Lomonds of Fife 17th Aug

It is 11 miles & 3300' of ascent to complete this hill race which covers West Lomond (twice) and East Lomond, forrest tracks, trails and woodland paths with 2 water stations - only one really as you pass it twice, four checkpoints with coloured pens to mark your number and prove you've been there.

Last year this was a championship counter & returned this year as it seemed a good warm up race in the quest for Nevis in three weeks.

From race registration in Strathmiglo village hall it is a two mile walk to the start as this year the surrounding fields/car parks are all under crops. In the end managed to get a lift both ways saving the walk/warm up/cool down.



Race starts in a field close to the Bunnet Stane climbing West Lomond behind, about turn at the top and descend half way down to Checkpoint 1 then contour round towards East Lomond gradually losing height but keep to the sheep tracks if possible to help maintain the pace. After a mile or so of contouring descent you pick up an undualting forrest road for a couple of miles before turning up a narrow trod zig zagging up to CP2 at Maidens Castle.

From Maidens the route picks up forrest roads, tracks and fire breaks as it climbs back up the hill side then a steady run up towards East Lomond & CP3, the last 1/4 mile a plod as it is pretty steep. From here you can see most of the run back to West Lomond apart from the detour to CP4 at what appears to be a large grassy hill, we are told "fort".

From the fort a short slog to regain the track as it gradually climbs up towards West Lomond, again the last 1/4 mile pretty steep.

From West Lomond the fun starts as you go past the trig point, gloves on, then pick up speed on the smooth broad grassy path, ok for a few minutes until you cross a fence for the bumslide , wet grass this year meant you could slide all the way down, had been chasing the runner in front without much luck but managed to catch him as he tried to run down instead of slide, well worth the price of two thistle skelfs.

From the descent gully you run through three fields back to the finish, caught by the guy behind but tucked in and picked him off on the last up through the field to the finish. Finished in just under 2 hours 20 mins an improvement of 20 odd seconds from last year.

A good medium race to try with the the 3300' of ascent split into four which gives you a chance to recover but the undulating paths and tracks are a good test of pacing, get it wrong and you suffer.

Race organised by Lomond Hill Runners with usual Fife post race tea and goody bag with edible contents!

Lossiemouth Aug 08

Sun 3rd to Wed 13th for the annual camping holiday at Silver Sands, Covesea, Lossiemouth. The 2-3 mile long beach great for running but over the years I've noticed running on sand is very tiring and also suffered from sore quads the week after so now I take most runs easy with no real problems.

One lap every day or two and a doubler at the weekend, some hill reps and a tempo run thrown in for fun and each run followed with a swim / body surf in the waves.

Andrews birthday as usual so another camp birthday with party games....pass the parcel, statues etc until they reminded us they were 14 not 4!

Camp show also being disrupted as the children are "too old" and most slots now filled with adults.

Visit to Duffus Castle is a favourite, nice and peaceful and with enough features and info to give a good insight into how they lived, ok if you are the Lord!





Watched the Elgin / Dumbarton league match on Saturday, the Sons getting a draw for their travelling Apache supporters. Weather good with the usual Moray Firth dry/cloud free bubble giving great views of the meteor shower and no real wind for a change either.

Some more photos in the Galleria.

Luss Highland Games Sun 27th July

Scorcher of a day for the annual Highland Gathering in Luss, big schedule of Heavy, Athletic and Cycling events. Two Hill races, one for locals and one for anyone. Entered both as they are relatively short at about 2 & 3 miles, the local race goes half way up & back to the games field the open race goes to the top & back.

6 of us in the local race, a 7th joined in as we started but he was an imposter from the Stirling area. Reached the turning point in 6th place but the imposter got lost on the way down so finished 5th in a new pb of 19:31.

14 of us in the open race, went from 12th to 13th on the climb heat taking its toll. Picked off one on the descent but couldn't see anyone else in front eventually finishing in a slow 35:32 but had gained another 3 or so places to finish about 9th as a few more got lost.

Altough a small event some v good runners taking part in both races, the open event was won by the current Scottish Champion. Watched some of the other events for a while but had to leave as the bar began to look too inviting.

Rosneath Highland Games, Sun 20th July

Having missed the Mull Monsterette yesterday drove to Roseneath after a late night in bar51 for the Parreman Hill Race, a return to the race where I first won money as a runner. About 15 or so started, 7 runners and the rest kids, hopefully the kids would be slower than last year.

Set off with 1 1/2 laps round the track, an extra half lap! Left the games field on the first climb, soon passing the kids. Went from 5th to 2nd as those in front took a slight detour even though the course was marked. Route goes through a delightful cows field taking in the most gloopy bits in true Milburn fashion. From the field its onto a forrest track which winds its way up to the top, back in 5th by the top and then had to re-direct the first 2 onto the correct route.

The run back starts off in what is basically a ditch for the first few hundred yards and your rate of progress depends if you choose the right side, i.e. whether you walk or run, how many times you fall, how much skin exfoliates on the dry stane dyke. As this was my third time you would think I would have learnt!

Out the ditch and back onto the forrest track, not steep enough to catch the guy in front before the gloopy field, then didn't pick the best line through field and only started to catch him on the last steep descent, too short to make up the distance and finished about 50 yards behind in 29:21 for 5th place & £8. Not too bad as only 7 seconds slower than last year but with 1/2 a lap extra.

Lovely sunny, breezy day spent watching hammers, stones, haybales and the like being thrown about, Highland games seem much better when you participate.

Ted Baker Thurs 17th July

6th running of this race, good turn out of 18 runners on a sunny night. Usual staggered start to try to bring everyone home at the same time. Lollipop route, start & finish on the same route with a loop at the top.

Took it steady on the way out staying out of oxygen debt, one runner from our group going ahead on the run through the woods beside the stream. Started to pass runners on the pink path. Kept the effort even and pushed the pace once past the trig point until back in the woods where the slightly steeper downhill lends itself to a bit of a sprint, pop out at the side of Pappert, closing one runner down but never close enough to worry him.

Finished in 44 mins plus much the same as last year but 2 mins outside my best time.

WHW Sat 12th July

After races the last 2 weekends returned to the WHW torture chamber for a 20 mile recovery run. Starting at Drymen set out towards Balmaha and a few miles beyond, target Cashel and then back. About 3800' of ascent.

Set off at an easy pace about 12 min miles or 4 hours, slowed on the up hills and turned in 2 hrs 12. Slower on the way back 2:29 for a 4:41:06 total.

Walked a lot of the uphills and cruised down Conic, not too fast as only had road shoes on, just let gravity do its job. Nice run in perfect running conditions, but about 5 miles too far, preferrence would have been under 4 hours.

Dollar Hill Race Sat 5th July

The race covers 7 hill tops, about 10 miles & 3000' of ascent and starts and finishes in front of the Cricket pavillion at Dollar Academy. Access to the hills is via Dollar Glen with the aptly named Burn of Sorrow to cross before the main climb onto the moor.


Struggled on the initial climb up Saddle Hill to the top of Whitewisp. Once over Whitewisp able to pick up the pace along an easy undulating track to Tarmangie then a blip called Skythorn Hill. A short climb up to Andrew Gannel is followed by a short down and up to the last real hill called King Seat. From here its mainly down hill towards Dollar via another blip called Bank Hill. You then re-join the outward route to cross a happier Burn of Sorrow.

A quick jog through the park, back along the road to Dollar Academy and finish in front of the Cricket Pavillion.

All very civilised with changing and showers followed by tea and home made cakes. A good hill race with plenty of running and no rocky or exposed sections. Found the climbs tough again but was able to pick up the pace elsewhere, surprised to finish in just under 1:55, only 3 mins slower than 2 years ago.

Arrochar Alps Sat 28th June

2nd year in a row for this challenging wee "half marathon", 13 or so miles with about 8000' of ascent and descent. Starts and finishes near the entrance to Glen Loin and spins you round Ben Vorlich & Vane, Beinn Ime & Narnain. Thankfully the main climbs get progressively smaller as you go round, 2500', 2000', 1700', 800'. Each followed by a steep descent of 2000', 1500', 1000' and finishing with a fun 3000' in a couple of miles down Beinn Narnain, and a bit of local knowledge does help. Two cut offs in this years race, 2 hours to Sloy Dam and 3 1/2 hours to Lag Uaine between Vane & Ime.


Field of 44 brave souls, about the same as last year, set off on an easy jog. The field gradually stringing out into single file up Glen Loin. Got to the bottom of Vorlich in 40 minutes for a steady plod up the tourist path, reached the top in another 57 mins leaving only 23 to get to the Sloy dam via the straight down route, took 24 mins but the kind?? marshalls waved us through with a couple of jelly beans.


For some reason it started to get really hard and struggled to the top of Vane in 73 mins leaving it tight to get to Lag Uaine before the time out. On the way down I cut the corner too early and lost about 3 mins scrambling and sliding down bits that were too steep to run. Feeling a bit sorry by this time and ready to chuck it in, but after a chat with the marshall it was all go again.


The climb up Beinn Ime breaks into 2 sections, the first a 900' slog up trackless tussocky ground to the Bealach a Mhaim, a wee seat here before the shorter climb to the summit, steeper but easier going with paths to follow and views opening out as you get nearer the top.


Got lost running off Beinn Ime in the mist last year losing about 15 mins, so I had my bearing prepared (165 deg) in case and just in time the mist closed in again. Bearing worked pretty well taking me down in 17 mins and within sight of the checkpoint Marshalls.


Last climb up Narnain and through a brief break in the clouds spotted the runner in front who I had swapped places with a few times already, he had overtaken me on the climb up Vane, I got ahead on the way down, he overtook me again going up Ime, it was something to work towards. After the previous climbs Narnain is relatively painless apart from the false summits. Reached the top in last place.


Set off off through the Spearhead for the 3000' plummet down to Sucouth, from the top it's a steep scrambly path and soon came across a couple of runners, he had suffered badly and they were walking in to the finish. After a wee chat to see how they were, and after all offers of food, clothes & drink were refused set off in pursuit of the dayglo Carnegie Harrier in front. Soon caught him and he shouted encouragement as I passed by.





Pleased to finish in just over 6 hrs 23 mins, about 25 mins slower than last year. Puzzling splits, all climbs slower, most descents faster. Don't think a couple of runs in Arrochar at the end of May and then a run in the Luss hills was good enough prep.



Super wee race, hopefully with a few more entrants in future.

Pappert Well Sun 22nd June

Chose a short long run for the week before the return to the Arrochar Alps race next Saturday. Despite being just behind the Vale you still get a sense of away from it all and good views as well.

