Old News: July - September 2006
- 28th September 2006
Helene leads Lakeland Classics Trophy after Three Shires
Helene Diamantides was the first lady home at the Three Shires Race on 19th Sept, in an incredible 13th place out of 250 ! That was her third win in this years Lakeland Classics Trophy series - which consists of the 6 toughest Lakeland races and which will almost certainly reward her with the Lady Trophy. Almost?. it's still mathematically possible for Jackie Lee (230 points) to overtake Helene's score of 249 points, but Jackie would need to break the Ladies record (2.23.25) at the last race in the series, the Langdale Horseshoe, and even that might not be enough. The series consists of three "super long" races: Ennerdale, Wasdale and Duddon and 3 just "normal" long tough races, Borrowdale, Three Shires and Langdale. Runners must finish 3 races, of which at lesat 2 must be the super long ones.The last race, Langdale, is on 7th October. So there could be another award for a Carnethy lady in the offing! Details here
- 26th September 2006
Angela heads east for Sky Running climax
Good luck to Angela Mudge, who is on her way to Malaysia at this moment, in her attempt to win the World Sky Running Championship. She is currently leading the series and the last race is the Mount Kinabalu race (7000ft of climb and descent ! ) on Saturday.
- 24th September 2006
Stewart retains Two Breweries title - Saturday 23rd September
A lovely day for the Breweries saw Stewart Whitlie take full advantage to win another long tussle with Colin Donnelly (Lochaber) and so retain his title. Hilary Holding had a brilliant run to finish second lady behind Elke Schmidt (Bellahouston) while Karen Meikle was 3rd lady and first Over 40. Jon Ascroft had a good run to come home 7th.
Results
Photo report
- 24th September 2006
Record Mudged at Morven - Saturday 23rd September
A small group of Carnethy runners decided to give the Breweries a miss and head north to the superb low-key Morven Hill Race on Deeside. Held in lovely weather the couse had narrow trods through heather, fast running on the tops and some fairly tricky stoney paths on the descent - a real tester of a race. Another central-belt entrant, Al Anthony of Ochils, made the long journey worthwhile by running away from the field from the gun and setting a new record, but not to be outdone, Angela Mudge stormed up the hill, turning in 3rd place and eventually broke Sonia Armitage's record by 6 mins ! Carnethy member, Bill Henderson, he of 21 Carnethy 5 races fame and long exiled to Aberdeenshire, proudly sported his new Carnethy vest to welcome his club mates to the north.
1. Al Anthony (Ochils ) 44:04 (rec)
6. Angela Mudge 49:47 (rec)
10. Andy Spenceley 53:20
27. Jane Robertson 63:12
33. Bill Henderson 66:16
41. Hilary Spenceley 80:37
Full Results here
- 22nd September 2006
Pot-hunters hit the Potting Shed
A band of unfaithful Carnethy pot-hunters headed north last weekend for the 3rd Applecross Duathlon: a low key and well organised event of 9 miles fast track/path running and 15 miles on the road bike to complete an anticlockwise boucle of the stunning peninsula. Forecasts early in the week were severe enough for the organisers to offer a reversal of race direction/order but, based on feedback from the entrants, the only reversal was from the weather which turned out to be hot and sunny. However, the strong southerlies remained and put the boot in on the bike for most folk.
Competition at the sharp end was very pointed with lots of proper athlete types turning up to spoil the fun and the pace was unsurprisingly very similar to the temperatures from the off. Al Anthony and Ian Wellock lead from the off with Angela Mudge, Garry MacInnes and some lesser oldies "pacing" themselves in pursuit.
After two weeks in the Pyrenees with a large rucksack full of highly dubious sausages, cheese and bags of wine I was expecting to be quite strong on the bike but, as it turned out, the run put me totally into the red and the bike leg was sad albeit scenic with views across to Harris, Rona, Rassay and the Cuillin. Garry also had a blinder of a bike leg which began illustriously with a short "spew-en-velo" which was put down to him actually eating food the day before - something his elite athlete's frame obviously wasn't used to.
The pot-hunters spent the evening in the Potting Shed/Walled Garden restaurant mainly waiting for but eventually enjoying some well earned food some of which turned out to be free due to problems with the service and the proprietor's memory. Sunday morning was spent sea kayaking which cleared the head a bit as Adam Ward joined us and lead us astray during the previous evening's "festivities" in the Applecross Inn.
Andrew Patience
Results:
Al Anthony (1:53:?? beating Adam Ward's record of last year by less than a minute), Angela (2:00:02 1st female/4th overall - she was too careful with her new carbon bike on the dirt track finish to break the 2hrs),
Garry (2:08:?? 1st vet),
Andrew Patience (2:08:?? and a few seconds - 2nd vet),
Debbie Carr (2:36:?? - 2nd female vet in her second ever race - must be her coach!)."
- 20th September 2006
Mourne Mountain Marathon, 16/17 September
It turned out to be a spectacular hot weekend for the Mourne MM. They are a wonderful group of mountains about an hour's drive south of Belfast. Keith & I completed the ‘B class’ in 14:24:02 coming 17th overall. We started in the beautiful Tollymore Forest Park but as day 1 progressed the terrain was becoming tougher in areas, the peaty pot holes were deep, the bracken sharp and the heather long. Day 2 however turned out better once the morning mist had cleared, 6 of our 11 checkpoints could be visited in any order, which was fun as runners were darting about in all directions. Thanks to the organizers and marshals for a great event, and the tea and sandwiches at the finish were very welcome. Sadly more than once did we see runners offload their rucksacks while they zoomed off to a checkpoint and then rejoin their partners. Shame on you!!
KF
- 19th September
2006
Double silver for Carnethy in British Championships !
After the final event in the 2006 British Championship, the tough Peris Horseshoe at Llanberis, Carnethy has ended the campaign with silver medals in the Ladies team (behind Bingley) and the Over 40 Mens's team (behind Dark Peak Fell Runners) . Congratulations and well done to both teams and to the captains Joanne Anderson and Adrian Davis ! We also came 4th in the Open team category, to make us the second ranked club overall behind Dark Peak.
