News April - June 2006
- 30th June 2006
Cover Girls
Lyn Wilson is on this month's cover of MyRace - winning the Balmoral Road Race, dressed in a kilt. Cosmics' Lois Noble is on the cover of the latest Fellrunner and also appears on the inside pages of MyRace (although she might not be instantly recognisable).
- 29th June
2006
Presidential Progeny
Debbie and Robin are thrilled to tell you that Gemma Laurie Haynes arrived at 10.11am on Tuesday June 27th. Her vital stats are 7lbs 4 oz and she was a little over 21 inches tall- she inherited Debbie’s tall and slim gene rather than Robin’s gene providing a less svelte physique.
All are hale and hearty.
Love from Debbie, Robin and Gemma
- 26th June 2006
Angela Mudge wins in Japan, Sunday 25th June
Angela has moved into the lead in the World Sky Runner series after another brilliant performance, 2 weeks after winning in Italy, which means she has won all three races she has contested. This time it was over 32km , with1800m climb, up Mount Ontake, a volcano which is Japan's 6th highest summit at 3067m, in the Nagano region of Japan. She finished in 3-51-39, 10 mins clear of second place. Other Britain's did well as Rob Jebb was 2nd and Simon Booth, 4th. Results and more details are on Sky Runner web site here
- 26th June 2006
Eildon Hill Race – 24th June
Opting for a shorter race than some of the epics others took part in this week. The Eildons is a low key friendly race and it’s all over fairly quickly. After an initial sprint (for some) through Melrose town centre, up lots of wooden steps, a steep climb up takes you to the top of the first hill & nice run over onto the second hill. The descent provides good running all the way back to the town and the finishing lap – which always seems fairly long… Brian Marshall and Claire Gordon were the main winners, although some gave Brian a good chase – a great wee race, well organised and marshalled.
Full Results are on Gala Harriers site
Joanne Anderson
- 26th June 2006
Carnethy double at Anagach 10k
This event was part of a gala fun day at Grantown Primary School, with all the usual burger/home baking stalls, bouncy castles etc. A fairly small field gathered at the start, out-numbered by the kids in the 3k fun run. Luckily they gave us a head start!. The run itself follows undulating trails through one of Scotland's finest woodlands, a route which would make a very pleasant training run and made for a challenging, but not the quickest, 10k race. Kyle Cowie shot off at the start, building up a good 100m lead by about 2k. The gap didn't seem to change until 6k, when I slowly started to close, and we came together just before 9k to battle it out up the last hill. An extra effort was required to drop Kyle as I didn't fancy my chances in a sprint finish, though it wasn't helped by the whiff of burgers coming from the finish field. I managed to safely negotiate the final hazard of the race, a nappy change occuring right on the racing-line round the final bend of the grass track!, before kicking on to sneak the win. Despite perfect running conditions and a record-breaking weekend elsewhere in Scotland, we missed Graeme Bartlett's course record by half a minute. Jackie Higginbottom made it a Carnethy double leading home the ladies race.
1. Mark Johnston (Carnethy) 35.03
2. Kyle Cowie (Central) 35.09
3. Ewan Paterson (Moray) v50 37mins
1L. Jackie Higginbottom (Carnethy) 45mins
MJ
- 26th June 2006
Lucy sets new record at Lairig Ghru
Conditions
were perfect for Sunday's run through the Lairig Ghru, with clear skies
and a light breeze and
some spectacular views when you could take your eyes off your feet
long enough to look up. About 80 enthusiasts gathered in sleepy Braemar
to run the 28 miles to Aviemore, where we had generously been promised
soup and sandwiches.
Seven Carnethy runners were there: Karen M, Colin H, Brian H, Rod D, Joan and Colin W and me.
Donald Naylor from HBT went off like a greyhound, not to be seen again until the end - hardly surprising as he set a new course record of 3.07 and finished 24 minutes ahead of the second man! I ran alongside a Cosmics runner for the first ten miles, which was good for pace if not directions: I was so busy following his heels that we both missed the river crossing and consequently lost about 2 minutes wading across at the wrong place and then scrambling up a steep bank to recover the path. Watching someone overtake us at this stage was very frustrating, although it could have been worse as the no 2 and 3 runners went all the way to the bridge, thus costing themselves a good 5 mins.
The gradual climb to the boulder piles was tiring and I felt as if I was flagging a bit but after reaching half way and being in 3rd place I recovered my energy and headed off to the forest. The jelly babies handed out by one of the organisers at mile 20 came as a great boost! At this stage I was overtaken by two men who appeared from nowhere and though I tried to hang on I could't quite reach them. 'd forgotten how long the forest route was, and how much there was on road to get to Aviemore “ it seemed a long couple of miles, on increasingly aching legs. Finally the finish was in sight and I was amazed to look at my watch to see a time of 3.32.40 “ an improvement of 33 mins on last year and apparently a new wome's record. The sun came out for us to enjoy our lunch and icecreams whilst cheering on the other finishers. The other surprise came when Carnethy was awarded the wome's team prize so we went away with a nice bottle of Californian red to ease the muscular pains. A great event, small and friendly, and a great way to spend a Sunday in the Highlands.
Results
Lucy Colquhoun
- 26th June 2006
Up and Around Falkland
Lars, Adrian, Derek, Ian and Evie ran Falkland Hill Race on Saturday and the results are here. Earlier on that day, several other Carnethies passed by Falkland on the Edinburgh to St. Andrews cycle ride in aid of Lepra. They could have stopped and run at the Ceres Highland Games but there was no hill race!
- 26th June 2006
Black Rock 5
On Friday evening I took part in a race I've wanted to run for ages: the Black Rock 5 at Kinghorn. Everyday on my way to and from work in Fife, I see the Black Rocks in Burntisland Bay (and I wish one day the train would break down just there, so that I could admire the view for longer). Anyway, this year I finally made it to the race, along with almost 700 other runners (there were an amazing 677 finishers). One of the real advantages of being a slow runner is the opportunity to admire the race from the back and the view on Friday was wonderful: a very long line of runners snaking their way out to the Black Rocks. Water was up to our knees on the way around the rocks, but the piper kept us going as we splashed our way through the mid-way point. Nice to have the wind behind us on the return run. Many thanks to Janet, Ian and Gavin for meeting me off the train and giving me the essential cup of tea before the race!
Margaret Forrest
Four Carnethy beer enthusiasts turned out for Fife's 4.5 mile beach dash, sponsored by the local brewery. This year was the biggest race the organisers had seen, with over 700 entries. After the first few miles on tarmac through the village of Kinghorn, it was on to the sand where the strains of the piper lured us out to the farthest rock. A brief hop through the water to wet our socks and it was back along the sand to the finish.
This had been described to me as the slowest sprint finish of any race as there's a steep uphill climb for the last 100m or so. Lots of opportunity for last minute overtaking and playing to the gallery.
The best thing about this race is that it's over quickly, leaving the rest of the evening to enjoy the beer, barbecue and/or chips. A cancelled train back to Edinburgh meant a group of us had to get a cab home but by that stage we were ready to pay good money to be tucked up in bed rather than stand another hour on a windswept station.
