Old News July
- September 2007
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28th September 2007
World Vets, Bludenz
The World Masters Athletics Championship - Mountain Running 2007, is a multi-category competition open to all reaching the grand age of 35 years. Starting in Bludenz (588 m), Austria, the route runs up Muttersberg (1384 m) over a course of just under 10k. M35 Robert Stark (Austria) came in first at 0:44.49, while Tracey Brindley (Scottish Athletics) was first W35 in 0:50.20. There were slightly faster times in the MF40s and 45s. Brit Nigel Gates won the M50 (0:47.15). Other notables were JBF (0:55) and Keith Burns (1:03). Results
A race report by John Blair-Fish is here
- 27th September
2007
Wednesday Moonshine
Smashing turn-out for the run. Brisk speed kept us warm despite the first autumn chill. Lots of "bletherunning" (that's hooching along at full tilt while having a deep conversation). Full moon rising in the east, a tangerine sky in the west, town lights at our feet, vivid images to take back to KB for a pint where Il Presidente, er, presided over some weary limbs (some, breweried, wearier than others).
- 25th September 2007
Three titles for Carnethy in 2007 Scottish Hill Running Championship !
Congratulations to our new Scottish Champions, Stewart Whitlie in the Men's Over 40s (for the 4th consecutive year and Stewart was also 2nd in the Senior Men's championship !) ; the Senior Men's team (unbeaten in all races and winning for the 8th time since 1999 ! ) and the Men's Over 40 team (this is the inaugural year of this championship and again they were unbeaten in all races in the series). Also well done to Simon Peachey (4th in Senior Men's), Bruce Smith (4th in Over 40s), Steven Fallon (5th in Over 40s); Joan Wilson (4th in Ladies Over 40s). Several other Carnethies earned SHR Championship Mugs for completing the championship, these being Kate Friend, Shane Bouchier, Colin Wilson and Gregor Heron.
Full championship listing and report on SHR page here
- 23rd September 2007
Angela retains her Buff World Sky Running Title
Angela Mudge finished second in the last race in the 2007 World Sky Running series today and that was enough for her to retain the World Sky Running Championship she had won in 2006. The last race was the Zergama Aizkorri in the Basque region of Spain (and prizes included basque berets!); a very tough 42km course with 2736m of climb (just think about that !). She completed the race in 4:53:46, just over 3 mins behind the race winner Corinne Favre (4:50:01).
As the spanish web site says ..."Despite the triumph (of Corinne), the Scot Angela Mudge conquered the World Championship with a small margin of 10 points." Read more (and results)here
- 22nd September 2007
Morven, the last SHR Championship Race - Stewart pipped at the post
Photos courtesy of Alan Young
Brian Marshall (HELP) looks to have secured the SHR Championship title this year with his win over Stewart Whitlie at Morven. Stewart was a minute ahead at the top and needed to beat Brian in order to win the Championship. But Brian's renowned descending allowed him to squeeze past Stewart and finish just 8 seconds in front. Third was Findlay Wild (Lochaber, U23) who was 4th at Ben Nevis this year, and Elke Schmidt (Bellahouston) was first lady. Carnethy look to have won the men's team prize(s?) - but, sadly, our club's women didn't complete the Championship this year (more to come from Andy, the statistician).
Results
- 22nd September 2007
Two Breweries - Lucy Colquhoun is first lady
Lots more photos on this flickr site
Arrived at the bus for transfer to the start but the bus was already full of runners! So we transferred ourselves in Adrian Davis's minibus with some route commentary from Adrian along the way. Foot and Mouth precautions needed our fell shoe soles sprayed before start. Good weather conditions for running, no rain and little wind along the 18 mile route from Innerleithen to Broughton. The rugged terrain made my lovely Bridgedale socks lose 10 years in one run! Arrival at the finish, I demanded the brew with the highest alcohol content ......enough said.
(Webteam adds): Jon was first Carnethy past the post, Adrian just paces behind. Mick James and Simon Fox did sterling stuff. Then, towards the end of the field, a staunch band of 9 Carnethies arrived home within minutes of each other (suspicious - stopped off for lunch?). John Littlewood and Nigel Rose were 1st and 2nd statesmen vets (MV60).
Results
Shane
- 19th September
2007
Caerketton Downhill - shortest record at shortest race
In much the same time as it took for the mountain bikers to descend Aonach Mor at the recent World Championships, the cream of Scottish hill running managed to descend Caerketton. Unlike at Fort William where the sound of cow bells and shouts cheered on the descenders, here all they had to put up with was the odd uninterested sheep. Al Anthony (Ochil) just back from running for Scotland in the World Trophy was first off from the top of the hill - no special seeding for the elite in this race ! He smashed Bruce Smith's record by 9 seconds, recording 5:14. He then broke another record by becoming the person to hold a record for the shortest time (remember this for future quizes !) as 12secs later, when Al had barely had time to celebrate, Ian Wellock (HBT) crossed the line to record an amazing 5:11, a whole 3 seconds faster ! Ian then had to wait nervously as runner after runner, in the record field, plunged down the hill. But as stars such as Des Crowe, Dan Gay, Murray Strain, Bruce Smith all ran slower it was left to the late starting Steven Fallon to make the closest challenge. Steven flew across the line recording 5:23 to equal Bruce's old record (and over 40 record), but that left Ian the new winner. Meanwhile Helen Rogers (Westerlands) broke her own record in the junior race to win from former two times winner Scot Cameron (Carnethy).
Purists will note a course change : in the place of the stile there is now a gate, kindly held open by Kate, Hilary and friends on the evening. On this mad parachute descent, every second counts......
Photos - summit marshals (big thanks!), the trek up, the view down, and the juniors.
