News from July to September 2010
- 27th September 2010
Newtyle Hill Race - Sunday 26th September
For those that had battled long distances at the Two Breweries, some of us whizzed around the 7.5k hill race at Loch of the Lowes. It was more of a trail race than a hill race so speed was of the essence – and I sure didn’t have it. However, the views down to Dunkeld from Newtyle Hill were a bonus on what was a beautiful evening. It would have been nice if a few more runners had turned out as there was homemade soup and cakes waiting at the end.
Results soon
Kate Friend
- 26th September 2010
Three Peaks Cyclo Cross
Carnethy five survive the Three Peaks Cyclo Cross in Yorkshire in good style (and fashion), and Bob scoops third vet 50 again...
The Three Peaks Cyclo-cross Race is a rather exceptional and unique event. Most cyclo-cross racing involves razzing around a few laps in a park or forest for about an hour, on any kind of bike. The Three Peaks race by contrast is one lap, 38 miles (about 5 miles unridable), 5000ft total ascent, and takes the best just under 3 hours. For historical reasons I guess, only cyclo-cross bikes are allowed (i.e. no mountain bikes nor suspension forks) and there are restrictions on lots of things like tyre width and handlebar length. It is a bit of a cult race, hard to get an entry, and this year had 515 starters, five of which were sporting Carnethy cycle tops.
Despite plenty of training rides in the Pentlands, and endless of chat and tips from those who had done it before (loads of times in Bob's case), it was quite intimidating at the start, not really knowing how tricky the riding was going to be. I'd done the Three Peaks hill race before, but that mostly follows a different route. I'd even reccied bits earlier in the summer on foot (riding isn't permitted on most of the technical ground other than on the race day). The prosect of trying to quicky fix a puncture or snapped chain was a major concern. Taking a tumble was too. At least it was dry weather, and the limestone wouldn't be too greasy.
The road sections actually felt physically the toughest, I guess because I wasn't as used to riding hard on tarmac, and the wind didn't help. Grinding up the stony tracks and fields, it was often a relief to jump off and jog/walk with the bike. Stomping up the steep slopes felt familiar for the legs, and the weight of the bike on the shoulder didn't feel to bad, to start with at least. But it was hooling down the hills with ineffective brakes where the thrilling racing was to be had. The first descent from Ingleborough was mostly grassy path with fast sections interspersed with bogs, dips and tussocks. Whernside was a rather different challenge: a seriously stony path, then stepped stone flags, then more jagged stones. For ther really threatening bits, it was a matter of jumping/falling off and running with the bike. It was a relief to get down without any bruises or punctures. The last descent from Pen-y Ghent was perhaps the fastest and most intense - a dirt and stony track, with lots of riders, supporters and walkers going up and down at the same time, and several flash photographers snapping everyone who passed.
Rob Jebb cleaned up for the eighth time in 2h57, and reclaimed his trophy after letting it slip from him last year. Carnethy member Steven MacInness, riding for Isle of Mull CC, finished in an awesome seventh in 3h17. A wee bit further behind was
Bob Johnson, cruising round in 3h44 and 50th place (3rd vet 50), me in 3h55, Tim Darlow 4h08, Craig O'Donnell in 4h21 and Jamie Thin in 4h45. A great day - Many thanks to the numerous Carnethy supporters with food, drink & spares.
If you fancy a go next year, perhaps have a try at some Scottish cyclo-cross events. They may be quite different races, but they're good training, and should help you get a place in the race too.
http://www.3peakscyclocross.org.uk/race_info.htm
http://www.scottishcyclocross.org.uk/
- 26th September 2010
Two Breweries Hill Race - Saturday 25th September
Whether you are a hill runner, a sniffer of fine ales (or in Carnethy most likely both), the Two Breweries is a race that by the very name invokes excitement. The event itself is a 19 mile traverse over the finest of Border hills from Traquair House back to Broughton Brewery, accumulating 5000 feet of ascent during the journey.
It is an event of four parts, where the initial climbing over Birkscairn and Huddleshope eventually give way to more easier terrain through Stobo, that is until the final climb up Trahenna! This is a short but brutal climb at the 16 mile mark which probably makes you dig deeper into inner strengths more than any other hill race in Scotland. Stewart, Andy, Adrian, Matt, Gregor and Jaqui are up there at the top of the results sheet for Carnethy.
Good to see Colin and Joan finally tick off their last Scottish AL, also good run from Harry in his first Two Breweries. Brian had a good run in his first outing as a V60. Joanne and I suffered from temporal displacement syndrome after Glenrath, however like good clubmates we ran together to get back into the race, then she dropped me like a wet duffle coat at Trahenna to come in 9 minutes quicker, that was a fantastic run and it's a pity she didn't make the her sub 4 hour target.
Cameron Burt had the decency to stay with his companion throughout the race, even if it meant his recorded time was less than he's capable of, and he didn't laugh too loud as I fell over a fence while talking to him!
Another great day out in the hills in the company of friends, both in the event and support on the hill.
Cameron Scott
Results here, where we can see 4 Carnethy runners in the first 11.
- 20th September 2010
Cramond Brig ladies Run
Tonight's run turned into a magical mystery tour from Cramond Brig after our run leader had to attend to some last minute work commitments. We found our way onto the Dalmeny Estate and got some great views across to Fife. We also noted some local wildlife including buzzards, owls and bats. We made it back to the cars just before dark. Headtorches will definitely be required for the next run!
Steph Moss
- 20th September2010
Club weekend in the Lake District (inc. Three Shires Race)
Fifteen members and friends enjoyed a very busy weekend in the Lakes, some taking in the Three Shires Race, others walking or biking around the Langdales, providing valuable support for the racers at Wrynose and Blea Tarn.
The first race challenge was the long walk to the start from a Tilberthwaite quarry to avoid swampy parking in the valley. A superb autumn morning saw a big field of runners plunge through the swollen river and start the long haul to Wetherlam's summit, the field splitting through the upper crags (with a few alarming shouts as someone dislodged the odd boulder). It was breezy and cool on the ridge - ideal conditions. A fast line over Swirl Howe was followed by the greasy descent of Wetside Edge to the road crossing at Wrynose. We later learned that one victim of the saturated slopes suffered a complex leg fracture and evacuation. The direct ascent of Pike o' Blisco and abrupt turn towards Blea Tarn marks the start of the end game. In bad visibility the long descent to Blea Tarn is far from obvious, but today you could see a line of runners virtually all the way. The final ascent to Lingmoor Fell is straightforward, but the descent line from there to the finish isn't (Matt had a random wander around here and lost places). A welcome pasty and tea revived us at the finish.
Jasmine was our star on the prize list with an impressive 4th place in the senior women's race. Keith was stunned to hear that he had won the MV60, the improbable event being resolved later by a chance encounter with Mike Walsh in the quarry, who bashfully gave him the bad news that he was already enjoying his pasty and pint when Keith arrived at the finish. Kirstie ran her first long A (more than an hour longer than she had run before), leading to a rather glazed and contented expression at the finish. Selwyn Wright delivered his usual excellent low key management of the race.