Lucy Colquhoun
Results
1 Ray Ward 23.13
43 Lucy Colquhoun 27.01
284 Jim McWhinnie 34.14
292 Steven Hibbert 34.21
425 Ian Jackson 37.28
460 Sally Cross 38.28
584 Paula Drouet 42.40
599 Margaret Forrest 43.55
- 24th June 2006
West Highland Way Race- another win for Kate
With the excellent running weather conditions and cut-thru'-the-tension-with-a-knife atmosphere we shot off at the start like greyhounds out a cage. This early enthusiasm probably helped winner Jez Bragg to get into his stride in taking over 40 minutes off the previous course record to earn a well justified standing ovation at the prizegiving. However, for others it was all a bit too much of a good thing, and several stong contenders had to pull up before the finish. At 40 miles I was on schedule for the MV50 record (18:29). By mile 43 the engine was stuttering; by mile 45 it had stalled - leading to my walking long chunks of the next 30 miles and brooding negative thoughts; but then perking up and proceeding satisfactorily for the final 20 miles after Kingshouse. Kate ran a fine race to record her second fastest time time in the event and to take the 1st Ladies prize, despite running an extra 2 1/2 miles after taking a wrong turning, and I had some consolation to finish1st MV50 despite the mid-race misery. It's an extra-ordinary event requiring huge commitment. More people should 'go for it'.
1. Jez Bragg - Solihull 15:44 Record
2. Topher Gaylord - USA / Italy 16:54
3. Norman Mclennan - Orkney 17:42
4. Kate Jenkins - Carnethy 18:32 1st Lady
5. Jo Forte - Haddington 18:48 1st MV40
8. Murdo McEwan - Carnethy 20:11 1st MV50
16. Rosie Bell - Strathaven 22:16 2nd Lady
19. Lynne Kuz - Dunfermline 22:49 3rd Lady
104 starters - 71 completed
MM
- 24th June 2006
Midsummer Madness 2006
Four brave souls met up in The Steading for a pint or two before heading off round the Pentland Skyline last night. Steve Fallon, Willie Gibson, Richard Lathe and Gordon Cameron set off at 11:30 to try to catch Moira Stewart and Cali Ingham who had set off an hour and a half earlier from Woodhouselea.
The overnight weather was perfect with a strong headwind on the first half, but fairly clear skies. We had a cup of coffee on Carnethy and it was nice to get the wind on our backs after the Kips.
We had to leave a cramping and sore-toed Richard at Harbour hill in order to chase the sun, just making it to the summit of Allermuir at dawn and at the same time as the girls.
After a brief celebration we headed on to Caerketton where Nick MacDonald was waiting with a bottle of Champagne, and a strange face!
The almost non-existent sunrise became a rather special reflected light show as Richard hobbled into the camp.
After a couple of glasses we headed down to Steve's house where Keith had prepared a wonderful bacon roll breakfast, after a good feed it was off home for a bath and bed at 7am.
Strange Coincidence
16 miles or so ahead we pick a convenient time, say 11.30 pm, and head for the hills. The route up and over, down to Flotterstone’s, and back up is fast and enjoyable. Steve runs ahead for some leg-stretching. After just a few minutes break on Carnethy in a strong wind it’s off to the Kips. Running downhill at 1 am in total darkness is proving difficult and slow, at least for some of us (ie me) but we scale Hare Hill in good time and head across the bog to skirt Black Hill. At the foot of Den’s Cleuch it’s thick gloop (aka “well marked path”). Willie, Gordon and Steve storm across, but cramp is holding me back. The others depart fast to catch the ladies at Allermuir for 04.30, I limp happily along to get to Caerketton for the festivities. Staggering up the hill at 5 am, as one does, I am met by a very welcome apparition holding a glass of festive fizz on a silver platter.
Amazing coincidence, we seem to have chosen the one night that Nick is serving cocktails up on the Pentland summits. Defies belief! I discover the others having joined up with Moira and Cali already huddled under a huge bivvybag that Willie has brought along. As the rain spatters we enjoy a superb view across to the east, before descending for more refreshments and finally our third kip of the night.
Richard Lathe
- 22nd June 2006
Cort Ma Law
For some, the solstice is the opportunity to reinvent an imaginary past on semi recumbent megaliths, for others it is the lure of beach barbecues in the arid East; for Adam and myself the balmy Campsies beckoned, and the latest race of the Swamp and Cataract series.
There had obviously been some rain beforehand: dew sparkled in the moss, in depths of up to three foot, or John Stevenson's waist, whichever is the longest. A gentle Zephyr pushed us up the first hill, before offering an invigorating breeze after the turn. The thick cloud cleared on the descent; I left early, but I wouldn't be surprised if there weren't some folk getting the train back from Stirling.
I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Challenging weather makes this a real treat, especially on the intricate navigation to Cort ma law, and it's difficult not to see the funny side of the various bogs and hidden streams (as well as the official river crossing). Adam was 2nd, and I was 5th, I think, in my best run for about five years. Do you run well because you are enjoying yourself, or enjoy yourself because you are running well?
Enormous thanks to Westies and Lomond MR; it was really not very nice yesterday, especially on the tops, and they were very helpful and cheerful throughout.
Mark Higginbottom
- 22nd June 2006
Ravensheugh Beach Handicap and Barbecue
It is strange that you can sit all day looking out at the wind and rain and cursing the fact that you feel compelled to go to the club handicap on some God-forsaken beach in pissing rain and wind.
Then, somehow, when you get there everything seems to take on a new light.
The wind isn't bad, the sun is almost out. The run turns out to be rather pleasant and the roaring fire at the end with a beer in your hand watching the beautiful sunset makes life worth living again.
To think that some people decided to stay at home!
Results Photos to follow, though Michael Wilkinson won from Derek Bearhop and Gordon Cameron (who is now leading theseries).
- 19th June 2006
The Great Escape
Richard’s interest in Merlin had led us to plan a club journey run on the theme
of Merlin and Arthur. Alan joined us yesterday for a recce run over half of the
proposed route. We started near the Megget Stone and climbed up into the hills
towards Firthybrig Head. By the time we reached White Coomb we were enveloped
in thick mist, which made navigation "interesting". We continued down into Rotten
Bottom, which lived up to its name. I was leading and described the terrain as "wettish" so
as not to discourage the others, even though the water was coming over my ankles.
The more worrying areas squished, quaked and wobbled as we walked across them.
We climbed out to Hart Fell then down to the appropriately-named Arthur's Seat.
Our plan had been to go into Hartfell Spa, where Merlin had apparently lived.
We descended into what looked like a lunar landscape which became ever more steep
and treacherous. Richard was the only one with the presence of mind to take a
photo of our predicament before we made an impromptu escape from the gully. Alan
was more pre-occupied with handholds that kept breaking off. The journey finished
with a good run out to Ericstane where Maggie kindly retrieved us.
Nigel Rose.
- 21st June 2006
Highland Cross, Saturday 17 June
A
20 mile cross-country run, followed by a 30 mile cycle sounds like
a good race. Add in the possibility
of raising money for charity, how could I refuse the offer to stand
in for Scott Sneddon's brother. This was going to be hard going
for someone like me who'd never raced over such a distance, let alone
raced
on bike at all. The walkers left at 9am with the 300 plus runners
following at 11am. The early morning drizzle lifted, leaving the Affric
area
with only a slight westerly wind. The runners started to catch
up the slower walkers near Camban Bothy. By the change-over I'd passed
most
of the walkers, but then it was the cyclists' turn to overtake
me. It's disheartening to have your wee legs spinning around as fast
as
possible yet still be easily overtaken. I crossed the line quite
shattered and with a really sore arse ! I was suprised to find 'Memory
Map' gave
the ascent over the entire route as 6,000 feet. Scott finished
in 4hr 55mins, I finished in 4hr 2mins and 20th overall so I'll be
back next
year to see if I can break the 4hr. A great event and well organised
with good support. Now I've just got to collect all the money I'm
owed.
