17th May 2003
SIPR: impressions from Mull
The weather. A force 7 or 8 wind plus driving rain. Thankfully the runners
all survived and so did the marshals' tent. Geraint Florida-James and Angela
Mudge were first ashore and away four hours later, well ahead of the rest.
Kate Jenkins and Dave Rodgers were highly-placed, and so was Garry MacInnes.
Karen Powell and Maggie Creber were clearly the first ladies' pair. Further
down the road Willie Gibson looked cheery and Lyn Wilson sodden, whilst Moira
Stewart and Elspeth Baxter (second ladies' pair) plodded steadily along.
Better luck weather-wise on Jura!
Ian Nimmo
- 15th May 2003
Dumyat - Bog and Burn Race #3
There was the usual large turnout at last night's Dumyat Hill Race, with
189 finishers. Heavy showers dampened the course before the start, but the
sun came out in time to allow the runners to enjoy a glorious evening trot.
Phil Davies of Borrowdale, (not so??) fresh from his two day adventure race
at the weekend, led the field up to the summit. He was overhauled on the
descent by Jamie MacDonald of Ochils in a close finish. Helen Murray of Lothian
won the ladies race, with Carnethy's Claire William's finishing third. First
Carnethy finisher was Garry MacInnes running well to finish 8th, using the
race as a warm up for this weekend's Scottish Islands Peaks Race (for which
he is now partner-less, any takers??). It was good to see youngsters (under
forties!!) dominating the front of the field for a change with only two vets
in the top twenty. Maybe the race is too 'speedy' for the old guys!!.
Results
Mark Johnston
- 13th May 2003
Barber & Chambers Complete the Fellsman.
Long distance specialists Ian Barber and Howard
Chambers carried the flag for Saddleworth (and half a flag for Howards
second claim club Carnethy)
at the 61-mile/11000ft Fellsman Hike on Saturday. The weather was just about
perfect with clear skies and warm sunshine throughout the daytime and dry
but cooler conditions at night. Howard, running the race after a 12 year
break recorded at time of 15hrs 40min, and is said to be ‘recovering
well!!’. Ian broke his personal best by 2 and a half hours coming back
in 19hrs. Mark Hartell was the clear winner, coming home over an hour and
a half ahead of second in 10 hrs 54mins.
A big thank you to all those who supported, and let’s see a few more
Saddleworth’s and maybe even a first claim Carnethy there next year.
- 12th May 2003
Ben Lomond Hill Race - Carnethy men lead the way
Stewart Whitlie continued his great running form by winning this race on
Saturday. Not far behind was another Carnethy man, Geraint Florida-James.
Only Brian Marshall of HELP separated them and with the help of Brad Connor,
Carnethy took the team trophy. The Carnethy men's success was further enhanced
by John Littlewood's winning the MSV60. Unfortunately, all but 2 Carnethy
ladies (Angela Wood and Susan Gray) had other things on this weekend. Here's
a report from Brad.
"The clouds threatened a severe dousing during the race, but remarkably
the rain held off for the duration and our only obstacles were a chilly wind
near the top and a good dose of slop lower down. Not that these things seemed
to slow down young Mr Whitlie, who blasted away from the start like a ferret
up a trouser leg. My suspicions that this tactic was due to the presence of a
certain demonic descender, Brian Marshall, were later proved correct! Thankfully
Stewart kept the pressure on and the massive gap he built up by the summit proved
more than sufficient to hold off Brian's freefall antics. He won by a comfortable
margin in a fantastic time of 68 minutes, only two minutes down on John Brooks'
record - not a bad birthday present to himself (21 again, eh, Stewart?). Geraint
also had a cracking run to come home in a strong third place, with Brad managing
to make up for his snail-pace climb with a decent enough descent to earn 9th
place and secure team prize for Carnethy. Andrea Priestly set a new ladies' record
in the race, a fact that did not surprise me, having watched the way she charged
uphill! Angela Wood and John Littlewood also collected (the latter in absentia)
some liquid prizes for their efforts, being 2nd LV and MSV60 respectively, whilst
Ronnie Gallagher grabbed first male vet, in fourth place overall. It was nice
to see some new Carnethy faces at the race thanks to Geraint F-J for his recruiting
efforts! A warning to anyone planning to visit Loch Lomond in the near future:
the lake has been badly contaminated with the sweat, blood and mud of several
psychotic runners (myself included) who availed themselves of its arctic cleansing
potential after the race. By "eck,it were chilly!"
Results
- 11th May 2003
Carnethy Inverness Mountain Marathon
The CIMM was a great success with some interesting navigation over some very
unusual terrain. The soon-to-be-married pairing of Willie Mykura and Jill
Tait won the event. Second, and on the same score, were Willie Gibson and
Gordon 'didn't-run-Stuc A'Chroin-last-week' Cameron, closely followed in
third place by Keith 'I-am-on-plan-B' Burns and Phillipa Headley.
 
