HOME GO BACK

Old News July - Sept 2011

29th September 2011
Wednesday Training - the Craiglockharts

Into the deeply darkly woods... report
27th September 2011
2nd Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Distance Championships, North Wales
There were some great runs from the Carnethies taking part in this event at the weekend. Over the 55km trail run the Scottish women’s team secured the silver medals helped by Angela Mudge taking individual silver with Lucy Colquhoun not far back in 4th. The men’s team took 4th led home with a superb run by Andy Fallas in 6th - followed by Matt Williamson (Bellahouston) in 11th and Paul Raistrick (Highland) in 12th. However one of the bravest runs of the day was from Sam Hesling who finished 17th in the Mountain Run, only one place behind the great Lloyd Taggart. What was special was that Sam ran with an injured ankle that he’d been receiving intensive treatment on in the 24 hours previous, so his performance was truly heroic!
There is a report from Scottish perspective here and full results here.
27th September 2011
Three Peaks Cyclo Cross - Sunday 25th September

Down in soggy Yorkshire, team Carnethy were out again at the fanatasic Three Peaks Cyclo Cross. This perfectly organised event is quite a circus, and swamps what are very popular walking hills. This year there were 568 finishers, and what looked like twice as many supporters around the route.
Nick Craig (Scott UK) won in 3hrs08, although he was deprived of the opportunity of beating defending champ (& nine times winner) Robb Jebb, who was out of the action due to a shoulder operation. All five Carnethies made it to the end in mud splattered style (without punctures or broken collarbones): Steve Macinnes scooted around in an amazing 3h26, finishing 14th. Jon Ascroft took 3h49 (69th), Bob Johnson 4h02 (108th) Craig O'Donnell 4h33 (270th) & Jamie Thin 4h50 (367th). Tim Darlow, Nikki Johnson & others zipped between checkpoints offering crucial sustenance, encouragement and mechanical backup.
Over the 38 miles, it felt like 50% of the time was spent 'running' uphill with bike mostly over the shoulder, 35% boucing uncontrollably downhill on or off bike, and 15% slogging along the road sections (though I think reality was slightly different.) The wet ground didn't seem to make as much of a difference as expected, I suppose because in true hill-running style, brains require disengaging for all the descents. Definitely a bike race suited to hill runners, with all the desired elements - adventure, uncertainty, mud, exhaustion, and a pub at the end.
Jon Ascroft
http://www.3peakscyclocross.org.uk/
26th September 2011
Carnethy hits the Road (on bikes)
The first outing for Carnethy roadies was on Sunday September 25th - an auspicious day for British cycling with Mark Cavendish winning the world road race championships. Whilst we cannot claim global domination in the same way, at least nobody was hurt on our slightly lesser outing, although Jane had a nasty moment with a wasp down her front. Had it been Bob I'm sure he would have had an appropriate gadget. Some see the handlebars as part of the bike and one's wrists as the bits that join the hands to the arms, but Bob sees all that as real estate for mounting electronic devices, so there was a lot of beeping from certain quarters.
Anyway, despite the hopelessly late posting (sorry) 6 brave Carnethy souls pitched up for the first of what we hope will be a regular monthly road ride. Our route was a whisker under 50 miles from Hillend to West Linton, Romanno Bridge, the Lyne valley, the Meldons, back past the Portmore Loch handicap start, down to Carrington and a final wheeze into and back up out of Roslin Glen.
For more details see: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=5104744
As befitting a hill running club, the pace was keen, although Richard Bush will be offering 1 to 1 coaching on turbo trainers in order to improve participants' drafting skills. It's worth it though - you use about 30% less energy following the wheel in front.
The next ride will be on Sunday October 30th - don't know where, but it'll be 9.15 kick off. Details nearer the time - and hope to see you there.
Robin Haynes
24th September 2011
2 Breweries Hill Race

A gap in the weather gave a very pleasant day which was quite warm in the valleys and brisk on the hills. Stewart Whitlie tied with Mark Harris of Fife AC to win (both also V40s) in 2:56. Jasmine was leading lady finishing in 3:14:07. 18 Carnethies took part. I came almost last, beating the cutoff by 3 minutes as my legs gave up after 11.5 miles, to find I'd lost my car key somewhere along the way. After a lot of shenanigans, stress & breaking into my van twice the spare was found under the front seat. Big thanks to all my rescuers. Beware holey shorts! A shame I couldn't really enjoy the splendid prizegiving, with lovely beer, food and prizes galore. A great event.
Results & Carnethy Google Album
Map and Report
Digby
22nd September 2011
Carnethies selected for Commonwealth Mountain and Ultra Distance Championships
The 2nd Commonwealth Mountain and Ultradistance Running Championships will be hosted in three spectacular north-west Wales locations – Llandudno, Llanberis (Snowdon) and Newborough Forest, Anglesey - this weekend and several Carnethy runners have been selected. Earning Scottish vests in the 55km trail race on Anglesey on Sunday are Andy Fallas, Angela Mudge and Lucy Colquhorn, while club captain Sam Hesling has got his vest for the hill race held from Llanberis on Saturday. Good luck to them all. More details of Scottish team here and of the event here.
20th September 2011
The Final Graham (twice), Beinn Mhor, South Uist - Sunday 18th
Two club members, Jane Robertson and Andy Spenceley completed (compleated?) their "Grahams" (hills in Scotland between 2000ft and 2499ft) at the weekend with the climb of Beinn Mhor on South Uist.
Cloud was just skimming the summit with lovely views across South Uist coming and going. Having previously finished the Munros and Corbetts, they now have to think of something else to do after climbing the 224 grahams, which are scattered the length and breadth of Scotland and include some of the most remote hills.

The climb of Beinn Mhor from Loch Ainerot felt like an interlude in a nature trip as, from the camp at the sea loch at the bottom, we watched two sea eagles showing their youngster how to soar; followed by seeing otters move up the loch with the tide and hearing singing seals which were even noisier, though more tuneful, than the rutting deer on the hill. Then to cap it, a school of dolphins surrounded the ferry back from Barra to Oban, swimming alongside and in the bow wave - a superb weekend !
19th September 2011
Merrick Hill Race

Damage by cows tearing up the soaked hill tops meant the circular route had to be changed to a straight out and back over 8.65m & 2,800ft. In the lower part the going is very steep with deep mud, peat, tussock and hidden rock. Sure footedness is essential on the descent. The going gets progressively easier on the last couple of km with good track to the top. Well signed and marshalled though this didn't stop some of the ladies inexplicably getting lost.
The route is a feast of extraordinary names. It goes up the Fell of Eschoncan, right to Benyellary, down Neive of the Spit leaving Rig of the Gloon on the right and then to the top of Merrick, near Black Gairy. Nearby you might stumble across Murder Hole and Rig of the Jarkness. And possibly some elves or goblins.
The weather was lovely and the scenery superb with views across to the sea; quite Lake District in feel. Only 2 Carnethies were in the running; Adam Anderson taking1st MV40 and 4th overall, and myself just taking a long time. Although a bit of a haul from Edinburgh, for a weekend stay there is a good wee campsite close by and tons of biking trails in the forest. Results
Digby
19th September 2011
Rob Roy Way 16-18 September

Over the weekend a band of ten Carnethies ran the Rob Roy Way, Drymen to Pitlochry, 140 km. It did not snow, but we had everything else in large measure - even the petrol station on the way back was struck by lightning! Report
Richard
16th September 2011
Monday Arthur's Seat Handicap - 5th September
Belatedly here are the results of Septembers handicap. I think I've got all the finishers (not everyone made it round).
The finishing order is their time against handicap and varies from reality in pretty much the same way as their watches varied from the reality of GMT.
Paul was actually the first man back in a pretty damned fast time.
Hopefully a bigger turnout next month (Monday the 3rd) is it time for another pacindah I wonder?
Bruce Smith
14th September 2011
Wind Assisted Caerketton Downhill