Results : http://www.highlandcross.co.uk/Results.htm
Photos : http://www.szarky.co.uk/highlandcross.php
SF
- 19th June 2006
Lowe Alpine Mountain Marathon at Assynt - Saturday/Sunday 17th /18th June
The mystery location of the LAMM turned out to be the magnificent Assynt hills, with the event centre at Inchnadamph. The furthest north LAMM ever.
The courses, designed by Andy Spenceley, went over the munros of Ben More Assynt and Conival and further north to Beinn Leoid and the himalayan Glen Dubh and over other hills such as Stac of Glen Coul and the corbett Glas Bheinn.The weather made running difficult with low cloud initially on Saturday, clearing by afternoon to allow great views from the lower summits. On Sunday, the cloud was low all day giving a challenging day when your legs were tired.
The mid way camp was in a beautiful spot by the sea at the head of Loch Glen Coul (next to Glen Coul bothy for those who have been there). 500 tents managed, somehow, to fit on the flat grassy areas about the beach. Some people even camped on the islands just off shore and accessible at low-tide only ! A great place and even an otter came to visit, swimming round the bay in the evening.
Several Carnethies were running. In the A class, Jon Ascroft was 13th (with Tim Darlow), Garry MacInnes and Andrew Patience were 22nd and Adrian Davis and Lucy Colquhorn were 37th.
Full Results, Photos, Course Maps etc are on the LAMM web site here
- 19th June 2006
Lyn Wilson 2nd in European Champs Trial, Sunday 18th June
Congratulations to Lyn, who had a great run, to gain a GB vest and a place in the GB team for the European Mountain Running Champs, when she came 2nd in the trial race held at Braithwaite, Keswick (in a race won by Mary Wilkinson). The first two are automatically seclected. The European Champs is on 9th July at Upice-Male in the Czech Republic.
- 19th June 2006
Angela wins her 2nd Sky Runner Race, Italy, on Sunday 11th June
The third round in the Buff Sky Runner World Series was held in Valposchiao, Italy on Sunday 11th June. Angela Mudge had obviously recovered from smashing the record in the previous round in Spain two weeks before as she smashed the record in this race as well ! She recorded 3hrs 10 mins 18 secs for the 31 km course that has 3650m of climb (that's metres ! ) and reaches an altitude of over 2600m.Details and results here
The next Sky Runner race is on 25th June in Nagano, Japan (yes, Japan !) and Angela, playing the jet setter, will be there.
- 18th June 2006
The Edinburgh 7 Hills
Carnethy's Stewart Whitlie celebrated another 3-in-a-row set of wins for a given race (he did it with Stuc a'Chroin earlier this year). He managed to hold off a strong challenge from HELP's Brian Marshall and 3rd-placed Mark Johnston (Carnethy) over the Edinburgh 7 Hills today. It was particularly appropriate for Stewart - today is Father's Day - and it was this time last year that he first became a dad! Carnethy teams ended up first and third (and 5th if you add up Gordon, Chris and Stuart's positions!) with a good turnout from our male runners. But, you may ask, where have all the ladies gone?
Results
A few obstacles faced the runners including road works in the Royal Mile, closure of path from Castle Esplanade and the complete blocking up of the gate from Pollock Halls. All of which necessitated alternative routes. Conditions were good and Carnethy were out in force or at least the men were. No Carnethy ladies at all! As I reached the Castle 5 new Carnethy shirts leading the race made a good picture. That was the last I saw of the leaders! Conditions were good - not too hot and light drizzle for the second half. Stewart was 1st for third year running with Brian Marshall in 2nd place just ahead of Mark and Simon with Adam 6th and Cameron 9th. Team prize went to CarnethyA with B team in 3rd place. Bottles of 7 Hills wine for all the winners. Willie and I just failed to break the 2 hour mark finishing 19th & 22nd
Gordon Cameron
- 15th June 2006
Biggar Tarmac Hill Race
Tonight's Tarmac Hill Race was won by Colin Douglas of Law and District with our own Derek Bearhop in 2nd. Hilary Holding was 2nd Lady (in 5th position) just beaten by Jessica Batterham of HBT.
New member Fred McCain was 9th.
- 15th June 2006
Ben Sheann, Bog-And-Burn Race Wedensday 14 June
When the prize for contributions to hillrunning come up at SHR this year, Strathyre need a nomination for the two excellent races they put on, and the cheeriness of all the many helpers and marshalls. It's always a pleasure to race here, whatever the midgies are up to, and even they weren't that bad.
The course has changed! The steep and stony middle section has been forestry commissioned into a runnable zig zag, and the rocky summit approached from the right has become a steep grassy gully up the front. The descent is therefore a bit less technical, but still entertaining, especially on the hairpins.
Steve Fallon, Scotland's fastest hillwalker, bludgeoned his way through the field in front of me. I lost him, Alan Smith and a Westie on the grassy bit of the descent, where I had a bit of a daydream. Steve was 5th, I was 8th. Prasad Prasad won, possibly by a quite a lot. I've never seen someone go up a hill that fast.
I have to admit, the old course suited me better, but it's still an excellent race, and the new course will make it much more accessible to proper runners.
Mark Higginbottom
What a brill wee course ! A new and extended route this year due to the trees that had fallen with the heavy snow over winter. According to Mark Higginbotton (the only other Carnethy), this route was around 4-5 minutes longer than in previous years. The organisers said from the outset that no records would be broken. Tonight was my first attempt at the route, and although a 'local' I'd never been up this little hill - that's what happens when you're blinkered by the 'Munros'. The course follows a path that zig-zags through the forest, then turns south for quite a bit before the last pull over heather to the summit. A glorious evening, but no time for the views on the top, just turn south again and eventually come back to the ascended route for a really fast descent. The zig-zag down back through the forest was just wonderful !
48 runners took part with Prasad Prasad winning impressively, and Jo Whitehead taking the ladies prize.
Steven Fallon
- 13th June 2006
Wye Valley Runners Run The West Highland Way
Read Nigel Rose's article on last weekend's West Highland Way Run
- 13th June 2006
Paddy Buckley Round Attempt
Well if the heat is a good enough excuse for the English football team it certainly explains why our attempt on the PB ended prematurely in the early hours of Sunday....
After temperatures of 28 degrees, SE winds gusting at 30+mph and consuming 8 litres of water each in the first 6 hours we still felt more dehydrated than dried prunes in the desert.
We made it 2/3rds of the way around, more or less on schedule, but feeling pretty spent. Our lightweight approach to support (e.g. one hill runner, for one leg) meant there was no slack left in the system at the end of his stint and we were forced to retire in Llanberis at 2.30am, after 15 hours/44 miles/20,000'.
The Buckley fully deserves it's status as one of the classic three British rounds. We had a wonderful day in the hills, and are plotting our return already...
At the moment the Paddy Buckley seems like a much bigger undertaking than the Bob Graham or Ramsay rounds, but this may be because I am still sunburnt and very thirsty!
Olly Stephenson (Carnethy) Nick Wallis (Dark Peak) With extra big thanks to Steve Aspey (runner) and Stan and Sarah Halstead (road crossing) for all their support.
Olly Stephenson
- 13th June 2006
Edinburgh Marathon 11 June 2006
One of the guys I train with gave me an entry
in this year's marathon with the promise of no
entry fee to pay if I broke 3.15 . I set
off on my bike on Sunday morning. Usual pre race loo queue and off we go.