The next day most of us had a bracing ascent of Blencathra in wind, rain and cloud, the Sharp Edge contingent retreated off the very greasy bad step to return to the tarn and chase the others (who had opted for the more cautious option) to the summit.
Many thanks to Joanne for organising the weekend. Results
Team: Joanne, Michael, Helen, Shane, Matt, Bruce M, Jasmine, Kirsty, Ed, Colin W, Joan, Gio, Kate, Des, Keith.
KB
- 20th September2010
Grizedale Mountain Bike Challenge
An exceptionally wet and muddy Sunday 19th September saw the annual Grizedale Mountain Bike Challenge return to the aforementioned forest, tucked away in the depths of the lake district, this forest is home to the man made North Face trail and lots of natural classic rocky singletrack typified by Lakes riding.
The challenge is simple – ride as fast as you can for 34 miles over 2 laps of the circuit. And what a circuit it was. A few fireroad climbs, a few super steep rocky climbs, 1 hike a bike carry and some amazing rocky, muddy descents thrown into the 17 mile laps. The relentless rain turned some of the steep singletrack trails into riverbeds, with torrents of water flowing down the trails. This caused many people to walk down, scared of slipping on the incredibly slippy rocks. However these conditions, particularly on the descents suited me perfectly!
The race for me went very well – apart from dropping the chain once, I suffered no mechanicals. I did drop one of my vital chocolate bars on lap 1 but managed to rescue it on lap 2 – albeit a failry soggy one. But it still tasted nice. I came 25th overall in a time of 3hrs 35. The winning time was 2hrs 57, a full 5 minutes ahead of 2nd place. 350 - ish started the race.
Oh and the Carnethy Cycle Shirt performed brilliantly!
Craig O’Donnell
- 19th September 2010
Aonach Mor Uphill - incorporating the Home Internationals
What an awesome event, and such a great way to wear my first Scotland vest !! The Scottish girls stormed home to take the team prize and us lads were second team behind the English. Race organisation was first rate (massive thanks to Malcolm, Mike and Mark) and the banter was superb. It really was a day to remember and an excellent aide-mémoire as to why we do all this hill running stuff - because it is plain old good fun. With the exception of the initial 2.5km as-good-as-flat speed fest nothing could wipe the grin off my face the whole way up the hill. Some days everything just clicks, you feel relaxed yet strong and the shouts of encouragement from the spectators feel like an adrenaline shot straight to your legs causing a surge in speed without any discernible extra effort. And made all the better with a vest that has SCOTLAND across the back - what more could an afternoon offer.Results
Sam Hesling
- 15th September 2010
Records set at Windy Caerketton Doonhiller
Alasdair Anthony (Ochils) and Eilidh Wardlaw (HBT) set new records at the Caerketton Downhill aided by a very strong following wind (well over the 2 m/s limit for track records!!). With 53 runners and 51 finishers it was great work from the finish marshals to get the results out so quickly. Remember it's not just the first past the post that wins - there's the tricky job of adding and subtracting minutes and seconds..... Runners start at 15 second intervals at the top and no-one knows the start time till Mark is down. It was a cold wait at the top for the last runners but the setting sun over Edinburgh provided a brilliant backdrop.
Results and other stats here
It was a night for records at this year’s Caerketton Doonhiller. Al Anthony (Ochils) pushed the course record that bit closer to a sub 5 by knocking 7 seconds off Ian Wellock’s course record, clocking 5mins 4secs for the 1.8km course with 300m descent. Eilidh Wardlaw (HBT) knocked 23 seconds off her own women’s course record, Russell Anderson (Moorfoots) did the first sub 6 minute clocking by a vet 50 and Thomas Knox (Anster Haddies) set a new under 20 record of 6mins 15secs. Paul Ireland (Edinburgh) set a boys record in the shorter junior race though was still 2 seconds outside Helen Roger’s overall junior record. Other records included the largest turnout with 51 seniors and 7 juniors finishing. The wind speed was also the strongest ever recorded for the race, threatening to knock competitors off the summit cairn at the start. And I also had the shortest time ever (16mins) to get from registration to the summit in order to start the race on time! Twenty six assorted prizes were on offer on the night including various beverages, top quality food and sports gear. Al won one of the more ‘assorted’ prizes for his efforts in the random prize draw, a box of 225 fluorescent bendy straws which he can use to drink all the beer and wine he wins in his forthcoming races! We had a slight discrepancy in the results during the night with times and places becoming out of synch about halfway down the field, so some of the positions and times announced on the night may have been a little out. Apologies to anyone affected though the problem has now been rectified. Many thanks to those who helped out on the night and see you all next year for more adrenaline filled fun!
Mark Johnson
- 13th September 2010
Report from Spain - Ramón and Ana in action near Madrid
After a funny and hot (more than 27º) weekend we're now taking a rest at our home.
First I ran my first orienteering race alone in a place called "Las Navas del Marqués". It was a good experience and probably a good option instead the "long mountain races" in Madrid.
On Sunday Ramón ran "El cross de los 3 refugios" ( The cross of the three shelters), one of the long races of Madrid: 30 km and 2.000 m of positive desnivel..really hard, beautiful but hard. Race details here. After the disappointment of the UTMB, this time he finished happy and really fine.
I send several pictures about the race and our beautiful landscapes in the Port of Navacerrada ( with the Ball of the World), the Pic Peñalara, Maliciosa and a little far away La Pedriza. More photos here
Ana Perez
- 12th September 2010
Carnethy Win at Comrie Relays!
Andy Fallas ran the fastest first leg to give a good lead. Mike Baldock and Angus Davidson ran a good leg 2 running in 3rd, Sam Hesling held his place to hand over to Tim Darlow, in an inspired final leg, outwitted the opposition to win the race in the final hundred yards! (the truth is a little less spectacular with the Deeside runner following the parking tapes instead of heading for the line), but whatever Tim made up 4 minutes and had a fantasic run. Carnethy had 5 teams out and all had a great time at this fun event.
Many thanks to Strathearn Harriers. Results are on their site here
The View from Leg 3
Choked with the cold I was really hoping not to let the team down on this long and winding hilly leg... Angus and Mike came flying in to the 2/3 changeover at top speed and in third place, leaving me with the task of holding on for dear life to give Tim the best chance possible to catch the Deeside runner who Robbie Simpson would inevitably place in a really strong position after his leg 3 run. I reeled in the pace on the ascent so as not to blow up in a ball of snot, and made reasonable time to the top of the hill and the first checkpoint. A half grassy half boggy section over the top and down onto the track was awkward to gather momentum on (an experienced shared by Gordon) but once back on the descent track I managed to open up the pace a little. A brief faff going through the farm just before the third checkpoint caused my heart to race but I relaxed back in to the final run in, relieved that it was almost all over.