The year on year growth at the Caerketton Doonhiller continues to outstrip even the rate of inflation with 56 seniors and 4 juniors toeing the line last night, or more accurately, topping the cairn. Although a sunny evening, a bitterly cold westerly wind blew at the summit, but helped push competitors even faster along the first ridge.
The highlight of the night was the first female sub six minute clocking with honours going to unattached athlete Charlotte Morgan, running a well judged 5.59! Jasmin Paris (Carnethy) also bettered the previous record and got second ahead of the previous course record holder Eilidh Wardlaw (HBT).
Although Al Anthony (Ochils) didn’t better his own course record, he managed another win, his third Doonhiller title to date. Edinburgh Uni Hare & Hounds were out in force, taking a break from Freshers Week activities, and their lead runner Iain Whiteside finished only 3 seconds shy of Al’s time for an impressive 2nd ahead of the ever improving Konrad Rawlik (Carnethy).
New age group records were set by Gordon Pryde (Lomonds) V50, Bob Waterhouse (Carnethy) V60 & Pat McLaughlin (Westies) V60.
Joanne Anderson (Carnethy) V40, double previous overall race winner Bruce Smith (Carnethy) V40 & Cali Ingham (Carnethy) V50 made up the other age group winners.
As ever the winners, and most of the field, took their chances in the random prize draw. Race winner Al Anthony won a selection of vegetable seeds so looks forward to growing beetroot, rocket, cucumber and the likes in his greenhouse in between training sessions. The Hairies scooped many prizes and the Fresher’s parties will now be fuelled by Glengoyne Malt, while the entertainment may be provided by Jenny Dybeck’s new selection of 80s Albums.
In the junior race, Rory Greig (Carnegie) set a storming pace to win in the 4th fastest time ever, ahead of the Hubert family. A special mention must go to 2 year old Sam Hubert, surely the youngest finisher ever in a hill race, completing the 800m course in 12.12 and earning himself a week’s supply of jelly babies.
Finally, many thanks must go to the race helpers Ian, Anne, Andy, Jane, Paul, Sandy, Colin, Bob and Fionna who helped the race go so smoothly. And also to all the runners for turning up in good time to register, I had a whole 25 minutes to saunter up to the summit for the start this year! Much appreciated and I’ll see you all again next year!
Mark Johnston
More photos, Results Stats on race web page here

Hi Guys - I was actually 3 seconds behind Steven - so not first vet on Wednesday.
With the tail end of hurricane Katia still flickering around it looked like a night for record breaking times and indeed it was. Luckily for me Steven Fallon wasn't on top form and my M40 record stayed intact. Unluckily for me his form was still 3 seconds faster than me!
Dry and sunny but the wind was strong enough to make it very chilly waiting around at the top, especially when I was about last to enter and had to wait 13 minutes before setting off.
A bit of a misunderstanding meant that two guys in Edinburgh Uni orienteers T shirts set off at the same time as me - one of whom was in front of me at the first cairn (split time 1:27). I got past him on the steep bit by keeping to the fence (100m/min descent rate down to the gate according to my altimeter) but it was quite good having a head to head race to spur me on. As we hit the wee rise I could hear someone just behind me but I managed to get a bit of a gap on the drop down past the new bench. I had to check my speed slightly as was caught behind a slower runner through the gorse but quickly got back into freefall for the last drop to the trees (103m/min) and subsequent sprint to the line.
Many thanks to Mark for organising as usual - these days it seems to be my only way of getting a decent race percentage!
Bruce Smith
14th September 2011
Wednesday Night Training
Oh Oz, how we missed you.....
I wasn't expecting there to be a big turnout at KB for last night's run due to the Doonhiller, but my poorly-timed run over to KB got me there 10 minutes early. I pondered the options as it neared 7 o'clock (you know, the usual ones like 'a token run up to Blackford and back then chippy/pub') when in walked Phil and Nigel right on queue. None of us too keen for a biggy, we found ourselves having a gentle jaunt up Blackford via the golf course to witness a fabulous moon rising in the windy sky, followed by a beautiful sight as the sun was setting from the top of Braids. An easy trot back to KB saw us struggling through the roughage/brambles where we really did miss Oz and his shears. Rather predictably I ended up the most scratched, but hey, whats a Wednesday night run if you don't get brambled/nettled?? The nights are certainly drawing in now...
Chris Henty
13th September 2011
Another door closes
As Shakin Stevens sang:
Watchin', till the morning comes creepin'
Green door, what's that secret you're keepin'?
Well it's somewhat harder to know now as the sneaky back door exit/entrance here to Dalkeith Country Park as used on The Great Eskape has been removed and walled up. The large metal gates further up the path heading east are currently lying open (unusually), but I wonder if they will follow suit?
Digby
12th September 2011
Carnethy Weds!

Congratulations to Carnethy member Adrian Davis who married his lovely bride Louise on 9th September. They were married in Glen Clova and the rain just managed to stay away during the ceremony. The wedding continued on the Saturday night with a party at the Birnham Institute where we were all entertained by the Dave Amos Band.
Congratulations Mr and Mrs Davis!
Kate Friend
11th September 2011
Simon Wake Comrie Relays

It was wild & wet with the wind blasting the rain horizontally and the tops covered in cloud, but as the temperature was above lethal we laughed at the moisture and splashed gaily through rivers & knee deep moss and bog. Carnethy Men's and Women's teams both came third, with Andy Fallas fastest leg 1 & Sam Hesling the fastest leg 3 runner. Their team would have achieved a better result had Bob Johnstone not got lost! Afterwards a tremendous feast of barbecued beefburgers & tons of cakes at the Comrie Crofts. Race info & Results (pdf)
Some Beta for leg 3 runners:
although the satellite image frustratingly cuts off you can just see where the landrover track ends, and the turn downhill from the wire fence. You can't see the track as you are running in a gulley. You can see where I picked it up (the red line) through following people who (more or less) knew the way. The going in the gulley is difficult so picking up the track early is a good idea! At least one runner continued down without finding it. The rest of the leg however is very easy to navigate, with clear tracks & marshalling.
Digby
Massive, massive, congratulations to all of the Carnethys out at today's relay !! The weather was comically bad with high winds, driving rain and mist you could stand a ladle in. It was awesome. This has got to be one of the best relays on the calender. The combination of stunning location, honest hill running routes, easy peasy logistics, super friendly organisation, bbq burgers, and one of the best home baked cake tables I've ever had the pleasure of raiding blend beautifully to provide an ace day out. The highlight of mine being waking up a dozing marshals close to the top of the hill on leg three, she had somehow contrived to fall asleep in near horizontal sheet rain.... Massive shout to our friends the Strathearn Harriers, you guys rock.
Sam Hesling
10th September 2011
The British Championship Devil's Beeftub Hill Race