Report by Derek Paton
Results (Senior and Junior) Previous results
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15th September 2007
Carnethy Men's Team Win at Merrick
Carnethy Men, with eight men making the long trip to Galloway, continued their unbeaten run in Scottish Championship races with a win at Merrick. This was despite Stewart Whitlie missing the flags near the summit in mist and losing precious time. Simon Peachey made up for his navigational errors last week by a superb run to finish 3rd behind Brian Marshall and Colin Donnelly on the very tough and muddy course. The other counters for the team being Bruce Smith and Adam Anderson, while Brian Howie counted in the winning vets team. Elke Schmidt (Bellahouston) was first lady in a new course record of 1:38:25, with Kaptain Kate Friend and Joanne Anderson being the only Carnethy woman taking part. Shane Bouchier had a good run at 2:01 with Simon Fox hard on his heels.
Photos by Kenneth Phillips
Reports by Derek Paton and Bruce Smith
Results
- 12th September 2007
Willie Gibson takes the Trophy;
Jonathan and Alan Hogg the top places at Arthur's Seat Handicap
Willie's success in the Club 2007 handicap is something special - recovering from a serious fracture Willie held out to organise not just Monday youngsters but also the Wednesday runs - hats to be taken off here. So when he comes in overall first in the handicaps what can one offer other than warmest congratulations. WG first, Cali second, and Willie (Mykura) third, well done all!
WG's account - On the evening there was a record turnout for the Club Handicap, the last one of the season, at Arthur's Seat. 39 runners started including a good number of new recruits which made the timing and place recording rather difficult. The masses of runners miling about obscured the finish and after lots of effort we think all the correct names were put in the correct places.
The race was won by Club Junior, Jonathan Hogg, closely followed by his dad, Alan. They were chased in by a couple or the new recruits and then in 5th position was Chris Durn. I (Willie Gibson) was 6th having been overtaken by Chris on the run off the crags. It was the fourth time that Chris had passed me and I hadn't overtaken him once! Knowing the route is an advantage.
Most of the runners took up the offer of a free pint and chips and headed to KB for the prize giving where this year's winners were given their wine, and I picked up the overall winner shield with 100 points, Cali Ingham was second on 95.
Results and Final scores after 6 races
- 9th September 2007
Upsets and Surprises at the Comrie Relay
There was so many unexpected changes of position in this race that at times it seemed more like an experiment to show Brownian motion than a running race ! Whatever, this 4 leg, 5 person relay is a magic little event. In the end the "tortoises" of Strathearn Harriers, took all the correct routes and ran steadily to beat the "hares" of Fife, Central, Carnethy, Highland, Westies & Ochils, all of whose teams at one time or another ran in circles round the hills !
Simon Peachey started the action as leg 1 favourite then went missing (along with many other teams including Ochils, Highland etc), eventually coming in completely last – c’est la vie, Simon ! The Carnethy ladies had a fantastic start as Jacqui Higginbottom had a perfect leg to finish 4th overall and leaving all other female teams (and in particular a strong Fife squad) scattered lost over the hills. Then Steven Fallon and Jon Ascroft broke the leg 2 record and strong runs by Stewart Whitlie (leg 3) and Adrian Davies (leg record on leg 4), brought us back to finish a fantastic and unexpected 3rd, though we were helped by Fife and Highland going missing on the final leg and Central forgetting to punch a control ! Meanwhile the ladies tried hard to hang on after the great start but despite good runs by the whole team had the misfortune to be disqualified after Joan, obviously having had too much champagne the day before (see Beeftub report, below), didn’t punch the 6th control – c’est la vie too, Joan !
So in the end, an unexpected 3rd place and two leg records but more than that a great social event and lovely low-key relay, thanks to the organisers, Strathearn Harriers. Results (now readable) A report that helps explain what happened here
- 8th September 2007
Records Fall at the Devil's Beeftub
There was a record turnout of 86 runners for the Beeftub Race - this compares with the previous record field of 24 !! It shows the power of the Scottish Hill Runners Championships (and the attractions of a lovely hot, sunny day after our dismal summer)
Brian Marshall won the race and broke the record by 6 seconds in 19:50. After a race long battle with Brian, Stewart Whitlie was 2nd and first V40 in 20:01, which as well as being an Over 40 record was the second fastest time ever.
Dawn Scott of Lochaber as first lady in 27:00.
Colin and Joan Wilson completed their Silver Wedding year challenge of 25 Hill Races.
Results and Report with more Photos
- 6th September 2007
All Munros done, Nigel celebrates
Last week our Nigel Rose finished his last Munro. Bravo! There are 284 mountains in Scotland with Munro status – above 3000 feet. To compleat them all, the archaic spelling favoured by those of the persuasion, is no mean feat. So when Nigel confessed that, last weekend, he finished his final hill, we received his email with admiration. Though some idyits (not too remote from Carnethy) have done all more than once! Bit of a cheat really, 'cos up in the highlands the Munros are sometimes just bumps out of the land, while even in the borders you can run from sea-level to 800 m, and Nigel's done all of those blighters too!
Ben Hope was the last big one. Nigel writes: "We had an inauspicious start - driving through dense mist all the way from Durness to the south end of Ben Hope. At the start of the climb we could dimly see a huge, flat waterfall coming straight over the edge of the hill. Higher up there was much floundering around in boggy mist trying to find a safe crossing for the burn which fed the waterfall and then trying to work out where on earth we were. When we were about halfway up we began to come out above the mist.
We emerged into a brilliantly sunny day with hill tops sticking out of the mist to the south and a dense sea fog to the north. At the summit, Susie brought out a bottle of champagne and a chocolate cake, decorated with "284" in Smarties. We celebrated in style and then went back down for a celebratory dinner in the evening." What's next up Nigel's altitudinous sleeve...?