Some noteworthy results from individuals include :
Jill Mykura, 4th in the Senior Ladies;
Colin Pritchard, 6th in the Over 60s;
Stewart Whitlie, 7th in the Over 40s;
Adrian Davis, 9th in Over 40s;
Jane Robertson, 7th in the Ladies Over 40s;
Es Tresidder and Stewart Whitlie, equal 24th in the Senior Men's
- 18th September 2006
Lands End to John O'Groats - New Ladies Record
I'm very privileged to have been part of Sharon Gayter's support team as she has just smashed the Ladies World Record / World Best running Lands End to John o' Groats by over 17 hours, from 13 days 10 hours 1 minute to 12:16:23. The two years of meticulous planning and preparation paid off handsomely as she crossed the finish line in fine style after 837 miles.
Further information on Sharon's website
Murdo McEwan
- 13th September 2006
Arthur's Seat Handicap
The summer weather continued for the final handicap. Hot, sweaty conditions prevailed for the race - and today it's pouring.
Arthur's Seat Results and photos
Final 2006 Handicap Positions
- 13th September 2006
Ben Nevis Race - Saturday 2nd September
10 Carnethy runners managed the annual Ben race this year out of the 370 runners. Bingley were first and second as the race was won by Rob Jebb (1:29:31) from Ian Holmes (1:32:36) with Jethro Lennox first Scot in 3rd place (1:35:25). First lady was Sharon Taylor of Bingley in 1:57:10.
Carnethy finishers were
30 Jon Ascroft 1:53:15
39 Crawford Oliphant 1:54:33
121 Mick James 2:08:32
197 Colin Wilson 2:22:52
198 Gavin Thornley 2:23:10
224 Andrew Lennie 2:27:13
238 Bill Gauld 2:29:18
268 Dougie Shiell 2:34:28
302 Joan Wilson 2:43:17
- 11th September
2006
Comrie Hill Relays - 10th September
It was a perfect day for the first Comrie Hills Relay Race in a beautiful scenic spot around Glen Lednock, east of Loch Earn. The 4-leg relay covered 25.48 miles with 6824 ft of ascent and Carnethy entered a mens and ladies team. The race started with a ‘ready steady go’ by the old wooden cricket pavilion and the first 20 runners headed out. Anne Nimmo, Kate Friend, Eli Scott, Karen Meikle and Philippa Headley made up the ladies team and each leg was different and challenging in its own way, through woodlands, fields and tracks, over hills and through rough deep heather and bracken. The Carnethy men's team of Simon Peachey, Adrian Davis, Ronnie Gallagher and Shaun Bouchier finished a close second to hosts Strathern Harriers. To wind down after the race, we sat in the sunshine drinking tea watching the local cricket match. Strathearn Harriers had provided a delicious BBQ and served home made cakes which was very welcome. It was a fabulous day.
Look forward to coming back again next year!
KF
Results
1. Strathearn Harriers 3:35:08
2 Carnethy 3:40:47
3 Central AC 3:45:43
Ladies: Fife AC 4:17:04 (Carnethy Ladies were 3rd!)
Vets: Fife AC 3:51:51
Mixed: Cosmics 4:03:45
- 6th September 2006
Caerketton Downhill
Last night's race produced a great win and new record for Bruce Smith of Standard Life. It was particularly well-deserved because he's run in every race and, until last night, he's been second in every race. Organiser Mark was second and Jamie Thin (HBT) third. Eilidh Wardlaw (HBT) , the only female in the senior race, was just 2 seconds outside her record. The junior race was another showcase for the talented Helen Rogers (Westerlands) as she repeated her winning performance in the Caerketton (up and down) Junior Hill Race. Previous winners of the race, Lewis Holding (Carnethy) was 2nd and Scott Cameron (Carnethy) was 3rd . Thanks to Mark Johnston for dreaming up and organising this unique race and producing such 'interesting' prizes for every runner! A summary of the races is here
Results
- 5th September
2006
Braemar Highland Games Hill Race
It was a perfect day for a race at the Highland games in Braemar - still and dry ,slightly cloudy am and the sun came out in the afternoon in time for the arrival of the Royal Party!
The race started at 1:20 pm with a total field of 75 runners - some from as far afield as Canada and Australia! Myself and Ronnie Gallagher were the only Carnethy runners.
The route started with a lap of the arena and then out to the south and through the woods to the main track up Morrone , a Corbett at 859 metres- the race turn-around point was only as far as the top of the ridge though,at the 5 cairns, where a flare was lit to signal the arrival of the first young runner , a 20 year-old, who's descent time of 7 minutes saw him the winner in a time of 26 minutes! There was a cut-off time of 45 minutes to get back to the arena as there was a strict schedule of events!
Luckily I and several others just made it back through the gate in time to do our lap of honour in front of the large crowd ! They had come to see the Royal Party ! After a quick change we were able to see the arrival of Her Majesty and Prince Phillip, accompanied by Charles and Camilla and Princess Anne!
The other events included the highly prestigeous Sack-Races, as well as all the other traditional events, with Her Majesty presenting the prizes!!
It was a really good day and my first time at the Braemar gathering, a very well-organised event, and the race was nice and short but fun, with good prize money!!
I recommend it to you!!
Paula
PS On Sunday we went all the way to the top of Morrone to be able to tick a Corbett!!
- 3rd September 2006
Moray Marathon, Elgin 27th September
I had almost convinced myself that I was too worn out after not really stopping since the WHW, and almost passing out after the Hawick 10k last weekend! However, after a sleepless night camping, en route, I found myself blethering to a great chap from Orkney, pausing only to exclaim at the rediculously fast (for me!) mile times that we were churning out. I chose not to engage brain and ease off, but to force myself on. Despite slowing a bit with 7 miles to go I was delighted to be able to give my good friends at the Moray Marathon Committee the sub3 run they have deserved for so long. This was my 9th Moray Marathon and pleasingly my 7th win, in 2:58:28. As usual, a fantastic & friendly event, incorporating half marathon & 10k also.