Thoughts this weekend were with JR and his WHW exploits with regular updates by text and on the club website yesterday and through the night as he ran ever closer to his 12th completion. Gave him some encouragement from the Trig point and found out he had made it when I got home, great stuff.

Ran the reverse race route just for a change, some nice muddy bits, even more fun than usual.

Only problem was being Tagged by Davie last week which means I have got some thinking to do, sometime soon.

Ben Sheann Wed 18th June

Short sharp Bog & Burn race, 2 1/2 miles with 1400' of ascent. A bit of a contrast to Jim R's WHW this weekend - good luck Jim, we are all with you on this one. The race starts at the back of Strathyre with a 1 mile 1400' ascent through a forrest, you pop out the trees for the last 100 yards or so before dropping down a rough path at the back of the hill in an anticlockwise loop back into the forrest to join the outward track to the finish.

The uphill is un runnable for all but a few, then you gasp to catch your breath on the way down hopefully recovering some composure for the sprint back through the forrest trail covered in pine needles over mud, big trees and steep drops all round although you don't notice them as you avoid the roots and rocks which appear from nowhere as you run as fast as you dare.

Great views of Loch Lubnaig from the top and surpisingly few of the infamous Strathyre midgies - the small ones have hobnailed boots. Only had to grab one tree for safety and finished this cracking wee race in 37 1/2 minutes.

Ben Lomond Sun 15th June

Missed Durisdeer on Saturday due to car problems, had sent it to convalesce in a garage to no avail. So with Arrochar Alps looming in a couple of weeks went for an easy option on Sunday, Ben Lomond.

Ascent via tourist path, descent via Ptarmigan. First time I had run down the Pt. route for 30 or so years (ouch). Nice and steady on the way up, sunny spells with a cool breeze, just about perfect for running. Passed the remains of a small fire near the top, still warm from the previous night.

After the initial steep drop off the back of Ben L a steady undualting run back to the car park. Good running apart from the narrow path on the lower slopes which meant stop start to pass a few hill walkers. Finished in just under 2 hours 15 then lunch & a Blanc in the Rowardennan Hotel before the drive home.

Cort Ma Law 11th June

Fine night for this bog and burn race, 6 miles & 1700' of ascent, starting above Lennoxtown at Jamie Wright's Well with a steep climb to the Lairs then an undulating run to Cort Ma Law and on to Lecket Hill, a sharp descent into a gully with the climb back out taking you to join the outward route.

Dry conditions meant only sporadic marshes to pick your way through and managed to stay on top of the floating green mush. Only came a cropper when straying too far from the path? into the gulley and found a ditch to lie down in for a second or two just after flying past 3 or 4 runners, they kept to the path but didn't catch me!

Steady plod out the gulley over tussock and muck but managed to pick up the pace after rejoining the outward track. Couldn't quite catch the runner in front but managed to keep the guy behind at bay with a good run in to finish in 62 1/2 mins, PB by 2 mins.

Luss Sun 8th June

With low cloud forecast to start the day & having been to Arrochar the last 2 weeks decided to try a longer than usual Luss Horseshoe, starting up Beinn Dubh and running anti clockwise and avoiding the Glen road after Beinn Eich by going via the hills on the South side of the Glen, about 13 miles and 6000' of ascent.

The 2000' climb up Beinn Dubh was wet and windy as you went into the clouds, the run round the 2 corries dropping just enough to skim under the cloud but still wet and windy. Clouds lifted as forecast during the 1300' plunge over rough ground to Sith Mor revealing the ridge run for the return leg reached by a 1700' foot climb up Doune Hill at 2400' the highest point of the run.

The clouds began to break up on the pleasant undulating run off Doune Hill over Beinn Lochain to the short sharp 500' climb up Beinn Eich, from here it is a 2000'+ descent within 1 1/2 miles back down to Glen Luss at Edentaggart farm.

Now in brilliant sunshine & instead of the usual trudge back down the Glen crossed the road for the 1000'+ climb up Coille-eughain Hill which gives a nice run down towards Loch Lomond through fields and farm tracks. Finished in a steady 4 hrs 29 mins. A couple of pictures in the Galleria taken from Coille-eughain Hill.

Kilpatrick Hill Race Wed 4th June

Big field of 94 runners for this years OK Hill Race, 6 miles & 1400' of ascent, mixture of terrain...road, field, path, sheep track, a few rocky bits but not too many boggy bits this year. Course well marked and marshalled by Westies & MRT.

Decided to have a go at a better time this year, only under the hour once & that was in 2004, other years about 62 to 65 mins. Half mile of road to start, gradual uphill before a steep haul zig zagging up the crags. Running again once on top and over the moor, join the farm track past Loch Humphrey before another trudge through moorland, a bit of effort required to keep running.

The route continues in a clockwise loop on a rough path?? along the side of Greenside reservoir before the short sharp climb up to the trig point at the top of the Slacks in 49 1/2 mins. About a minute too slow to break an hour but push on anyway.

Manage to catch a few on the way down to the crags and then the usual kamikaze flap down to the road for a 1/2 mile cruise to the finish in exactly 61 mins, only beaten this once so quite pleased.

Arrochar Sat 31st May

Another blistering day in the Arrochar Alps, planned an increase from last weeks run from 2 to 3 tops, Vane, Ime & the Cobbler, about 14 miles and 6800' of ascent.

Set off up Glen Loin after 8 at a steady pace, walking the steeper bits to save energy for the mornings bigger bits. Arriving at Corriegrogan bridge in just over 45 mins and a welcome splash in the river, a few minutes later turned up Ben Vane at the 2nd bridge. Spotted what looked like some walkers which gave me a target about half way up and kept up a steady plod till I overtook them, much to their surprise, if only they knew how fast some hill runners can climb.

Sheltered from any wind there were hundreds of long legged insects on the upper section of Vane, thankfully this part always goes in quickly as you have to concentrate on foot and hand holds & soon you are on the top of the knobbles which gives this munro its name. Spectacular views all round and a breeze.

A short break to refuel and a nice easy 25 minute descent to Lag Uaine starting off West then gradually turning South once past the top crags, turned too soon so came through some of the lower crags which slowed things down a bit. Interesting to compare this to last years Arrochar Alps race where the same descent took 16 mins in a pea souper mist.

From Lag Uaine its 1600' up within a mile so no running here, a 57 minute mile later & I'm feeling rather parched but happy to be on top again. A drink and some food before the run down to Bealach a Mhaim and then like a (spit roasted) chicken opted out of the Cobbler and stuck to the path through the glen only stopping to enjoy a few of the waterfalls en route.

Finished in just over 4 hours, about 13 miles & 5700' of ascent, glad that common sense prevailed in giving the Cobbler a miss and the sunstroke which could have been my reward. A few pictures from Ben Vane and a couple from Beinn Ime in the Galleria, and a picture of the Rock as well.

Arrochar Sun 25th May

Set off before 8 for a double munro outing in bright sunshine this morning. Planned route from Succouth straight up Beinn Narnain over the top and down to the Bealach a' Mhaim then up Beinn Ime returning via the Bealach and the path between the Cobbler and Narnain down to Succouth, about 10 miles & 5000' of ascent.

Weather was so good couldn't get the drive to Succouth over quick enough, sun, blue skies and clouds scudding around on the wind. Bonus at the car park, no-one parked at my rock and the parking ticket machine is out of order.

Set off for the climb up Narnain over 3000' in just over 2 miles. Starts with a steep climb up an old cable railway/stream followed by a short plod to where a stream splashes down rock, pick your way through then its up a series of terraces and gullies. Views open up all around as you climb, a few pics in the galeria. You need to use your hands in a couple of places but nothing dangerous and with a final climb up through the Spearhead your on top.

Finally worked out a short route through the boulder field before a pleasant run down to the Bealach. Over the fence and back to a plod up Ime. Doesn't take long to reach the top but the extra 300' or so means it feels a bit cooler than Narnian. Stop to re-fuel and to take a few more pictures sheltering behind the turret cairn.

Good run back down pausing only to take a bearing (165 degrees) to the Bealach for days when the cloud is down, it is surprisingly hard to pick this out in mist.

Ran across to join the new path at the back of the Cobbler and pushed on through the thickening crowds on their way up, thankful that my climbing was over for the day.

Finished in 3 hrs 5 mins, and sat overlooking Loch Long in glorious sunshine for a few minutes before the drive back.

Ben Lomond Sat 10th May

Annual race up and down Scotlands most Southerly Munro, not to be missed. Starts and finishes beside the Rowardennan Hotel with only 7 miles and 3192' of ascent and descent in between. Saturday was warm and you could see the clouds boiling off the summit as you left Gartocharn on the drive up to the race. Rowardennan is very busy with the junior races beforehand and car park chaos ensues but still managed to get one of the last spaces, registered then relaxed in the sun looking towards Tarbet & the Arrochar Alps beyond.

Race briefing....be kind to the hill walkers, race marshalls and keep to the route, and we were off. The breeze at the start disappeared and I was soon drenched from head to toe with sweat, nothing to do with the wedding I was at yesterday of course. Kept a steady pace on without going into oxygen debt and arrived at the top in 74 mins, a few minutes slower than usual.

Stopped at the top for a drink of water then gloves on for the descent. Steady along the summit ridge and jogged off the summit cone before picking up the pace, although still taking it slower than usual on any of the steep rocky sections. Gradually picked off a few runners in front without pushing too hard but legs still feel dead on the flat sections towards the bottom.

36 minute descent to finish in just under 1 hour 50 mins, 10 mins slower than last year. After the obligatory dook in the loch back to the Rowardennan Hotel for soup, roll and a pint in the sun.

Dumyat Wed 7th May

Typical Wed night for this race up and down Dumyat from the grounds of Stirling Uni, perfect conditions clear and sunny, 5 miles and 1250' of ascent. Big field of 250 plus so this is a good one to try if you are new to hill racing with plenty of people in front & behind. With changing in the uni sports centre and showers after a bit woosey compared to normal hill races where it is usually stream, sea or occaisionally a hose!

Started just after 7 and as this was my 1st post Fling race a test to see how well the aches and pains have cleared. Kept it steady on the way up without pushing as hard as usual on this relatively short race, usually sub 50 mins for me.

Got to the top in just under 33 mins and set off down, no real problems but cruised rather than the preferred brain off, brakes off approach. 17:55 down and felt strong but lacking an edge and more cautious than usual. Finished in 50:39.

Left straight after the race, a bit too early to catch the best views of the hills to the North on the road from Stirling to Drymen but still a good night.