What happened next should be etched into the annals of Carnethy history. Despite being down some considerable time Tim Darlow proceeded to reel in the Deeside leg 4 runner and pipped him to the line in a display of tactical genius (i.e. going the correct way across the playing field and keeping your mouth shut). Victory was ours.
Sam Hesling
- 12th September 2010
Tour De Ben
I ventured up to Lochaber for the inaugural Tour de Ben mountain bike race: basically Fort William to Kinlochleven via the WHW, out via Mamore lodge to Luibeilt, a quick swim then over to the Lairig Leacach bothy, and back via Leanachan forest. It was very damp in the first half, and the rocky track over to Kinlochleven was surprisingly treacherous, as was the (for me) scary steep WHW descent trying to bunnyhop the drainage channels. Riding the track down to Loch Eilde Mor was like surfing, and much fun was had from riding into puddles which could be anything from tyre to hub deep. Hike a bike over to Lairig Leacach gave me some respite, and the big descent on the other side was a lot of fun. The weather cleared on the last section, but a brisk headwind made this rather dull section down the forest tracks quite challenging, and I was caught by some of the riders I'd walked past earlier. The last triumphant entry into Fort William was overshadowed by the competitors finishing the Big Ben Tri: swim, 90k mtb, and a run up the Ben. Respect.
Great event, lots of fun riding, and a good mix of up/down, rough/smooth. I think I was 9th, the results say 7th. I might have to get me one of them cycling shirts.
Mark Higginbottom
- 11th September 2010
Angela retains title in 8 stage GORE-TEX TransAlpine Race
This 8 day stage race across the alps finished today and Angela Mudge easily won the mixed category with 8 wins, i.e. she was unbeaten everyday and finished 7th team overall (beaten by 6 all male team). She ran with the well known ex-international scottish runner, Chunky (Andrew) Liston, who now lives in Germany. Other Scots Andrew Symonds and Tom Owens just as easily won and retained their title in the mens race. Details and results here
- 11th September 2010
Devil's Beeftub Hill Race
32 runners turned up for this years race, although 4 were 8 minutes late starting due to traffic (Matthew Grove wasn't even there).
The race was won by al Anthony of Ochils in 21:50, with Dan Gay second in 23:07, third and first vet50 was Alan Smith of Deeside in 23:29..
The first lady was Eve McCurrick of Tinto in 32:34, second was Julia Connor of Moorfoots in 32:48, and third and first Lady Vet was Tilly Smith of Deeside in 33:04.
Scott Cameron of Carnethy won the Junior race in 37:33
Thanks to Nick Macdonald, Jonhathon Whithead and Barbel Burns for helping Marshal the race.
Full Results Past Results and Summary More photos here
- 9th September 2010
The 2010 Handicap prize-giving
The 2010 Handicap series prize-giving was held post Arthurs Seat handicap at Kings Buildings and included a free drink and free meal - not bad for your club subscription ! What more could you want? A very large number of people attended, many who hadn't even run the last handicap ! They must have come to cheer the prize-winners (can't have been the free IPA, surely?), with the podium positions being Matthew Grove, Andrew Shepherd and Fionna Mackinnon in that order. Many thanks to Phil Young for organising the series. Final series results.
- 8th September 2010
Arthur's Seat Handicap - the sixth and final one
A beautiful evening for the last handicap of the summer attracted the large total of 44 runners - many sporting their new club cycling gear.
The race was won by Michael Wilkinson and the series was narrowly won my Matthew Grove. Then everyone zoomed off to Kings Buildings for the post race prize-giving. Many thanks to Nick MacDonald for organising tonights race. Arthurs Seat results soon. Nick Macdonald's report here
Arthurs Seat Results Final series results
- 8th September 2010
The 8 stage GORE-TEX TransAlpine Race
After 4 stages in this 8 day stage race across the alps, Angela Mudge is easily winning the mixed category with 4 wins out of 4. She is running with the well known scottish runner, Chunky (Andrew) Liston, who now lives in Germany. Other Scots Andrew Symonds and Tom Owens are leading the mens race. Todays stage is slightly shorter than the first few and covers 29.4km and 1503m climb, between the Italian towns of Kasern-Prettau im Ahrntal and Sand in Taufers. Details and results here
- 4th September 2010
Ben Nevis Hill Race
Almost 500 set off on a very warm day with at least that number again on the path up the Ben. My first attempt so I was not sure what to expect. But I had my lucky USA shorts on ! Set off with Bob in my sights but lost him by the Red Burn as I kept my eyes firmly fixed on the ground and the feet in front of me as we snaked to the summit where a pleasant cool breeze met us. Manic descent of scree, rocks, grass and stone path meant looking at the view was a no no! The support from spectators was really encouraging. Took me 1.27 to the top and 51mins to return as the youngsters sped past me. I just made my target of finishing in the first 200 well behind Bruce Smith 28th, Paul Faulkner 41st, Steven Fallon 62nd, all under 2 hours with Bob Johnson 86th, and Gregor Heron 92nd. Also there were Jim and Janet McWhinnie, Colin and Joan Wilson, Gio Macdonald, Geoff Allan, Bruce Milne, Andrew Lennie, and Trevor Collins. Commiserations to John Coyle who pulled up with a leg injury before the start but gave us all great support. Results
Gordon Cameron
- 4th September 2010
Comrie Relay Recce
After a night of good preparation at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Cali Ingham, Bob Waterhouse, Mike Baldock and I, headed to Comrie to recce the Relay Leg 2. An interesting route which is far harder on the ground than it looked on the map.
It was a lovely run though and a good mixture of track and tussock. We are all "relay" looking forward to next week.
Willie Gibson
View Comrie Leg 2 in a larger map
- 3rd September 2010
Some Short Races in the Dolomites-August 2010
Several towns in the Dolomites have a series of short races over the summer analogous in some ways to the Bog and Burn series but more “Woods and Trails “, definitely not bogs . Local communities are much involved in organizing and marshalling and for some races clearing of ancient overgrown trails . Not having raced for nearly a year I thought some of these would be a good way of starting and at least finding some new routes. Race names are in dialect so translations are approximate and often quaint.
Speteme che Rue (Wait for me, I’m coming)
9 Km of asaphalt ,grass and woodland tracks with climbs totalling 400metres. Felt like a carthorse for the first Km or so, three weeks of laying a stone patio and digging trenches for electricity had undone any benefits from high altitude walking and cycling in South America. Picked up a bit on the climbs and pleased to find my ankle stood up to the descent. Finished exactly half way down the field in 57 minutes, 20 minutes behind the winner.
Passeggiata nei boschi ai pie della Croda Grande ( A “walk” in the woods at the foot of the Croda Grande)
Glorious weather and views of the southern Dolomite peaks at the start then into the woods for most of the 9 Km and 300 metres of climb. Again finished half way down the field in 54 minutes, perhaps improving at 15 minutes behind the winner. Prize for the oldest competitor, by about 20 years, a shirt,a bottle of wine and a pizza meal at a village 25 Km away!.