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5th September 2007
A Throng in the Braids
Sunshine and blue sky, the return of the Julian alpinists, an impending committee meeting, all brought out the Wednesday throng for this fast tour to get back to KB after covering as much ground (and water) in the shortest time. Round and up Blackford, down to splash through the burn (some ran miles to find a dry crossing point), then up the Braids, a quick visit via Mortonhall, and back and over to KB through late evening sunshine (grand route Willie) for a pint. A welcome to new member Karl, and some others we couldn't track their names, but welcome too! The medics (increased in number) piled into their usual sustenance of organic free-range calories while wide-ranging debate touched on lightning strikes in the alps, shoe destruction on quartzite, and the impending Beeftub race Saturday, could be Joan and Colin's 25th race....
Wednesday runners be warned, next week is a handicap (prob starting at the swan pond at 6.30; details will be here)
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2nd September 2007
Ben Nevis Race 2007 - Angela first lady, Steven back at a strong 11th
According to results, Ian Holmes (Bingley) won in 1:32:57, followed closely by Ricky Lightfoot (Ellenborough) and Danny Hope (Pudsey and Bramley). Angela Mudge led the ladies, coming in at 1:48:28, just a few minutes short of the ladies course record (1:43) and almost 10 minutes ahead of the winning time last year (1:57). First Carnethy Steven Fallon stormed home in 11th of 500 starters at 1:40:49, with a very good run too from Garry MacInnes (1:52).
A personal account ! I've lost count the number of times I've been up Ben Nevis, it's at least 20, but this was the first time I was running up it in the race. I usually head up Britain's highest mountain starting from the Youth Hostel, but the race sets off from the Claggan playing-fields a good mile further back.........more (and photos)
Steven
11 Steven Fallon M40 1:40:49 27 Angela Mudge F 1:48:28 51 Garry MacInnes M40 1:52:31 90 Bruce Smith M40 1:58:56 169 Colin Wilson M40 2:13:37 183 Derek Paton M 2:16:03 195 Richard Hessey M50 2:17:32 205 Gavin Thornley M40 2:19:03 221 Joan Wilson F40 2:21:18 289 Andrew Lennie M40 2:32:38
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29th August 2007
Wednesday night run - the Hill8 E-Tour
No show from Willie G so a worried phone call - where's the man? He's in the Julian Alps. Where's that? No idea - could be Slovenia, Slovakia. Might be Slovonia. Slo the run was not. We did our level best to get lost, but in the end (with lots of debate and some megaphoning) did the route of Hill8 the wrong way round. At the tops a brisk cold wind was chilling us to the bone (for heaven's sake, why expect anything else, it's only midsummer) with views across the town and the Forth particularly clear. Michael, Michael, Ian and Richard, with Kim, Lettie and Hal (meddies and climbers new to Carnethy), made a fast time round in 1h 25. On the way back, a first of the season crossing of the golf course. The two Micks and Ian sprinted along, injuries receding nicely (that's the Michaels), great! And the newcomers did themselves proud, up and down the steepest slopes in a blink. All joined up back at the Braidburn where the young meds, still in running gear, were tackling well-earned pints and another mountain, this time of chips.
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27th August 2007
The Ochils 2000s
28 km across the Ochil Hills Saturday last was won by Andrew Symonds (Carnegie) in 3:00:31, eight min ahead of Chris Upson (Westies); Bruce Smith was first Carnethy, and 6th overall at 03:28. Andrea Priestley was the first lady home in a time of 3:37. Colin and Joan Wilson added again to their ever-growing race tally coming in joint 41st from a field of 61. This was the first trial of the route. According to SHR, "for the last half of the course runners were seen running in all sorts of different directions" (and it wasn't even a Carnethy handicap), but overall a great success and the organisers plan to stage it again in 2008. Results
- 24-26th August 2007
Ultra-Alpine Adventures - Lucy 2nd Lady in the CCC, Murdo 20th V2 in the Tour
The Ultra-Trail Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix, a hugely-challenging 87 km, started at 12.00 Friday. At Fouly, after 30 km, Lucy Colquhoun was showing outstanding form, second lady behind Andrea Zimmerman, and very narrowly ahead of Stéphanie Mattei in third. As of 9pm, seconds separated the top four ladies. At 11pm Friday Lucy was again in second position. Nail-biting.. A result late Friday, here, to be confirmed, is that Lucy finished second lady after 12:37, just 9 minutes behind Andrea (12:28). An amazing achievement! Julien Chorier was first overall at 10:19, followed by Sébastien Talotti and Flavio Gadin.
The Tour de Mont Blanc, 163 km, mind-boggling, started Friday afternoon at Chamonix, 6.30 pm local time, where Murdo McEwan is flying the flag. Earliest returns expected late Saturday. Link for progress and results here (but the ultratrail server struggles to cope with demand). Saturday evening, Murdo has shot up the ranking, passing 300 runners, still running as Friday and Saturday pass into Sunday.
Early Sunday morning Murdo arrived back at Chamonix after 31 hours at a splendid 187, 10 places ahead of last year, and 20th Vet2, from over 3000 participants. Amazing! Several of the US of A big guns dropped out; as of lunch Sunday many runners are still up in the mountains. This is not endurance, this is survival.
Marco Olmo, a veteran runner, won for the second time, an outstanding performance, in front of Jens Lukas (2nd) and Nicolas Mermoud (3rd). Nikki Kimball (USA) won for the ladies.
Reports soon.
- 22nd August 2007
Carlops Handicap, the start of summer ?