A very wet and misty day that didn't show the normal suntrap of the bowl of the Beeftub at its best ! But as you'd expect with the race being a British Championship counter, it was the largest field ever (normal field is about 20) and the on form Morgan Donnelly just broke Brian Marshall's 2007 record by 5 secs, with Lloyd Taggard, just behind in 2nd place, going one better as he set a new Over 40s record by 4 seconds, no less ! Pippa Maddams had an easy win in the Women's race.
Willy
Bad manners & slippery slopes
The Carnethy sexagenarian massive were soundly trounced by a very young looking bunch of English oldies. As we started up the heathery slope I was being held, pushed & tripped. Protesting I was told - "if you hang about I'll climb over you". It was the usual queue and I was no slower than anyone else. Not a Carnethy, but a bad mannered visitor. Well shame on you! Rant over. I thought I'd finally beat Neil in a race as I overtook him near the top but a reluctance to hurl myself down the scary correct line in the mist led to the loss of several places. Progress prone, once out of the murk, proved much faster and I shot past in a fair imitation of a one man bobsleigh, but couldn't sustain the gain once back on two feet. So Carnethy MV60 1, 2, 3 of JBF, Bob & me. Sadly no prizes but a great day out, and a privileged view of the beeftub from a new angle, and a large and sore friction burn from wet grass.
Digby
The start was like a comedy sketch
- three runners face planted within the first ten paces. Despite being boxed in by a row of runners on the start line a boost of speed on the climb was sufficient to reach the leaders on a gravity defying uphill crawl. Upward glances at the Carnethy banner fluttering in the breeze by the monument, an awesome sight. On round the head of the coire, wading through the water logged ground. A couple of falls and skids, then a wee kick up to Annanhead Hill. Going strong and welcomed encouragement from Andy F. Round the head of a burn and onto Strait Step path, which carves a narrow and somewhat treacherous (at-speed-in-the-wet) trail under Great Hill. Massive drop to the right slows the pace a little to reduce death potential, it's narrow and exhilarating. Heart sinks, this is the wrong way, losing height and time, reach the decent route...
Morgan and Lloyd fly down the hill towards our select group of lost souls, only problem is we have to hike back up before we can follow them down. Al Anthony is the next to fly towards us, clearly too canny and experienced to have followed our erroneous ways. Final climb dispatched and damage limitation became the aim of the game on the steep boggy descent, 9 month old polished x-talons were not meant for this.
Comrie tomorrow, praying I don't go wrong.
Sam
Photos on Cameron Scott's flickr also Carnethy Google album & Sarah Ridgway's Blog (5th Lady)
Results Report
8th September 2011
Arthur's Seat Handicap - Wed 7th Sept

There was the usual large turnout for the last handicap of the summer. The early starters had to cope with heavy rain as they left, but this soon cleared to a sunny evening, though left treacherous underfoot conditions on the rocky sections. First back was Mike Lynch but Willie Mykura's 4th place was enough to win the handicap series. Then we retired to the Kilderkin pub (ex Jenny Ha's) and the welcoming barmaid, for free beer, slices of pizza (a bit like feeding the penguins at Edinburgh Zoo by chuking fish into the crowd) and the prizegiving. Full report here. Results of race and series. More photos on Carnethy Google Album
6th September 2011
Scottish Hill Runners Annual “do” and prize giving, 1st Oct
The Scottish Hill Runners Annual "do" will take place on Saturday 1st October 2011 at The Forth Inn, Aberfoyle, after the Ben Venue hill race, the final counter in the Run 4 It SHR Championship. Carnethy members should win lots of team prizes so worth turning up.
The cost for the do is £20 and the accommodation at Dounans £22.50 is a night (B&B). Please complete a booking form as soon as possible to be sure of your place! Found here.
Full details are on the Social page or are can be got from Angela
6th September 2011
Kielder 100 - Sat 3rd Sept.
I entered this back in April because it looked fun, and although I’ve done lots of long rides, I’ve never ticked 100 miles on a mountain bike. I have now learned two things: firstly, a hundred miles is a long way, much further than on a road bike. I think that this is because the uphills are so long, and the downhills so short, and there doesn’t seem to be any flat. In addition to this, you don’t get a map of the course, which is a series of intricate loops around Kielder castle and heading off to Newcastleton, so you rarely know where you are until you reach a checkpoint. Secondly, if it’s raining (and it was, all the night before and all day) just go home. Fire road cycling is not enormously entertaining at the best of times, but spongy, slippery or downright boggy fire roads in the middle of a massive forest in the pouring rain is a journey to the dark centre of the soul. I wanted to retire at 50 miles, but never quite managed it. I used up a pair of brake pads and ended the race with no back brake, and I think I am going to need to replace most of the drive train. The gritty mud of the area is a bike killer.
I realise I might be painting a slightly negative picture. The singletrack was fun and there is some good riding in Kielder. The marshalls were exceptionally friendly and cheerful in testing conditions, and the event was extremely well organised. The winner finished in just over 8 hours, I was just behind in 12.17. Only about 170 finished out of 750 starters. I’d like to say that I’ll be back next year to break the ten and a half hours target I’d set myself, but I won’t because I’m not. Ever.
Mark Higginbottom
4th September 2011
Carnethy 1-2 at the Ben - Saturday 3rd Sept

We celebrated a 1-2 at the Ben with Angela finishing just ahead of Jasmin. It was Angela's 4th win just back from her Trans Rockies and Jasmin's first race so congratulations to both. And with Jacqui finising well it should have been the the Ladies team prize as well. Over 20 Carnethies finished with great performances from Steven Fallon, John Mitchell and Bruce Smith. Great first time results for Harry, Mike L, Mark McL.James H. and Steven McF. PBs for Cameron and me. Bob J. missed out on a sub 2hr. once again but he was suffering from a head cold. Also in the frame were Gregor, Gio, Neil C, Colin and Joan, Jim McW. and Andrew Lennie ( on his 13th appearance in the race) After the heat last year it was a little different with not much visibility over 1500ft. and drizzle all the way to the summit. The green wall was a an absolute killer - one massive bruising bum slide. But it was dry by the time we hit the road to the finish. Finlay Wild took 6 minutes off his 2010 time to win in 1.29. More photos on Carnethy Album
Results
Gordon
31st August 2011
The North Face Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc 2011- August 26-28

After a rain delayed start we eventually got underway at 23:30 on the Friday evening with a slightly modified route. The rain wasn't as heavy as last year but it was with some trepitation that I set-off hoping that we weren't in for a replay of the 2010 race abandonment. I hit the top of the first climb in the middle of the field and managed to maintain that position for the night. Eventually the rain eased off, the stars came out and it was quite pleasant as we passed Notre Dame de la Gorge and started the first of the real climbs up to Col du Bonhomme. Dawn brought a cool, overcast day but that was great for running and all was good until the next big climb up to Col de la Seigne. Towards the top the sleet started and it really felt like Scotland! Once over that one, the weather steadily improved as we went into Italy and by the time I got into Courmayeur it was a cracking day. It was good to get to the sports centre for a quick rest, a meal and a change of socks. The climb out of Courmayeur was brutal but once up onto the plateau it was possible to run along quite freely and I descended down into Arnuva just as night closed in. The second night was very cold and although I got up Grand Col Ferret quite quickly, the whole night dragged on as I went through La Fouly and on to Champex-Lac. After a quick stop to have my blisters lanced, I was off again and dawn rose. From hereonin the race organisation wasn't so hot. The route was changed last minute, to avoid Bovine, and we were left with a long descent and then a 1000m ascent to Trient via Col de Forclaz with little information other than the ultimate cut-off. Once through Trient it was back to original plan of Catogne, Vallorcine and then straight down the valley to Chamonix. The whole race was a brilliant experience, especially the finishing crowds and I came in with a time of 44:25:40 in 990th position. As usual, less than 50% of the starters made it back to Chamonix. Congratulations to fellow Carnethy Richard Bell who finished 3 hours ahead of me, in a time of 41:22:51 and in 575th position overall.
Full details can be found at the race site http://www.ultratrailmb.com/
Ian King
30th August 2011
Carnethies Raid des Pyrenees

Olly (Stephenson), Nigel (Fawthrop) and I headed over to Vielle-Aure in France to take part in the 4th running of the Grand Raid des Pyrenees at the weekend. A superbly organised and supported event that ignites the little village square giving a fabulous atmosphere has 2 courses; the 160K/10,000m (100 mile/30,000') Ultra that Olly was racing kicking off on Friday at 5am, and the 80K/5,000m (50 mile/15,000') Grand that Nigel and I plumped for starting 24 hours later. And for the first time this year, an invitation-only trial team event over 220K.
Weather conditions meant that the Ultra runners had to deal with a last minute change of start time, and torrential rain/strong winds/very low temperatures (which must've suited the Brits!) during the first day. Thankfully for me and Nigel the bad weather passed through and we had nice cool conditions throughout, although it promised to head below-zero up in the mountains again overnight for those expecting to still be out there.
We each surpassed our expectations with Nigel 298th in 17:23 and me 213th in 15:59 out of the 678 starters (581 finishers) of the Grand, and Olly putting in a stunning performance to finish 19th and first Brit in 28:11 out of the 710 starters (457 finishers) of the Ultra!
Fellow Brit Nicky Spinks (Dark Peak) also put in an impressively determined performance to retain the ladies' title in the Ultra by 27 minutes, coming in at 29:45.
You have 12 months until next year so get to it. The mountains and views are stunning, as is the running in this delightfully low-key event. You really do know you want to!Full details and results are over at: http://www.grandraidpyrenees.com/
Chris Henty
29th August 2011
Getting the Horn