Solivi (The sunny side )
This being the south facing side of our valley, particularly important in older times when crop ripening was critical for survival. This route ( 12 Km with 550 metres climb ) goes right past our door so I did a training run midweek . 60 minutes compared to 56 minutes 4 years ago for first over 60 . Unfortunately I had to come back early so missed the actual race!.
Brian Waldie
- 2nd September 2010
Scottish Vests for Carnethy pair
Andy Fallas and Sam Hesling have both been selected to run for Scotland at the first ever Senior Home International Race to be held at Aonach Mor on 18th September. This will be Andy's second vest this summit after his great run in the Snowdon International race, but it will be Sam's first run for Scotland. Details here.
- 1st September 2010
Carnethy Hill Runners Prove It
As a bit of a change to the normal Wednesday night, we decided to find lots of steep hills to run up. We went up Observatory Road, down to Blackford Pond, straight up to Blackford Summit, dond to Howden Dean Path and up to Braids Summit. The down to Braidburn Park for a quick zig-zag back to The Braid Hills Hotel then along the south of The Hermitage and down to the wooden bridge up to Blackford Summit then back to KB.
Lots of hills before a pint styling the new carnethy Cycle Tops.
There was also a weigh in with Matt Grove, Andrew Shepherd and Willie Gibson within 4 pounds of each other, a wager was suggested. A fiver each to the lightest in 3 weeks time, watch this space.
- 30th August 2010
Carnethy Cycling Tops
After my usual road bike interval session round Arthur's Seat and Holyrood in a brand spanking new hotoffthepress Carnethy cycling top all I can say is... AWESOME !! The top fits perfectly, the fabric is very breathable and the detailing immaculate. I also reckon it make me go faster too, after all they are red. Expect further details really soon on how they will distributed. I hope no-one will be disappointed.
Sam Hesling (size medium, pro fit, short sleeve, short zip)
- 30th August 2010
World Masters Mountain Running Championships, Poland - Sat 28th August
Yet another world gold for Angela Mudge as she easily won the Over 40 category in the World Mountain Running Championships at Korbielow, Poland. Other Carnethies taking part were Keith Burns in Over 65s (who achieved an excellent 8th place) , John Blair-Fish in Over 55s and second claim Alex Menarry in the Over 75s. John Blair Fish's report here - race web site and results here.
- 29th August 2010
The Ochils 2000s
This was a race of two halves. It's an 18 mile race with 5000ft of climb taking in the 2000ft tops of the Ochils .It starts at Glendevon and finishes with a climb of Dumyat and descent down to the finish at Stirling University. I'd never done this one and the route map looked like a navigational nightmare. As it was, running conditions were perfect and visibility was good.
The first half of the race was reasonably easy running on firm paths and I was well within the cut-off times at Kings Seat and Ben Ever. After that the terrain changed to peat hags, boggy ground and tussocks and I started to feel my legs go and was losing places . It relief to get back on to a good running surface just in time for the ascent of Dumyat. Then the sting in the tail . I missed the path down to the wood and had to hack my way back through the bracken, then I missed the turn at the road to university and had to back track again; I lost about 20minutes maybe.
However it was a good race, but I'd advise anyone to do a reccy from Ben Ever to the finish to seek out better paths.
Hero of the day wasn't Oleg Chepelin, who set a new record, or Andrew Fallas, Stuart Whitlie and Adrian Davis who picked up the team prize for Carnethy, but Cameron Scott who stopped to give Steve McFarlane first aid for a bad blister, costing him the race.
Full results
Brian Howie
- 27th August 2010
The Ultra Marathon du Mont Blanc
"Three Carnethy athletes took part in the UTMB this year. The weather had been very bad all day before the race and true to form the rain started again within minutes of the start. I made it 21 km to St Gervais before the race was abandoned by the organisers due to a mud slide on the course in Italy. Ramon Catalan-Simon and Matthew Davis both made it to the next checkpoint (Les Contaimes at 31km) before they too were pulled up. The race did restart the next day, with a bus transfer to Courmayeur, but unfortunately none of us got that information and so our races ended on the Friday evening. A disappointing end to a great adventure."
Ian King
I don´t have to much to say . If you have read this link, you understand everything. I never received the text messages from the organization at saturday early morning. I would not have gone to run to Courmayeur, if you think that there were only 1000 places of 3500 (UTMB + TDS), it was so sad and very bad for the runners who went to the race. I'm thinking about the UTMB long time ago, about the bad things of the race, this race is hard to train and is no worth it. I won´t came back in two years or more. This is very sad because the Mont-Blanc is a beautiful mountain and it deserves a Big Race (not a big race in numbers) this is not the UTMB. Don't be worried, I'm not sad only disappointed, there are plenty of races around the world, many of them better organized than the UTMB.
Ramon Garcia-Catalan
Report at 10pm !! The race has been abandoned at Les Contamines due to a heavy rain and landslip on the Col de la Seigne. A real shame for Ramon and Ian and all those taking part.
Report at 9pm : Three Carnethy runners have just started (at 18:30) in heavy rain from Chamonix in this epic race round Mont Blanc of 166km and 9400m of ascent (think about that!). They are Ramon Garcia-Catalan (race number 355), Ian King (race number 2925) and Matt Davis. To follow their progress for the next night (or two!) you can see live video on http://chamonix-meteo.com/ or follow their individual progress via race web site (enter their race number on this page).
Ramon has gone for the fast start and at the second check point, Saint Gervais, was in 262nd place, while Ian King has the opposite race strategy and reached the 1st checkpoint, Delevret, in 2268th place. UK distance star, Lizzy Hawker, is currently sitting in an amazing 10th place overall (and first woman) from the two and a half thousand starters.
- 27th August 2010
Bjorkliden Arctic Mountain Marathon 20th-21st August
Sam and I nipped over to Bjorkliden in northern Sweden last weekend for the BAMM 70 – The Swedish equivalent of the LAMM Elite. This was my first trip into Sweden and first venture north of the Arctic Circle to the stunning glacially sculpted mountains surrounding Bjorkliden. The BAMM 70 is the longest of three courses, generally around 30, 50 and 70km over 2 days. By my estimates, we did around 88km with over 4500m of ascent on this occasion.
Conditions were perfect for Day 1. After a short bus trip over the border into Norway, the race started on mass with the lure of prizes for the first pairs to reach checkpoint 1 (usually at the top of a hill). I was caught half way through removing my jacket when the race started and everyone charged uphill laden with overnight packs. After taking the pace relatively easy on the first leg, we were easily able to catch-up with the leading teams by checkpoint 2. The views were spectacular and we could see across to the lofoten islands off the coast of Norway. Along with the other Scottish pairing of Dan Gay and Al Anthony we followed the top two Swedish pairs for half the day before we eventually lost sight of them through a forest. We managed not to get lost however and finished the first day in 3rd place, 16mins behind the leading pair.