At last the sun was out and the rain had stopped ! Either the glorious, sunny evening at Carlops or the chance to run in the quieter hills of the more southern Pentlands (or both! ) dragged out a large number of Carnethy members eager to try the new route (or even more eager to get to the pub ?). The short course favoured the later starters and Steven Fallon took full advantage of a generous handicap (and his current fitness) to pull through the field to come home first, with Willie Gibson second and Olly Stephenson third, while Adam Ward continued his run of good form by recording the fastest time. After that the runners piled in over the space of just a few of minutes - good handicapping from our handicapper, Willie Mykura ! Carlops Results
After 5 races there are 9 people who can beat (or equal) the current leader, Cali Ingham, with just Arthur's Seat handicap to go ! Series results after 5
- 19th August 2007
Carnethy Winning Team at Lomonds
The Carnethy winning team of Stewart Whitlie, Adam Ward and Es Tresidder scooped the team prize at the Lomonds of Fife Scottish Championship Race (and with Steven Fallon won the championship team race). Stewart just sneaked in front of Colin Donnelly to take second place (and first vet) in 1:31:52 to Colin's 1:31:59. Andrew Symonds (Carnegie) won in a new record in 1:29:22. First woman was Elke Schmidt (Bellahouston) in a new record of 1:44:37. Joan Wilson was 3rd LV40. The Wilson's race tally now stands at 22 of 25. Joan was telling me that their car is so stressed out this year getting to races, it finally got its own back by giving them exhaust trouble! Wonder how many runners had exhaust trouble after the treacherous sliding descent off West Lomond at the end !? Results
- 15th August 2007
Red Moss - the 10th and final Bog & Burn
Don Naylor (HBT) and Elke Schmidt (Bellahouston RR) won the 10th and final Bog & Burn race of this year, while the large turnout mitigated against any positional changes for the Bog & Burn series. Steven Fallon kept his 2nd place in the series behind Jon Stevenson (Ochils) and ahead of Dan Gay of HBT (unfortunately for Steven the course favoured the faster track/road runners over the steep-hill men!) and Angela Mudge retained the ladies Bog & Burn title, even though she preferred the latest Harry Potter film to competing in this race !
The race itself was more a trail race than a hill race, mainly fast tracks and little climb, perhaps the course was specially planned for the host club, HBT, to do well, but it, also, definitely had a deep bog ! However despite the lack of hills, lots of Carnethies turned up. Adam Ward, just back from altitude training in Italy, was first home in 8th and 1st Over 40. Jon Ascroft narrowly beat Captain Steven, when Steven's dog tripped him up with 200 yds to go ! For other Carnethies, such as Cameron Scott, Mark Higginbottom, Andy Spenceley & Jon Ascroft, completing the race gave them the 4 Bog&Burn counters required to count in the series. The dark clouds and a rainbow disappeared by the end of the race letting the setting sun produce some lovely colours on the hills. Results
- 14th August
2007
Circumnavigation of Arran - 97k
Goal was to do the round of the island sticking as closely to the shore as OS 1/25000 marked trails would permit, 95-98 km depending on reckoning, with 700+m a/d thrown in for good measure. I wonder if the coast has been run before? Departed solo/unsupp from Lamlash village 9th August at dawn to go counter-clockwise via Brodick, Sannox, Lochranza - after a bit of a rough scramble round the Cock of Arran - then Pirmill, Blackwaterfoot, Lagg - steady uphill for miles after the village - Kildonan Bridge, Whiting Bay, and finally back to Lamlash in the dark after 16h 21. Report here
Richard
- 14th August 2007
21st Schlickeralmlauf Race Telfes (5th August)
This was the third year in succession in which I have run the race and the 21st race. There was a good showing by Brits of whatever branding with Joe Symonds fifth overall (he has since been selected for the Scottish team in the World Trophy). The course was the same length as last year but different; some of the lap of the town had been replaced by the lap of a lake after 4m.
Two years ago it was snowing and last year it was raining. This year the sun shone, my shoulders burned, but at least there was a view of the Stubai mountains from the finish at the top. I did not feel I was going well till the steep climb at the end where I was passing people. The prize-giving was long, with five year age categories being done in random order. I thought I had been missed out till I was awarded a medal for 1st vet 55. There were two Vet 50s in front, having passed Brian Walton from Horwich near the finish.
More details of the race are at here and 2007 results may be found here
JBF
- 12th August 2007
Ben Tee - almost
Shane and I headed up the A9 through torrential rain towards Invergarry. Arriving at the local shinty pavilion, the weather had turned for the better, but we were told that several marshalls had called off, so the short course (also called the winter route) was chosen instead. Basically we were heading up to the minor peak in front of the corbett. Stuart Simpson (Ochils) and I lead the field of 21 runners up tracks, then forestry paths and back on tracks before turning onto a wet, slippy, marshy path to the summit at 445m. Back down the same way, I came first, but Shane had a brilliant run to come in fourth.
The sun even stayed out out for the prize-giving.
We felt that a race of less than and hour didn't justify returning straight home, so Shane and I had a quick jog up the nearest munros - Sron a'Choire Garbh and Meall na Teanga, the weather unfortunately turned back wet ! Results
Steven
- 12th August 2007
Angela second at Sierre-Zinal - Sunday 12th August
Angela Mudge, who is a former course record holder, finished 2nd in this classic Swiss race in 3hrs 06mins 50secs for the 31km course with 2000m climb (and most of it run at over 2000m altitude and with fresh snow on the higher paths ! ). It was won by Anna Pichrtova (Czech) in a new record of 2:55:19. Details and results
Being such a classic race, there were, of course, other Carnethies taking part and Crawford Oliphant came 149th in 3:40:37 and Chris Davies finished 174th in 3:45:52.