I was lucky enough to be able to take part in the 29th International Matterhornlauf on Sunday 21st August - a 12.5km, uphill only race below the iconic Swiss mountain. Around 500 runners set off in extremely warm and sunny conditions from the centre of Zermatt (1605m) at 9.30am. A very fast start through the streets saw the field spread out pretty quickly and settle down into a gradually inclined road race. At around 1900m the route gets more interesting with a sharp turn uphill onto a mountain track. The top section is superb running on paths and tracks in the shadow (unfortunately not literally) of the Matterhorn, finally finishing at the Schwarzee Paradise cable car station 1000m above the starting point. A very well organised and marshalled race, with great crowds lining the route - highly recommended. After a slowish start I managed to pick my way through the field to finish 23rd, just ahead of first lady - Sarah Tunstall of Kendal AC (results here) . Then, for me, it was a quick shower before catching the cable car over to Italy, and climbing up for a night (but no sleep) in the Carrel hut at 3800m, summiting the Matterhorn at 9am the next morning - the ultimate 'cool down'!
Paul Faulkner
28th August 2011
Menstrie Hill Race

It may only be 5.26 miles long but it packs in 2000ft of climb over the attractive Myreton & Colsnaur hills. It was a bit cold & grey but the views on the descent are superb, with the River Forth snaking away in the distance. The going is good on tracks and grass, with comprehensive marshalling and course marking, a testament to its primary function as the venue for Junior Home International and Commonwealth Mountain Running Championship Trials, which also explains the lack of prizes. So a bit of a miscalculation on my part there! The consolation lay in the splendid tea & cakes presided over by cheerful girls - the bearded person is a satisfied runner. Only other Carnethy in the race was James Waldie, but there were some familiar faces from north of the Forth.
Digby
28th August 2011
Mullardoch Round
I went and ran the ridges around Loch Mullardoch yesterday, in 12:30 ish. The Mullardoch hills went past quickly, but the wheels fell off a bit after hour five, when the lack of a water bottle (doh!) began to bite, and I had to dive off the ridge every now and again to drink (and therefore eat!). The Affric ridges were majestic even in my slightly dehydrated state, and the rain only came in to cheer me on the tortuous descent back to the dam. (Has Steven Fallon done this round and descent 14 times?) I suspect a comfortable 11:30 time is possible, but Alec Keith’s 10:21 is extraordinary. I met a surprised camper on the Mullardoch munros, but the main Affric tops were surprisingly busy. This is an excellent day out, long enough to challenge but easily achievable in daylight and short weather windows, with a good sense of big hills and isolation: I can’t recommend it enough. The pub in Cannich provided excellent celebratory food.
Mark Higginbottom
27th August 2011
Slioch Horseshoe photos
I've just stumbled across this page with photos taken by Tom Harris, son of Fife AC's Mark Harris. Interesting for the photos of the Slioch Horseshoe as none of us took any during the race. I remember being snapped both out and, looking somewhat worse for wear, in. There are also photos from Birnam, The Lomonds of Fife race and other races.
Digby
24th August 2011
Carnethies at the Speed of Light
Yes it's true – at least six Carnethies made it to the Speed of Light on Tuesday evening. Here's how they did it...
The Speed of Light is actually the rather OTT name given to Scotland's official contribution to the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad. It's going to be on for three weeks in August next year and is a “generational opportunity for distance runners from across the country”.
The idea is that ten teams each of around fifteen volunteers “run a choreographed route around the path network of Arthur's Seat at night in specially constructed light suits. The stunning visual results will be viewed by a ticketed audience from the summit of the hill every night.” As far as we could make out there'll be one performance at around 10pm and another an hour and a half later, finishing at 1am...come rain or moonshine.
Anyway, Tuesday evening was the first rehearsal, and as you would expect it was pretty chaotic. Our team leader, poor soul, managed to get hopelessly lost looking for the right trods to follow. The solution was for one of the led, who seemed to have a better grasp of map-reading than he, to act as a human satnav. Even so there was a fair bit of standing around or back-tracking...and somehow the first two of our three routines merged seamlessly into one. To make matters worse we were reprimanded for not keeping the stipulated five metres apart in our high-vis-jacketed crocodile. As someone said by way of explanation, it's in a runner's nature to close up on the person in front, either to threaten (if racing) or have a chat (if not).
It was all rather fun – with the carrot next year of becoming an Olympian (even if only a Cultural one). There's another rehearsal on Thursday (25 August) and if you fancy joining in you might just be able to, for the organisers seemed a bit short of volunteers on Tuesday. Meet in Holyrood Park at 5.45pm outside the Education Centre.
Ian Nimmo
24th August 2011
Wed Training, or Steph's farewell...

…work is taking her to London but she promises to try and come back for as many Weds as possible! We followed the old handicap route - so up the observatory road (the first sprint with Andy & Sam disappearing rapidly into the distance), down to the duck pond, up to Blackford Summit then up to Braids Summit with a photocall (was going to be etch-a-sketch but fortunately James at least had remembered to bring a camera) and a reluctant Steph cajoled onto the trig point, us in the sunshine and apocalyptic clouds on all horizons. Then back down the track to a shut KB and festivities at the Braidburn Inn.
Digby
24th August 2011
Fanaråken Opp and Skåla 1848 meter rett opp
After my first trip to Norway 6 years ago I've been back every year since, sometimes twice, to race, climb and soak up this enormous mountain country... read more
Sam
22nd August 2011
Fun day fun with A Cherry on top (or Craigengower hill race)
Had planned to be in Ayrshire this weekend so thought I would combine it with the Craigengower Hill race. The race is part of the local Straiton Fun day, but has been in existence for a long time and has a decent pedigree with a race record set by Prasad Prasad and can count Carnethy's Adam Anderson amongst it's previous winners. Biggest club I could see was the delightfully named Troon Tortoises but there was a smattering of familiar faces in Tinto and Westie vests.
This year they moved the start slightly (back to the park) which meant there was now an extra 400yds of tarmac hill to run.
The route is very simple - start at the park and, with the dexterity that only comes from doing the Berwick Law race, avoid tripping up the local under 12's who set off like startled rabbits. After the initial wee rise to the village main street the race settled down with last years winner Alan Cherry pulling out a decent lead and I settled into 4th place behind Owen O'Neill from the Westies. After about half a mile we left the road and veered up through a field, following the path in the grass set by the marshall's 4x4. Through a gate into a wee wood, over a potentially slippery wooden footbridge and up to a stile. So far so runnable - then you are met with a decidedly walkable section up to the HUGE monument at the top.
A quick loop around the top and back down past the climbers to the stile (where the juniors turned) and back the way we came.
Despite closing in on Owen back through the field when we hit the tarmac he pulled away again - leaving me and my dodgy calf (short sharp tarmac races are not great ways to recover from calf strains) to limp in 4th with the race order unchanged from the first blast through the town.
The race only cost £5 but you can easily spend an additional £5 stocking up on cakes at home baking stalls in the finishing field.
My stats here
Bruce Smith
22nd August 2011
Lomonds of Fife Hill Race