Had a great race, really relaxed and with no pressure, loads of people out
and about and the crowd really helped. After about 4 miles Cameron Burt
sprinted past me doing leg 1 of the relay - that boy was flying as the
marathon runners started 10 mins ahead of the relay! Made it to Crammond
and half way at 1.33 and was feeling pretty good and still overtaking folk,
but after a run around the car park at Ocean Terminal in one of the less
obvious 'how do we get this to measure the exact length required from a
marathon' I started to get a bit hungry. Not having really done any road
running this year and not having really thought at all about the fact that
I may get hungry I'd brought hardly any gel along for the ride and so by 19
miles the wheels started coming off a bit. Running along Portabello with
people lying on the beach and eating ice creams and a decidedly lecherous
60 year old runner from Blackburn by my side coming out with 'have you seen
the state of that' and 'what a great City you live in', it all got a bit
much and I started missing my times. Finally made it to the last relay leg
to see Kate there with some more gel and then ground out the last miles to
the finish. There at the end was my mate Brendan laughing at the sweat
dripping blob that I'd now become. A sprint to the line which ripped both
my hammers and an embarrassing photo by Gordon Cameron as I was carried
into the pen by a marshal. 3.20 ish and I now owe Brendan £40, but a great event
and really well organised - maybe I'll quit the 24hr runs and do something a
bit more mainstream.
Mick James
- 10th June 2006
Glen Rosa Horseshoe
It was a rather hotly contested race this year, or was it just rather hot?
Carnethy managed a 1,2,3 with Stewart Whitlie, Es Tressider and Ronnie Gallagher, and Jill Mykura was first Lady with Hilary Holding in fourth. Carnethy won both team prizes with Joanne Anderson as 3rd counter for the ladies.
Report
We measured 33 degrees driving back to the ferry at 4pm. It wasn't much cooler at midday, and the water and hat debate was in full swing. I opted for neither, figuring that the amount of water I wanted to take couldn't fit in just one camelback, and I followed a drink from every stream policy which worked surprisingly well until the top of Goatfell. The first two miles were the slowest I have ever started a championship race, a pleasant jog through the fragrant blooms of Brodick castle. The first climb is a swine, but the sudden arrival on the ridge is tremendous: fantastic views every time you can drag your eyes away from your feet. Some joker had obviously moved the flags. Was I the only one who felt this first descent a tad steep? That's what fatherhood does to you. Horrible traverse round A Chir, but a nice mixed climb, and then spot on on the traverse round Cir Mhor on good trods. The North Goatfell climb is a biggy, but there's lots to look at, and it's quite interesting underfoot. At this point I realised that I couldn't eat my jelly babies; at the time this wasn't an issue. We could just see the leaders, by now Stewart getting away from Es, as we climbed.
At the top of Goatfell the wheels fell off. Having prepared myself mentally for three big climbs, the 3 mile (or was it more?) descent to the finish came as a horrible surprise. Congratulations to every one who raced this bit. I ran the first bit behind Steve, knowing that I was going a little faster, but utterly unable to pass. There were flags in the wood but, it has to be said, they weren't terribly obvious, especially at the reservoir, and various folk running faster than myself came to the finish by many and mysterious ways.
The finish marquee quickly became a hospital tent, and thank you everyone who pushed water and juice at runners, and stuck them under hosepipes.
Top race, big day out. I notice with alarm, that at 13th place I was the first runner of Carnethy C team. Team results (amended) 1st Carnethy A, 2nd Carnethy B, 3rd Westies, 4th Carnethy C.
Mark Higginbottom.
Results
- 10th June 2006
Traprain Law
We took the train to Drem and cycled from there, reaching 'Fast' Linton (as signposted) just as the Carnethy peleton swept into town, disgorging runners, marshals and the odd tandem on the village green. Tractors hooted, pipers piped, small girls danced, the race started and I took up my usual station at the rear. Keith Burns had warned us that although it was hot there was no food or drink on the course; but he had forgotten about the organic supplies – flies by the wooded path and Tyne water. I took the former on board but not the latter, managing to stay on my feet all the way across the river..
Half-way up the fixed ropes on the climb to the summit (fixed barbed-wire, more like) I passed Sally Clark. She was sitting there quietly admiring the view, and assured me this was partly what she’d come for. Down we went (at about the same time as Keith Hood was winning the race) and over the bridge – no chance of a drink on this occasion. The Carnethies on duty there were sipping red wine.
The run home along the river was refreshingly cool with the breeze and the shade; I found myself sparing a thought for the poor souls who’ll be pounding Edinburgh’s unrelenting hot tarmac tomorrow. Back at the finish it transpired that Carnethy had managed a couple of minor prizes: Alex Mennary the MV70’s and Jane Robertson (running in a bright yellow vest emblazoned ‘Westies’ but undoubtedly in the official results as ‘Carnethy’) the FV40’s.
We cycled back to Drem with that breeze behind us, through 'Last' Fortune (as signposted). Shades of Fawlty Towers! But that’s unfair – the race organisation was first-class, thanks to Trevor Collins and his team.
IAN
Results
Photos
- 8th June 2006
Paddy Buckley Round Attempt
Good Luck to Olly Stephenson who is going for the Paddy Buckley round this weekend. For those who don't know the Paddy Buckley round is a circuit in North Wales to be completed in under 24hrs, a similar concept to the well known Bob Graham Round in the Lakes (only much harder than this !) and the Ramsay Round in Lochaber, both of which Olly has already completed. If he is successful this weekend he will be one of only a handful of people who has completed all three (and the first from Carnethy)
- 3rd June 2006
Stranraer Half Marathon
Thankfully a slightly cooling breeze eased the effects of the hot sun round this largely scenic course. There were never ending undulations on the wee country roads providing fantastic views out to sea at times. The earlier ‘half marathon walk’ participants were welcome company from a few miles in. With rather ‘motivating prizes’ I was spurred on to keep in the lead.
Results
Men
1 R Gilroy, Girvan 1.10.39
2 F MacLean, Unattached 1.14.10
3 S Wyllie, Girvan 1.14.21
Ladies
1 Kate Jenkins, Carnethy 1.26.49
2 S Kelly, Unattached 1.32.19
3 A Rankin, Springwell 1.39.49
- 4th June 2006
Dechmont Law 10km trail race, Livingston
Now that the legs were de-cobwebbed after Stranraer, I set upon this great trail race in attractive woodland and soft paths, organised by Lothian. After a slightly ambitions, adrenaline filled start, I worked hard to keep 3rd as Paul Ritchie strode smoothly and effortlessly past me.
Results
Men
1 B Turner, Arbroath 33.15
2 R Goddard, Lothian 34.22
3 J Phillip, Unattached 36.00
10. Paul Ritchie, Carnethy 36:56
58. Steve Hibbert, Carnethy 45.30
Ladies
1 C Gordon, HBT 36.43 (9th)
2 C Milne, Lothian 37.27
3 Kate Jenkins, Carnethy 37.50 (18th)
- 6th June 2006
“A Celebration of Sporting Achievement 2005/06” 5 June 2006
This was the City of Edinburgh’s sporting Oscars (though thankfully without the acceptance speeches), held in the rather dramatic atmosphere of our Dynamic Earth. Jill Mykura had been short-listed for the Senior Sports Person Award and Carnethy for the Senior Team Award. Sadly neither won, but it was a real privilege just to be there, amongst Edinburgh’s Olympians and Commonwealth Gamesers – people who can even occasionally push footballers off the back pages.
For the record, it was Commonwealth Games double-medallist Kirsty Balfour who pipped Jill, and Heriot-Watt’s footballers who took the team title. The swimmers picked up most of the evening’s awards (or rather their minders did, for they were all away in a training camp), and the cyclists did well too. Fair enough, given the way those two sports have shown what Scotland can do.