Glen Loin Sun 4th May

After a short run up the Stoneymollen on Friday and suffering no great hardship other than sore feet went for a first post Fling long run on Sunday. Glen Loin, ACW, walked to the top then ran the downhill leg back to succouth. Feet find in road shoes so the trail shoes are taking the blame for sore feet & will not be wearing them running again. Hopefully pick up new Swoops from Pete Bland at Ben Lomond on Saturday.

Highland Fling Sat 26th April

Its taken a few days to write this blog as the aches and pains gradually disappear after running the Highland Fling, a short, 53 mile ultra on the West Highland Way from Milngavie to Tyndrum. The route naturally breaks down into 7 to 12 mile chunks which make it less daunting but when joined together have a much bigger impact. The hills which seemed insignificant during training take on a completely different aspect as well.

Thought about a target to complete, the heart said 12 hours but with the training head on, aim to finish and if all goes well 12 1/2 hours might be on.

Registration opened at 5:00 am for the 6:00 am start and the station car park was soon buzzing with runners. Cars to take food & kit for the runers to each of the checkpoints were being loaded up and before we knew it the pre-race brief was underway at 5:50. We lined up in the underpass and at 6:00 the 130 or so brave souls set off.

The first section is the 12 miles to Drymen, relatively flat and breaks down into 7 miles to the Beech Tree Inn plus 5 to Drymen. Ran this really easy but still too quick in under 2 hours even walking all the hills from Gartness into Drymen, the only problem on this section was a runner trying to keep in front who upped the pace when you tried to pass then slowed down again if you eased back, not good tactics for an ultra.

Drymen to Balmaha , a nice run, rolls through a forrestry commssion plantation before a quick up and down over Conic Hill. Still running easy but too quick again particularly Conic Hill.

A short re-fuelling stop at Balmaha, had a rice pudding, energy gel, a banana, probably too much and set off along the road. There followed a dark hour where I had no energy & felt there was no way I could complete this race. Waited to see how I felt at Rowardennan before deciding, luckily?? about an hour out of Balmaha I had a couple of Mike n Ikes (Jelly Beans) & had perked up by the time I arrived at Rowardennan so decided to go on.


I had also decided not too eat so much and go back to my training routine of Aldi energy bars and lucozade sport. The only concession to this was tangerines which I found nice and refreshing.


Rowardennan to Inversnaid, we had ran this a couple of times in training but found it had been changed out of all recognition for the race, all the hills were up, the small hills became mountains & the steep hills became cliffs, as well as that my feet were sore. This section eventually goes down to the lochside and after a few false hopes arrived at the Inversnaid Hotel. Took on some water here it seemed more pallatable than the lucozade.


As we left Inversnaid the sun started to come out, ok so jacket off turned out to be a mistake as I got colder as the wind got up and my pace dropped on the root & rock strewn ground. Jacket back on and the wind dropped and the sun shone. Stepped into every stream and filled my hat with water as a distraction to the sore feet and heat. Mantra for this section was "I Vow to finish this race" - after the Island "I Vow" about 3 miles past Inversnaid.


Arrived at Bein Glas, not particularly happy but positive that I would finish. A quick re fuel and set off at a shuffle at about 3:15pm hoping to finish in nearer 3 than 3 1/2 hours. Every step now painful and the least up hill section made me walk, also adding in a walk every 10 or 15 minutes even on the downhills. Being passed by two or three people didn't help, and after a tough 3 miles through Glen Falloch, Derrydarroch rolled into view. Pushed on and ran for nearly a mile non stop to the A82 underpass.


Enough was enough, and walked the next 2 miles to the forrest at Crianlarich including the "improved" 979 metres, the worst section of the whole route - whoever paid for this upgrade should be shot, worse they have even put up a plaque to advertise it.


From here its 2 or 3 miles of roller coaster hills through a coniferous forrest. Being caught by a few more runners so got the head down and worked hard up the steep hills and even overtook a couple by running hard on the down hills, only one of these would re overtake me later, at this stage of the race that was success. Mantra for this section was "my feet are fine".


As you exit the forrest and re-cross the A82 there are just over 3 miles left. You know this but it still seems to take forever as the route winds its way first of all past the wigwams at Auchtertyre then back across the A82 meandering through a series of undulating footpaths beside rivers and streams. Views of Beinn Dubhchraig and Ben Lui help lift the spirits and run most of this section inluding running all the uphills as this is a new less severe pain.


The route takes you almost past Tyndrum before turning across the river and back up towards the A82, about 20 people about applaud as each poor soul runs in. To add insult to injury they give me 12 hours 35 minutes and 27 seconds, 81st place instead of 80th, 6 seconds of a difference, what a cheek!


Summary of checkpoint distances, splits and race position show a painful slide from Balmaha, the wheels coming off after Inversnaid & no worse than anyone else after Bein Glas.....

Milngavie to Balmaha, 20 miles, 3 hours 21 mins & 55th place

Rowardennan, 27 miles, 5 hrs 13 mins, 57th

Inversnaid, 35 miles, 7 hrs 1 min, 61st

Bein Glas, 42 miles, 9 hrs 13 mins, 81st

Tyndrum, 53 miles, 12 hrs 35 mins 27 secs, 81st (80th!!!)

Drymen to Conic Sat 19th April

Last long run before the next weeks Fling, went for a nice easy 10 mile jog along the WHW from Drymen to Conic hill and back to Drymen. Started at 8:10 probably the same time as we will reach Drymen as the race starts at 6:00 am in Milngavie.

Glorious sunshine with a strong cold wind in exposed parts and views of Loch Lomond to die for. Would have been a perfect day for the hills with cool clear air to refresh the soul but recovery and saving energy is the aim between now and next week.

Bought some energy products for next weeks race, Honey Stinger Gels and Energy Bars and tried one of the gels after the run, surprise it's like honey, a natural low GI source of carbs and also has electrolytes to keep the system working. Not long now.

5 Mile Handicap Thurs 17th April

Annual Club run roon the Vale and as handicapper by default - no-one else is interested - gave myself 33 minutes, 10 seconds slower than last year. No idea how I would fare but decided to run by heart rate rather than the usual eyeballs out and hang on as long as possible. Target was to keep it over 160 bpm and see how it went.

Nearly missed my start time due to an ill timed short warm up and threw off fleece, gloves and tried to start 2 watches all at the same time as the starter said go.

Kept my eye on the HR and soon at 158, tried to keep at the same effort level to let it catchup and sure enough by the next glance it was 162, pushed down the hill past the school and onto the cycle path and tried to keep the effort nice and even relying on the "right" pace to catch those in front.

Jamestown road was into the wind but gradually catching up with 2 or 3 of the runners in front. Caught a stitch and lost some pace while stretching it out but soon back on track and managed to pick a couple off on the run towards Balloch roundabout.

Running back towards the Vale and the HR drops below 160 again as my mind drifts to next weeks Highland Fling race, back to the present and raise the effort levels again and soon back up to 164, closing in on the next runner but footsteps behind as well as the faster runners catch up, one passes along Middleton St try to stay with him but he kicks hard on the way past, relax and keep a steady effort.

Soon back onto the main road towards the Club and push the pace, overtaken but kick and catch him on the line...finish in 33:01, only 11 seconds slower than last year, ave HR 163 bpm.

Balmaha to Rowardennan Sat 12th April

Balmaha to Rowardennan & back, returned to this route after 11 weeks for what is now a short run! Quicker run too, down to 3 hrs 25 from just over 4 hours. Better weather makes a difference as well with a snow capped Ben Lomond gleaming in the sun.

Steady jog / walk now becoming routine and just want to get it over with, however musn't rush the last couple of weeks so plod it out taking note of the 2 main hills on this section.

Camp Sites and car parks busier now with a marked increase in litter. The car parks and surrounding areas are being used by tents and caravans and human waste peeks out from behind the trees, delightful.

Just under 1:40 to Rowardennan and stop for something to eat and a drink. To maximise the recovery make an effort on the way back to walk ALL the hills which takes about 10 mins longer.

Pleasant run apart from the abundant debris - please take it home.

Arrochar Sat 6th April

Longest training run today, 35 miles in all starting with an 11 mile anti clockwise loop round Glen Loin, 2 miles to Ardgarten for the 20 mile loop, acw as well with another 2 miles back to the car park at Succouth, est time 8-9 hours.


Started out in sunshine but wind still v cold meant an early stop to put on thermal top and jacket. We then enjoyed a nice easy run up the Glen, walking all the hills. Beautiful day compared to our previous long runs in wind/rain. Completed Glen Loin in 2 hrs 10 and took the easier low level forrest trail to Ardgarten.


From Ardgarten its a series of climbs up to the top of the Rest & Be Thankful with only short sections to run between the climbs the reward being a long downhill stretch which ends with a mile or so on the road into Lochgoilhead.

The forrest road runs behind Lochgoilhead and undulates down Loch Goil so back to the usual run/walk. A few miles down the side of the loch and we picked up the new cycle path over the Dukes pass, starts with a gentle climb getting steeper as we climb up the hillside. At the top the trail winds its way across what used to be open moor but this is gradually being taken over by confier plantations.

A short break by Corran Lochan before the run back up loch Long side to Ardgarten and another 2 mile run, this time along the road to Succouth.

After Glen Loin it was a a constantly revolving pattern of Sun, rain, snow, hail, sun, a pleasant change from the wind/rain of previous long efforts, 35 miles in 8 hours 20 odd minutes, good to feel the heat in the sun with Primroses lining the paths, Spring is here.

Stoneymollen Thurs 3rd April

15 runners took part in this years club race over Stoneymollen. Weather was kinder to us than last weeks snow, freezing water etc etc. Good to have the opportunity to run off road with the lighter nights. Used the staggered start so that we all finished closer together.

Caught in no pace land, didn't want to push too hard but still hoped for a reasonable time so kept it steady up to the top of the Stoney, then toughish run over waterlogged moors but managed to run most of the hills and even pick up the pace a bit along the top past the trig point and its nearly all down hill form there apart from a couple of wee hills.

The run back down slippy in parts so ran in the heather to the side of the sheep track, harder but faster. Delightful swamp after the style then onto the farmtrack for a blast back to the club. Happy to finish just under 45 mins, about 4 mins slower than last year!

Glen Loin Sun 30th March

First run in Arrochar this year round undulating Glen Loin. Set off anti clockwise in grey damp conditions but the rain stayed away and a weak sun poked its nose out later on the long downhill run back out the Glen.

Managed to run all the hills to make this short outing a bit tougher. Although running on tired legs still felt some energy to spare on the ups and recovery was reasonably quick with only short walking breaks after each hill.