Sunday saw a relatively modest turn out of Carnethies (compared to our usual flashmob standards) to run an amended and slightly shortened Lomonds of Fife race. The new route covers most of the same ground as the original race but starts in the forestry between the 2 Lomond peaks and avoids summiting West Lomond twice. There was a reasonably large overall field competing this year on a warm day but with a welcome absence of midgies following Wednesday's handicap. The amended route joins the original on the forestry tracks and then winds past the Monument, across the road and up to the peak of East Lomond. From there, it's back to Maiden Castle where the new route turns off the original and follows a sheep track on a long traverse to the gully below West Lomond. A sharp slog takes you to the top and then it's back down via the famous slide. I got lucky this year and managed to avoid most of the thistles and nettles but from the screams around me, others weren't so fortunate. At the bottom of the hill we went round the Bannet Stane which is near the start of the original course and then back up West Lomond to the start of the gully once again. By this stage, cramp was setting in and the long diagonal downwards to the woods was a painful experience. However, once back on the forestry tracks it was cooler with easy running back down to the finish followed by a 15 minute meander back to Strathmiglo hall for tea and the prize giving. Adrian Davies was first home for Carnethy and there were also excellent runs by John Hammond and Andrew Gilmore who was doing his first long race.
Neil Burnett
21st August 2011
Irvine AC Marymass 10K Road Race
Ok it was about as far from a hill race as it's possible to get, but the one thing this race offered, which the Lomonds of Fife Hill race did not, was an MV60 prize. So I just had to go and try for it. The hill training paid off and I got it, in a pretty good time too. The Carnethy vest not surprisingly was a lone showing!
Digby
18th August 2011
Hungry Snout Handicap

The running began well before the handicap start as we tried to escape the hungry snouts of the midges on a cloudy but pleasant evening. The large shower spotted from the bypass stayed away, so no monsoon this year. Those choosing the long route found a much improved track running to the top of Spartleton hill, though leaving it near the top as it veers left cuts out a big dog leg. Picking the right direction to descend pays dividends on both main hills as the view down is initially obscured by the angle of the slope. A line of new shooting butts goes straight to the top of Priestlaw hill then a fast descent on trackless heather leads to the dam, and a tarmac finish, to the reward of a very tasty wee barrel of Hungry Snout Ale. Less midges flying around now, as they were mostly stuck to the runners.
Digby
Results
Iain Gilmore recorded his first win to take him top of the overall table. Willie Mykura and Jonathan Whitehead (both running the short course) came in a close 2nd and 3rd. On the long course Paul Faulkner was the fastest runner in 35:50 followed by Steven Fallon in 36:30. The overall averages for both course were significantly faster than last year, probably due to better weather, better navigation (with a few exceptions), a new stretch of landrover track and the chasing midges.
Going into the last race on Arthur's Seat Iain Gilmore has 144 points, with Jonathon Whitehead on 141, and brother Andrew Gilmore on 137. However there are other contenders so still too early to clear a space in the Gilmore family trophy room. Series results overall
Phil
15th August 2011
Carnethy are First Team at the Two Inns Race
With the starting Inn having closed down last December and a closed bridge necessitating a premature finish away from the Clachaig, the Two Inns race didn't quite live up to it's name. Nonetheless it was all very enjoyable, from the start past a bull - which the race organiser assured us is of the 'friendly' variety - via unexpected deer fences and exciting river crossings, to the Oranges some friendly soul had laid out 1km from the finish. Although mostly along a ridge, the route is surprisingly indistinct, which, coupled with the rather limited visibility and general lack of established route knowledge on this new race, meant that everyone seemed to get temporarily lost to various degrees. Full results are not out yet, but Al Anthony (Ochill) was first home, while the ladies race was won by Eilidh Raistrick (Highland HR). Andy Fallas had another good run finishing 2nd and Stewart Whitlie took 4th place (2nd Vet). Thus, with me not too far behind in 6th as final counter, Carnethy won the team prize.
Konrad Rawlik
10th August 2011
Four in a row for Al at "CaerWetton" Hill Race
Great turnout for the Caerketton Race this evening, last counting event in the Bog and Burn series. 77 turned up for the senior race and 4 for the junior race. Bit of a damp evening but glad to see so many folk out. Al Anthony of Ochils had a pretty comfortable win ahead of the Carnethy duo Konrad Rawlik and Paul Falkner. Al’s sixth win in this event and fourth in a row. Ladies race was won by Sarah O’Neill (HBT) ahead of Charlotte Morgan (U/A) and Eilidh Wardlaw (HBT). Cameron Law of Dunbar Running Club won the Junior race. His 5th win in a row which is equally impressive given he is still only 12!
A number of other Carnethy members made the prizes: Steven Fallon (1st V40), Bruce Smith (2nd V40) and Digby Maass (1st V60).
Stewart Whitlie
Results Photos
9th August 2011
Carnethy dominate at Glenshee 9 - Sun 7th August
Andy Fallas continued his excellent form with victory at the long Glenshee 9 race (which runs over 9 munros around Glenshee). Mark Harris (Fife AC) was second followed by the Carnethy duo of Konrad Rawlik and Stewart Whitlie, third and fourth respectively. Helen Bonsor was third woman (on a dicy ankle). It was a bit wet most of the way but not too bad conditions.
9th August 2011
Lucy in superb form at Devil O' The Highlands - Sat 6th August
Lucy Colquhorn knocked over an hour from the female record at the 43 mile Devil O' the Highlands race on Saturday. She finished 3rd overall in a time of 5hrs 47 mins for the Tyndrum to Fort William race. One interesting competitor was Carnethy's former World Champion (1990), Beverley Redfern, now a super vet and who finished 26th in the 116 strong field so obviously still keeping fit after a long time out of running. Results.
8th August 2011
Borrowdale Fell Race in a kilt - Saturday 6th August

After racking up 100 Scottish hill races I thought it might be good to run an English fell race. I heard Borrowdale was a “Good un” so decided to give it a go. Two other Scottish runners made the trip. Peter Buchanan from Ochil Hill Runners and Tom Bowie from Carnegie Harriers. Tom also ran a PB and got 4th Vet 60 Prize. With over 300 runners there was a great atmosphere. Even better the weather stayed good for us apart from the start. The visibility was very clear for most of the way and there were some great views to take in. A classic race with a lot of challenge. Plenty climbing, scree runs, boulder fields, scrambling, fast descending and boggy bits. Highly recommended, well worth the trip and I will go back.
Neil Campbell
7th August 2011
Fungle Hill Race, Aboyne Highland Games
I was keen to run this popular hill race again, having done so back in 2008. The weather stayed dry despite the rest of Scotland seemingly drowning (Aberdeenshire seems to have its own micro-climate). 81 runners lined up to the strain of pipers and wearing white numbered bibs with, appropriately, 'Cock 'o the North' emblazoned on them, a nod to the many sponsors.
I gathered in the leading group for the first half of the race, which takes runners out of the games arena, across the Dee towards Glen Tanar and up the first of two hills, Craignendinnie by forest trails. I was hanging on to 5th or 6th place at this point, but I know the second hill, Fungle, would see me slip a bit with my less-than-legendary ascending skills. And so it proved. The long, gradual ascent up to Fungle saw me overtaken several times and at the start of the descent I was about 14th. However a fast descent of around 2.5 miles back down Fungle, across the Dee and back into Aboyne saw me gain a couple of places for (I think) a 12th place finish from the 81 starters. A trio of Deeside Runners took the honours at the front.
I was happy enough with my 55.50 for the 6.85miles/1140ft, 6 minutes better than my 2008 time. Some content on the following video, hastily pulled together my brother-in-law (and with apologies to Iron Maiden...)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CP0mK5fCCqI
Mike Lynch
6th Aug 2011
Largo Law Hill Race