Results:
1 Simon Pride Forres 2.39.53
2 Alan Reid Peterhead 2.51.05
3 John Kennedy Clydesdale 2.53.18
8 (1F) Kate Jenkins Gala 2.58.29
20 (2F) Carole Fortune Gala 3.14.40
26 (3F) Dawn Hardy Moray 3.19.36
58 Michael Wilkinson Carnethy 3.43.36
83 Colin Ledlie Carnethy 4.01.57
128 ran
KJ
- 2nd September
2006
Devil's Beeftub
It was the wettest Beeftub race for a long time.There's no shelter at the start/finish and it's a good 15 minutes from where you leave the car! Nonetheless, there were 10 runners and 2 more might have run had they found the start in time. A minute's silence was held to remember Janice Mudge, Angela's twin sister, who died last Thursday after a long illness. Then Adam Ward led the troops up and down using hands and feet for the ascent and bum and feet for the descent. Most of the others followed suit. Jo Whitehead, City of Edinburgh, was first (and only) lady. The fun relay was abandoned given the weather!
Results
- 31st August
2006
Stewart Whitlie in Scottish Team for Worlds
Stewart Whitlie has been called up to replace the injured Iain Donnan for the World Trophy in Turkey on 10th September. He is likely to be the only Carnethy representative in the Scottish team this year.
- 30th August
2006
Murdo finishes Tour de Mont Blanc
With a total ascent of 8,639m, a distance of 158.1 km, and descent of 8,639m, we wouldn't be journeying 100 miles, or going up and down the equivalent of Mt Everest from sea level. No quite. 2,539 runners set off from Chamonix @ 19.00hrs Friday on this huge circumnavigation of the Mont Blanc massif. Passing through some of the most stunning mountain scenery in Europe, the route took us through Italy and Switzerland before returning to France. Passports had to be carried, as well as emergency survival blanket and "helmet". With a 45 hour time limit for completion there was (official) opportunity to rest for a few hours en route - bedding provided in the dungeons of the fort @ Champex-en-lac. I chose the non-stop option, so going for the last 8 hours in rain and darkness for the second night, and finishing at the not-the-liveliest-time-of-day 03.37hrs Sunday morning - 197th out of 1151 who successfully covered the full distance. Full report being prepared for Newsletter.
MM
Results
- 30th August 2006
Hawick 10km, Sunday 27th August.
Convinced that my 'feeling ropey' was all in the mind I set off too fast which turned into an outright sprint to escpae a bunch of folk who I kept knocking into. I was amazed how fast the time seemed to be going. A combination of no watch and feeling incredibly dim meant that I thought I was about to finish as we re-entered Hawick. Not so, a second lap to go! Doh!! With a leaden heart and nausea I grunted round this and keeled over, deliberately in the recovery position while I was still able to make such choices! A great wee race, starting in the vast and beautiful Wilton Dean park flanked by the River Teviot. Margaret & Ian Forest made the trip to the Borders for the race and a picnic in the Park also.
Kate Jenkins
1. Steve Cairns HBT 32.07
2. Don Naylor HBT 32.16
3. David Kirkland Alnwick 32.30
1F Kate Jenkins Gala 38.45
2F Rachel Fagan Gala 40.29
3F Katy Anderson Gala 40.47
Ian Forrest 43.44
Margaret Forest 52.11
- 24th August 2006
Latest British Championship news after Sedburgh
With only one race to go, the long, tough Peris Horseshoe in Snowdonia on 16th September, Carnethy Ladies are still (just) leading in the British Championship from favourites Bingley and Carnethy Vets are second behind Dark Peak. Jill Mykura is equal 3rd in the ladies with Jackie Lee of Eryri, while the Senior Men's team are currently in 4th place but could move up to 3rd with a reasonable result at Peris. Other high Carnethy placings are Stewart Whitlie, 5th and Adrian Davis 8th in the Over 40s; Colin Pritchard 5th in Over 60s; Angela Mudge 7th in the Senior Ladies and Jane Robertson 6th and Helene Diamantides 10th in the Ladies Over 40s.
- 22nd August 2006
Schlickeralmlauf
I arrived at Innsbruck on Saturday to learn that the weather in the Stubai well and truely broke the previous Monday with torrential rain and snow. It was more or less a repeat performance from last year at the Schlickeralmlauf race today.
My pace and race strategy were the same and there were top women always just in sight to pass though I was a minute slower. Unlike last year there were no Scottish or Irish runners at the race preparing for a hut to hut tour. Pablo Vigil who I have raced against for nearly 30 years was first vet50 and Brian Walton from Horwich was 2nd and 2 minutes ahead of me. I picked up an enscribed glass jar for the Trophy cabinet marked 3rd Vet50. The race was won by Jonathan Wyatt in a record time. Martin Cox said the course had changed and times were in general slower. He was 5th overall and first Brit.
Full results are at http://www.schlickeralmlauf.com
John Blair-Fish
- 21st August 2006
Sedbergh, British Championship (long)
Carnethy teams returned from this, the first of the two long races in the British Championship, with one 2nd place and two third places. The vet team of Stewart, Adrian, Ronnie and Willie M just pipped Bowland for 2nd place behind Dark Peak. The ladies team of Jill, Helene and Karen were third behind Bingley and Calder Valley and the men's team of Stewart, Es, Adrian, Simon and Ronnie were only beaten by Borrowdale and Dark Peak. The team placings for the short Creag Dhubh race are still to be verified so we will have to wait and see where that leaves us for the final British race on the 16th of September, Peris Horseshoe in Wales.
Results
- 21st August 2006
Portmore Loch Club Handicap - Wed 16th August
You would have thought that most people would have known how to find the fort this year, after last year’s debacle, but it was not the case. After just a little route deviation by some runners on the climb over Dundreich on the wonderful clear evening, the pack went to pieces as they entered the wood as runners headed in all directions as they tried to find the elusive
fort, hidden in the heather. In the end, it’s not clear whether everyone
found it, but the sympathetic handicapper decided not to penalise any defectors. 22 runners enjoyed the challenge, with the finish field being compacted into a finish spread of just 10 mins – good handicapping! With one slight exception. The winner, Shane, won his third race, giving him an unbeatable maximum score of 105 to win the 2006 series. Unless of course Michael Wilkinson wins at Arthur’s Seat in the final race to equal this score… Meanwhile Adam Ward ran the fastest time, closely followed by Steve Fallon. Then we all retired to the Roslin Inn and enjoyed an excellent dinner.