- 5th June 2006
Lyn Wilson shines at Scolty - Sunday 4th June
Some excellent Carnethy runs at Scolty, the second round in the Scottish Championships, resulted in the men winning for the second race and a rare outing on the hills for Lyn Wilson saw her come within 1 second of Tracey Brindley's course record; a brilliant run as Tracey was in tremendous form when she set the record (finishing 2nd in the World Trophy later that year). Lyn was vital in helping Carnethy ladies finish a team (with Joan Wilson and Anne Nimmo) and their 3rd place is enough to retain a share of the lead in the championship. Stewart beat Colin Donnelly for the second time, to take a clear lead in the Scottish Over 40, and also had a rare and very narrow victory over Es (though Es had consolation of taking 3rd senior man's prize). Think Es will be looking to get revenge next week ! Stewart and Es were backed up by Simon and Ronnie to take the team prize.
Report from IAN
Having read on a web site somewhere that car parking at the start was strictly limited, we decided to try a green route to Scolty: train to Stonehaven, then cycle the 25 km over the Slug Road to Banchory. Arriving more worn down than warmed up, we found that despite the record turn-out Deeside Runners had managed to pack all the cars neatly away in the woods. .
Scolty is a spectator-friendly course: roughly a figure-of-eight, with the cross-over at the Monument on the summit, where you can shelter if the weather’s bad (which it wasn’t). A red vest was the first to reach the summit, but it didn’t have a yellow band – it belonged to Andrew Wright (RH Cambuslang), who went on to win comfortably in record time. Es Tresidder led the pursuing mob, with Stewart Whitlie and Simon Peachey tucked in behind. Lyn Wilson popped up just in front of Ronnie (“The Clansman on my back came off in the wash”) Gallagher and already well ahead of all the other women. She was within timing error (one second) of Tracey Brindley’s 2005 record (and well inside Tracey’s 2003 one, which the SHR Calendar still mistakenly shows).
By the second visit to the summit Brian Marshall and Stewart had got past Es. The team prize looked safe, with Simon plus Ronnie not much adrift and Jon Ashcroft as backup should someone have a mishap in the woods (as befell Lothian’s unlucky Helen Murray).
Then there was still the cycle back to Stonehaven for the evening train. We’d been warned to watch out for boy racers on the Slug and sure enough they treated us to a fine demonstration of testosterone-fuelled madness on two wheels. Mind you, they’d probably say the same sort of thing about hill runners.
Results (and the latest Scottish Championship positions.)
- 5th June 2006
Glas Tulaichean, Yetholm Races etc - Saturday 3rd June
Just over 50 runners turned up on a windy and overcast day to run the Glas Tulaichean Uphill Race. Only one other Carnethy, Doug Shiell, though (was everyone reserving themselves for Scolty the next day ?). With the route at just over 7km long under 700 metres of ascent, there was going to be a lot of flat running and no downhill. Not suited to me at all, so I wasn't going to be anywhere near the front. A well organised event by Martin Hyman, which was won by Jo Symonds in around 36 minutes. There seemed to be endless categories of prizes - crates of of booze and wine appeared from under the table like out of a magician's hat. Results
Steven Fallon
Derek Bearhop went south to check whether the border fence is in good enough repair to hold back the hordes of disillusioned English once they get knocked out the World Cup and in doing so came 8th in the Yetholm Fell Race, which runs along the border. Paul Morris was 16th and Fred McCain 35th. Results
South of the border, Helen Diamantides had a great win in the tough Duddon Valley 20 mile fell race, held in hot conditions, from Seathwaite in 3hrs 36mins, finishing 10 mins in front of Jacqui Lee
For some just one race is not enough. Kate Jenkins won the Stranraer Half Marathon and came 3rd in the Dechmont Law Race and Ronnie Gallagher finished 2nd in the Callendar Crags race before heading to Scolty (report above). Meanwhile, Jacqui Higginbottom was spotted coming 3rd in the Strathallan 5 miles road race.
- 5th June 2006
Lucy wins at Haddington 5 Miles - Saturday 3rd June
Not a hill race but a road race with undulations which perhaps explains the lack of Carnethy Hill Running personnel: However a good win for Lucy Colquhorn in 29-22 in a fast time, while Adam Ward was the only other Carnethy runner I spotted. Weather was just the hot side of perfect, but the rest of the organisation was spot on - well marshalled and an almost total lack of traffic on the roads. Finish was in Neilson Park where the local Gala celebrations had brought Belly Dancers to the stage: an idea for the Carnethy 5? In February at the foot of Carnethy? Maybe not.
Ian Forrest
- 1st June 2006
Next Scottish Championship Race - Scolty - Sunday 4th June
Remember the second counter in the Scottish Champion Series is the Scolty Hill Race on Deeside on Sunday. Remember also you can earn a fantastic SHR Championship mug by completing 4 of the 6 races - incentive to help the club by running at Scolty !
- 30th May 2006
Adam beats the elements at Jura - Saturday 27th May
This year the Isle of Jura Fell Race was held in strong winds and low cloud and with the ground being the wettest and boggiest, regulars have known, times were very slow. As usual in the mist, runners were all over the place on the first 3 hills before reaching the easier-to-navigate-on Paps, however this didn't seem to affect Ian Holmes, who was in a class of his own and ran away from the gun for a lonely run through the mist to win by 21 mins. Adam Ward had a superb run to finish 3rd, his best position and was one of only a handful to break the coveted 4 hours. Despite a large field, not many Carnethy ran this year. Andy Spenceley and Colin Hutt finished close together, while Robin Sloan was the only other Carnethy finisher after Stewart Barrie had to drop-out after the rough Paps destroyed his shoes. The weather improved by the end of the race and for those who stayed on the island had beautiful, if windy, days on the Sunday and Monday. Results here
- 30th May 2006
Angela on a high in Sky Runner World Series, Spain, on Sunday 28th May
The second race in the Sky Runner World Series was held in Spain on Sunday. For those who don't know this is a series of extreme mountain running races, generally at altitude, held round the world. This race, in the small town of Zegama, was over 42 km with a total vertical climb of 5,472m along the Aratz massif in the Sierra del Aizkorri. Angela Mudge had a fantastic run to knock a staggering 20 mins off the course record and run home first woman in 4hrs 43:04. British men also did well with last year's Sky Runner World champion (and Carnethy 5 winner !) Rob Jebb finishing second in 4hr 03:45 just 3 seconds behind winner Ricardo Meijia of Mexico. Details and results here
The next Sky Runner race is on 11th June.
- 25th May 2006
Cairn Hills Handicap
The handicap was won and lost by Cali Ingham as she took a wrong turn. So Shane was first with Gordon second and organiser Robin was third.
An anonymous runner reports:
"Well-marked path - gloopy pond! If that's a well-marked path I'm a mermaid - and might as well be given the amount of swimming we had to do. Had to overhaul a walker to enquire if this was indeed a footpath, even she wasn't sure, then on arriving at the summit the leaders held an impromptu debate about gloopy ponds, dykes and vegetables before deciding that a mini-tarn a bit further along must be 'it'. But running back we encountered il presidente doing windmill effects beside a tiny tattered flag, some carrots apparently, and a puddle the size of a kitchen sink. Running down diverted off-piste (anag) to discover the spendours of Temple Hill, looks like another old hill fort, before spotting some mud-spattered runners squidging damply along in the fading sunshine due West about half a mile away . Getting back on route involved interesting tramping through meter-deep gloop, honest. Thank god for those hot showers at the carpark. But the lasagne in the pub was excellent. A grand evening. Contributed by gloopswimmers anonymous! (Actually it was great) "
Results and report are here
-
24th May 2006
Kinnoull Hill Race, Wednesday 17th May
Like most Wednesday races recently there was a record turn out at Kinnoull despite there being the other attraction of Gypsy Glen, Perth Races and the heavens opening just before the start. Only 3 Carnethies made it though with locals Colin and Joan Wilson joining Adam on the start line. The race was won in impressive fashion by Don Naylor of HBT (warming up for this weekend's Island Peaks Race?) he was out of sight after less than 5 minutes running. A fascinating battle ensued for places 2-6 with positions swapping all the time between Graeme Campbell, Adam Ward, Neil Gunstone, Nigel Scott and Brian Robertson? and finishing in that order.