After a long (40km) first day, the second day was even longer (about 48km). The start of day 2 involved a decision whether to take a longer route on paths or a more direct route across unmarked terrain, contouring across slopes often riddled with crags and cliffs not marked on our 1:60,000 scale maps. We opted for the longer route to the first checkpoint, thinking that the extra speed on the easy gradient paths would at least make up for the extra distance. Our judgement turned out to be miscalculated as the leading Swedish teams increased their lead substantially by taking the more direct route. We maintained our position however and made steady progress throughout the rest of the day to finish 3rd.
After our fill of dried reindeer meet and peanuts at the finish, we hobbled back to our cabin for a welcome sauna before the evenings prize giving and banquet.Would definately recommend this event to anyone with an interest in mountain marathons. Hoping to return someday either to compete again or to take a slightly more relaxed tour of this stunning area. Event details including results and photos are here
Andy Fallas
- 25th August 2010
A Solo Ramsay Round Completion
I took advantage of a full moon and a short weather window to complete a solo Ramsay's round on 24th- 25th August. I satrted at 2pm and went fine and on schedule for 22.30 until Stob a Choire Mheadhoin, where I realised I'd hopelessly misjudged the sunset, and had to descend in the dark, having left my torch and spare food in a boar proof tin at Fersit. The full moon was in and out of cloud, and the ground waterlogged, especially down the Abhainn Rath, which I had a lot of trouble fording (ultimately a long jump into waist deep water). By Sgurr Eilde Mor I had dropped an hour, and I had fun spotting hallucinations in the rocks, crowds of people who disappeared when I got closer. I picked up some time on the last two hills, and had 1.41 left to reach the Youth Hostel. I had reckoned without the forestry closing hill access, and had to follow the horrible path off steeply to the East, into the man eating bogs. That still left a fairly leisurely run in for a 23.51 finishing time. Full Report
Mark Higginbottom
- 25th August 2010
Handicap Series resumé with one to go (Arthurs Seat !)
After a pleasant run in the sun last Wednesday, we have a new overall leader, with Fiona Mackinnon making up for a disappointing Hungry Snout run with a good 4th overall place on the night. So going into the crucial Arthurs Seat race there's still a number of people in contention, including dark horse Mathew Grove (or dark dog?), Andrew Shepherd (who might expect a better handicap after a poor result on Wednesday, Neil Gilmour (who's in the opposite situation), Heather Bell (if she gets there on time) and Kate Friend (third home at Swanston). And don't worry, there is no chance at all that the handicapper might win …
Series Results are on the handicap page
Phil Young
- 21st August 2010
Two Inns Race
Dramatic scenery, varied terrain, dry(ish) weather, friendly runners and marshals, a pub finish with loads of sandwiches and cakes, and the wind blowing from behind all the way - surely a perfect hill race? 37 runners savoured the inaugural Two Inns race from Creagan to the Clachaig in Glencoe. The A to B route took us along a fantastic 15 mile north-easterly line, over the Corbett Fraochaidh, and the beautiful pale rocky Sgorr a Choise. The rough finish to the road crossing proved to be a wicked sting in the tail, and the source of much post-race opinion. Manny Gorman (Westies) won comfortably in just over 3 hours (proving that having a 3 month old baby need not slow you down) and Westies just clinched the team prize from Lochaber. Many thanks to Linda and her team for organising a brilliant new race, which deserves to become a popular classic.
Results to follow on www.shr.uk.com
Jon Ascroft
- 18th August 2010
Returning to action - Belhaven Bay Beach
I had been feeling wiped out for three weeks since I'd had a mild chest infection, the result of taking immuno suppressants. Should I push it or should I continue to rest? I had been out for some low intensity body boarding a couple of nights earlier in the week.
Inspired by the fabulous sunny evening I head out exactly the same time as my handicap start time would have been. The regular There and Back beach run. All the way along to where the oyster catchers gather and tonight some unidentified ducks fled onto the water as I arrived. The tern colony has been protected with posts and cord by the rangers, although, apart from some plaintive cries, there was little sign of breeding.
My pace was slow, laboured, along with rather too much supper. The sand was firm and made for a good surface, if a careful line was taken.
The light winds meant small clean waves for the sunset surfers. Half way back and I am really warm, perspiring gently. The unaware instructor, my friend Sam, is surprised by the short clad swimmer emerging from the shallows.
So the handicap inspired me to push myself. Not to great athletic feats but pushing my boundaries as I come back to fitness. The combination of medication and my continuing recovery is an uncertain combination. I think of my friends racing around the hills and look forward to joining in future. Maybe for the relays, one of my favourite events.
Mark James
- 18th August 2010
Swanston Handicap aPAULing
36 Carnethies turned up at Swanston on a perfect running night. After lots of route questions and arguements with the Handicapper, the race was won by Gilly Paul on a rare outing in the Carnethy Handicap Series she also had daughter Rachael hard on her heels.
The route was a little over described , but still that didn't stop a group of 5 runners ahead of me missing out the Caerketton Screes by contouring too early. "You know who you are!", or more likely " you have no idea where your meant to be!". Time for another navigation course methinks
Still, it was a wonderful night and good food afterwards.
Roll on Arthurs Seat.
Swanston Results and Series Results are on the handicap page
Willie GIbson
- 11th August 2010
Caerketton Hill Race
81 seniors and 17 juniors took part in tonights Caerketton Hill Race in blustery condtions, but no rain, and amongst them were 15 Carnethies and we also had an excellent 5 people in the first 9 finishers! Paul Faulkner took an early lead by blasting up to the Hillend cairn, with Al Anthony tucked in behind him when they reached the headwind on the ridge. The early effort then told for Paul, as Al got away by Caerketton summit to record his 5th win, as Paul slipped to 5th. Sam Hesling pulled through to 2nd just in front of Andy Fallas, with both getting their names on the sub 14 min list for the first time. First Female was Clare Gordon of an HBT, having a great run in recording a PB and running the 10th fastest female time of all time. Kate Jenkins and Eilidh Wardlaw in 2nd and 3rd also ran PBs. Steven Fallon and Bruce Smith were the other Carnethy top 10 finishers, with Steven winning the Over 40 prize by a thickness of a vest from Bruce !
Results
- 10th August 2010
Five gold medals for Carnethy in 2010 Scottish Hill Running Champs !!
After the final race at Glenshee, Carnethy has won 5 of the categories at the Run-4-It SHR Scottish Hill Running Championships. Ronnie Gallagher is the Men's Over 50 Champion and we have also become the Senior Men's Team; Men's Over 40 Team; Senior Women's Team and Women's Over 40 Team champions. That shows great strength in depth from the club (or strength of character from Captains Steph and Jon for dragging people out !). Also other medals came from Jacqui Higginbottom, who was came 2nd in both the Senior Womens and the Womens Over 40, and Stewart Whitlie who was 2nd in the Mens Over 40 and 3rd in the Senior Mens (special mention to Andy Fallas for a great 5th place in the Senior Men as well).