Results are here. Results of the series after 5 races are here
- 21st August 2006
Lomonds of Fife, Sunday 20th August - new (longer) route
The improved route has added about 30 minutes onto the course but it cuts down the amount of running on the new 'road' between the Lomonds. It will have pleased most people but especially Don Naylor and Jocelyn Scott who set the inaugural men's and ladies' records. Steve Fallon continued to show he's in great form coming first Carnethy, in 7th position.
"You would think with Sedbergh on and with the awful forecast, not many runners would turn up in Fife for the New Lomonds hillace. But 75 did and were rewarded with a fine afternoon in which to gallop over hilltops and through heather, thistles and forests. Oddly enough, there seemed to be quite a few folk wearing cycle-shorts and I found out why later .
The race started from near the 'Bunnet-Stane', south of Gateside. A steep haul up into mist onto West Lomond, then back down into the forest and the runners spread out. If it wasn't for Manuel Gorman yelling out to Lars and myself, we'd have been well lost after missing one of the marked turns in the forest. Weather warmed up, so thanks to the water station at Creagmead. Out to East Lomond, and back to West Lomond followed by a very steep descent. This descent was why some runners were wearing cycle-shorts - so they could slide down the hill. You couldn't run without falling. My bum-cheeks are so badly scratched and my shorts were filled with grass and moss ! I'll know what to wear next year.
Don Naylor won in 1:39 with Brian Marshall second. Jane Robertson was second lady, even if she was running for Westies."
Steve Fallon
Results
- 17th August 2006
Tiorga Mhor
The North Harris Trust was set up four years ago to buy roughly 100 square miles of the North Harris Estate and look after the land for the local community and general public. The Tiorga Mhor Hill Race (6 miles, 2200 feet) is one result.
It being holiday time we took off for a few days and cycled from Stornoway to Tarbert and then, given the gloomy weather and 12 undulating miles of single-track road to the start, cadged a lift there from the race organisers (“Don’t worry, there’ll be at least one other 'fossil' running”). Base camp was a tent, filled with soup and rolls, by the pitted track up to the hydro dam (where the race actually started). Just as we were about to trot up to the dam the Tourist Office in Tarbert phoned – two would-be runners had just come off the ferry; could someone please pick them up?
So 45 minutes behind schedule eighteen of us set out along the lochside and I was soon in a battle for the wooden spoon. Just before the real climbing started I managed to overtake someone nursing a sore knee; her running companion had pulled too hard on his lead. The hill was well-flagged: stakes flying poly bags (Morrisons and Somerfield have the market wrapped up on Harris). Shortly before the summit we said goodbye to the spectacular views and headed into the mist. Shortly after it I unwittingly said goodbye to the marked route (where were the flags when they were needed?), making an unconventional descent down steep rocks guarded by thick unrunnable heather until finally spotting the vehicle track and the way home through swirling cloud (and in the process cunningly outflanking the photographer).
Stuart Simpson (Ochils) won the race in record time for the second year in a row, having spied a better line of descent. The full list of results, medal and certificate (but not the wooden spoon) are in the post!
Mark the race down as definitely one to do.
IAN
- 15th August 2006
SHR Scottish Championship 2006 - Final Results
With Creag Dhubh being the 6th race and final race, the 2006 Scottish Championships are now over and there are 4 Carnethy champions - Stewart Whitlie (Men's Over 40), Angela Mudge (Senior women) plus the Men's team and Ladies team ! Also Jill Mykura came second in the Senior women and Ronnie Gallager and Adrian Davis came third equal in the Over 40s.
An amazing 71 people finished the championship, which included 16 Carnethy runners : Joanne Anderson, Angela Mudge, Hilary Holding, Jill Mykura, Joan Wilson, Bill Henderson, Colin Wilson, Stewart Whitlie, Ronnie Gallagher, Adrain Davis, Derek Bearhop, Steven Fallon, John Ascroft, Simon Peachey, John Blair-Fish & last (but certainly not least) Willia Mykura... all of whom will now be the proud owners of an exclusive SHR Championship mug - the 2004 edition is pictured !
The final results are here and a report on the SHR page here
- 13th August 2006
World Mountain Running Trial, Cairngorm - Saturday 12th August
Two Carnethy winners in the World Mountain Trial (for the World Trophy in Turkey on 10th September), that also included the chance to earn SAL vests for the World Masters Champs in Switzerland on 23rd September. Stewart Whitlie was first Male Over 40 when finishing 5th in the men's race and Lucy Colquhorn was first Female Over 35 in finishing 3rd in the women's race (the world title for this event is already in Carnethy hands, of course, after Angela Mudge won it at Keswick last year). The men's race was easily won by Iain Donnan (Lothian), while Claire Gordon (HBT) just as easily won the women's. Angela Mudge had already been pre-selected for the World Trophy, so wasn't at the trial (she was supposed to be at the classic Sierre-Zinal race in Switzerland, but due to the filght chaos on Friday her plane was cancelled and she couldn't get there).
Results of the trial are here.
- 13th August 2006
Lurig Challenge, Northern Ireland - Saturday 12th August
The Lurig challenge starts from the centre of Cushendall, Northern Ireland. It is about 3.5 miles with 1200 feet of climb. After starting in the square the route is along a farm track for about a mile and then climbs up the increasingly steeper North face of Lurigethan. The descent is by the same route, with quite steep short grass over the first section. According to the report by Carnethy representative, Margaret Forrest, it is a great race, though a bit scary near the top but definitely worth it for the views. 1st out of the 138 finishers was Neil Carty in 27:26; Ian Forrest did 38:00 and Margaret Forrest finished in 50:40.
- 8th August 2006
The 20th Caerketton Hill Race and the final Bog & Burn race
It was a dry and mainly sunny, but very windy night for the 20th Caerketton Races. A small field of only 4 Juniors ran this year, but it was close all the way and in the end it was a sprint finsh between the two girls Helen Rogers and Kirsty Buchanan, with the Carnethy pairing of Lewis Holding and Max Ledlie fighting for the next spot.