In the women's race it was even closer with around 7 seconds covering the first 3 places and only one second between the first two. Fife's Louise Provan (also warming up for the Island Peaks Race with Don in fact!) just holding off HBT's Jessica Batterham. The effort was all worth it for the magnificent spread of cakes afterwards before the prize-giving.
Results to follow at http://www.strathtayharriers.co.uk/
- 23rd May 2006
SIPR 2006
The Scottish Islands Peaks Race was won once again by "Playing FT$E", and there was a Carnethy Runner aboard. Although he was only running up and down the deck. One year Bill Fowler might even do the running in the race.
Well done to all that took part. Full results and reports will appear here when I get them.
Some photos are already on the SIPR site and a marshals' photo report is building up here.
- 23rd May 2006
Goat Fell Race
Adam Anderson was 4th at Goatfell, Jill Mykura was 16th and 1st lady, Willie Mykura was 26th, Gordon Cameron was 62nd Brian Howie was 69th and Richard Lathe, In his first hill race, was 83rd.
Thanks to SHR for the photos
Results
- 21st May 2006
Britannic Asset Women's 10km Road Race, Glasgow - Lyn Wilson shines
Carnethy's Lyn Wilson had a storming run in this race to finish 11th (out of nearly 13000 ! ) in a new personal best time for 10km on the road of 34.35 and just in front of Commonwealth Games triathlete Catriona Morrison. That placed her second Scot in the race, but as the first Scot, Collette Fagan, was in 8th place and so in the main prizes, Lyn picked up the cheque for 1st Scot.
Results
- 18th May 2006
Gypsy Glen
Despite the rain, five Carnethys turned out for this wee hill race from Tweed Green in Peebles. A mixture of road, track, and hill which was all very runnable for the 28 competitors with terrific views (had the rain stopped!). Unlike Ben Lomond, the mountain rescue were nowhere to be seen, but a big thanks go to Moorfoot Runners for the organizing, the marshals who stood out in the rain for us and especially to the fun, laid back prizegiving afterwards.
Euan Jardine (Gala Harriers 1st male)
Rhoda McPherson (1st lady)
Lars Ottemoller (2nd male)
Bob Waterhouse (1st V50)
Derek Bearhop
Joanne Anderson (3rd lady)
Kate Friend (not quite last)
Results (coming) www.moofootrunners.co.uk
KF
- 13th May 2006
Club Run Last Wednesday
Last Wednesday we headed out to the Pentlands for the Club Run. We piled into two cars and headed for Moira's house (and got stuck in traffic on the way). From Moi's we ran over Capelaw and down to Colinton through Bonaly and on to Longstone and back to KB via Easter Craiglockhart. A great night and a great run. You should try it sometime.
- 12th May 2006
Auld Toun 10k (Dunfermline) Wed, 10 May
A sun kissed evening in Pittencrieff Park was massed with runners and spectators for the new 'Auld Toun 10k' route organised by Carnegie Harriers. The new route no longer goes through the town; it follows the park paths and surrounding roads. Michael and I agreed that the new route is more challenging (well, it’s a good excuse anyway!). “Chariots of fire” blaring from the speakers in front of the hall stimulated some unknown energy stores in the 473 that finished. Nice medals too!
69 Shane Bouchier 41:44
100 Michael Wilkinson 43:35
results
- 10th May 2006
Dumyat - Record Field
Dumyat always attracts lots of runners from east, west , north and south! This was the biggest field that the organisers could remember - 211. Unfortunately many of the east contingent got snarled up in a tailback on the M9 that stretched from Edinburgh to Linthigow, so the organisers kindly set the late-comers off at 7.25pm, 25 minutes later. It was a bit like a Carnethy handicap - with Simon Peachey and Derek Bearhop chasing the field - but they were never going to catch Alasdair Anthony (Edinburgh University) who was 1st, Don Naylor (HBT) 2nd and Murray Strain (Edin Uni) 3rd. Angela Mudge notched up another clear win in the ladies race.
Results and photos
- 6th May 2006
Edinburgh to North Berwick 22 miles
I didn’t fancy hyperventilating or breaking my ankle at Ben Lomond so decided to test the road legs as I’d not done this one before. It’s a well marshalled scenic route from Meadowbank through Portobello, Musselburgh, Aberlady, Gullane, Direlton to North Berwick. Just a pity the Law is visible way in the distance almost from the start. Thankfully, my very unrested legs behaved themselves.
Results
1 John McMillan Kilbarchan 2:16:48
2 Stevie Ogg Carnegie 2.16:55
3 Martin Ryan Perth RR 2:18:40
12 Kate Jenkins Carnethy 2:27:46 1F
33 Carole Fortune U/A 2:39:56 2F
37 Michelee Tham Portobello 2:42:06 3F
111 Alan MacDonald Moorfoots 3:17:22
115 Rod Dalitz Carnethy 3.21.33
134 ran
Kate Jenkins
- 7th May 2006
BUPA Edinburgh 10k
After yesterday's sunny day in the hills some us returned to Edinburgh to help at the BUPA 10k. Unfortunately, the east coast haar/mist hung over the city all morning making it dreich for the marshals but quite good for running! The organisation involved in holding an event like this is amazing - police, first aid, tv crews, marshals, bands, Wilf's Outdoor catering........ Goody bags with T-shirts, medals and food. You can see where the big entry fee goes. Just make sure we don't lose sight of the little races - like the Devil's Beeftub! At least one Carnethy vest was spotted near the front..... Further back in the field Frances Wilkinson finished in 58:01
AN
- 6th May 2006
Ben Lomond :Scottishathletics and SHR (4 from 6) Championship Races
There seemed to be a never-ending stream of the new red and yellow vests (and a couple of the old yellow ones) on a windy, but beautiful, sunny Ben Lomond today. Angela Mudge's took pride of place - not only did she win the ladies race but she beat the record Tracey Brindley set last year by over a minute and a half in 76m12s (though Angela has run over a minute faster in 2000 and Beverly Redfern ran 71-57 in 1990 ! ). Stewart Whitlie was the second Carnethy home and won the MV40 race. Simon Peachey was first Carnethy to finish. Some time later, Bill Gauld won the MV70 title. Jethro Lennox was a clear winner and also set a new record for the current course - by one second! Carnethy men had a good win over Shettleston to take the SAL team title, while an excellent run by Hilary Holding backed up Angela and Jill to take the women's title. Many finished covered in blood including Ronnie Gallagher, who was seen afterwards being stitched up by a vet (Elspeth Scott - she said she's experienced with animals ! ) and captain Joanne Anderson, who was thankfully able to stagger down after a bad fall, though Clydesdale's Michael Diver's dive onto the rough, stoney path resulted in him being stretchered off by the Mountain Rescue. An excellent first race in the Scottish Champs series, thanks to Don Reid and Westies.
Results and more photos here
peachey.jpg)
- 4th May 2006
Kaim Hill Race (Bog and Burn) 3 May
Edinburgh was left basked in glorious sunshine. Fairlie was dreich ! Drizzling rain and mist down to under 300metres were going to make The Kaim a bit of a challenge. Three Carnethies, Adam Anderson, Steven Fallon and Angela Mudge were amongst the 51 field. Tarmac led to track, then to path and finally heather and bog for bulk of the race. The race was won by Andrew McCall of Greenock, but the Carnethies did well, Steven coming 6th, Angela 8th (first woman) and Adam 10th.