As well as that the following 19 members have earned one of the famous SHR mugs for completing the championship (running in at least 4 of the 6 races) :
Stewart Whitlie; Andy Fallas; Ronnie Gallagher; Bruce Smith; Steven Fallon; Adam Anderson; Gregor Heron; Derek Paton; Bruce Milne; Cameron Scott; Colin Wilson; Doug Shiell; Jean Jumelle; Keith Burns; Jacqui Higginbottom; Joanne Anderson; Jane Jackson; Joan Wilson and last (but certainly not least!) Philippa Headley.
Full championship listing here
- 9th August 2010
Final Scottish Champs Race, The Glenshee 9 - Sunday 8th August
The temptation of 9 munros in one day was too much to resist. However, on arrival at Glenshee Ski Centre the cloud was so low you could hardly see the car park. Was this going to be an interesting test of our navigation abilities and add a bit more exitement to the day? That said, the weather didn't put anyone off and over 100 runners set off from the Ski Centre car park. The first climb of the day takes you up over nice heather and tussocks... before hitting a track and more runnable ground onto the first munro of the day. Still in cloud there was no time to admire the view anyway and we headed back down towards the next munro. The marshall on the second munro wished me 'good luck' and I asked myself 'did I look so tired already that I needed plenty of good luck?'. I didn't stop to ask and kept going towards munro 3, 4 and 5. The route over towards Carn an Tuirc (munro no. 6) seemed to go on a bit longer but the cloud had lifted a while ago and the views all around were great. The first 6 munros were all quite enjoyable and after a quick drink of water at the road we headed up onto Carn Aosda. A testing little climb but munro no. 7 and only 2 left. Heading towards Carn Gheoidh (no. 8) seemed like miles away (at a first glance, I questioned was it really all the way over there - I'm tired now!) as all the runners in front were passing us on their way back to Cairnwell and the finish. But all good things come to an end and we were soon heading up Cairnwell and the short steep descent back to the Ski Centre and the finish. A good day out on the hills and well organised race - great runs from everyone that gave it a go whether you did 9 munros or 6 munros. Results.
Joanne Anderson
- 9th August 2010
Snowdon Uphill Trial Race - Sunday 8th August
Not one to be outdone by Gordon or Adrian this season I thought a fall two meters from the finish line would be the perfect way to wind down on the run in to the finish at the uphill trials in Wales....
Sam Hesling
- 9th August 2010
Angela sets record at Sierre-Zinal - Sunday 8th August
Angela Mudge finished 2nd woman at the classic Swiss race, the 31km (and 2200m climb) Sierre-Zinal on Sunday and in doing so she set a new Over 40 age group record of 3-11-02. Results
- 5th August 2010
North Berwick Law Race - Wednesday 4th August
A return to racing for Andy Spenceley saw him bleeding from the knee at the finish having lost an argument with a boulder on descent from North Berwick Law. He still finished well up. Large field and lots of local support saw Paul Faulkner take 3rd place behind two HBT (Dan Gay and Donald Naylor) who were not going to be caught. Gordon Cameron and Andy Millard had their usual tussle with Andy reaching the top first only to lose out on the road. Gordon failed to catch Kate Jenkins in the race to the harbour finish. Others out included Mike Rudden, Craig O'Donnell, Matt Grove, Philippa Headley, Jean Jumelle, Hilary Spenceley, Chris Davies, Andrew Shepherd, Chris Henty, Alasdair Hind, Keith Burns, Brian Howie, Janet MacWhinnie, Steve Hibbard and Scott Cameron in his first senior race (plus, no doubt, others in the record field of 253)
Results
Gordon Cameron
- 5th August 2010
Arthurs Seat Lunchtime Handicap - Monday 2nd August
A fairly poor turnout this month, holidays, post race tiredness and injuries (with and without a stookie) were the given reasons. It may also have been stage fright with runners afraid of being caught on camera by the Anne Hathway production being filmed atop the crags.
Colwyn, the first runner through, got stopped by the crew, his "don't you know there's a race on" indignation allowed for a free run for the rest of us. Gordon and James took the high-road whereas Cameron and myself opted for the long grass below the film platform. All of us having to contend with trailing cables and all of us surviving to reach the foot of the crags. The long grass loosened Cam's laces allowing me to catch him up as he retied them. It seems the gutted haddie has settled into the default route nowadays but the wet grass made for an interesting descent down to the loch. No broken legs this time, but several nettle stings at the top of Dunsapie.
James's good form continues and he was first home again. I followed him in by a minute or so, with Gordon close behind, although if he'd started on time he'd have been in-front of me. Colwyn's slicks weren't the perfect shoe choice and Cameron's holiday's weren't his perfect preparation.
More details of the mothly handicap on the club training web page (under Other Training). Put the date for the September one in your diary now (it'll be the 6th)Runner Run Time Finish Time Finish OrderTime Order James Jarvis 31:56 12:59:56 12 Gordon Cameron 33:45 13:00:18 23 Bruce Smith 29:28 13:00:35 31 Colwyn J 42:13 13:03:03 45 Cameron Burt 34:30 13:04:59 54
Bruce Smith
- 3rd August 2010
Dollar Hill Race (British and Scottish Champs) - Saturday 31st July
With the weather rapidly closing in the race set off at a moderate pace through Dollar and up the Glen. There was little vying for position in the front 20 or so runners, with most content just to drop into position on the path and steps leading up to the open hillside. Having started a little too far back I was surprised to pass Brian and Oleg on the first climb up Saddle Hill, and was soon at the top. Visibility was low racing through the checkpoint on Whitewisp Hill but sufficient not to get lost on the way to Andrew Gannel, with the race route following easily discernible paths almost the whole way.
Watching the Pudsey and Bramley peloton ahead was an impressive sight, and by the time the final climb to King's Seat Hill was reached the fist 7 or so runners were well up and over and out of sight. The short and scrappy up-and-down section of running approaching Bank Hill caught a few out, particularly the horrible rocky decent. The running off the summit of Bank Hill to the finish was just a flat out speed fest - made all the faster by the giant strides of Brian Marshall bearing down behind.
Not surprisingly the big clubs from England were out in force, with Pudsey and Bramley placing 5 runners in the top 10, including race winner Rob Hope. Race report here and results here.
Carnethy seniors were 4th team overall for the British (1st for the Scottish) and placed lots of runners high up in what was a high quality field. Adrian Davis had another "knee meet ground" incident and was sporting a rather splendid swollen lump on his leg afterwards ! Hope you recover quickly Adrian.
Sam Hesling
- 2nd August 2010
Edie's Birthday Run - Sunday 1st August
A baker's dozen joined Willie Mykura on his local coastal run to celebrate daughter Edie's first birthday. It was an undulating 15km which started at Fast Castle and we could easily have overheated without the welcome breeze blowing us along. The coastal cliffs and views are amazing. From Eyemouth the convoy headed to Jill and Willie's farm for a birthday barbecue. Here we discovered two calves had been born while we were out on the run. Don't know how Jill and Willie find time to go running! Thanks to both for a great day out.