The Senior race was the opposite, the biggest field since 1994, and with some excellent route choice Al Anthony had a clear lead at the end to retain his title. Who thought there was route choice at Caerketton ? Well, the field split into two on the climb with some taking the direct steep route, but many taking a more sloping longer route that turned out faster - at least for those that could run uphill. For the women, Veronique Oldam recorded a fast time to beat the on-form Kate Jenkins.
Results of this year's race and some photos are here. Results of all previous races are here.
- 7th
August 2006
Es on the 'Tour'
Es Tresidder has just finished a brilliant 2nd place in the Defi de l'Oisans, a 200km stage race over 5 days and 6 stages around the Ecrins National Park in France, almost entirely along the GR54 hiking trail. The total climb is over 12000m. Es made up the Equipe d'Ecosse with a group of Westerlands runners (who said East and West can't meet !). Es had 3 stage wins out of 6 race stages, and broke the course record in each case ! He ran the 200km in 17hrs 15mins, just 12 mins behind the winner, Benoît Laval. Damon Rodwell of Westies finished 4th place just 47 seconds ahead of Manny Gorman after 18 hours 51 minutes of racing. Stages varied from a 5km time trial (which was followed by another 21km stage later in the day) to a 54 km stage with 2940m climb (which is where Benoît made the vital break to win the race). Results here and Race Details here
Es on stage 5, escaping the hot Scottish weather :
Photo
courtesy of Chris Upson's page
- 7th August 2006
Jill wins Angus Munro
Only 16 hardy athletes finished the race in warm conditions with beautiful views - not always a good thing when you can see what's still ahead after getting to Braedownie. (Surprisingly, no-one took up the challenge of the relay.)
Here's the race organiser's report:
' The day after the Creag Dubh hill race and where was everyone!! You’d think that Saturday's race was a wee warm up for the real event, a picturesque course, nae midges and lots of beer at the festival awaiting those who could safely navigate their way home. No strong gusts and rain like last year, just a warm mist to start everyone off on the 15mile and 5,500ft of ascent around Glen Clova.
Consistent performers like Alan Smith and Charlie Love were back with Jill Mykura also keen to remember the last part of the route following last year's disintegrating map, which didn’t last quite long enough!! This time Jill faired better and calmly cruised in to win the women’s race while Louise Burt (1st vet) was second and our other girls, Karen Meikle and Jo Schreiber had a lovely time taking in the scenery and looked very relaxed at the finish to claim equal 3rd. In the men's race Alan Smith and Alistair Hubbard battled it out, after descending Red Craig then up the monster climb to Dreish neck and neck. Alistair opened up a lead along the ridge to Hill of Strone, but Alan stayed in touch to sneak past on the final descent to a close winning margin of just over a minute in 3.01.48.
Consistent performers John Kay (Fife AC) therefore claimed the 1st vet prize in 5th overall, behind the Gay brothers, Daniel and Jon with Willie Mykura visiting some new checkpoints in the first half of the race. Charlie Love (Dundee Hawkhill) won the MV60 prizes respectively and Fife won the team prize.
Greatest honours go to the quiet and impressive efficiency of the Tayside Mountain Rescue Team and a special thanks to the ever present Ian Nimmo at Braedownie, Joanne Anderson and Keith Burns who helped with the sweeping and marshalling. Next year is a British Championship, so the beer festival should help attract a good field!!'
Results
- 6th August 2006
Creag Dubh
This British Championship Race was only one of many events taking place at the Newtonmore Highland Games. There was a real holiday atmosphere with the tug-o-war, gymnastics display, piping, dancing, running and throwing events, food and drink and glorious sunny weather. This conned some German tourists, the local shinty team and several 1st-timers to line up at the start with internationalists and seasoned hillrunners. (The holidaymakers were heard to say 'never again' at the end.) Simon Bailey of Mercia led the long string virtually the whole way and Angela Mudge repeated her Dollar record-breaking win and by doing so became Scottish Champion to add to her list of honours this year. Lloyd Taggart (Dark Peak) was second, followed by a trio of Bingley runners, Rob Hope, Ian Holmes and Rob Jebb. First Scot was Murray Strain (HBT, 7th overall) who passed Jethro Lennox in the final run up to the finish. Results here as soon as we have them. Over 200 runners took part and about 10% were Carnethy!
Photo report
- 6th August 2006
Scottishathletics AGM - 5th August
You’d have thought that, given the amount of criticism SAL gets, Clubs and Individual Members would have flocked to the Company’s AGM to give the Board of Management a real grilling. Not so: the start of the Meeting was delayed for half-an-hour whilst two more delegates were found to make it quorate.
The main outcomes were as follows:
Fees for Individual Members in 2007/08. The Board’s proposal for no change was accepted. Falkirk Victoria Harriers counter-proposal for a cut in fees, on the grounds that the Membership Scheme should be cost-neutral rather than a money-spinner for SAL, was conclusively defeated. SAL’s financial reserves, though increasing, are uncomfortably small, and Members didn’t want to jeopardise them. Edinburgh University Hare and Hounds’ proposal for a discounted rate for students also lost, but narrowly. Mark Hollinshead, chairing the Meeting, reacted sympathetically by saying the Board would look at the University’s proposal for next year.
(At this point your delegate left for Creag Dhubh. What follows has been gleaned from someone who didn’t.)
Changes to the Articles of Association. The two main changes were the introduction of (a) votes for Individual Members; and (b) non-competing Club members, for whom Clubs do not pay affiliation fees (or get votes). The Board had decided to take a single vote on all the changes, which with hindsight was a mistake: the Meeting threw them all out. The sticking-point was apparently the votes for Individual Members: Clubs do not want their power within SAL to be eroded. So we’re left with the anomalous position that Individual Members have no control over the way in which their fees are spent.