- 9th August 2007
Prospect of an exciting finish to Bog and Burn Series
Confirmed route
The last race in the Bog and Burn mid-week series is next Wednesday, at Red Moss (new race). There are 5 people in with a chance of winning the overall title (4 best positions count) - Steven Fallon is currently lying 2nd on 14 points behind John Stevenson (Ochils) on 13 points. However the safe betting might be on Dan Gay (HBT), who currently has 20 points. Manny Gorman (Westies) on 24 points and Tom Smith (Lochaber) on 26 points are also in with a chance. It all depends who turns up and how well they run .....
Current positions are here
- 8th August 2007
Continental Carnethy Continued......
Es Tresidder was 2nd in the Defi de l'Oisans, a 200km route round the Ecrins National Park in France, which has 12 000m of ascent and is held in stages over 6 days - Read about it here if you speak French! Results are here. There is a pre-race interview with Es by the race organiser here
- 8th August 2007
Caerketton - Steven Fallon Second by a Second
In this year's Caerketton Hill race, which doubled as a Bog&Burn counter, Steven Fallon put his local knowledge to good use and showed Brian Marshall (HELP) the quicker way to the first summit. Brian pulled away by Caerketton's turning point but Steven closed to within a second by the finish and in doing so was only 2 seconds slower than Adam Ward's Over 40s record. In fairness, Brian went off to ice an ankle before the prize-giving. In the ladies race, Elke Schmidt (Bellahouston) ran the 3rd fastest female time ever and in doing so stopped Megan Mowbray (HBT) from winning three races in a row (after Mull and North Berwick Law).
The view from the top was so clear Manny Gorman (Westies) was seen going up 3 times (warm-up, race and warm-down). He just made it back from his warm-down in time to receive 3rd prize.
There was a great turnout of Carnethy runners making up almost a quarter of the field of 65.
Results (and previous Caerketton results here). more Photos
- 12th August 2007
- 7th August 2007
Angela takes lead in World Sky Running Series
After superb wins in the latest two Sky Races in Andorra (on 22nd July) and the Dolomites (on 30th July), defending champion, Angela Mudge, has moved into the lead in the series. In both these races Angela set records, including knocking 2 mins off her own record for the Dolomites race, which she set last year ! Also running in the Dolomites was Adam Ward. Results of both races are here and results of the series so far are here.
- 6th August 2007
Aigle-Ai-Leysin Race, Switzerland - Wednesday 1st August
Hilary and Andy Spenceley ran this very tough 21km Swiss race from the town of Aigle to the top of Ai (a 2050m summit and a straight 1650m climb from Aigle) followed by a steep descent of 800m to Leysin and despite being unaccustomed to the very hot weather even managed to win some prizes ! Andy was 6th Over 40 and 18th overall in 2hrs 14mins out of the 240 field, while Hilary was third Over 40 woman (and so got to stand on a podium in the town square !) in 2hrs 47mins and 84th overall. As can be seen, and as is customary in Switzerland, the race sweeper had a broom tied to his rucsac ! We should try this at the Skyline.
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- 2nd August 2007
Carnethy at Snowdon International - Saturday 28th July
Three Carnethy members ran in the Scottish team at the Snowdon International race, and all did the club proud. Stewart Whitlie just pipped Simon Peachey to be 11th and 13th respectively and 2nd and 3rd Scottish counters. both really great runs, while Jill Mykura was first female Scot to finish and 6th woman overall. Both Men's and Ladies Scottish teams finished second behind England. Results
- 1st August 2007
North Berwick Law
A fine evening brought out a record turnout of 204 runners for the short race from North Berwick's harbour up to the Law and back. I counted 7 Carnethies :Colin Pritchard, Brian Howie, Olly Stevenson, Graeme Carracher, Keith Burns, Garry MacInnes and myself. But the money was on HBT to win like last year and true to form, a couple of their runners pulled away from the start with Garry holding on to them. I tried to keep with them, but couldn't and was overtaken by several runners on the tarmac. I think I was around 12th at the base of the steep short climb, jostling with Billy Minto of HBT to get the line through the nettles. I started to claw back a few places on the climb and saw Anne Nimmo on the way up, but I was concentrating pretty hard, and didn't notice if she was snapping away at the runners with her camera or not. Garry was third to the summit, with a couple of runners hot on his heels. We received a rubber band on the summit - proof we've got there ! There was no time to take in the fabulous views - it was straight into descent mode. I moved up to third place by the time I reached the base of the Law, but I knew I'd get caught back on the tarmac. Garry and another runner re-overtook me on the road as I expected, however they took a slight route error through the park which saw the three of us meeting up together for the dash back down the road to the harbour. I gave it everything, but so did Garry and his better road running pushed me into 4th, giving him the third place he deserved behind the two HBT guys. Carnethy's Graeme and Olly also had a bit of a tussle just inside the top ten, with Graeme just getting Olly at the finish line. Only just a handful of places behind, Brian also had an excellent run, as did Keith another couple of positions later. A medal was handed out to every runner and there were lots of spot prizes - so thanks to the local organisers for putting in the effort to make such a short race the success it is. Results
Steven
- 30th July 2007
Club Run and BBQ
Splendid turnout for the Club BBQ run, but no-one had a camera! There must have been two dozen runners at least, some not seen for ages, and newcomers testing their hill legs for the first time, who started from Moi's place with a peleton to the Pentland ridge in smashing sunshine. After regrouping on Byerside, for spectacular clear views in all directions, we sped over Allermuir and the fast drop down to the col before chugging up Castlelaw, Willie G leading a fast pace. Lucy disappeared at high speed doing a double route, but reappeared safely later. Some innocent cattle were challenged (imagine the reverse - sitting in your living room and suddenly two dozen large bovines run through the house?)
By the time we got back to Moi's place the charcoals were roaring hot and the first comestibles already spitting. The back gate made an impromptu changing room for many sweaty runners.