5 Carnethies braved the sea of yellow Anster Haddies vests (and some unexplained pinkness) in a record field of 89 for this fairly gentle (terrain wise) 10k cross country race that culminates in the 290m Largo Law. From the road start the race soon goes onto good footpaths with 2 splashy crossings of the river, then through farmland to the Law itself. Having reached the trig point the return is the reverse of the route; the finish replete with water, bags of crisps and jelly sweets. The threatened monsoon held off and we retired to the Crusoe Hotel bar where another inspired arrangement swapped a pint for your race number; an idea that must be recommended to all race organisers.
Paul Faulkner was in 2nd place, and myself 1st MV60 (have to admit - thanks to a small field of 60s). Map Results
Digby
5th Aug 2011
Durty tri - St Mary's Loch, July 30th

Marking my return with an interesting event in the Borders - www.durtytriathlon.com - either short or long and I chose long. If you don't relish the swim choose short. The run is more interesting, climbing up to 1200'. Swimming is my strongest discipline but also the shortest - 20ºC for the swim, unheard of, so those cold plunges in Norwegian snow meltwater were hardly necessary. Wetsuits are optional. Expecting a similar grade to the Glentress Duathlon I found it a tough ride at times. Steep climbs, boggy patches and big vibrations with my rigid forks, admittedly carbon with 29er wheels. It lived up to the name Durty. I at least managed to ride the water splash each time. By the time I started running I knew it would be a crawl and if I beat an hour for the 10km that would be surprising. The last downhill gravity brought me whooping to the final short stretch of road feeling uplifted and well ahead of a couple of guys who had passed me in the crawler lane. It was a hot day and I was grateful for the feed stations on the run.
Great event, similar although smaller in atmosphere to Helvelyn Tri that I did nearly four years ago. Entry fee includes quality technical tee, camping at Tibbieshiels Inn and a ceilidh. Weather helped; a family friendly event. Didn't see any other Carnethies.
2:40, 31st out of 130 finishers. 9th Vet (Pete Baxter 3rd Super vet in Short).
Mark James
4th Aug 2011
North Berwick Law Race - Wed 3rd Aug

Registration takes place in the lifeboat station for the short, evening race of 4.8k (3miles) & 180m of ascent starting at the harbour. Many boats were out racing but the races were cancelled as the haar began to roll in down the Forth. The route from the start is a bit of an obstacle race with the large field funneling between parked cars & up the road to a narrow gateway into the park. After the park is a short road section taking you to the Law. The haar held off for long enough though, on a very warm day which brought out lots of spectators, but giving an interesting air to the top of the Law where a flock of children handed out the proof of ascent - big rubber bands. Road runners suffered on the descent with their slick shoes, but hill runners were flying. Re-entering the town was like entering a stadium with crowds applauding & cheering, a splendid atmosphere. I stand to be corrected on prizes but I think Paul Faulkner was third, HBT newlyweds Craig & Kate 2nd place & 1st woman respectively. Inexplicably no prize for over 60s! (or 50s & 70s for that matter) Results (pdf)
Digby
3rd Aug 2011
Altispeed - Val D’Isere, 17th July
I was supposed to do the Ice Trial whilst we were trekking in the area but the race was the victim of “les mauvais meteo”. So organisers cancelled this years event and gave an option to move to the shorter 32km with 2500m Altispeed race. I finished in 4:51hrs and 36th quite happy with my run given the weather, getting cold and not having run for a bit. Definitely a course suited to UK style fell running and just a shame I’d not had chance to do the long course with its added interest of the glacier / snow running. Area seems to offer some great potential for multi-day outings and classic races. Report
Here’s the link to the website & more photos from this years race.
Matthew Davis
2nd Aug 2011
Monday Arthur's Seat Handicap
On a hot and muggy bank holiday an august crew set off in dribs and drabs, soon to be to dripping sweat as the warmth of the day kicked in.
On his first handicap for a while Bernie was first home, no doubt spurred on by freedom from Marathon training and the prospect of the upcoming Ben race. Tom made a rare appearance, his face the same colour as his pink shirt as he cooked in the gutted haddie. Sam C was a even rarer visitor, on a flying visit back von Deutschland, but his chances weren't helped by turning up with Bruce who was already late and setting straight into the steep climb up to the Crags was a pause. Mike put in another sterling run to record a sub 28 time on a hot day, pulling through most of the field towards the finish but not enough to pip a flying Devoy.
Bernie will no doubt be pleased to know that he can defend his handicap win the Monday after the Ben race. Results
Details of the event on "Other Races/Lunchtime Handicap" page here.
Michael Lamont
30th July 2011
Ben Rinnes 5 tops race

The view from the back.
A lovely summers day; with flies. This is one hard long race and part of the Dufftown highland games. Great fun with stirring pipe bands, tossing the caber and lots of other events. I knew I wasn't particularly race fit and tried to pace myself, though progressive fatigue just meant going slower and slower. I didn't think there were that many runners in the race for so many to overtake. There are 5 climbs over 2 outliers & the main Corbett with 1500m of ascent in all, and 14 miles of running. Although not bad going underfoot there was at least one fall & nasty grazing. At the finish, on tottering legs, it's quite something to do a circuit of the games field with everyone clapping - in sympathy no doubt. Many Carnethies present, and a good scattering of prizes - including myself, 2nd MV60, though I have the feeling there may only have been 2 of us in the running. I don't care, I'm still chuffed!. Map
Report & Results.
Digby
On a day much too hot to race. Stewart Whitlie led a fantastic turnout of 22 Carnethy runners to the team prize at the Scottish Championship race at Ben Rinnes with a great 3rd place (and 1st Over 40), behind Robbie Simpson (Deeside), who broke the record (and won by nearly 10 mins!) and Jethro Lennox (Shettleston).
29th July 2011
Hilary wins KB Lunchtime Handicap - Thurs 28th July.
Hilary Spenceley won the July "last Thursday of the month" lunchtime handicap from Kings Buildings in pouring rain in 29 mins. Her second win in 16 appearances. More details on "Other Races/Lunchtime Handicaps" page here. Results and loads of stats going back to 1983 here. Next race end of August.
29th July 2011
Scottish vest for Andy at Snowdon - Sat 23rd July.
In finishing 31st in 78:03, Andy Fallas helped the Scotland team win gold medals at the Snowdon International race - his second gold medal performance after doing the same at the World Long Distance Mountain Running Champs in Slovenia last month. Results
28th July 2011
Bog & Burn series, Turnhouse race - Wed 27th July

The weather was worthy of the South of France and we dashed off with the sun in our eyes; the only clouds being the flies round our heads. One unlucky soul didn't make it to the start line, falling on warmup and heading to hospital with knee damage. Another unlucky soul post race, (but not a runner) knocked down by a cyclist, fortunately not badly hurt. Sandwiched between, a short hard sprint of 3.25 miles in a loop over the top of Turnhouse hill with 1000ft of ascent, missing the rabbit hole on descent which claimed the foot of a runner last week, down to Burton's Gold Medal Biscuits - a van which has seen better days - then contouring round & down to a flying finish. Map
Results
SHR Bog & Burn Championship
More photos of series on Hill Running Scotland
Digby
21st July 2011
Wednesday training
Willy's ribs having partially mended we decided on an easyish run, taking the scenic route through Inch and past Craigmillar Castle, diving through burgeoning nettle fields and this time finding the school gates open, so no limbo today. Willy & Richard took the easy way back from Duddingston while the rest of us made our way up Arthur's Seat via Whinny Hill on a fine still evening. After a tricky washed out descent to the SW a decision was made to reverse the normal way through Prestonfield golf course and some thrashing in the nettles brought us to the ascent of the wall, easier up than down for Cody who put up a spirited resistance to the latter part of the operation, voicing what can only be described as 'concern'. Our reward was a spectral sighting of a fully clad highlander lounging at the back door of the hotel, sporting an unfeasably large sporran. KB closing early some repaired to the pub; others home to shower. Where we went
Digby
20th July 2011
Allermuir Hill Climb and Sprint - Tuesday 19th July
The new format for the hillclimb suited the runners more than the bikers - Sam Hesling wiped up with a brilliant run of 93 seconds. On a pretty miserable evening a gigantic battle between 6 competitors took place. The scores are shown below. Nobody 'cleared' the course in the mountain bike section. All 6 competitors retired to Bob J's house for sausage (proper ones) casserole, pink lady crumble and a selection of teas (like red bush).
The poor turnout was very much overshadowed by the prizes which featured a pair of lycra shorts, a cycling jersey, pair of road tyres and a shower-proof jacket. We're indebted to Gregor at VELO ECOSSE (EH10 4HJ) for providing these prizes free of charge...
Results
Bob Johnson
20th July 2011
Lee Pen - Saturday 16th July