Wore my new bargain inov8 Mist 210 jacket, kept the wind out but a bit damp inside the ripstop nylon. Packs down really small into its own bumbag with room for compass, whistle & waterproof trousers so should come in handy for hill race kit.

Although relatively close to civilisation Glen Loin still supplies a nice sense of away from it all and even better today with the mountains all round covered in snow. Another bonus was in contrast to Fridays run over Stoneymollen managing to keep my feet dry and warm. Mizuno trail shoes feeling more comfortable as well.

About 11 miles in just under 2 hours.

Drymen to Mugdock Sat 22nd March

Wanted to try the first few miles of the Highland Fling route again to work out a run / walk plan. This is the easiest part of the run but too quick here would make for a more painful end.

Set off from Drymen just after 12 and with the wind behind made for easy going, first couple of miles or so are on the road before joining a path along an old railway track. The WHW leaves the railway track just before Duntreath Castle to cross the eastern end of Quinloch Muir to get to Carbeth, past the huts and on to Mugdock Wood, ran all the way including the hills in 1 hour 39.

Took a couple of minutes out to have a drink and and change my burst jacket for a fleece and then set off with a few minutes walking and eating. Again ran all the hills but took a few walking breaks to drink and eat.

It was tough going into the wind to Carbeth and over the exposed Quinloch Muir but once back on the old railway track for a couple of miles past Dumgoyne and more comfortable running sheltered from the wind by trees and bushes. Kept up a steady plod to Gartness before working hard over the last couple of undulating miles on the road. Tired legs brough me back in 1 hour 50.

New Trail shoes ok but burst jacket not, and without a spare fleece it would have been an unpleasant run back. About 20 miles in just under 3 1/2 hours.

Gartocharn Sun 16th March

Short long run planned for this week turned out to be a 13 mile road run. Left from the club up through Balloch Park and out to Gartocharn via Boturich. Took the first right turn in Gatocharn up old school road to go back towards the Horseshoe where we ran down to Ballagan, back through Balloch Park and home.

Ran all the way including the hills and at 2 hrs 15 perhaps the longest non-stop run for a few weeks, a good run but it didn't last very long.

Sallochy to Tyndrum Sat 8th March

Alternative title, mental as anything, 30 mile jaunt from Sallochy Bay to Tyndrum. Wet, wet, wet and windy pushed enthusiasm to the limit. Luckily the forecast was accurate and we had a few sunny spells later mixed in with some rain and hail just to stop us getting too excited. This weeks feeding plan was a cereal bar every 90 mins with nearly 2 litres of lucozade on board as well and a few Mike n Ikes for the bad times.

Why Sallochy Bay? It meant 30 miles to Tyndrum, need you ask?

Settled into the walk up hills run everything else routine and reached Rowardennan in about 40 mins. Conditions pretty miserable but still made Rowardennan to Inversnaid in 1 hr 40. The tough section to Inverarnan next in a couple of minutes over 2 hours. The island is called I Vow. A food stop at Inverarnan for 10 or 15 mins then off to Tyndrum.

1st time I have run this section, 1st few miles are on easy forrest road gently undulating upwards through Glen Falloch. Terrain changes just after Derrydarroch with a roller coaster ride through Forrest, steep ups & downs bad enough at 20 something miles will be slightly more challenging after 40 odd miles. The last few miles although flat seem longer than they should but Tyndrum soon rolls into sight and a nice riverside run and crossing to finish. All in 8 mins shy of 8 hours, seems ok to me.

Bishop Hill Sun 2nd March

1st of this years 4 from 6 SHR Championship, I ran it in 05 when it was last used as one of the counting races. Starts and finishes crossing a ditch with a 20 minute climb and 7 minute descent in between.

Big field meant a bit of elbows out to keep your place on the narrow path zig zagging up, a mixture of jog and walk in time with the gradient and whoever tried to pass. Being a short race pushed on and kept with a few slightly faster runners on the way up and most of the way down apart from the last steep section where I descended like a mouse.

Pleased to finished with a pb ascent & descent by about a minute overall and felt as if I could have gone quicker.

Horseshoe Fri 29th Feb

Long run today to give a recovery day before Bishop Hill on Sunday. Arrived home from work torrential rain/wind, perfect for a run. Looking for about 15 miles and set off on an anti clockwise loop with probably Boturich to get towards 15 miles.

Felt easy on the way out despite running Monday, Tuesday (swim Wed) & Thursday. Wind blew me up the first hill, payback would come later. Turned at the tee junction and the wind soon took my hat away, at least it meant a wee rest getting it back. Passed the turn offs to Gartocharn and straight into the wind, almost came to a halt even though its downhill. Worse to come, running into the wind and uphill, luckily no one saw me.

Took a right at Ballagan much nicer with the wind and rain behind. Turned past the water works onto the Boturich track and hit the wind again as you come out the trees at the top. Mostly down hill from now, so kept a steady pace going and cut into the back of Balloch Park staying within trees and shelter.

Ran home through Argyll and Christie Parks along the way, nearly 15 miles in 2 hours 15 mins+.

Rowardennan to Inverarnan Sat 23rd Feb

Longer than planned run from Rowardennan to Inverarnan and back, about 28 miles, on the WHW. The route splits into four 7 mile sections, Rowardennan to Inversnaid, Inversnaid to Inverarnan, reversed on the way back. Didn't look good standing in Rowardennan car park just after 8am, dull, wet & windy. Aim was to practice race tactics, run down hill & flat, walk the ups.

Set off at an easy pace on the undulating track along side Loch Lomond, turned out to be pleasant running conditions as you are sheltered from the wind and most of the rain by trees. Lots of water in the streams crossing the route on their way into the Loch made for spectacular waterfalls. Some pics in the galleria. A few bedraggled goats as well.

Reached Inversnaid in 97 mins and stopped to refuel. Tough going from Inversnaid to Inverarnan, roots and rocks make it hard work to maintain any pace. Take it a bit easier on the rougher terrain to conserve energy and reach Inverarnan in just uner 2 hours. Only a couple of short sections with no trees where your exposed to the wind and rain. A ten minute refuel in the shelter of a WHW map and turned round for the return to Rowardennan.

Keeping strictly to the walk hills, run flats/downs seems to be working as we reach Inversnaid in the same time, within 20 seconds, as on the way out. No more food left just some Mike n Ikes before the last section and start to feel it in the last couple of miles but keep plodding on, even run the odd hill. Back in 105 mins slightly slower than the way out, to be expected but a bit more food might have helped.

Recover with soup & a roll in the Rowadennan Hotel with the welcome discovery that they sell draught Kronenbourg Blanc. Painful knee and foot and underarm chafeing from the Bingo Wings, but pretty good for almost 7 1/2 hours on the go. The run walk strategy seems to work.

Horseshoe Sun 17th Feb

For the second run of the weekend went round the Horseshoe, anti clock wise with a loop round Balloch Park on the way back. Tired legs kept the pace down and a real struggle the last mile or two, dug in and managed to plod it out but didn't feel right. 12 miles or so in just over 2 hours, and this was an easy week.

Carnethy 5 Sat 16th Feb

Managed to enter online for this from California, lucky as it was full by the time I got home 5 days later, 550 entries. Well organised race to start the year, sports shops on Site, changing/showers, bus to & from the start, tea marquee after the race and a school dinner. All that and 5 hills with 2500' of ascent in 6 miles.

Cold but perfect day, clear skies with only a little wind. Usual charge across the bog with a welcome rest at the queue for the style then a 20 minute plod up Scald Law. Once on top it was a fast undulating run over South black Hill and the East and West Kips. The drop off West Kip tricky in the shade as the sun hadn't thawed the ground. Pleasant cruise to the Howe then the 2nd big climb up Carnethy. A helping hand from one of the many marshalls handing out jelly babies and kendal mint cake meant you were soon out the gully and on your way to the last part of the climb to Carnethy summit.

From Carenthy summit cairn its a plunge down heather clad slopes followed by a 2 minute blast back across the bog. Pleased to finish in 81 1/2 mins when I felt like 85+ at the start. And a school dinner to come.

WHW run Sunday 10th Feb

1st of 3 longer runs planned to cover the remaining parts of the Highland Fling race route, this week Drymen to Milngavie & back, about 23 miles. Early start for 3 of us would mean we should be started for 8:00 am. Cool and calm, a nice day for it. Target was to finish feeling like we could run it again.

Set out across a field, through a knee deep bog in the first 2 minutes - of course, then onto a short road (bad) section past the Pots of Gartness then off road (good) most of the way to Milngavie. Met very few people to start with, lots of awkward gates to pass, thankfully this will be the start of the race so should'nt be too tired to deal with them, initially meet a few walkers and the odd runner, but as we aproached Milngavie the WHW gets pretty crowded. .

Slight detour at Carbeth breaks up the out and back route, soon into Mugdock Park and then Milngavie & the "start". Short break for something to eat & drink and then back on our feet towards Drymen.

On the way back kept up the "jog up the hills, run the flats & downhills" with a few other walking breaks thrown in. Certainly felt the pain in the last few miles, but still ran the road section hills n'all and up through the field to finish in just over 5 hours. Target met?

Kipperoch Sun 3rd Feb

Another late night, this time with a Las Vegas theme, meant no driving on Sunday morning. Set off just after 8 in pursuit of a fellow Millie. Ran through Renton & onto the Kipperoch eventually catching what had been a jogging dot on the horizon.

Ran along the main road through Cardross towards Helensburgh and turned up the Red road. The Red Road undulates up, a good test followed by a delightful route choice after the Black Third farm, turn right past the cow feeding station and the associated slurry. All so that we could experience the last wee steep climb before the track through the woods.

Easy jog back down the Stoneymollen and the favourite trudge along the bypass to Christie Park and home. About 13 miles, 1400' of ascent in 2 1/2 hours.

Whinney Hill Sat 2nd Feb

Club Cross Country race starting with a lap round Balloch Park then out to Whinney Hill and back. A light covering of snow, lots of mud, ice and some wintery sun met the runners.

Last year the course was marked on the Friday & apparently someone moved the markers resulting in several runners going off course, grump & groan. So, this year set off at 8:30 to mark out the course before the 10 o'clock start, beautiful winter morning which turned out to be the best part of the day. Made it back to Balloch Castle just in time for the start, three club runners and five guests.