AN
- 29th July 2010
Turnhouse Hill Race - Weds 28th July
A large turnout for the mid-week Turnhouse Race - part of the Bog 'n' Burn series saw about 15 Carnethies competing on familiar turf. A return to where I gashed my knee made me a little wary as I let Andy Millard and Derek Paton go ahead of me in the early running. Made it to the summit a couple of places ahead of Derek with Andy trailing. Derek powered on the descent and got ahead at the biscuit van but I clawed my way back ahead of him on the contour path and making sure I closed the gates on the downhill I beat him on a sprint finish to the line - both of us well ahead of Andy. Bruce Smith and Steven Fallon finished well up. PBs all round in great conditions.
Results
Gordon Cameron
- 27th July 2010
The 1st ever Allermuir Hill Climb
Carnethy broke new ground on Tuesday night with a mountain bike hillclimb on the final steep ramp of Allermuir in the Pentlands. The 200m course was divided into 30 zones and the aim of the "competition" was to get as far up the hill as possible. Craig O'Donnell was the only rider to clear the full course and make the summit without stopping or putting a foot down. There were 18 competitors and the scores were as follows: Keith Burns (7), Jonathan Whitehead (1), Des Crowe (8), Andy Spenceley (7), Sam Hesling (10), Craig O'Donnell (*30*), Phil Young (9), Paul Carmichael (21), Katie Carmichael (12), Nicola Johnson (6), Bob Johnson (21), Joel Silvestre (12), Tim Darlow (20), Kate Friend (7), Jon Ascroft (22), Jamie Thin (Cross Bike 1), Patrick Jones (8), Simon Parson (Cross Bike 11). Many thanks to the club for prize money and to Steve at B-Spoke Cycles for making the prize money go so much further than it should have! Thanks also to all hardy spectators and helpers (Sam Hesling, Jon Ascroft and Keith Burns).
- 26th July 2010
Roslin Glen Run
Carnethy Women (with Honorary Woman, Storm) had a great run along the leafy paths of Roslin Glen on Monday evening. There are so many paths going in all directions and we stopped a few times to discuss route planning. We noticed a number of flour markers and wondered if EH3 had been there before us. Presumably the pink spotted bra we saw dangling from a tree branch was not one of their way markers? The map on my phone isn't good enough out of town, but Storm led us safely back to Roslin.
MF
- 25th July 2010
Scots do well at Snowdon International - Sat 24th July
Andy Fallas finished 17th at Snowdon, and helped Scotland to 3rd place behind Engalnd and Italy - the race was won by Scottish team-mate Robbie Simpson (Deeside). Jill Mykura showed she is getting back to full fitness as she finished 4th woman in a race also won by a Scot, team-mate Catriona Buchanan (Ochils). The Scots women's were 2nd team behind England. More details and results here
- 23rd July 2010
Farewell Party to Ana and Ramón
Well Ramón was a very busy man last night buying drinks for the members using Ana's hard earned money. They both made very good use of the time here exploring the length and breadth of Scotland. Tanned Ramón spent so much time under the sun he could be easily mistaken for a Pacific Islander when they move back to their native Madrid. Ana shared with us the joys of walking down Princes Street without having to clutch your handbag tightly, meanwhile Ramón continued to greet everyone as they arrived with "I want to buy you". We wish them both the very best when they move back to Spain and they will be missed.
- 22nd July 2010
Scottish vests for Carnethy members
Congratulations and good luck to Andy Fallas and Jill Mykura who have both been selected to represent Scotland in the Snowdon International Hill race this Saturday (24th July). Details
- 22nd July 2010
Sam and Andy win Anatolia Mountain Marathon, Turkey! 17th-18th July 2010
"A figure loomed in front. Having dispatched a delicious meal, my 8th glass of wine, and with the camp fire roaring to the left I looked up at the smiling figure in front of me. What ensued was the largest, juiciest and most delicious slice of watermelon ever consumed handed to me by one of our hosts. It all feels slightly bizarre and dream like, although that could just be the copious quantities of Turkish wine"..... more
- 22nd July 2010
The Edinburgh Rat Race - Sat 17th/Sun 18th July
Photo by Margaret Urban
With so much on last weekend, you might have missed the Rat Race, although if you were in Edinburgh it was hard to miss. As usual there were Carnethy participants in this urban adventure race ..... more
- 19th July 2010
Edinburgh Parkrun
Apparently this race has been going on for quite a while now, but I'd never heard of it until a couple of weeks ago. The ParkRun is a free, weekly, timed 5k run along the Cramond Promenade, each Saturday starting at 9:30 am....more
NOTE: The Parkrun on the 24th July is cancelled
James Hardie
- 19th July 2010
The Clyde Stride Ultra Marathon - Sat 17th July
The Clyde Stride is a new race on the ultra marathon scene. It starts at Partick in Glasgow and finishes 40 miles later at New Lanark, mostly following the route of the Clyde Walkway in between. It's almost entirely flat with just a few bumps near the end....more
Cameron Scott
- 19th July 2010
Arthurs Seat 99 Run
Despite torrential rain a dozen tuned up for the inaugural Arthur's Seat 99 run. It dried up as we set off to cover the 7 tops at a social rate of speed. A final outing for Ramon and Ana who are having their farewell party at Morningside Glory this Thursday at 7pm - all welcome. Martin who won the vet 60 prize at Tomnabat treated us all to 99s after we finished - our first ice creams in the 3 years I have been doing the lunchtime run. Then it was back to work!
Gordon Cameron
- 18th July 2010
Tomnabat Hill Race - Sat 17th July
A long drive on a blustery day to the picturesque village of Tomintoul where the Highland games were in full fling. A lot of Carnethies made the trip for the second short SHR Scottish Championship race. Well over a 100 ( 13 in 2009! ) ran around the crowd-laden field avoiding hammers, cabers, dancers, pipers, pillow fighters, and high jumpers for the deep heather ascent of Tomnabat. No sign of a path and tricky to overtake - not many people can have ever made the summit before. Steepish descent and then another climb before a good runnable descent to the finish including another lap of the field. £money prizes for the first 4 in each category so a few members made a profit on the trip. A last outing in Carnethy colours for our Spanish couple Ramon and Ana who finished together. Results.
Gordon Cameron
- 16th July 2010
Maddy Moss Mash swim/race report - Wed 14th July
As we gathered at the start the general feeling was that the weather was clearing and it was going to be a reasonable night for the race. How wrong could we be.