Photos and report.
Many Thanks to Dave Peck for organising the event.
- 8th May 2003
Kinnoull Hill Race
The number of Carnethies at the Kinnoull Hill Race was limited by the traffic
on the Queensferry Road with Willie Mykura and Gordon Cameron turning back
after being stuck in a jam for 20 minutes (losing elusive Championship points).
Angela got there and was first Lady.
Full results are on www.strathtayharriers.co.uk
- 8th May 2003
Carnethies Climb Cotopaxi
On their recent trip to Ecuador Moira Stewart, Cathy Jarvis and their guide
managed to get to the summit of Cotopaxi (19348 feet). The rest of the party
unfortunately had to give up suffering from the altitude. A report of the
trip and photos will appear soon on the Newsletter page.
 
- 6th May 2003
New web site for Tiso 7 Hills
Browsing through the past winners I found a lot of familiar names. I
even have a photo of 1983's winner getting his prize but I won't put
on the ladies'
winner as that would give the game away! Click here for the 7
Hills
- 3rd May 2003
Stuc A' Chroin - British, SAL and SHR Championship
Race
   
The rain held off for most of the race. Bingley got a 1,2,3 (Ian Holmes,
Rob Jebb and Andy Peace). Angela Mudge broke her own record by almost 5 minutes!
Highest placed Carnethy was Stewart Whitlie in 10th place (3rd vet). Results
and report to follow soon.
More Photos and results can be found on the Balquhider
Community Site
- 3rd May 2003
Edinburgh to North Berwick
Mark Johnston was 6th and Andy Laycock was 9th in the Edinburgh to North
Berwick race, both were running for their road club (City of Edinburgh).
Duncan Baker (HBT) was 16th, Rod Dalitz was 109th, Ian Jackson was 115th.
Results
- 29th April 2003
New SHR Website
Scottish Hill Runners announce their new stand-alone website at www.shr.uk.com
We hope you will find it useful.
Keith Burns for Scottish Hill Runners
- 28th April 2003
Lochaber Marathon
A nice cold, grey and drizzly day meant perfect
conditions for my 11th marathon. The only problem was I really couldn't
be bothered. I plodded 3 miles then
tried to pass the leading lady, which failed. It took a fellow hill runner
from Wooler to gee me up and get me into 6:40 pace, but I could still not
bridge the increasing gap despite the almost embarrassing number of folk
who seemed to be shouting for me! I just hoped my stubborn b* minded tendencies
would somehow let me catch her. Sure enough at mile 18 I caught her before
dying myself and slowing down to come in at 3:05:40. Good enough for a day
off!
Rupert Warren had an absolute stormer (2:47?)and 4th. Well done!
Kate Jenkins
Results
are on Lochaber's website
- 27th April 2003
Troon Duathlon
Hot from their sucess in Northern Ireland yesterday, Lyn Wilson was first
Lady in the Troon Duathlon and Stewart Whitlie was second over all in the
Mens race and first Vet. The race consisted of 2 flat 5K runs with a cycle
in between. They both found the flat run difficult but the strong wind was
a virtual hill according to Stewart!
- 27th April 2003
Scots excel in the Home Internationals - Knockdhu
A number of Carnethy members helped Scotland enjoy one of their most successful
trips to Knockdhu Home International on Saturday.
In addition to Angela winning the individual ladies title, Scotland also
won the team events in the Ladies, Senior Mens and Vets.
The course was pretty tough with no particularly long climbs or descents
but lots of short ups and downs over fairly rough, tussocky & rocky terrain
with a number of fences and stiles to negotiate. The course was well flagged
and marshalled but this didn't stop a number of the leading runners going
off course after a couple of miles. Jon Brown of England was leading at the
time and the old sheep syndrome set in and a number of others followed him
off course!
Final Carnethy placings were
| Angela Mudge |
1st Lady, |
Lyn Wilson
|
3rd Lady |
| Jill Tait |
6th Lady, |
| Stewart Whitlie |
5th (2nd vet) |
| Adam Ward |
12th (3rd vet) |
| Ronnie Gallagher (Westies 1st Claim) |
14th (5th vet) |
| Helen Murray (Lothian 1st Claim) |
63rd (1st Lady vet) |
After the race it was a short 2 miles jog down hill to the local hostelry
where the Guinness was going down a treat...
Stewart Whitlie
- 26th April 2003
Hunters Bog Trot
Tracey Brindley was 1st Lady and 4th finisher in today's Hunter's Bog Trot.
Al Hart of HBT was the first man.
 