The occasion brought out many old friends, grand to see them all. Though the clouds thickened, with drops falling, the threatened downpour never came to pass, and as the sausages and salads diminished, the midges put on weight. A grand evening, thanks Moi! (If anyone has any photos, please put them in).
- 30th July 2007
Hilary Holding wins at Ben Rinnes ! - Saturday 28th July
Despite strong winds and lashing rain, 60 competitors lined up for this long race from the Dufftown Highland Games in Speyside. The course takes runners up over the Conval hills to Ben Rinnes and back on well marked paths which had turned into bogs and burns on the day. Organiser Graeme Bartlett gave strict instructions to stick to the new zig zag path on Ben Rinnes as the hillside had been heavily eroded “ this didn't seem to break Brian Marshall's stride at all as he loped past me effortlessly on the way back down, closely chased by Dave Cummins. The two men finished in that order with an Ochils runner in 3rd. I came in first lady, with Ruth MacKenzie from Deeside in 2nd and fellow Carnethy Jacqui Higginbottom in 3rd place. A tough race in foul conditions where the marshalls had to be as hardy as the runners (many thanks to them all). The only disappointment was the alcohol-free wine prize, and not a bottle of whisky from one of the region's famous distilleries! Results
HH
- 25th July
2007
Turnhouse Hill Race - 25th July
This was the last race in the Pentland Ridge Series, organised by Andy Kitchin. It was also a bog-and-burn race and therefore attracted a larger field than the last two ridge races. Conditions were perfect - sunshine and a very slight breeze. The junior race set off at 6:45, with the main race half an hour later. We raced part of the way up Turnhouse, turning left at the end of the wall to contour around the hill above Rullion battle site. Coming out of the forest, there some confusion about the continuing route, with most of us ending up wading through ferns and nettles. Up to Turnhouse via the south-west arm, then over the summit down to more route confusion to the Biscuit-Barrel. I hear quite a few folk missed the Biscuit-Barrel altogether ! Al Anthony won the race, with Stewart coming in third. The Ridge Series was won by Stewart, followed by myself in second place and Des Crowe in third. Two more bog-and-burn races to go with Caerketton next on the 8th August.
Photos (more photos have just been added)
Results
Steven Fallon
- 23rd July 2007
The sun shines for the Isle of Mull Fell Race ! - Saturday 21st July
Summer arrived on Mull (at last) for the Isle of Mull Fell race - a superb John Coyle production. With a lavish budget and no expenses spared, he was able to persuade all the stars to make the long trip from Oban...Colin Donnelly, Brian Marshall, Des Crowe, even Andy Spenceley. The record field of 14 enjoyed hard climbs, fantastic ridge runs and interesting scrambles. An absolute cracker of a course and a very competitive race, on a sunny warm day followed by a relaxing by the sea while John tried to give the supervets prize to whoever had the least hair. A race not to be missed. Brian Marshall won in a new record and the only woman, Megan Mowbray (HBT) broke the women's record. Results
- 23rd July 2007
Romanno Bridge Club Handicap - Wednesday 18th July
The sun was shining as we left Edinburgh and travelled down to Romannobridge but on the way the skies steadily darkened... It was dry when the first runners headed up the hill, but then the heavens opened and those waiting to start shivered under brollies and car tailgates as the heavens opened upon us. Not for the first time at this race I found myself running up the hill into heavy (but warm) rain, and splashing through torrents of water cascading down the track. 15 people completed the course which took us over 5 smooth grassy tops, hampered only by bracken and some very long grass this year. Due to the weather (or otherwise?), several people got lost or missed checkpoints, but nevertheless the first 9 runners finished within a 7 min time spread and Cali demonstrated her improved fitness by winning the race. A benefit of being the race organiser is that you know the route, and when the 2 fastest runners (Bob and Jill) got lost I was able to set the fastest run time (look out for me in Athletics Weekly!) Afterwards we enjoyed a good meal at the ‘Countryside’ Inn - probably the only restaurant happy to serve us after 9.30pm. Great service.
Results
William Mykura
- 20th July 2007
It's Grim Down South
While Scotland basks in banal grey skies and showers, torrential rains across England have not been friendly to runners. Last week was doing the rounds of Leeds, navigation not easy across 60k of terrain often wet to impassable (where were the Abbey Runners?); overgrowth of vegetation, especially nettles and brambles, made "footpaths" a nightmare (slodges of calomine still needed the next day). The rains continued, deluged at Plumpton Rocks, OS map like looroll fallen in the bath, unravelling each soggy sheet to find the next path. Gems: the iron-age fort at Asket Hill and - a relief to find it finally on the way back - the bridge across the swollen Wharfe River by Sicklinghall, a few miles North of the city.
Richard
- 18th July 2007
Maddy Moss
The seventh race in this year's Bog-and-Burn series took place in the Ochils above Tillicoutry. While everyone else was running the club handicap, six Carnethies (Mark Johnston, Bruce Smith, Colin and Joan Wilson, Joanne Thin and myself) ran Maddy Moss in ideal conditions. There's not much bog on this race (thankfully), mainly sort sharp climbs and long gradual ascents/descents. Dan Gay from HBT lead from the start, with order immediately behind him changing several times. Jamie Thin (HBT), Manny Gorman (Westies), myself and a couple of Bellahouston runners took turns on the long haul up Ben Cleuch. I think we'd all have got lost in the thick mist on the second summit, had it not been for the marshals pointing us down. The long narrow path back down required constant concentration to avoid falling over and seemed to continue endlessly.
Dan Gay won, with Elkie Schmitt as first lady. I was first vet (fifth overall) with Mark Johnston just behind who must have had one of the fastest ever descents on this race, overtaking at least 3 runners on the way.
That's the 20th race for the Wilsons' 25 !
Three more Bog-and-Burn races to go and they're all in the Pentlands, with Turnhouse next week.