Club Affiliation Fees for 2007/08. The Board had proposed no change for first- and second-claim Club members, and no fee for non-competing members. The proposal was accepted, although your delegate is not clear about the position of the last group given the outcome of the previous vote. A working definition of a non-competing member is someone who doesn’t take part in permitted races, so the creation of this sort of person could make Carnethy’s Racing Club and Running Club structure redundant.
Race Levies for non-Members 2007/08. No change.
Hill Running Commission. Those currently in post were re-elected: Convenor, David Armitage (Cosmics); Secretary, Mark Johnston (Carnethy); Finance Officer, Mike Pearson (Moorfoots).
- 6th August
2006
Kate wins at North Berwick Law (2nd August)
The dull, wet weather cleared just before the race and enticed the usual hundreds of racers, runners, holiday-makers and juniors to cover the annual procession from harbour to top of the Law and back. Kate Jenkins won from Jill Mykura in the ladies race and Scott Fraser of Lothian managed to head a chasing pack of Trotters in the men's.
Results
- 3rd August 2006
Applecross Duathlon Entry Form
The entry form for this recommended duathlon on Sunday 16th September, 11 miles hilly trail running and 15 very hilly miles cycling is here
- 2nd August 2006
Galloping Gallagher's Gap, Beating the Bealach and other news
Ronnie Gallagher finished 2nd behind Colin Donnelly in the Ben Rinnes race on Saturday 30th July, in what was the smallest winning gap in the history of the race. Ronnie took 2-03-27 and Colin 2-03-08. Colin had a noteworthy double as also compleated his Corbetts during the race ! The only other Carnethy taking part was Colin Hutt in 22nd place. Results are here
Meanwhile some other Carnethies including Angela Mudge, Adam Ward, Andrew Patience & Andy Laycock took part in the Bealach na Ba challenge, a 90 mile cycle race from Kinlochewe that crossed the Bealach na Ba. Results and details here . Angela was 2nd woman in 5hrs12m28s but easily fastest on the climb of the Bealach, while Adam finished seconds in front of Angela (5:12:16) in 46th overall out of 434 finishers and was 2nd fastest Over 40 on the climb. There's must be some stories to tell.
While all this was going on Lucy Colquhorn won the Ballater 10 mile road race in 62 mins and Kate Jenkins won the Musselburgh 10km trail race.
- 2nd August 2006
Carnethies 'run' the Spey
The Speyside Way Race wasn't run this year so a group of Carnethies attempted an even longer route down the Spey, taking 3 days to cover about 110 kilometers. It was remakably relaxing considering the distance they covered!
Photo report
- 30th July 2006
Races coming up this week
It's the lovely little North Berwick Law race on Wednesday night (2nd August). From the Harbour to the top of the Law and back, starting at 7.30pm. A pleasant way to spend an evening.
Then at the weekend, there's another classic short race, Creag Dubh at Newtonmore on Saturday 5th August. This is part of the highland games. So, after doing the hill race, you could take part in a relay race, a tug of war or even a haggis eating contest (all won in the past by Carnethy members ! ). The race also is a British and the last Scottish Champs counter so we need runners to make up the team (and if you've done 3 Scottish Champs races so far you will need to do this to finish 4 races and claim your SHR mug !).
The next day (Sunday 6th), you could take part in the Angus Munro to warm down from Creag Dubh (but careful map reading is esential for this race). This is a Carnethy race, organised by the men's captain, Adrian Davis. If not running marshals, as usual, are required.
- 23rd July 2006
Angela Mudge smashes 4th record in a row at World Sky Running Series
A week must be a long time for Angela as just a week after winning Moffat Chase, she showed she has recovered by smashing the record in the Dolomites SkyRace in Italy ! She easily won the female race in 2-33-13, which is exactly 11 minutes faster than the old record. The race was over 22km and 1702m climb and descent, up and down Piz Boè (3152m). So Angela keeps her unbeaten record in Sky Running with 4 wins and 4 records out of 4 runs - these tough races obviously suit her ! This time however Angela wasn't the only Carnethy taking part as Garry MacInnes finished in 3-02-07 in 176th place. Rob Jebb of Bingley finished 2nd in the men's race in 2-08-41, not far behind the winner, 2-07-57.
Full results are here
- 22nd July 2006
Isle of Mull Mini Monster
This race saw its numbers more than double in its second year over the new shorter course which climbs Ben More from Loch na Keal. The ten finishers included one adventurous lady, Louise Burt of Fife, and four Carnethies, John Coyle (organiser), Adrian Davis, Adam Anderson and Willie Mykura who finished 2, 3, 4 and 5 behind an on-form Brian Marshall.
Results
- 21st July 2006
Maddy Moss Mash
Doctor's advice told me to rest my ankle (swollen after a twist on Glamaig), but missing the penultimate Bog-and-Burn race would be a serious disappointment.
Over 70 runners turned up at Tillicoultry on a hot evening to run over some Ochils. Talk was of a tough race and I picked Adam's brains for race tips. An initial tough sharp pull from the start was followed by a narrow path into the glen, where there was no chance to overtake. Andy Symonds and Adam Ward had pulled clear of the rest of the field, leaving the rest of us clipping each others heals, trying not to fall over. On the next uphill, the pack sorted itself out. Up to "The Law", and it was quite disheartening to see how far we still had to go to get to Ben Cleuch. I could feel the heat taking its toll, but I thought the long run back down the gradual descent would be a chance to up the speed and ease the pain on my ankle. Eh no, the path is narrow and dug into the ground, and required constant concentration. I also got slightly lost in the ferns on the last downhill.
Adam did a great round, finishing second, which now puts him second on the Bog-and-Burn table, behind Graeme Campell of Highland.
Steve Fallon
ps Steve was 6th.
The last Bog and Burn is the least boggy and 'burny' of them - Caerketton, on the 9th of August.
Results
- 21st July 2006
Lammermuirs Handicap
Approaching Blinkbonny at 6pm, the temperature was still 28C. All-time temperature records were being broken all over the UK (36C at Gatwick). A cloud-free sky hung over the Lammermuirs. Ronnie set off early for a non-competitive stroll around the hills. Bill was first away at 1900, followed at intervals by a surprisingly small field of 12. Others must have been deterred by the heat, or holidays, or some other lethargy-inducing reason. Ronnie returned from his stroll in time to set off as back marker in pursuit of the course record.