The lap round the central grassy bit of Balloch Park is where the runners sort themselves out before heading out a narrow walkers path to Whinney Hill. The path loops round overlooking Inchmurrin with views across Loch Lomond to Glens Finlas & Luss. In between is a cracking undulating cross country route where the paths range from hard packed gravel to foot deep icy mud and everything in between with a few tree trunks and roots thrown in for good measure.

Steady on the outward route, more ups than downs give way to a fast mainly downhill run back, with a tough wee climb through the woods and muck to make you work. Slippy underfoot on the way back requires a fair bit of concentration as the pace increases. Then the narrow path back into Balloch Park twists and turns, care required to avoid an early bath in the burn.

Better course marking kept us on the twisting track through the trees back to Balloch Castle and tea, coffee and biscuits. A bit slower this year, all to do with less competition and the early run round to mark out the course...nothing to do with age!

Balmaha to Rowardennan Sun 27th Jan

Ran on the West Highland Way again, this week from Balmaha to Rowardennan and back, started off in a bigger group for the first few miles until we warmed up and then went on at our own pace.

The path runs along side the Loch and criss crosses the road along the way. Two or three short sharp climbs taken at walking pace on the way out. Turned at the Rowardennan pier in 2 hrs 10 mins, and took it easy for the first couple of miles on the way back, same again walking the up hills and running the flat & down hills. Changed to a steady run back, jogged up the hills to finish the 15 miles in 4 hrs 2 mins.

Very scenic run along parts of the loch you don't normally see, would make a nice walk in better weather.

Drymen to Balmaha Sun 20th Jan

Couldn't decide where to go for the 1st long run of the year, slept in so took a short drive to Drymen to tackle the West Highland Way towards Balmaha.

With new (bargain) shoes in luminous white the target was about 3 hours and reached Conic Hill just under 1 1/2 ours so continued down into Balmaha. Met an old workmate and his family on their way up Conic out for a Sunday walk. After a short break about turn for the steep plod back up & over Conic keeping a close but relaxed eye on the variety of dogs sniffing about their Sunday outings.

After Conic its an undulating run back to Drymen, met the WHW girls on the way back and then a v large long blond haired Alsatian barked and growled towards me at pace. Ignored it as best I could as it's owner shouted Marvin, Marvin to little effect. The monster continued straight towards me until the last second where it muzzled past without chomping.

Tired legs kicked in after yesterdays race so kept the legs ticking over for the last 40 minutes, new shoes suitably muddy, 14 miles and about 3000' of ascent in just over 3:20. Couple of pics in the Galeria.

Cross Country Sat 19th Jan

First race of the year and 8 runners turned up for the annual Club race of 2 laps round the Polaroid Industrial Estate, sunny and cool, perfect conditions.

Marking out the course before the race met the Heron again and 6 or 7 Mallard took flight across a sparkling river Leven as I ran along the bank. A few extra trees to cross this year and paths being closed in by bushes suggest less people are using them, oh and came off worst in an argument with a bramble bush, ouch.

Still no stopwatch so it was the HRM again, forgot to set the limits and had 38 minutes of beep, beep, beep, beep, beep. Interesting to compare data from the same race 2 years ago when I was 7 weeks into a marathon training programme, 3 1/2 min slower this year with a HR 4 bpm higher.

Cycle Path Sun 13th Jan

Still in recovery mode after a 3 week New Year layoff and managed to limit the Sunday run to a 8/9 mile 95 minute jog on then banks of the river Leven with a detour round the Polaroid Industrial Estate as a recce for next weeks Cross Country.

Grey and wet, but thankfully not too cold, rewarded with some birdlife on the way, some Oystercatchers skimming the river Leven, 2 Cormorants, a Heron and a comical Shell Duck swimming one way but going in the opposite direction with the current. Nice run with not too much on the road.

Stoneymollen Sun 6th Jan

Chose a nice easy 1st run of the year and 1st run for 3 weeks along past Carman road then up the hill behind the reservoir, through the quarry and along the moor to a descent via Stoneymollen. Jogged along the Vale bypass to the back of Chrsitie Park and home. Feet frozen in the soaking ground on the moors and still a little snow on the tops. Happy new year.

Glen Loin Sun 9th Dec

Some snow in the Vale on Saturday so head off to Arrochar on Sunday morning not knowing what route to expect. Set off up a quiet Glen Loin and pretty soon running in slush then snow. The further up the glen the deeper the snow, feet only a little bit cold until about half way to Corriegrogan where the path was flooded...refreshing.

On up into Corriegrogan and the snow is deeper and starts to slow the pace but manage to keep running to the end of the path. Half walk half scramble 500' up the rough corrie headwall to Beallach a Mhaim @ 2000' using the fence to pull on in the slippery conditions, the wind getting stronger and colder with height.

Jog across towards the Cobbler trying in vain to avoid the ditches and holes hidden by the snow. A path winds its way between Narnain and the Cobbler, the snow on the path gradually being turned back to slush as the walkers grind their way up the steep slopes from Loch Long.

About 11 miles and 3200' of ascent in 3 hours, a tougher than expected run due to the conditions, some pictures in the galleria.

Whinney Hill Sun 2nd Dec

After an elongated Christmas lunch on Saturday a 10:00 am start for a slow jog up to Balloch, through the Park and up the rough path to Whinney hill and a seat overlooking Loch Lomond before an easy run home. No watch but around 2 hours which is about 15 - 20 mins slower than usual.

Balloch Park Sat 1st Dec

Cool, clear, no wind and even a little sun. Perfect conditions for the 1st Club cross country race, 3 laps round a wet and muddy Balloch Park. Steady run, using the heart rate monitior again, this time set to beep as long as > 160 bpm. Average 165 and finished in 36:56. Home, changed and then set out for the club christmas dinner, but that is another story.

Glen Finlas Sun 25th Nov

Set off on a clockwise circuit of Glen Finlas parking at the bottom of the new road and set off up Shantron hill as the sun rose, cold with high broken cloud. Ground soft, wet and as your feet sink in almost every step toes soon like lumps of ice.

Conditions change as you go further up the glen. The wind picks up so you need to keep moving but the ground was frozen, much better as your feet don't sink in and finally get a chance to warm up.

Good views from the top of the Glen where the usual wind gusts down Glen Luss and into Glen Finlas.

Return route means a run through the dreaded peat hags, managed to avoid the worst with a couple of detours and soon on the steep descent past Mulea Plantation. 10 miles with 2900' of ascent in just under 2 3/4 hours. A few pics in the Galleria

Glen Loin Sun 18th Nov

Nice easy run up through Glen Loin and round into Corriegrogan, following the track to climb out at the Beallach a'Mhaim and a run back down the nice? new path to Succouth between Narnain and the Cobbler. Must go up the new path at the back of the Cobbler sometime.

Cloud level about 3000' with enough gaps to see the icing sugar coated peaks of Ben Lomond and the Arrochar Alps. The expected storms failed to materialise with great running conditions, cool and little wind, only windchill evident at the top of the Beallach and only for a few minutes.

Nice and quiet with only a few walkers out and then only on the last mile or so down to Succouth.

Glasgow Uni 5 Miler Sat 17th Nov

Run in and around the Garscube Sports complex this popular end of season 5 mile road race is now a 2 lapper to avoid busy road crossings. Still got a few hills to test you out.

Another HR Race, target not to let HR go below 160, set lower limit at 159 so a beep meant speed up, upper limit 170. Again resisted the urge to go faster and also monitored the HR around the course to get a feel for the effect changes in effort/pace and hills have on HR.

Kept first 1/2 mile or so under 160 then pushed on and HR settled around 162-165. Only other time it dropped below was for a few seconds at the bottom of 2 of the hills on each lap. Also kept max HR under 170, topped out at 172 at the top of the last hill on lap 1.

Finished in 36:08, round about the target of sub 36 mins an ok run.

Stoneymollen Sun 11th Nov

Late night meant a late afternoon jog over Carman, Overton & Bromley moors coming down via Stoneymollen. Just under 1 1/2 hours with Bromley moor & Stoneymollen in the dark so about 10 mins longer than normal. About 8 miles and 1200' of ascent all in.

Eddies 1/2 Marathon Sun 4th Nov

Annual pilgrimage for this end of season 1/2 Marathon in Fort William. Only my third road race of the year and first 1/2 since last years race. Good running weather, cool, not windy and mostly dry.

No great expectations of a good time after the PW at the M10 handicap. Having lost my stopwatch ran using a Heart Rate Monitor and decided to try for 85% of theoretical max which is 153 bpm and should be a nice steady pace which I could hopefully maintain, set the max to 160.

Kept the first mile under 150 and then eased the pace up, next time I looked sitting on 153, HR went up to 156 and down to 151 with the slight hills on the course and gradually picked off a few runners in front to about half way. Each mile covered in just under 8 minutes picking up about a minute over the first 6 miles.

Using the HR helped to avoid the urge to go faster, had to work a bit harder from 8 to 12 miles but managed to keep the even pace going until the last 1/2 mile and then a slight increase, HR up to 162 BPM and kept ahead of runners closing behind. Finished in 1:44:28, 33 seconds under 8 min mile pace.

Beinn Dubh Sun 28th Oct

Beinn Dubh, in Glen Luss, nice easy Sunday run, 7 miles with 2300' of ascent. Surprisingly good weather, Sunny but as usual on this exposed ridge a cold wind with only a couple of sheltered areas to stop for a quick drink. Good views to Ben Lomond and the Arrochar Alps but all topped with clouds. Slippy on the way down Mid Hill especially the lower slopes. Finished with a jog down Glen Luss road.

10 Mile Handicap Sun 14th Oct

Second road race of the year was the Clubs annual 10 mile handicap race round the Horeshoe. Start & finish at the Vale Leisure Centre.

The route goes up to & through Balloch towards Gartocharn turning off at the Ballochmyle & onto the Horseshoe route by Caldarvan station and back down Auchencarroch road to the Vale.

Set off too fast as usual but steadied after a couple of miles around 7 1/2 min mile pace to reach 5 miles in 38 mins. Lost it in the next 2 miles and walked up a couple of the hills before jogging to the finish in a PW of 83 + mins, 9 mins outside handicap time set by me!

Ben Ime Sun 7th Oct

Woken at 7:30 by the sun streaming in, promise of a good day & drove up to Arrochar, changed route about 6 times on the way there but decided to go for max views on the clear day, so Ben Ime it was at 3318' the highest in Arrochar.

New route, started with a clockwise run up Glen Loin and took the faint path towards Lag Uaine just before the disappearing stream . Climbed up below the knarly ridge that leads towards Ben Imes lower top keeping in the sunlight for warmth.