Results here
Steven F
- 16th July 2007
A Ladies Monday Night Run
Seven of us went for a wonderful run last night starting from Aberlady nature reserve. We followed the sand dunes and beaches along Gullane and sprinted up the steep dunes before heading on Muirfield golf course and beyond. We had a clear view of Fidra lighthouse before turning and heading back through the new golf course (still under construction) for a spot of putting. We then cut back across Gullane Links where we saw two deer sprinting across the golf course and finally to the car park at Aberlady Bay. A hot, balmy evening enjoyed by all.
Kate F
- 15th July 2007
Angus Munro
The 'classic' Angus Munro Hill Race in Glen Clova was a British and SHR counter this year and attracted a quality field of over a 100 runners from all over the country (there were 16 last year!). Not surprisingly, the English dominated the prizegiving, except for the ladies race, which was won by Jill Mykura. Tom Owens (Mercia) held off Rob Jebb (Bingley) to win the men's race by 9 seconds, with Rob Hope (Pudsey & Bramley) in 3rd place. Jill was similarly tracked by Janet McIver (Dark Peak) over the final hills but managed to keep ahead to win the race for a second time. Stewart Whitlie continued his good form and was second Scot in an impressive 7th place. Photo report
Results
- 14th July 2007
20th David Shepherd Memorial Glamaig Hill Race
The 20th Glamaig Hill Race was won for the 5th time in a row by Brian Marshall of HELP in a time of 49 minutes 48 seconds, with reindeer farmer, Alan Smith of Deeside, second in 53:26.
Steven Fallon was first Carnethy and 3rd overall, while David's brother, Andrew Shepherd, ran his 19th Glamaig Hill Race - an impressive statistic.
There were 68 starters and all made the finish. A full report is on the Results page
Results
- 12th July 2007
Jill, Simon and Stewart in Scottish Team for Snowdon
Jill Mykura, Simon Peachey and Stewart Whitlie have been chosen for the Scottish team to run at the Snowdon International on July 28th. That's 3 out of 7 from Carnethy. Well done and good luck to the team. Other team members are listed here
- 11th July 2007
Carnethy at Carnethy - Wednesday 11st July
It was another beautiful evening for this second race in the Pentland Ridge series and once again there was a large turnout from Carnethy. This time the race was up Carnethy ! Adam Ward fresh from his victory over Angela at the weekend (see entry below) was still on a high, so took on the pace at the start closely followed by Stewart Whitlie and Dan Gay (HBT). Climbing up through the heather on Carnethy, Stewart opened the winning gap to make it 2 wins out of 2 in the series. Adam held onto 2nd on the long fast run down to the col and Charlie's Loup. Steven Fallon finished 4th and Andy Spenceley 7th. Jill Mykura was first woman - a good warm-up for Glen Clova. The next and last of the Pentland Ridge Series is on Wednesday 25th July up Turnhouse
Results
- 10th July 2007
The Wilsons at the Lochaber Triple Hirple - Sat 7th to Mon 9th July
Colin and Joan Wilson were the only Carnethies out of the 35 who completed the Lochaber Triple Series of Meall an t-Suidhe, Half Ben and Cow Hill races on Saturday, Sunday and Monday to win one of the coverted coffee mugs given to all completers. But what is more, this was an easy way to notch up the races as these were their 16th, 17th and 18th races towards their target of doing 25 races for their 25th wedding anniversary ! At this rate they'll finish long before Tinto !
- 10th July 2007
Not So Callow Youth – Callow Fell Race, Little Stretton, Sunday 8th July
A cracking wee race in the hills west of Little Stretton, next to the Long Mynd, near where the FRA relays were a few years ago. Billed as 5 miles/2500 ft – it was probably more like 2800ft of ascent, making it a very tough short race indeed, ascending the hills of Ashlet, Yearlet, Grindle and finally Callow – fine names – and hills – all. Each climb was short, sharp and very steep – 6-700ft at a time with steep little descents off to boot.
At the bottom of the first climb, Angela and myself where in around 10th position, at the top of Ashlet we were in 3rd and 4th! – its always interesting to see who can climb and who can’t ! We followed Tim Werret, who being local we assumed knew the way – he didn’t! – and led us a merry dance through the bracken away from the flagged route, which would have been quicker. After getting into 2nd at the bottom of the first descent, Tim and myself had a race long battle with me overtaking on the climbs and him catching up on the descents – till he forged a slender lead on the last climb, and pulled away a bit.
I was happy to beat the not so young Ms Mudge as it was her birthday, and I suspect she’s on a slippery slope with my 46 year old bones having thrashed her in the last 2 races! – and don’t mention it, she was at a Genesis concert the night before! (she did set a record however).
Prize giving was in the lovely local pub, so a fine pint of Thwaites was enjoyed afterwards – definitely my kind of race! Slightly strange prize giving – no O/40’s prize, 3 O/50’s, O/60 and O/70 and all 6 women who ran got a prize!
We had travelled down with Angela's brother-in-law Richard, who enjoyed his run too – a good warm up for Kentmere. Tim Davies’s record of just over 51 minutes is astonishing, and not many get under the hour on this lovely course.