On the way up the hill to warm up the rain started. On went my wind/waterproof* top which then stayed on for 90% of the race. The rubbish weather turned out to be reflected in my run as I walked my way up the Law, pausing only slightly to ring the worst of the water out of my rain-sodden buff. Steven Fallon was lost in the mist in front of me only spotted briefly as we passed on the ridge to the summit. I'd lost more places than I care to mention on the climb but got a couple of them back on the ridge run to Andrew Gannel. After passing Emma O'Shea (who was first lady by a fair distance) on the run down to the Maddy Moss I finally stripped to my vest for the wind assisted run along the sheep-track. For those who have never run it this a narrow winding trod with very few overtaking chances that works it's way down the side of the valley. This year it was doubling as a river but was still great fun, especially as I had lost so much time on the way out that I had no-one in front to hold me up. One slight slip on a wet rock gave me a wake-up call after I made back a couple of places once we'd left the moor. The final descent took a slightly different (Mark Johnston inspired) path to the right this time, but with no overtaking chances I veered left hoping to find a faster route only to find myself on the edge of a crag with nothing but bracken below me. A bit of wasted back-tracking took me back onto the ascent route and the flight to the finish.
My slowest time since 2006, mostly down to the weather. Winner was Jamie Stevenson (following in his dad's footsteps) with Al Anthony close behind. Kenny Richmond was 3rd and 1st vet. Other Carnethies were Steven Fallon who was 10th and 3rd vet and the Wilson's (Colin just beating Joan). Results
Bruce Smith
*strictly speaking 'waterproof' turned out to be a bit of a misnomer
- 15th July 2010
Rain no problem for Ramon at Hungry Snout Handicap - Wed 14th July
Spain's sporting achievements just get better and better. First Rafael Nadal won Wimbledon, then the football team won the World Cup and finally Ramon Garcia-Catalan won the Hungry Snout Handicap - a unique treble! This could well be followed by Alberto Contador winning the Tour de France. As Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero (Spanish Prime Minister) says "Ramon winning at Hungry Snout is the icing on the cake of Spanish sporting achievements this summer and it has lifted the spirits of Spanish people"
Or as the club president reports : "It soon became apparent why there were "Ford" signs on the road down to the wettest handicap in years. Dry on arrival it started to rain and then turned into a monsoon with flooding on the roads. Willie Mykura carefully explained the routes and most opted for the longer one but a few bailed out early having got lost on Spartleton. Varied options were take to reach the summit of Priestlaw Hill and then a few missed the Friars’ Nose in the mist on the return including special guest and local Brian Marshall. GPS assisted Ramon powered through the field to win just as he and Ana are about to return to Spain (and this lovely couple will be missed). I made the right route choice to finish second but then made the wrong choice of meal selection in an accommodating Tweeddale Arms. Thanks to Willie for organising and supplying the very welcome Hungry Snout Ale."
Gordon Cameron
An amazing run by Jill Mykura, who was fastest on the long course, beating even Brian Marshall! Results and overall series positions
- 14th July 2010
The Radar Ride - Sunday 11th July
This was the third year of this cycle challenge ride and each year the weather has been worse.
This year the wind was very strong. A few people got blown off, many cut the ride short at Moffat to do the 70 mile route rather than 106 miles, and the ascent of Lowther hill from Wanlochead at the end of the ride was abandoned. I opted for the turnround at Moffat but still found the mostly uphill ride back from Moffat to Wanlochead into the wind very difficult. The council had added a further hurdle by putting loose chips onto the road between Elvanfoot and Leadhills.
Two rides were hospitalised coming down the Walls of Talla - see here
John Blair-Fish
- 12th July 2010
Red Moss Women's Run
The ladies took advantage of the best weather for several days and spent Monday evening running over the Kips from Red Moss carpark. Bill was there to greet us at the start and share his chocolate at the finish. The midges were also out in force.
Sadly, this was Ana's last Ladies' Run although last night's football result certainly put a smile on her face. She has been a great member of the group over the last few months and we will miss her when she and Ramon return to Spain at the end of the month.
-
11th July 2010
Glamaig is Marshall's Race again
Brian Marshall firmly secured his 8th consecutive victory, in this Carnethy organised race, despite strong competition from Al Anthony. First woman was Emma O'Shea (Deeside) in a very fast 64:01, which places her 8th on the women's all time list.
Results and Organiser's Report
-
7th July 2010
The Carnethy Mid Week Race
Carnethy members made up about a quarter of the field of 44 in this mid week race which is getting so popular that parking is a premium on the A702. Not a problem for Sam Hesling who cycled there and then powered himself to finish 3rd in a fast competitive race in extremely and unusually dry conditions. I had my usual battle with Andy Millard but managed to reach the summit just in front and held him and all others off on the fast descent to finish on the heels of Olly Stephenson in around 31 minutes just ahead of the first lady. Then it was back to KB for the footie and a pint. Results.
Gordon Cameron
Not one to be outdone by the Tour de France 20 seconds in I managed to trip up and make several other runner hurdle my flailing body. After recovering, slightly winded but OK, and with four in front I managed to slowly reel them in on the decent from Fala Knowe, and struck a solo alternative route up Carnethy, rejoining the main pack on the climb in the lead. 1 & 2 slowly pulled away on the decent from the top and once on the long decent from the col they were well clear. With red vests out in force it was a cracking evening for Carnethy HRC !
Sam Hesling
- 5th July 2010
Arthur's Seat Lunchtime Handicap
A dozen took part in the monthly handicap which stars at the bottom of the Radical Road and covers the 7 hill tops in Holyrood Park. You self time and if you beat your handicap you reach the finish before the one o'clock gun goes off - as evidenced by the falling ball on the Nelson column at Calton Hill. My first competitive outing since my Flotterstone accident so I went with a little trepidation. Underfoot conditions were good although very long grass and nettles around Dunsappie led to minor route changes. Pleased to say I finished strongly and unscathed in a mid field position and beat my handicap by 19 seconds.
Gordon Cameron
- 4th July 2010
Independence Day Run
Another wet first Sunday in the month saw our intrepid explorers venture west along the A71 beyond Balerno where the ascent of East and West Cairn were curtailed by the ferocious storm and the group of 5 bailed out at the Cold Stane Slap and beat a hasty retreat to the cars just as the sun came out. The president's USA shorts were on view but it was too wet to stop for mom's home made apple pie.
Gordon Cameron
- 1st July 2010
West Highland Way 95 mile race - 19th/20th June
The mind can be stronger than the body, as Carnethy's Ian King found at this year's WHW race. An unfortunate injury near Rowardennan left him with a choice of pulling out and recording a dnf, or walking for most of the rest of the distance to go ~ all 70 miles of it. Choosing the latter option, he eventually rolled in to Fort William 32 hours and 30 minutes after leaving Milngavie to claim his cherished 2010 finishers crystal goblet. This "time on the feet" experience should set him up nicely for his forthcoming assault on the UTMB race at the end of August. Up at the sharp end race regulars Richie Cunningham and Kate Jenkins took the honours in 16:36 and 18:58 respectively on a hot hot hot fine sunny day. Results
Murdo McEwan
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