A slight break in the rain saw a small group of Carnethies join a record field of 46 for the Lee Pen race which forms part of the Gala Week celebrations in Innerleithen. Starting with a half circuit of the football pitch we wove our way up through the houses and wood past St Ronan's Well and on to the hillside for a quick up to the summit and back by the same route. Kate and Craig were suitably dressed for their stag and hen celebration to follow which probably accounted for half the field and all the HBT. We adjourned to the beer tent as the rain returned.
results
Gordon
18th July 2011
Tranter Round - Sat 16th July
Andy Fallas and I had a great day out on Saturday, completing the Tranter round in daylight hours in 14h32. The weather was better than forecast, in that it rained for slightly less than half the time, and we didn't get any thunder or lightning. It certainly kept us cool and made water easy enough to find. Whilst crossing from the Mamores to the Grey Corries, there was even a spot of sunshine and sight of some scenery. We got a glance of the Loch Treig hills (which make up the Ramsay), but didn't regret leaving them out as we were counting on getting our beauty sleep. The cloud made the limited views very atmospheric, particularly those onto the east flank of Carn Mor Dearg, which was riddled with white torrents. Up until the Ben, we'd seen considerably more ptarmigan and frogs than people, so it was rather strange to reach the final summit at 8pm and then have to weave through hundreds of Three-Peakers. The big descent was rather slow down the zig zags, as our knees said no to any thought of taking the race line straight down. Bedraggled euphoria at the finish.
Jon Ascroft
17th July 2011
Clyde Stride 40 Miles Trail Race - Sat 16th July
The Clyde Stride provides the opportunity to race along one of Scotland’s most accessible new pathways. It runs from Glasgow (Partick Railway Station) along the Clyde through Strathclyde Regional Park, the Unesco World Heritage Site at New Lanark, and the Falls of Clyde Nature Reserve to finish adjacent to the Visitor Centre.
14th July 2011
Controversy at Broughton Club Handicap Race - Wed 13th July
There will have to be an inquiry. After some underhand shifting of the start times, that would make even News International blush, the handicapper, Phil Young, broke with all protocol and actually won the race. Last time the handicapper won one of his own handicapped races was back in the days of Willie Mykura (and we all know what happened to him after that ! ).
Cameron Scott had designed a brilliant, very tough (but runnable) circuit and on a superb hot windless evening with views stretching away there was a large turnout. Matteo Tesser and Jonathan Whitehead now lead the series. Photos
Results and Reports
Series results
14th July 2011
Team victory at Maddy Moss Mash Race - Wed 13th July
Carnethy men won the team prize of lots of beer at the Maddy Moss Mash race in the Ochils, but such is their dedication to hard training that they didn't pick it up !
Results
12th July 2011
Lucy takes Bronze at World Ultra Trail Champs - Sat 9th July
Lucy Colquhoun took a superb bronze medal in the IAU World Ultra Trail Championship held in Connemara, on the west coast of Ireland, last Saturday. Full report and results here.
11th July 2011
10 at Kirroughtree - July 9th 2011
The format is pretty simple really. Point your bike in the right direction and ride a 10 mile lap through a variety of tarmac / fire road / single track / muddy rooty madness as many times as possible in 10 hours (actually you have up to 11 hours but I'll not go into the technicalities). If you are in a team then you can swap to keep the legs fresh, and if you are riding solo then you just have to keep on grinding. The course was absolutely excellent with loads of fast flowing singletrack that demanded keeping the hammer down to eek out maximum speed.
This was my first foray into solo mtb racing of this length and a really good exercise in pacing. I think it was the slowest I have ridden in ages as not knocking your pan in is vital, otherwise you risk the fire going out after 4/5/6 hours and dragging yourself through the final laps. Extraordinarily I managed to: 1) not get lost, 2) not get any punctures, 3) avoid dehydration and 4) pace the whole thing pretty well and came in with a pretty respectable 9 laps (90 miles).
Bob J and his Brother (104 Not Out was their team name - can anyone guess the meaning ?) rode a stonker to finish 1st Vets in the pairs category (with 9 laps) and Emily Carroll with two pals won the girls trios (with 7 laps). The official results are not up yet and I know Bob will be adding to this report once they are !!
Bob and I sported our (rather swanky) Carnethy cycling tops and garnered much encouragement from other riders. An awesome weekend away.
Sam Hesling
10th July 2011
1st Lakeland Trails Marathon – Sunday 3rd July 2011

On Sunday 3rd July 2011 there was a Carnethy (Phil Humphries) in the inaugural Lakeland Trails Marathon (42.2Km) race. The marathon started and finished at the school playing fields in Coniston Village. The course was on a variety of terrain, a lot of hard packed gravel , but also rough stony bridleways and paths with only a couple of very short sections ( < 1 mile) on road. The course was undulating with about 2400ft of ascent and not much flat except for the last few miles. The race was billed as the most picturesque marathon in the UK, and I certainly would not dispute that, because the views over Conisiston water towards the fells were absolutely amazing, and the loop around Tarn Hows was simply stunning. It was a hot (20-25 C) virtually cloudless day with no breeze, and surprisingly little shade on route, so it felt sweltering. At 17 miles there was a river to wade through (between waist and thigh depth), because the same council that awarded the race permit had decided to start renovating the bridge 3 days before the race! The weather combined with the rough course (for a marathon) and the occasional water feature made for a much slower pace than for a typical city-marathon (more time to admire the views!). The winner finished in an admirable time of a little over 3 hours. I finished in just under 4 hours (48 out of 383 finishers) – my slowest ever marathon by a good margin! Like many other runners I headed straight for the lake after finishing to cool off the tired legs, and ended up going for a well earned swim. Overall a spectacular route and very well organized, and would appeal to those who fancy the marathon distance amongst hills and not roads.
Phil Humphries
10th July 2011
Brian Marshall makes it 9 in a row at the Glamaig Race - Sat 9th July
Brian Marshall has completely dominated this race in recent years and has now won it every year since 2003. This time it was Andy Fallas's turn to be runner up (getting an unusual occurence for him at the moment!)
Report Results and Photos
7th July 2011
Carnethy Midweek Race - Wed 6th July
Also known as the Carnethy Lite - it was another win for man in form Andy Fallas as he overtook the British Orienteering Champion just before the summit and led to the finish with Paul Faulkner in 3rd place. Al Anthony was there to watch and make sure his course record wasn't broken. Carnethy made up a large proportion of the field but most if not all of the girls were from HBT. It stayed dry but on the cool side with a light wind so running conditions were good. Good performances from Jim, Neil and Harry led me and the rest of the club members back.
Results
Gordon Cameron
7th July 2011
Konrad does a solo Bob Graham Round
"Like Matt I made good use of last weekend's weather window, heading south for a solo/unsupported Bob Graham Round, starting Saturday at around 1am, going in the, nowadays more unusual, anti-clockwise direction and finishing in 21:05hrs in perfect time for an evening pint.
This was probably to be my last opportunity before a planned supported group attempt with some friends later this month, and so, despite still feeling slightly stiff on Wednesday from last weekend's racing, I decided to give the BGR a go in the style which had always held most appeal to me personally - without any great expectations, just to see how I would fare. After an encounter with one particularly drunk para at the Moot Hall threatened to make this one of the shortest BGR attempts on record, I eventually managed to set off into the clear and cool night. The perfect running conditions allowed me to make good progress over the first two sections moving at my own pace rather then keeping to a specific schedule, although I did carry a 23+hrs schedule as an indicator of minimal required effort. By Wasdale the early morning hours were giving way to what was shaping up to be a day of blue skies and light winds. This great weather throughout was most helpful, allowing me to avoid any major navigational mishaps despite not having been on most of the route before, although I did manage to run ~1km past the turning off to Newlands Chaple on the first leg and a few minor questionable route choices at various points throughout the day. The drawback were the rather high temperatures once the sun had come up, which made finding water a major concern and led to me arriving in Threlkeld a wee bit dehydrated. At this point I was over 2:30hrs up on the 23+hrs schedule and looking back now, this meant a sub 20hrs round was just about on. As it was, I was unable to locate an ice cream shop and the disappointment (although I guess the preceding 16+hrs running might have contributed too) led to a marked slow down over the last 3 hills.
Eventually the final descend to Keswick, with stunning views of all the lakeland fells I had visited, red-hued by the sunset, provided a fitting end to a great day out."
There are some photos here
Konrad Rawlik
4th July 2011
Roslin Glen Ladies Run