1. Tim Werret (Mercia) 59.49
2. Adam Ward (Carnethy) 60.33 1st 0/40
3. Angela Mudge (Carnethy) slower than me! 61.02 1st O/37
………
Richard Kenworthy – Tattenhall (and Mudge brother-in-law) – a bit slower still Full Results
Adam Ward
- 7th July 2007
Dollar Hill Race or "The Return of the Aidy" - Saturday 7th July
Two weeks after his superb West Highland Way victory, Adrian Davis won at Dollar on a sunny and humid but very windy afternoon (perhaps the rain had gone to T in the Park). With no obvious winners on the start line (except perhaps a "tired" Adrian) the race started nervously with much jockying of position as any of half a dozen runners, or more, fancied their chances. Adrian got a slight lead at the first summit and held this to the finish despite the strong headwind on most of the course, but the rest of the leading 10 positons were constantly changing. In the end it was Bob Wiseman (Ochil) who got 2nd just in front of team-mate Stewart Simpson, followed by 3 Carnethies, a strong finishing Jon Ascroft, then Mark Johnston and Bruce Smith (who won first Over 40 prize), and the 3rd Ochil counter. The team prize was close but Carnethy just sneaked it by pushing the Ochil's last counter down to 8th. Other Carnethies running this lovely runnable race were Andy Spenceley, Cameron Scott and Lorna Duffy.
Results here
- 3rd July 2007
Earlston Black Hill Race
An enticing glimmer of sunshine and a lack of 'Wimbledon' persuaded us to head for this short, evening race. It felt a lot longer than 6.4K, but that could be due to the fact that I'd had my tea first! Dougie Shiell and Fred McCain were also running in the 40 or so field. Brian Marshall won from Euan Jardine (and Ian was pleased that he wasn't last!).
Results here
AN
- 2nd July 2007
Angela wins Mont Blanc Half Marathon - Sunday 1st July
Angela Mudge set a new record in the Mont Blanc Cross on Sunday, an off road half marathon with over 1000m of climb from Chamonix to Planpraz. She finished 23rd in a field of 1000. Write up here, race details here and results here !
- 2nd July 2007
The Fortathlon
This event, devised by Dave Peck, is a bit like a score event where you visit as many points (in this case forts) as you can inside a given time (6 hours). Gordon Cameron and Stewart Barrie won, recording an impressive 19 forts. They were helped along part of the way by Kate Jenkins fresh (or more likely, tired) from her Arrochar Alps win the day before. Thanks to Dave and Ailsa Peck for setting up a great day out in the beautiful Borders and finishing it off with a magnificent feast back at their place.
- 2nd July 2007
Corrieyairack Challenge Duathlon - Saturday 30th June
I'm sure there must have been some other Carnethy's there on Saturday for the Corrieyairack Challenge, a 17 mile run over the Corrieyairack Pass from Fort Augustus to Garva Bridge, followed by a 26 mile cycle finishing in Kincraig. It was the first one I had entered and although my legs have now recovered, it definately required some teeth gritting at times. The weather was kinder than the forecast and thankfully it didn't rain until after I had finished. The run was quite 'runable' and apart from the 4 miles of tarmac at the end, I really enjoyed it. There was a headwind throughout the cycle which made it quite tough, especially as I was on a mountain bike (quite demoralising as all the road bikes whizzed past!), and the final hill up from Loch Insh to the finish line was an absolute killer! However, it was well worth the effort for the fantastic ceilidh in the evening and to raise some cash for Badaguish Outdoor Centre.
Lucy Hailey
- 1st July 2007
Carnethy Arrochar Alps success - Saturday 30th June
This classic race had not taken place for more than ten years, so how would a new bunch of runners cope with the 8,200 feet of ascent over 15 miles ? Rain, mist and wind gradually pulled in over the day, turning around what was a tough yet obvious route into a run testing the navigation skills of the runners. Stewart Whitlie led from the front. After the forest, there were two or three different routes taken by runners up Ben Vorlich. Turning at the summit checkpoint, Jon Ascroft fell and landed on his already injured shoulder, so had to pull out. The descent from Vorlich to the dam is very steep, which suited me - I managed to overtake Dave Cummins and Alec Keith to get within a few seconds of Stewart. More route choices up Ben Vane changed the running order. Stewart wasn't seen on the final summit checkpoint, but not because he'd missed it, but because he'd beaten the marshall to it ! Thick mist on descent off Beinn Narnain confused several runners, Stewart and myself included, so much so that we're sure to knock off a few minutes next time.
Stewart finished first with Alec Keith and Dave Cummins only a couple of minutes behind. Carnethy won the team prize with Stewart, myself 5th and Adam 10th (I think). The first 5 runners got prizes, so the V40 prize went to the next runner - Adam who took home the most beer by far ! Kate Jenkins (running unattached) took home the ladies prize. Hopefully the race will be run again next year. It would make an ideal Scottish Championship long race !
Results here
Steven Fallon
I was somewhat nervous before this classic race, but determined to have a go. After registration all was going well, the Cobbler and surrounding hills were clear, so no turning back now! 44 runners (6 Carnethys) were piped off at the start and we headed up Glen Loin to Ben Vorlich where the wind was biting at the cairn. It was then a very steep climb down to the dam and a long pull up to Ben Vane. I reached the summit in thick mist and met up with two other runners Jo & John. The three of us stuck together in the mist and as we dropped down to the col at Gleann Uainne to see more smiling marshals. Unfortunately we lost some time approaching Beinn Ime as we headed up the wrong gully*which reminds me I must go on a navigation skills course! On the ridge we heard a distant voice in the mist*"hello"* and we were joined by Cat from Westies. After getting our bearings we reached Beinn Ime from the SE and were welcomed by two marshals being blown about in their tent. We recharged our batteries with Kendal mint cake and chocolate and headed off for Beinn Narnain in the rain. This route would have been easy but the mist tested our navigation skills yet again and it was a relief to reach the last summit. Hot baths and pizzas sprung to mind as the long slog down to the forest track seemed endless but once out the mist we could see Succoth and the finish.
It was a memorable race, huge thanks to the marshals and mountain rescue for never being far away. Hot soup and rolls were followed by a second prizegiving; I picked up the trophy for 1st LV and the remaining girls took home plenty of beer!
Kate F
- 10th July 2007
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