The heather and bracken were unusually long. No-one got stung by wasps or bitten by adders. The ever increasing network of new bulldozed estate roads created the usual confusion because they were still marked as paths on the map. But no-one got lost (not for long anyway). I think Ronnie secured the record (other claimants should appeal to the handicapper). A gentle breeze on the tops eased the discomfort of this new climate we’re having to get used to. Most should have been disqualified for failing to carry full body cover. But the organiser was too nervous about using his powers.
The Tweeddale Arms in Gifford provided their usual hospitality, good food and drink – a recommended venue. Dinner was enlivened by one member demonstrating how to loose your car key and create even more entertainment finding it down the air intake grille of someone else’s car after driving around the lane’s of East Lothian; and another member playing the “ - - - lost my wallet - can you lend me a tenner and I’ll buy you drink” trick (thanks Nick).
Results
- 20th July 2006
World Sky Running - next stop the Dolomites, this Sunday
After a foray to Japan the World Sky Running Championships returns to Europe for the next race on 23rd July. This time to Canazei in the Italian Dolomites. After smashing the record in the last three races, can Angela Mudge carry on with this impressive form ? Just last weekend Angela raced the round Moffat Chase in heatwave - will she have recovered from this ? The race climbs Piz Boè (3,152m), the highest peak of the Sella range. The currrent record for the 22km race with 1702m climb and descent is 2-44-13 and dates back to 1999. More details are on the Sky Runner website here
- 19th July 1006
Jill and Stewart to represent Scotland at Snowdon International
Jill Mykura and Stewart Whitlie are in the Scottish team to run at Snowdon International on 22nd July. Good luck to them and the rest of the Scottish teams. Scottishathletics article
- 19th July 2006
Isle of Mull Race is on Saturday 22nd July
Although only 8 miles as the crow flies there's about 5000 feet of ascent which makes this a 'long' race of 2 hours running (unless your name is Stewart Whitlie).
John Coyle, race organiser, writes:
'The course is about 8 miles and just under 4500ft and takes in some real scrambling over A'Chioch and up Ben More (same ridge as the Islands Peaks race) then back to the sea. Hope the weather is clear 'coz the route is awesome (but John said that for the Mull Monster and remember the peasoup we had then)! There will also be a junior and youth course set.
It will be enter-on-the-day and John will meet the Oban 09:30 (arrives Mull for 10:15) ferry in the morning with the bright blue minibus and take people to the start for 12:30 kick off. There should be ample time to return on the 19:00 ferry (www.calmac.co.uk)
Accommodation on the Island is fairly full at the moment yet there is a campsite about 3 miles from the start and plenty of amazing wild camping beside the loch. Bottle of wine for those eating at John & Sery's restaurant (www.mullonthemed.com) but booking would be advisable.
If anyone would like to help John marshal the route then please contact him at sir_coyle@hotmail.com where your help will be much appreciated.'
- 19th July 2006
Moffat Chase - 15th July
The return of this 'classic' ( read that as not for the faint-hearted) on the hottest day of the year meant that all those completing this race should be applauded. Stewart Whitlie and Jethro Lennox were within a couple of strides of one another when they started the final climb up Greygill Head, whereupon Stewart showed why he has won three long races already this year by accelerating whilst Jethro slowed. Unlike everyone else Stewart went straight past the drinks at the cairn, clearly determined to consolidate his advantage. Angela Mudge was the second Carnethy (and first lady) home; after the World Sky Runner Races this 16-miler must have seemed short.
Results
- 19th July 2006
Glamaig - 15th July
During the current heatwave Glamaig was probably one of the 'coolest' races of the weekend. Steve Fallon was first Carnethy and took the opportunity whilst on Skye to finish a round of the Munros - the 13th! Here's his report:
'Over 70 runners turned up on a glorious day to take part in the Glamaig Race. Brian Marshall (HELP) and Alec Keith (HBT) were neck and neck to the summit, closely followed by Alan Smith (Deeside) and myself. I went over on my ankle at the start of the descent, so although I couldn't catch Alan Smith, I held onto 4th place. Other Carnethies taking part were Andrew Shepherd, Colin and Joan Wilson and Scott Sneddon. Scott managed a superb last spurt, overtaking and ensuring a top 50 place.
Three hillwalkers also took part, just to get a lasagne and pint for three quid, taking over 4 hours up and down. Thanks to Nick for organising such a good day and for the 'Deep Heat' and bandages!
My intention was not only to take part in the race, but also to bag my last few Munros for the 13th round. The weather held out brilliantly all weekend, enabling Sgurr na Banachdich, Sgurr a Ghreadaidh and Sgurr a Mhadaidh to be climbed on the Saturday prior to the race. I limped over Sgurr Dubh Mor and ticked off Sgurr nan Eag on Sunday morning. Ankle is still up like a balloon at time of writing. Onto the 14th round... '
Results
- 19th July 2006
Website returns
We're glad to be back after 5 days of frantic messages to our ISP. Some hacker managed to compromise the site security and we've consequently had to take away the photo archive gallery. New members to the Bulletin Board will also now have to apply via an email to our webmaster. It's a pity, but that's life!
- 11th July 2006
The Rerun of the Classic - The Moffat Chase Returns !
One of the oldest and longest races in the Hill Running Calendar, and part 5 of the Scottish Hill Runners Championships, is the Shettleston hosted Moffat Chase Hill Race, this Saturday, 15th July at 12 o'clock. The race, which is 16 miles and 5000ft of climbing also includes Junior Races - the whole event promises to be a classic and like the original it starts at the Ram Statue in the centre of Moffat High Street. Full details, course maps, photos etc are on Shettleston's Moffat Chase Web Page. To make a change from the normal alcoholic Scottish race prizes, the race is sponsored by Moffat Toffee Shop ....there is a Fun Run of 1.5km (but you have to be under 12 !).