Ever been led by a man into a place which is a blank white space on the OS map? That's what happened to the Carnethy Women on Monday night. Our run through Roslin Glen started at the original Original Roslin Inn (1660) and then along the River North Esk to Wallace's Cave and Hawthornden Castle. We ran through Hewan Wood and Bilston Wood and then there was this place which is a blank on the map (see third photo). However, the man who took us all there was none other than Willie Gibson, so no worries ;o) The run finished at Willie and Cathi's house where we had a great BBQ. Many thanks to them both for a super evening.
Margaret Forrest
4th July 2011
Matt Davis does a Solo Ramsay

"I did a solo round Friday 1st / Sat 2nd in 23:12hrs. I've been waiting for a weather window to appear (that coincided with me being able to get away) and took the chance, taking a day off work so as not to miss it. As it happened it seems to have been better than originally predicted. I've been over most of it either walking or running before so felt pretty comfortable with the route, the good weather meant I could pick my lines easier given I hadn't reckied it properly and also appreciate the scenery. I made decent time to my schedule mainly I think from my climbing and always seem to have a few minutes in hand to play with. Only problems encountered were losing a contact lens on Stob Ban, Sleep demons at start & Water rationing in middle of Mamores. Other than that it was a great day travelling over the hills."
Matt Davis
Well done Matt and for this fantastic achievement (and only the 2nd solo Carnethy Ramsay round after Mark Higginbottom' last year) he has been added to the "Hall of Fame"!
4th July 2011
Black Rock 5 - Friday 1st July

Six Carnethies made the trip over the Forth to the Black Rock 5 race this year. The sun shone, the Forth shimmered and there was barely a breath of wind in the air - excellent conditions for a trip to the beach for a paddle in the sea! Shane Bouchier, Phil Young, Jim Hardie (me) and new guy Dave Gibson took the train. We spotted fellow Carnethy Lucy Colquhoun mingling on the start line, and I'm sure I spotted another Carnethy vest amongst nearly 700 starters (Jim McWhinnie, from the results). It's a fast race over about 4.5miles, starting next to Kinghorn train station, the route taking us down the road to the harbour, then along the beach, into the sea, wade around a rock, then back the way you came to the Ship Tavern. Despite the heat making things tough, and having to watch your feet on jellyfish-strewn beach, it was an excellent race! Jim Hardie was the first Carnethy home, quickly followed by Lucy, Phil and Jim McWhinnie. Shane sprinted to the line, obviously fit after training for the 7 Hill Race, and Dave Gibson charged up the final hill to complete the Carnethy set.
Williams Bros sponsored this race, so there was a fair amount of alcohol at the finish. The bottle of beer handed to you when crossing the line was definitely welcome in the warm weather, the kegs set-out in the beer garden helped further to soothe any aches from the race. Ross Houston of Central was first guy, Rosie Smith of HBT was the first girl. Unfortunately we were at the chippy while the prizes were being handed out, so we missed who won what. As usual after the Black Rock 5, the last train from Kinghorn was an interesting affair.
So, the Black Rock 5: we seen it, done it and...as you can see from the photo...we got the t-shirt too! Results here (strangely, Dave and I are listed as Unattached). Found some photos here.
Jim Hardie
3rd July 2011
July Sunday Pentlands Run

There were more sheep than people on the Carnethy Pentlands Run this morning. Starting from Redford Loan, we ran through Dreghorn Wood, over the Army Polo Field, under the By-pass and met a large gathering of white woolly runners standing around the Bonaly Burn. My sister and I were clearly too fast for them as we ran up White Hill and over to Capelaw, enjoying fantastic views of the city on the way. From there we headed east to Allermuir, where the views were even better. We skirted passed Windy Door Nick and Byreside Hill to Muilieputchie, where we joined a track running just north of Stotfold Crags, Shearie Knowe and Smithy Cleuch. From there we ran across the field by White Hill Plantation and back home via Dreghorn Wood. A great run!
Margaret Forrest
3rd July 2011
Dollar Hill Race Report - Sat 2nd July
With many of the Carnethy "big guns" choosing to run the Blackrock 5 race on Friday night, it was perhaps not surprising that they had not sobered up in time to make the 2pm start for the Dollar hill race.
Nevertheless, a reasonably large Carnethy contingent was present, including Cameron Scott, Lucy Ascroft, Simon Titmuss, Bruce Smith, Jane Jackson, John Blair-Fish, Neil Gilmore, myself (and others?).
Even though it wasn't a championship race this year, a round 100 set off and completed the course. Conditions were very hot, meaning times (not just mine) were a bit slow this year. Bruce got an excellent 10th and 2nd V40, John BF got 1st V60 and Jane (who has obviously been putting in some secret training) got 2nd V40 lady. NB, the air in Dollar was not actually a strange shade of green (see photo)- as Gordon Cameron wasn't there, we only had a battered old camera phone to provide proof of the team winnings.

Matt Grove.
1st July 2011
Pub 'n' Chips 2011 (aka Willie...will ye put that *!*@?*! video camera away!
We came, we saw, we cantered... 'twas a lovely evening as we gathered at KB for a pint before heading up Blackford Hill, where there were the usual cracking views from the summit. The more sartorially elegant passed the time with a swift discussion on the relative merits of "sports" vs "Top Gun" style sunglasses for running in...but there was only going to be one winner (and, naturally, only one wingman).
Unfortunately our usual meander through the Astlie Ainslie is locked off now, so we took the more direct route through and on to the Merlin, where bike-ridden Andy Millard had arrived before us and got the round in - what a star!
Heading through Morningside, we diverted from the traditional route to nosh our chips outside Bennet's Bar, to the amusement and bemusement of the landlord. A lesser-spotted chip-hoovering Gibson on the prowl forced us all to eat swiftly, then the group split, with some heading for the Wild West film set behind the library (now there's a sentence I've never written before...), and the rest scattering pedestrians with a sprint round the corner to the Waiting Room. Recombined, we made our way onwards and upwards to the Buckstone, where we relaxed on the terrace as the sun slowly sank.
No Pimms this year, but half of us got beer that the barman claimed was "slightly unusual...quite bitter". Vinegary would have been closer to the mark; it would have been better suited to covering our chips earlier - however, a swift change of ale and all was fine. Off we went again, up to the summit of Braids for beautiful views of the Pentlands softly lit by the setting sun, then we made our way to the Stables, where the wee midges weren't so timorous, so it was everyone indoors.
On over Braids golf course, the light wasn't exactly welcoming at the Braidburn Inn, so we headed on to take over one corner of Leslie's for our last drink, before deciding to leave right around the time we got kicked out. A grand evening out - thanks to everyone for coming, hope you enjoyed it, and keep an eye on the Social page for details of the much-discussed "Oktoberfast", hopefully coming soon...
Oz
More reports route(klm)