Not much of a path and took my time looking at the views opening up, pushed hard up the steep corrie headwall to the summit ridge as it was cold in the shade, but luckily no wind. Once on the ridge time for a rest and some pictures with spectacular views stretching from Arran to Ben Nevis.

Having found out the hard way that Ben Ime is difficult to run off in the mist picked an easily identifiable rock near the top and followed a bearing down to the Beallach a Mhaim. Seems simple enough and hopefully it will be.

Too slow & tired for any thoughts of a quick detour up the Cobbler, maybe next time, its about 30 years since I have been up there.

New man made path all the way from the back of the Cobbler down to Arrochar makes for a fast descent as long as you can dodge the stream of walkers on their way up.

All in 12 miles and 4000' of ascent in just under 3 1/2 hours, could go quicker but you need to take your time on days like this. Some pix in the Galleria.

Glen Luss Sun 23rd Sept

Anti clockwise run round Glen Luss, 12 miles with 4000 feet of ascent. Delayed write up due to nasty cold.

Starting up Beinn Dubh then along the broad ridge round the 2 corries and over the un-named top before the steep drop down into Sith Mor followed by a stiff climb up to the highest point of the route, Doune Hill @ 2408' . Then a run along the ridge over Beinn Eich before dropping down to the Glen Luss/Mollochan intersection for the 2 mile jog back down Glen Luss.

3 hrs 37 mins which is about 10 mins longer than usual maybe a sign of what was to come the next week.

A few pix in the galleria.

Merrick Sat 15th Sept

Merrick is a 2765' Corbett in Galloway Forrest Park, on the way out the race loops round a few lesser hills, Eschoncan, Bennan, and Benyellary with a run down the Neive of the Spit before joining the hill walkers path for the the short climb up to Merrick.

The return route continues round via the Rig of the Gloon, past Helen's Stone, over the Rig of Loch Enoch, along the Buchan Ridge to Buchan Hill and a last descent by one of the Black Gairy's, sounds very nice but with conditions wet and muddy underfoot a good test with the winner in 1 hr 25 mins, some 5 minutes outside his record set last year.

This was my 5th try at this race and my fourth race in this years SHR Championship which will get me a mug!

The race starts and finishes close to Bruce's Stone in Glentrool and took a slightly longer route than usual on the way out between Bennan and Benyellary, keeping behind the newly repaired dry stane dyke which gave welcome shelter from the wind. Both the tops of Benyellary and Merrick were in mist but with the route marked with hundreds of taped canes it was difficult to go wrong although one or two at the front did manage the odd detour.

Coming off Merrick via the Rig of the Gloon and views of hills and lochs all round made it difficult to concentrate as you dropped out the mist.

Finished in 2 hrs 9 mins for 67th place out of 84 finishers. A few pictures in the Galleria which don't do justice to what is a beautiful forrest in the South of Scotland, home to one of the 7Stanes Mountain Bike Trails.

Stoneymollen Sun 9th Sept

For once common sense prevailed, so it was a short run up behind Carman reservoir, through the quarry and up over the moors to Stoneymollen, a short jog down followed by a run along the bypass grass verge cutting into the back of the Christie Park and back home. About 7 miles in less than an hour and a half and more importantly - most of it off road.

Devils Beeftub Sat Sept 8th

A new race for me, 2 miles with 700' of ascent, the hill running equivalent of a sprint. The race starts about 6 miles north of Moffat, that's 5 miles to Corehead Farm at the end of a single track road then a mile walk to the start. The race is run in and around the Devils Beeftub.

A warm sunny day greeted the 86 runners for one of the 2 short races in the Scottish Hill Runners 2007 Championship. The race starts in the Beeftub bowl and the main climb begins within 50 metres of the start where it's hands and knees up to a monument on the top for an undulating run clockwise round the rim of the Beeftub, first to Annanhead Hill, then a short descent and re-ascent to Great Hill.

From the top of Great Hill its a steeeep descent back into the Beeftub, first part not too bad in that it is grass and ferns but from about half way down the ground is peppered with rocks and stones and staying on your feet becomes more important.

Took the last descent too carefully and lost 7 or 8 places but got 3 back on the short run past the circular sheep pen to the finish.

A good wee race but just too far to consider a regular visit with over 1 1/2 hours drive each way.

Ben nevis Sat 1st Sept

Another go at this classic, 10 miles with 4400' of ascent and descent, straight up and straight down, no fuss or detours just a blast from start to finish.

After a slower run last year hoped to get under 2 1/2 hours, slow by race standards, and my aim was to get to the Red Burn, 2200', in as near to 50 mins as possible then 48 mins to the summit, anything under 52 to the finish would get me in under 2 1/2.

Set off on the usual charge round the sports field and onto achintee road for about a mile leading to the tourist path proper. The route climbs steeper as it winds its way up Glen Nevis on "Melantee" before contouring up and round towards the Red Burn, the only puzzle was which of the many short cuts to take.

For a change reached the Red Burn without feeling as if I needed to lie down until I looked at the watch, just over 53 mins, a bit of a blow but still worth a push to the top. From the Red Burn its straight up the steep rock and scree slopes and it doesn't seem long before the leaders are flying back down.

As you approach the summit more and more runners come past, difficult to avoid as they jump and stumble their chaotic way down.

Reached the top in just over 1 hour 40 mins having clawed back some of the time lost in the first half. To put it in perspective, the 1st 10 were back at the finish before I reached the top.

Handed in my tag to the summit marshalls and headed back over the rocky top at a steady jog, pace increasing as the ground gets steeper through the Field of Cairns, managing to get past a few steady runners before it gets really steep as you pick up the Red Burn.

A new experience this year was being overtaken by a runner doing a somersault on the steepest rockiest part, he spins past and on down the mountain taking out the runner below/in front, a surreal experience in what seems like slow motion, somehow manage to keep my balance, eyes on where my feet could grip as well as the acrobatics.

Luckily both ok and aftere a quick nod took off down hill towards the Green Wall of Death, just as steep but muddy, rock and scree filled grass, a mixture of bumsliding, running, jumping & generally just hope for the best for the last 800' back down to the Tourist Path on Melantee.

Although downhill the Tourist Path is not the best place to run, boulder steps set into the ground to minimise path erosion, greasy, grit covered rocks with more steady runners in front to overtake and walkers climbing up to avoid. Push on as hard as possible on the down slope and soon past the rockiest part with the help of a short cut or two.

To keep the momentum going I try to pick off a few more runners in front for the last 1/2 mile or so of the Tourist Path before the "murder mile" of tarmac called Achintee Road.

Reach the road in 2:22 and some seconds, took me 9 minutes at the start but give it a go and reach Claggan Park with just under a minute under 2 1/2 hours. No way there was going to be a heroic sprint but pushing hard all the way round the park to the finish in 23 seconds over 2 1/2 hours, a PB by some 40 seconds.

Adventure Show TV Cameras there again this year so maybe another 5 seconds of fame!

Next years race is to be part of the Buff Skyrunner Series so entries will be scarce - miss it at your peril.

Whinney Hill Sun 26th Aug

In preparation for Ben Nevis next Saturday went for an easy run through Christie, Argyll & Balloch Park, leaving Balloch Park out the back on the track to Whinney Hill for a seat overlooking Inchmurrin. Reversed the route on the way home, out for just over 96 mins.

Lomonds of Fife Sun 19th Aug

New race for me and one of the 6 races in this years Scottish Hill Runners Championship. The race is over 11 miles and about 3400' of ascent over and around East & West Lomond (WL twice). Not huge hills, West Lomond is just over 1700' and East just under 1400' with a few miles of undulating terrain in between and as they are surrounded by flat ground attracting a glider trying to catch the updraughts.

Championship status means a large field and usually someone to follow in poor visibility, about 130 entrants but good weather as well, bright, cool, with the sun breaking through at the end.


The race started with a run up towards WL across a couple of fields to reach the hill and a walk to the top, the leaders streaming back down past as you toil. About turn at the top and half way back down hang a right for a descending traverse across streep slopes taking you to the start of an undulating forrest track for 2 or 3 miles.

A narrow path on the right was marked for the next climb, a zig zag path / stream through the forrest, just about runnable for me. No time to stop and look at the sign on the old tower as you get to the top of the steep track onto a twisting wet boggy run up and down (mostly up) through trees popping out on a moor 2/3 of the way to East Lomond.

Unusually for a hill race a water station and then a short descent on forrest road before the Climb up EL. A short steep sheep track gives way to a runnable farm track, a mixture of stones and 2 foot deep bogs to cath the unwary. As you approach EL its back onto narrow steeper hill paths, a few minutes effort and you're on top.

The return route to WL via an old Hill Fort (now a square mound of grass) is clear as you start the descent from EL back to the water station where you leave the safety of the farm track and head over tussock and soaking ground to the Fort followed by a strength sapping climb back up to the track. The track winds its way up towards WL and as usual the last climb is v steep with a hang glider about to take off as I reach the top.

The descent of WL is infamous, a runnable 1/4 mile or so then over a fence to the top of a near vertical green slope. No chance of staying upright so sit and slide down at a fair rate. Luckily no thistles on this "path". Its a few minutes before the slope eases and I can stand and run back through the fields to the finish in just over 2 hours 20 mins.

Jogged the mile or two back to Strathmiglo village hall, changed and the usual Fife post race hospitality. Tea, biscuits etc.

Luss Horseshoe Sun 12th Aug

Started off with the usual run up Beinn Dubh and along the broad ridge round the Corries and back down to the top of Glen Luss via mid hill.

Instead of a jog back down the Glen Luss road crossed over and ran up to the saddle between the 2 tops of Coille-eughain Hill, from here ran down towards Loch Lomond over the suitably named paps working a sheep track/path through the head high bracken and tussocks. To finish managed to pick up the path to a small bridge over Luss water which comes out at the bottom of Glen Luss.

All in 9 miles and about 3500' of ascent in just under 3 hours.

Coill-e hill was a nice alternative to the road and also a better workout particularly after 2 weeks of Lossiemouth excess!

Lossie Beach Runs to 9th Aug

On holiday at Lossiemouth and after the Ben Rinnes race had a relaxing fortnight at Silver Sands campsite. A run along the 3 mile beach every couple of days followed by a swim in the N Sea to keep things ticking over. A few pics to follow in the galleria.

Ben Rinnes Sat 28th July

60 runners took part in this years Ben Rinnes 5 Tops Hill Race, 14 miles long with 4900' of ascent. My third attempt at this race run from the Dufftown Highland games. The route goes over Little Conval and Meikle Conval before Ben Rinnes, returning to the games field via the same 2 Convals as on the way out.