- 1st May 2006
Stuc A' Chroin
From the look of Keith's photos it was one of those perfect days with brilliant views. Angela Mudge won the ladies race and second-placed Sarah Legge could be in the best 'photo of the year'! Carnethy did the 1,2,3 - Stewart Whitlie, Simon Peachey and Ronnie Gallagher. That gives Stewart 3-wins-in-a-row at this race!
Results
- 1st May 2006
Scots excel at Knockdhu International
Scotland excelled at the Knockdhu International on Saturday 29th April, coming first team in the men's, ladies', vets' and junior men's competition - in fact every event in which they had a team. They were helped along the way by five Carnethies. Jill Mykura was a clear ladies' winner and Adam Ward had a brilliant run to be 1st vet and in doing so getting the scalp of Colin Donnelly, who was 2nd vet ! Es Tresidder (5th overall) was one of four Scots in the top seven and Kate Jenkins was 5th in the ladies' race. Adrian Davis was 3rd vet (13th overall) securing Scotland a 1,2,3 in the vets' race.
Results on nimra website
- 28th April 2006
Whangie Whizz, 26 April
Angela Mudge, Steve Fallon and Mark Higginbottom seem to have been the only Carnethies venturing out into the far west for this excellent cross country race. A bigger field than the London marathon, a knobbly path with the odd deep bog and a disturbing lack of hill led to some frenetic racing before a big spongey loop led to the "top". I watched Steve's back for a bit, and had glimpses of Angela in the many twists and turns, but lost interest a bit on the "descent". Well done to Westies for having so many people in and around the race. I had nightmares last night of being chased up "hills" by a big man with a balloon tied to his back (It was Gary Thompsett's 40th); I shall send my therapy bills to Westies HQ.
Mark HigginbottomA 'Bog and Burn' race ?...No a 'Bog and Bog and more Bog' race ! Three Carnethies took part in this relatively short dash up and around The Whangie on a glorious evening. The bouldery path didn't seem to get anyone, but the marshy ground further up entertained the onlookers. A runner in front of me did a body-plant into the wet muck and a bit further on another runner (from the purple and white vest team) lost five places due to his shoe coming off and being submerged in the bog. Won by Jethro Lennox, his club also took the team prize. Angela Mudge came top female, 14th overall, Steven Fallon 4th vet and 19th overall and Mark Higginbottom came 26th out of a field of 151. Angela set a new woman's record for this in 31:26 and the field of 151 was a new record too !
Steve Fallon
A gorgeous night was in stall for the 147th edition of the Whangie (or so Drew claimed!). Only 3 Carnethies were tempted across to the west. Steve Fallon arrived in a super fast car, whilst Mark Higginbottom used some of his highly valued 'brownie points' to make the race.
On the way out the sun made the going difficult - we couldn't see a thing! The far end of the course was rutted even more than usual. Jethro flew home for first place and I won the women's race. The Shets won the team event.
Angela Mudge
Results
- 28th April 2006
26th April - A Pentland Traverse
On Tuesday morning, Alan Hogg and I ran a long Pentland traverse. We had planned it for over a year but the day finally dawned when we were both injury free and the sun was supposed to shine. We started from the big house and farm at Garvald and got out onto open moorland heading northwards. We soon came to the deep valley of the Medwin Water. For most of the valley, a huge black pipeline on stilts ran along beside the track. It was part of a reservoir scheme that probably couldn't be built nowadays. Near the head of the glen we climbed out up the deep heathery hillside of Craigengar. At the top of the hill several large rocks were carved with names and dates, rather like a grave headstone. They were not very easy to read as the stones were splotched with patches of lichen.
There was also a fierce, bitter wind so our carefully-ironed shorts stayed hidden under layers of spare clothing. Down the other side, we crossed an area of wild and desolate moorland before climbing up Colzium Hill. It was all much wilder and rougher compared with the better-known eastern Pentlands. We soon picked up a path through the heather to West Cairn Hill, pausing to admire the oddly-shaped granite tors along the top of the hill. There was a good drystane dyke to follow off the hill to the Cauldstane Slap path then it was slogging up through steep, thick heather to the top of East Cairn Hill. This gave us a good opportunity to spy out the lie of the land for the next handicap race. There was a long, gently descending path down the other side to the Borestane. We stopped for lunch in amongst the trees by the path. It is a favourite spot as the gnarled old trees give the impression of quietly resisting the elements for a long, long time.
We continued along the path to Cock Rig. This hill has changed dramatically over the last couple of years. The sheep have been fenced out for the rearing of game birds. The grass is becoming very thick and tussocky and is now virtually unrunnable. The old paths have disappeared on the other side of the valley as well, on Green Law, and new paths have grown up around the bird cages. Before long we were on well kent territory - West Kip, Scald Law and Carnethy. We dropped down to the reservoir road by the Logan Burn and crossed over to Den's Cleuch and Bell's Hill. After that it was like a re-run of the Pentland Skyline race - late in the afternoon, knackered and heading for the ski slope at Hillend. It had taken us over six hours to cover 21 miles over a wide variety of terrain - a good day out!
Nigel Rose.
- 27th
April 2006
A Borders Journey Run-22nd April 2006
On Saturday morning, eleven runners gathered in Innerleithen for a hill run with historical interest. We set off through the town and up Pirn Craig, passing a stone circle of sculpted pictures. We continued on to Kirnie Law and climbed by the grass & rock covered remains of a pipeline to a concrete surge tower. A little further on we came to the huge remains of a concrete storage tank built high in the hills. It was the size of several football pitches, surrounded by a 20 foot high reinforced concrete wall. The tank had been built in the 1920's as part of the UK's first pumped storage scheme to power a woollen mill in Walkerburn. Rodney paced about inside, trying to estimate the size and how many thousands of tons of water the tank must have held.
We ran on towards Priesthope Hill until Wille G suddenly remembered he was supposed to take Cathy shopping in Peebles. He turned back while the rest of us went on over Glede Knowe. The original plan had been to go to the trig point on Windlestraw Law but there was a bitter wind, thick mist and puddled bog underfoot. Some wanted to go on but when I suggested a short cut and an earlier lunch, there was a forest of nodding heads. Three went on to the trig point while the rest of us turned for Scawd Law. We soon dropped out of the mist. Keith remembered at this point that he was injured so he took a short cut back straight down into the valley. Near the top of Cairn Hill we found a pleasantly sheltered spot to stop for lunch. The other three arrived just as we were concluding the dessert course. We had an attractive run down through the forest, eventually coming out at Walkerburn. A couple of miles along the grassy banks of the Tweed brought us back to Innerleithen.
We met Keith in a state of excitement. He had gone into a second-hand bookshop on the way back and had found a book all about the pumped storage scheme. Only the asking price of £40 tempered his enthusiasm a little. My original plan had been to conclude the run with a visit to Innerleithen's famous ice cream shop. I was out-voted and dragged through the streets to find a tea shop. Gallons of tea and slices of sticky Border tart rounded off an excellent day out. Many thanks to Jim Barton for the photo. He claims that it is a photo of "the relics" but I'm convinced that it is a temporary hitch in a Carnethy jail-break.
Nigel Rose.
- 27th April 2006
Glen Affric Duathlon - 23rd April
A few of us decided to escape the masses of the lakes and head north for this relatively new event. The course consisted of a 7.5 mile run, over bog and hills, followed by an 18 mile mountain bike loop on road/forest track then a 2.5 mile run to finish.