Results
- 24th April 2003
Whangie Whizz - Bog and Burn Race #1
Kate Friend and I forged along the M8 at 6pm to find a haven of peace and
tranquility just 5 miles north of Bearsden. We parked in among the yellow
daffodils and mingled amongst the yellow vests (which all had a big W in
the middle). The whizz was more of a waddle for us and the bog had been reduced
to jumpable proportions by the dry spell but we still managed to return to
the car park with mud and sweat stains as the yellow sun reddened and set
behind the hills. A very enjoyable and wholly runable hill race. Results
  
Anne Nimmo
- 23rd April 2003
Norman's Law Hill Race – Saturday 19 April
Three Carnethy members turned up for this 5-mile
run up Norman’s Law.
80 runners set off in sunshine from Luthrie Village Hall in Fife with a fixed
route to the top of the hill and any route you liked back to the finish.
Obstacles such as gorse, electric fences, gates and bullocks didn’t
seem to put runners off as they sprinted back to the finish in all directions.
The view across the Firth of Tay from the top of the hill was worth it!
Karen Meikle won a spot prize of a free entry to another race near St. Andrews.
Kate Friend
- 23rd April 2003
5 Carnethies in Knockdhu Home Internationals
Congratulations to the 5 Carnethy members picked for the Hill Racing
Internationals this weekend. Angela Mudge, Lyn Wilson and Jill Tait have
been chosen to
run for the senior women while Stewart Whitlie and Adam Ward will compete
in the vets. Good luck to them and the rest of the Scottish teams.
- 22nd April 2003
Manx Mountain Marathon
Karen Powell was first Lady in this year's Manx Mountain Marathon finishing
10th overall, Alison Powell was there too along with Chris Davies, Duncan
Baker and Anne-Mari Frankland.
Results
6 Chris Davies 5:33:21
10 Karen Powell 5:52:11
30 Duncan Baker 6:54:35
43 Alison Powell 7:34:05
Anne-Marie Frankland 8:21:30
Results and report can be found on the Manx
Athletics website.
- 16th April 2003
Silverburn Handicap
The first handicap of the season was well attended , with over 20 runners
and a very tight finish and most ran near their handicap time. The evening
was glorious and the close contest was won by new member Alan MacDonald (look
out for his intro in the next newsletter, good at deceiving the handicapper
may be included), closely followed by Ian Jackson and Irene Schierloh.
Results
- 14th April 2003
Knockfarrel, SAL and SHR Championship Race
This was the first SAL race (Stuc A' Chroin and Lomonds of Fife are
the other 2) and it attracted a good field of 88 runners. There are
a couple of steep
hands-on-knees or pulling-on-the-grass sections but otherwise it is
a lovely runnable cross-country route that takes you via the old railway
line, along
the ridge and through the woods. I can't understand why everyone wanted
to finish it so quickly! Hilary took some photos instead of racing,
saving herself
for the Speyside Way the next day. Tracey Brindley won the ladies race
for us and Stewart Whitlie was first Carnethy man. Results.
   
- 14th April 2003
London Marathon
Stevie Rawson and Kirsty Leishman completed the London Marathon Yesterday.
Stevie (recovering from a cold) did 4:02:31. Kirsty ran with him for a while
but he told her to run ahead after 14 miles and she finished in 3:44:19.
Jill Tait finished in 3:09:11 and 79th Lady.
I will add info on the other Carnethy runners when I get it.
- 14th April 2003
Speysideway 50 KM. Sunday 15th April
Results
A bright still day thankfully clouded over a bit and a cold breeze developed
making ideal conditions for my 6th Speyside Way 50km race.
From Ballindalloch we toiled along many miles of old railway bed, forest
roads and small tarmac roads to Spey Bay, all through beautiful Speyside
countryside. Hilary was having a great run, but unfortunately extended the
route by a wrong turn, thus loosing a few places. Andrea Devine from Christchrch,
New Zeland was 1st lady, and I plodded in in second place between my fastest
and slowest times.
Simon Pride had the usual stormer and won in 3:11, being so fast that he
starts 15 minutes behind everyone else!
A great alternative to the hussle and bustle of the London Marathon!
Kate
Jenkins
    
- 7th April 2003
Club Journey Run from Broughton
Well that's broken the myth about Nigel's affect on the weather - the sun
shone almost the whole time! Unfortunately only Linda and I were there to
witness it, but it made for a perfectly-paced, enjoyable return to running
for me. It was great going over Trahenna without feeling gutted! Thanks to
Nigel for organising it and driving us there too.
Anne Nimmo
- 7th April 2003
Slieve Bearnagh
 
10 Carnethy runners made it to Slieve Bearnagh, along with various hangers
on (including Tigger). Angela was a long way ahead of the 2nd Lady, finishing
35th overall with Stewart Whitlie at 15th the highest placed Carnethy. The
race, over a new course conceived for the British Championship race, covered
three very different climbs, with the middle being notably loose and steep.
Whilst we all agreed that Duncan looked very fine in his borrowed Carnethy
vest, I was duly admonished by Captain Spenceley for not even possessing
such a garment. Life in Ireland, beyond the race, was good. The cottages
had sun traps for a back garden whilst Moira's Medoc seemed to go down especially
well after the beer and before the port. The Mournes are splendid hills-
we explored them further the next day when Moira and Hilary seemed to hit
the form that eluded them the day before, leaving myself and JBF in their
wake.
Robin Haynes
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