Cold wet and windy so chose a long sleeved thermal and light shower jacket to keep the wind off. Target was to get as close as possible to 3 hours which was too optimistic with current fitness and in the wet conditions which had turned the Convals a bit mushy.


Kept it steady to start with hopefully conserving energy for the Convals on the way back. Hit the road after the Convals on the way out in 1 hour and then a 47 minute ascent of Ben Rinnes, descent back to the road in 22 mins, finished in 3:13:49, just over a minute down on previous best.


Good race with plenty of runnable terrain but the cold wind/rain combined with the soft ground made it a bit harder this year. The new path up and down Ben Rinnes probably a bit slower as you have to keep to the zig zags to minimise erosion instead of the usual straight down charge.

Luss Highland Games Sun 22nd July

Luss, 2nd of 3 highland games in a row, this one with 2 hill races, both start & finish with a lap of the track. First the Local event, 2 miles and 500' of ascent going 1/2 way up Cruach Dhubh and back to the games field and then a couple of hours later the Open event, 3 miles and 1000' of ascent all the way up and back.

Last of 4 in the local event but still won a fiver, 17th of 19 in the Open event. Improved my times for both races from last year, not surprising in the Local as took a detour last year! (got lost). Some good runners in this years open event including the current Scottish champion.

Roseneath Highland Games Sun 15th July

Back for this short hill race for the first time since 2003. Hot and sunny and probably shouldn't have run due to rotten cold all week but it's only a short race. Probably about 8 runners and 20 or 30 others with an extra half lap of the games field to start.

Tough little climb once out the games field through cow fields and onto a forrest road for a runnable steady climb to the top of the hill then a fun tussock filled ditch where every time you try to find a firm piece of ground to run on away from the dry stane dyke you fall flat on your face, so you run with your feet as close to the dyke as possible and lean away, oh and the odd tree stump to jump as well.

Out of tussock ditch to rejoin the forrest track then back into muck n stuff through the fields. Back in the games field its half a lap to the finish. Lucky its a short race. Finished 5th or 6th about 30 secs faster than 03.

Whinney Hill Sun 8th July

Late night and still in recovery mode from last weeks AA so an easy run through the Vale parks, Christie, Argyle & Balloch then out the back of BP on the track up to Whinney Hill. Pause for a wee rest & a couple of pics at the seat then a nice run back through the 3 parks.

Beinn Dubh Thurs 5th June

Still in recovery mode and went for a nice easy jog up Beinn Dubh, once on the top ran round Coire na h-Eanachan and down Mid Hill then a jog back down the Glen Luss road. Murdered by midges while changing but still a nice change from the streets of the Vale. About 7 miles with 2500' of ascent.

Arrochar Alps Sat 30th June

Here at last the Arrochar Alps race, 4 munroes, 13 or so miles and 8000' of ascent. Vorlich, Vane, Ime & Narnain with a 3 mile run through Glen Loin to start and 1 1/2 miles of forrest track to finish. The forecast proved accurate, start nice and then cloud/rain to come in as the afternoon went on.

Bagpipes set 44 of us off at 11:00 on the path up through Glen Loin, only thought at this time was to go up Vorlich and back down to the dam within the 2 1/2 hour cut off. Made it to the top of a cloud free Vorlich in 92 mins, good views to the rest of the AA with only minor cloud on the tops.

Took the descent steady in 26 mins so just under 2 hours to the dam with the race marshalls at the dam giving encouragement on the descent via megaphone!! Able to relax now as the only other time out was 5 hours to the valley between Vane & Ime, which should take less than 90 mins.

Set off up Vane in a small group of 4, glad that I had a recce of this section last week as we spread out on our own little routes going up through the maze of crags. Plan was to go almost to the top then skirt round the last big crag to save an up & doon before the stiff climb to the summit ridge. Cut left a crag or two early so a bit more difficult than it could have been but still made time on the 3 others.

Overall 55 min climb to the top of Vane which was by now in thick cloud, visibility about 30 yards at the top. Took the planned 280 degree bearing off Vane to avoid the worst of the crags. The back of Vane is a series of rocky terraces which make for slow going, although a less direct route, starting with a 280 bearing avoids the worst and is runnable.

Reached Lag Uaine checkpoint 16 mins after leaving Vane summit, next the double climb to Ben Ime the highest AA peak. Cloud now down below 2000' which meant the turning point at Glas Beallach was covered by cloud so the route choice for the second part of Ime would be difficult. 2 runners just in front here and 1 just behind, they all went one and way I went another so made for a lonely plod up into the clouds.

Disorientation kicked in near the top of Ime, totally unrecognisable despite the many other times on this route, visibility very poor and nearly gave up 2 or 3 times in the wind, rain and cold but eventually picked up the path about 50 yards from the top and jogged over the top shouting out name and number to the tent bound marshalls.

The path from Ime dissapears soon after the rocky top section, no planned bearing as it should be an easy run down but soon disorientated again as visibility drops to about 20 yards on the featurless run down. Pick up another small path which disappears too soon and then huge rocks and crags loom out the mist.

Stop and try to establish some idea of location, last time I had a problem on this hill I had dropped down too far right so this time turned and climbed back up and along looking for a familiar feature or signs of the path, picked up a stream and followed it down as the gradient had eased to something manageable until a shout of "runner" from the Beallach a Mhaim marshall about 30 yards away brought me and another unseen runner to the style avoiding a painful reascent from Corriegrogan. 33 minute descent so lost 10 or 15 mins, but safe.

Off up Narnain I dropped behind the other runner and he soon dissapeared into the mist ahead, finished over 10 mins ahead of him so did something right. Took a hopeful line and having to work hard now after about 4 1/2 hours was pleased that I managed to pick up the path, tricky climb up through more boulder fields than I remembered to the cheery marshall hiding behind the trig point with a cairry oot.

Pretty horrible conditions on Narnain and after nearly 5 hours a tricky 2 mile descent through crags, bogs, swamps and the dreaded pipeline to come. Possible target to finish under 6 hours came to mind but decided not to look at the watch until off the mountain and back on the forrest track.

Set off through the Spearhead on the steep rocky descent, more scramble than run, not a lot of brake power left in the legs so took it steady, concentration more important than pace. Pushed on where possible and got a boost by coming out the cloud just before I reached the concrete blocks of the dreaded pipeline. Arrochar in sight so few hops and jumps through the blocks and I'd be finished.

Hit the forrest track in 5 hours 48 odd minutes so grit the teeth for a final push back to the start, made it with just over a minute to spare.

Fantastic race which I wasn't sure I could finish. Plenty of food for thought with extremely challenging navigation on what are familiar routes. Luckily the cloud didn't close in until I had cleared the lower slopes of Ben Vane as that would have been rather tricky. Also difficult when the other runners choose different routes especially in poor visibility and you begin to doubt your own choices, but good when you pop out in front.

Feeding plan worked with 1/2 a lucozade pouch at the bottom and top of each hill and a jelly baby every 15 mins on the last 2 climbs.

Splits;
Glen Loin to Vorlich summit 92 mins
Vorlich summit to Sloy Dam 26 mins
Sloy Dam to Vane summit 55 mins
Vane summit to Lag Uaine 16 mins
Lag Uaine to Ime summit 50 mins
Ime summit to Beallach a Mhaim 33 mins
Beallach a Mhaim to Narnain summit 24 mins
Narnain summit to Glen Loin 62 mins
Total 5 hrs 58 mins 40 secs

Ben Vane Sun 24th June

Jogged up Glen Loin for a look at the ascent route up Ben Vane for next weeks Arrochar Alps, easy day so walked all the steep bits. Crossed the dam and took a few pictures of both Vane and Vorlich which are in the Galeria.

New route for me and luckily clouds above the tops to start with. Picked a route, slightly left of the large outcrops immediately above the dam, through crags and streams eventually coming over a small shoulder revealing an obvious route for the upper slopes. Looked too easy so took a bearing of 230 degrees and apart from steep was relatively easy. Clouds closed in on the upper slopes and a bit of rain which kept me comapny all the way back to Succouth.

Didn't fancy a run down Ben Vanes steep tourist path so went over the back into Gleann Uaine, in cloud so tried a 280 bearing to clear the crags and once below the clouds picked a route through the mushy rocky terraces. From Gleann Uaine took another new route out following the stream back to the top of Glen Loin where it disappears down a man made sump.

Ran the track up to the ford at the turning point and then back down the high side of Glen Loin. A bit longer than planned but hopefully more confidence in route choices for next week.

Pappert Well Thurs 21st June

4th race in 8 days so no plans for a fast time just try to keep the edge on for a steady climb on the way out and push the downhill as much as possible on the way back. Threat of thunder and rain made for a warm night. Set off by the bell and soon trailing the other 3 in my section of the staggered start.

Mass confusion on the route so I wonder what would happen on an open hill in the mist?

Worked away on the climb up but caught no-one. Once on the down hill reeled in a few, fourth on time but 6th over the line out of 19 including Buffy the dog. Sore feet, back, legs, moan, grump, groan, but will I go in for the Arrochar Alps on June 30th?

Water, cakes, tablet, tablet, tablet and biscuits to finish, roll on next year.

Cort-Ma-Law Wed 20th June

Bog and Burn 6 mile 1700' of ascent race with lots of Bogs and Burns. Starts from Crow Road Car Park in Campsie Glen behind Lennoxtown and goes up over a couple of unnamed tops before Cort Ma Law, then its another couple of unanmed tops before Lecket Hill then a good downhill run and slog back up to join the outward route and the steep/fast descent to the finish.

In between the tops the track undulates along through streams, tussocks and bogs so you soon realise you don't need lots of steep climbs for a hard race. Fell 3 or 4 times and thigh deep a few more, worked hard after the first climb and passed more than passed me but lost 1 place in the last 50 yards due to an annoying detour at the top of the final descent.

Midgie city before and after the race, more like Ben Sheann than CML.

Glen Rosa Sat 16th June

2nd go in 2 years at this tough Mountain race. Small field of 27 runners, all male, set out at 12 noon on a damp and cloudy day on Arran for the 7 checkpoint, 12 mile 5500' circuit of Glen Rosa. Information at the start was for zero visibility on the Goatfell summits.

Starting and finishing behind Brodick Castle the route takes in Beinn Chliabhain (??), Cir Mhor (Keyr Vore), North Goatfell & Goatfell with the pinnacled Stacach ridge to catch the unwary between the 2 Goatfell summits.

Cloud down to about 1500' so there would be poor visibility on all 4 summits, the leading runner after checkpoint 1 missing the markers for the descent into Coire Daingean instead carrying out a traverse of the spectacular and dangerous A Chir ridge.