'Team Carnethy' consisted of Angela Mudge, Garry MacInnes and Andrew Patience. Angela led the lads after the run and expected them to go whizzing past on the bikes but luckily the route wasn't technical so they never got the chance to catch up! A brillant time was had by all (even Andrew's bike managed to get round in one piece) and one worth trying out in 2007.
Angela Mudge
- 24th April 2006
Lucy Colquhoun shows multi-talent
The hard streets of London are a far cry from the spongy peat bogs of the hills but Lucy Colquhoun tried the different surface out and finished the London marathon in a superb 2 hours 51 minutes and 48 seconds. Apparently this time allowed her to run the last bit with the leading men!
- 22nd
April 2006
Anniversary Waltz - The Big Day and the Vets take the glory
Es Tresidder justified his seclection to run for Scotland next weekend (see item below) with a brilliant 14th place, from an entry of 750, in the Anniversary Waltz race in the Lake District, the 2nd race in the 2006 British Champs Series. He was not the only Scot to do well, as Jethro Lennox of Shettleston had an amazing 2nd place. Carnethy did well in all the team competitions, with the outstanding result being winning the vets (the four counters being Stewart Whilie, Ronnie Gallagher, who was 1st over 45, Adrian Davies and Adam Ward) and beating Borrowdale into 2nd place. From the preliminary results it looks like we were 3rd ladies team (Jill Mykura, Helene Diamantides and Kate Jenkins) and 4th in the Open team (with the above men plus Simon Peachey in 33rd). Also worth a mention were Alex Menarry and Bill Gauld, 1st and 2nd in the Over 70s. With the next 2 British Champs races being held on home ground in Scotland (Dollar and Creag Dubh), these are very good results.
Full results are here
- 21st April 2006
'Carnethy Five'
The teams for the Knockdhu International (next weekend) have just been announced and of the sixteen Scots going, five are from Carnethy. They are Es Tressider in the Senior Men, Adrian Davis and Adam Ward in the Vet Men and Kate Jenkins and Jill Mykura in the Senior Women. Good Luck to all of them.
- 20th April 2006
Anniversary Waltz preview
On Saturday 22nd April is the second British Champs race of 2006, the interestingly named Anniversary Waltz race from near Newlands in the Lake District, a medium race of 11 miles. Perhaps due to the success of the first race in Northern Ireland (2nd vets team, 2nd ladies team), an incredible 24 Carnethy runners have entered it !. Must be the most ever Carnethy entries for a race outside Scotland (apart, perhaps, from Relays races) and shows what a good job Captains Joanne and Adrain are doing. Even so the Carnethy members will be swamped as the total field is an incredible 700 runners ! Is that the all time record for a fell race ? It will be interesting to see how the race copes with such a huge number - all finishers even get food. The full entry list and race details are here
- 19th April 2006
Boghall Handicap
The
race was won easily by Michael Wilkinson with Hilary Holding on to
second. Jim McWhinnie was third with Jane Robertson close on his
heels. Cali Ingham and Shane Bouchier saw no sympathy from the handicapper
even
though they were recovering from surgery and brought up the rear
of
the field. New members John Ashcroft and Tom Adams had a good showing
(Tom
on his second ever hill run). Over such a straightforward course
it was surprising
the amount of route choice used by the runners. The heather hoppers
making time over the track trodders. Gordon caught a few with his
route from
Castlelaw to the sink.
Easter Egg Hunt
The Junior Easter egg Hunt was won by Kirsty Cameron as she was fastest and had the best decorated egg.
Full Report and Results
- 19th April 2006
Knockfarrel 8th April 2006
This fine race has a gentle start, two steep, 'hands and knees' climbs separated by a glorious ridge. Rain and snow in the days prior to the race meant that there was plenty of mud and standing water on the route, so even the flat bits had 'interesting' underfoot conditions. Well organised and marshalled, highly recommended.
Knockfarrel was the Forrest's Wedding Anniversary run this year so Happy Anniversary Margaret.
Given the distance from the usual Carnethy stamping grounds, bit surprised that any other Carnethies made the trip: Philippa Headley and Tom Harley (-as well as Jackie Higginbottom (whom we did not see!).
Thanks to Philippa and Tom for searching Strathpeffer on Sunday morning to find us so they could deliver Margaret's prize.
Ian Forrest
- 14th April 2006
Solo Round Scotland is Underway
Alan Rankin has started his Solo Round Scotland Challenge.
He set off from Kirkcudbright yesterday and is sailing round Scotland single-handed to Blyth. He expects to take about 9 days. Then he gets on his bike and cycles the 155 miles back to Kirkcudbright.
You can keep up to date with his journey by looking at www.soloroundscotland.com
Alan is happy to have company for his cycle, probably starting Friday 21st April. If you fancy a wee cycle then email webmaster@carnethy.com and I will give you more information.
- 10th April 2006
Four Inns Walk - Peak District - England Saturday April 1st 2006
Mick James, Olly Stephenson and Jamie Thin (HBT) completed this 45 mile event on Saturday, linking the sites of 4 Inns and several of the Peak District's finest moors into one long version of the Carnethy Xmas pub run.
Unable to win any proper prizes the team decided to lower their standards and compete against a bunch of scout teams, which is an excellent strategy for anyone else out there in the club too slow to win any real hill running prizes.
The run started in Holmbridge (just south of Huddersfield) at 6.30am in persistent rain, strong winds and near freezing temperatures. Shortly afterwards the rain cleared to make way for driving sleet and snow. Any safety concerns we may have had were soon banished by the cold, which shrank our brains so far inside our skulls that I'm still waiting for mine to reappear.
It was at about this stage that Mick mentioned we had to beat the course record in order to catch the train back home that night. The marshals made sure we didn't forget this, and at each checkpoint all we had to say was "we are team 31" for them to laugh and say "oh we know about you lot - you've got a train to catch at 4pm today - some chance!".
The run continued over Bleaklow and Kinder in improving weather, and then onto tracks and the odd road section via Chapel-en-le-Frith and the Goyt Valley to finish in Buxton. It was a great journey through some of England's finest scenery, and was amazingly well organised with food and support at nine different checkpoints, plus on the ground support from Mick's mate Neil. After 9 hours 4 minutes running we made the train home with 7 minutes to spare. And we beat the course record for the 'fastest novice team' which is a little unfair judging by the 60 litres rucksacks and teenagers we were up against. But then who said hill running was supposed to be fair?!
http://www.fourinns.org.uk/
Olly Stephenson
- 1st April 2006
Slieve Bearnagh
The first British Championship race this year was the 'short' Slieve Bearnagh in Ireland. A strong contingent from Carnethy travelled south led by Es Tresidder who finished top Scot and 11th overall. The men were 4th team (behind Borrowdale, Pudsey & Bramley and Dark Peak) while our vet and ladies teams both finished 2nd behind Dark Peak. The celebrations lasted into the night and the wine won was never seen again.
ResultsCarnethy Men's TeamCarnethy Vet TeamCarnethy Ladies11 Esmond Tresidder 45:37
35 Adrian Davis 49:04
42 Simon Peachey 50:02
43 Adam Ward 50:21
44 Geraint Florida-James 50:31
plus 81 Crawford Oliphant10 Adrian Davis 49:04
12 Adam Ward 50:21
15 Ronnie Gallagher 51:13
45 William Mykura 58:14
plus 182 Colin Pritchard 72:396 Gillian Mykura 55:18
19 Hilary Holding 66:00
30 Joanne Anderson 75:59
plus 25 Jane Robertson 71:32
Not only apres-race celebrations, but apres-pub !
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peachey.jpg'))
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