- 9th July 2006
Jill and Jackie recce Scottish Islands Peaks Race (for 2007)
Jill Mykura and Jackie Lee (Eryri) are planning an attempt on the Scottish Island Peaks Race in 2007. Preparation started with a reccie of the route last week. Jill & Jackie said, "Great route, we won't get lost, but we're nowhere near Angela and Helene's record. So all we need now is a really fast boat..."
- 5th July 2006
SLMM, Grasmere (1-2nd July)
I headed south of the border this weekend to compete in my first mountain marathon, the SLMM (Saunders Lakeland Mountain Marathon). Local knowledge of the hills does help in this event (not that I had any!) however, I did feel like one of the local sheep wearing my Marino wool t-shirt and constantly following team mate Keith! Conditions were hot and dry, but the cool breezes on the tops and fast flowing water in streams were welcome, as it became inevitable from the heat that we were going to quickly drink all the liquid we were carrying. Keith and I had entered the Bowfell category and finished in a respectable 18th place (first Mixed Vets). It was a great relief to have got round the course as we discovered on talking to others that it was longer and tougher this year - almost half in our category either miss punched or didn't finish.
Overall, it was a great event - if you're thinking about having a go - just do it!
Best bit: standing in the river cooling off at the overnight camp; worse bit: hearing England losing on penalties.
Another Carnethy spotted was Rod Dalitz (Klets category).
Results are here
KF
- 5th July 2006
Bob Graham Round 30/6/06 - 1/7/06
Months of planning and training and it still comes down to getting a break from the British weather. Friday was pouring in the Lakes and Sunday was a scorching blue skies day of around 28 degrees, but Saturday was pretty much spot on - warm, but with high cloud keeping the sun off until early evening and all the peaks staying out the whole way round.
We opted for an 8am start going anti clockwise and after a couple of miles on the roads were soon up on the hills, enjoying the views and watching the miles fall away. By Honister we were 10 mins up on schedule and feeling good so stopped for 1 minute in the welcoming deck chairs that Steve's wife Alex had set up for us in the car park - this was to be a welcome feature of the round and its surprising how much difference it makes not having to get back up from sitting on the ground! Kate had carried our packs up onto Grey Knotts and we headed off on the second leg, picking up a minute on most of our target times to come into Wasdale 25 minutes up on schedule. Coming down Yewbarrow we met a couple of other aspitrants heading the other way and looking a bit the worst for wear - a view of things to come?
10 minutes rest at Wasdale and a brutal slog up Scafell in the heat of the day - this was definItely one we were not looking forward to, but once behind us we had the fun of an abseil down Broad Stand to look forward to. Descending quickly to the ab. there was no sign of Steve's mate who should have been there with the rope, however, after a bit of shouting a head popped up to the left and there he was.
The abseil broke up the day a bit and we were feeling great by now knowing that there were no more big climbs for another 6 hours. 4pm and the place was deserted, we literally saw 10 or 12 people for the rest of the leg - was there something going on that day, I've never seen the Lakes so quiet - maybe the World Cup should take place more often!
Approaching Esk Pike, Jon a mate from University showed up - somewhat astounding as I've not seen him for around 10 years and have had a Christmas card and email kind of relationship - he knew we were doing the round and had showed up on spec with some water! We were now picking up loads of time and by Rossett Crag were 50 minutes up on schedule - a quick call ahead to make sure that the support crew were aware and would be at Dunmail early and we were off again. The sun was out now and the breeze had dropped off and with that came the usual dehydration and hurling - but this time it was Steve suffering the most. Leaving Steel Fell for the long descent to Dunmail we could only see 2 cars with Kate and Alex lolling in the deck chairs. We'd both been looking forward to getting some running suppport and now our plans looked to be going west. Literally as we crossed the stile Jamie and Olly pulled up - talk about cutting it fine - the downside of choosing a World Cup weekend is that some people want to hold on to watch the end of the match! A bit of food and then a scynchronised hurl and we were prodded out of our seats and off into the hills. Leg 4 was heads down and keep going and while Jamie sang, Olly asked us all about our childhood - why does he always do that on ascents? The two things I remember were that it was so warm through the night that a t-shirt and shorts were fine and that there were loads of fish foaming up the water by the stepping stones at Grisdale Tarn - oh and what a relief it was not to be carrying sacks.
We'd dropped 25 mins on the leg by the time we got to Threlkeld but that still left us pretty confident of a finish and Jamie and Olly handed over to Nick and Matha who joked and bantered and fed and watered us for the next 4 hours. Blencathra was a bit of a worry - as by now dizziness had set in and I was swaying along the top of the rocky ridges, but getting some gel and jelly babies inside and a long run to Great Calva made me feel better. Steve spanked Great Calva and then blazed up Skiddaw in a totally unreasonable manner and I hung on in behind following his feet, counting steps and switched off entirely. The sun was up by now and at 5.33am we were on the top. A gut churning descent with decidedly wobbly legs and for some reason we were back in Fitz Park with Kate and Jon now running alongside too, and then through the car park and up the main road and there was the Moot Hall. 22hours and 39 mins after we left. Many many thanks to all our supporters - we'd have been stuffed without you all - I have no idea what makes people drive for 3 hours in the middle of the night to then run with their mates through the dawn and then drive back home, but whatever it is it is the essence of friendship.
Mick James and Steve Watkins
- 1st July 2006
Ladies romp home at Dollar, Saturday 1st July
In the British and Scottish Championship race at the Dollar Hill Race, Angela Mudge broke Tracey Brindley's record by 5 mins (in 84-10). Quite amazing when you consider she was racing in Japan a week ago ! Jill was 3rd woman (in 91-46) and Carnethy Ladies took the team prize with Hilary Holding the 3rd counter. Simon Bailey from Mercia won the men's race in a new record time (71-53) from Rob Jebb of Bingley (73-04), also just back from Japan ! Results here
- 1st July 2006
European disaster for Lyn
Despite being in tremendous form and getting selected for the GB team for the European Mountain Running Champs, Lyn Wilson has had to withdraw from the team on doctors advice due to an eye problem. This means that no Scots will be running in the European champs this year as Lyn was the only one selected. Hopefully the eye problem will clear up before too long and so that Lyn will be able to get back into running before losing too much fitness.
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