The race starts with a nice easy run from Brodick Castle into Glen Rosa and as the view up the Glen opens up to the Saddle at the far end the route goes left up to checkpoint 1 at the top of Beinn Chliabhain, various route options here, and what was good last year wasn't so good this year, too many ferns and much softer going underfoot, lost time and expend too much energy so instead of going for a time it was a beat the cutoffs survival run.

CP1 was difficult to spot in the cloud along the rocky ridge but tag safely handed to the marshall and it was a quick scramble along to the steeep flagged descent into Coire Daingean, the only part of the course to be marked. Tip toe down what feels like a vertical drop - i'm sure its not - and traverse round into the Coire. From here the route contours below A Chir over heather, rocks, hidden streams and bogs, no real path just good luck if you pick up a sheep track or 2. Trick is to stay as high as possible to minimise the re-ascent when you reach Fionn Choire and not use too much energy over the rough ground.

In Fionn Choire its a steady plod to the steps cut in the corrie headwall and up into the clouds as you pick up the ridge path to the top of Cir Mhor, too dangerous for the direct route to the Saddle its back to the steps down into Fionn Coire and another ankle trashing, pathless contour, this time under Cir Mhor round to the Saddle, first part on good! sheep tracks then just good ol heather n bog.

From the Saddle its a nice 1500' or so slog up North Goatfell to the confusing ridge that is the Stacach. The runner 5 mins in front of me eventually finishing 15 minutes behind after, in his words, an epic Stacach traverse. The Stacach was bad enough last year in brilliant sunshine, but in thick cloud a tiring runner needs full concentration to work out a way through this maze covered in rocky pinnacles and cliffs. The path which finally leads you out is like something out of LOR, hidden and sneaky.

Climbed up Goatfell blind, the summit marshalls, only visible in the last few yards, have kindly put a few flags at the start of the descent back down to Brodick Castle without which who knows.

This is a difficult descent at the best of times but after 4 hours of hard effort and concentration all I can say is ouch and the rocky "tourist" path was a good excuse to take it slow. As the TP reaches the forrest the race route splits from the man made path and thankfully goes over softer ground to pick up some forrest tracks back down to Brodick Castle.

Finished in just under 4 hours 20, 22nd place with 2 DNF.

Ben Sheann Wed 13th June

Bein an t-Sidhein, Hill of the Fairy, back to the usual route for this 3 1/2 mile 1400' up and doon race from Strathyre. Bigger field than usual attracted the expected midges and any more than the 2 or 3 minute delay to the start and all that would be left was lots of pairs of trainers. Idea was to take it smoothly to minimise any damage for Glen Rosa on Satrurday.

Thankfully we were soon off scratching along the road before turning up through the forrest for the 1400' in 1 1/2 mile climb, basically a 24 minute power walk, through pine needle, mud and rock strewn sort of path. As you come out the forrest near the top the climb steepens up for the last few minutes.

Straight over the top and down the back of this fierce little hill. The slightly longer return route loops anti-clockwise round and back into the forrest eventually re-joining the outward route. The whole descent is tricky and you are liable to crash most of the way down.

Caught up with the 2 runners in front but the path is too narrow to pass, had a couple of goes but kept pulling back until the 2 in front went slightly left so I went for it only for one of the runners to cut right so took evasive action and ate tree, rock and then mud. A quick check & no evidence of serious damage, so back up and running again but taking it a bit easier.

Finished in just over 36 mins, a few seconds outside previous best, to feed the midges again. Quick "Ben Sheann" change back at the car and off home via the Tesco Express in Calendar.

Glen Luss Sun 10th June

Easy run today with next weeks Glen Rosa in mind, a run in the Luss Hills starting up Beinn Dubh along the ridge past Glen Striddle and the 2 corries, down to the top of Glen Luss via Mid Hill and a jog down Glen Luss to finish.

Took it nice and easy in 2 hours, very warm with a lot of cloud and not much sun.

Calendar Crags Sat 9th June

Back for the race this week on a hot sunny June afternoon. Small field for this friendly race which has been run since 1986. All sorts run the race, with their recyclable numbers printed on material.

Short enough at 3.5 miles too push all the way, probably about a 1.5 mile climb up through the forrest to the top of the Crags and past the cairn commemorating Queen Victorias Jubilee. After the cairn the track undulates along for a hundred or so yards then drops steeply and turns back through some woods, a short 1/2 mile or so on the road then back onto the forrest tracks to the finish.

About 2 1/2 minutes quicker than in the January version. A fun informal race and with the start and finish in Calendar plenty to see and do as well.

Old Kilpatrick Hill Race Wed 6th June

Tired legs for this annual race in the Kilpatricks, perfect night, blue sky and a breeze once up on the hill. Jogged up the road near the back, reached the hill and jog / walked, well mostly walked, up on to the top.


Once on the top its an undulating run across the moor with a short steep drop back onto the track up beside the eastern end of Loch Humphrey, water stop as you rejoin the moor although got told I was not allowed to stop just because I was having a drink, on the moor its up and down over some minor hills and a couple of burns followed by 1/2 a lap of Greenside reservoir, difficult to keep your balance on the narrow path so close to the water.

Away from the reservoir its the last climb up the Slacks, about 300', then downhill all the way, this year crossing the fence by chair instead of a coffee table, don't tell the farmer. Join the outward route for a painful steep descent and then a 1/2 mile cruise down the road to the finish.

Arrochar Alps Sun 3rd June

Missed the long Sunday runs for the past couple of weeks with a bit of a temperature. Cleared up last week however the weather didn't so it was back to Arrochar to try out the stamina and gauge if fit enough for Glen Rosa on the 16th and the Arrochar Alps on the 30th with a few others planned as well.

Low cloud and rain but not much wind & set off through an empty Glen Loin before 8. No fixed plan but once at Corriegrogan decided to try a re-run of the Van, Ime & Narnain if feeling ok. Went up Vane via the tourist path and saw my first Ptarmigan, a speckly grouse with white wings, near the top. Shame there was too much cloud and rain for pictures.

No stopping at the top but managed to pick a good line off for a quick descent in poor visibility. Also lucky as the cloud lifted above 2000' long enough to plan the route to Glas Bheallach between Ben Ime and Ben Chorranach. The plod up to Glas B was a bit wet underfoot. Zig zagged up the steep slope from Glas B up Ben Ime, almost at the top before I found a path.

Straight over the top and down the path towards Bealach a Maim. Lost the path in the clouds as usual and wary of the crags into Glen Loin overcompensate, eventually slow the pace on unfamiliar steeper ground, the only features visible are foaming streams on the other side of the Glen, worked out I was looking at the back of the Cobbler and contour back towards the path before losing too much height.

Cross a soggy Bealach a Maim and back up into the clouds and through the boulder fields to the top of Narnain. Took a couple of pics for the memory before the descent, a tricky 3000' in 2 miles back to Succouth through crags, rocks, swamps and streams with the dreaded concrete blocks to finish. 13 miles and 6500 feet in 4 hrs 40.

Not the Calendar Crags Sat 2nd June

Turned up for this little publicised race and it wasn't on. Ran round with another stray runner from East Kilbride. Much drier underfoot than in January. Hopefully learnt where to put the effort in as we took it easy on the way up and only a couple of minutes slower. Took it easy on the way down as well and about 10 mins slower overall. Maybe try and go back up for the race next week.

Ben Lomond Sat 12th May

The 3 race week ends with this medium blast up and down Scotlands most Southerly Munro. Cloudy with a bit of drizzle but no wind. Care would be required on the rocky parts of the descent.

Set off in the usual calvary charge from outside Rowardennan Hotel and up the tourist path, feeling a bit sluggish after the weeks exertions. Lower slopes look a bit different this year as the forrestry comission are chopping their way through the trees. A bit stop / start up the steeper sections and rocky parts but soon get a steady plod going once on the open hill. Only a couple passed me on the long steep pull off the track up into the cloud, jogging again once on the shoulder going past halfway and manage to pull a couple of places back without too much effort.

Now for the last big climb up to the summit ridge, I can hear someone getting closer but don't look back and try and maintain a steady rhythm picking the easiest route through the rocks. Hit the ridge without being passed and kick start the running dodging the descending runners. A couple of minutes later round the trig point in just 68:40.

Gloves on for the descent, pass the first guy as he fell coming off the summit and back along the summit ridge with nobody in sight to chase. Down the 1st steep drop on the tourist path, still nobody, push on and hear runners ahead, reeling them in on the long run back to halfway. Down the steep grassy slope and cruise past another few, going really well, usually struggle down here.

Through the gate and soon directed off path again more bog and rock here but still manage to pass another couple. Back on to the narrow path for the last section through the rocks and woods, tricky in the greasy conditions.

Pushing hard to catch & pass a couple of runners on the steep bits where I gain but difficult on the narrow twisty path and get caught in the traffic, minor tumble. Managed to pass all but 1 and only end up a few seconds behind him at the finish, PB descent in 31:17 and pleased to finish under 1:40 for the second time.

All in not a bad week, PB at the Stuc and going under 3:30, PB descents in both Dumyat and Ben Lomond.

Dumyat Wed 9th May

2nd & least boggy of the Bog and Burn races. Big turn out of over 250, race starts in the grounds of Stirling Uni and heads onto a track at the back and up through woods to the open hill. The run/walk route undulates up to round the trig point at the top of Dumyat. Steady climb up with a minor refreshing shower at the top and a blast all the way down, mostly softish (good) underfoot with a few rocky outcrops to negotiate. Not expecting too much after last Saturdays Stuc but reaonable climb only 30 secs or so outside best and a best descent by some 20 secs due mainly to chasing a couple of other runners to the line.

Stuc a Chroin Sat 5th May

Back for the 5th time in 6 years for this tough 14 mile race with 5000' of ascent. Apart from the first and last couple of miles, all very rough terrain. A real mountain race over a Corbett and a Munro with steep ascents and descents, a rocky ridge run and rough moorland to cross as well.

Very well organised with 50 odd marshalls on the hill all with water and sweets for the runners, course fully marked as well which is unusual for a hill race. My previous best was 3:45 and the plan was to get as close to 3:30 as possible. So set out with the target of 2 hours to the top of the Stuc and if I get close to that without blowing up give it a go on the way back but saving a bit for the climb back out Glen Ample.

The first couple of miles are on a forrest road which climbs up the valley side from Strathyre then pops out onto the hill through a tunnel of fir trees at Cnap Ardchullarie followed by a scraggy moorland mile climbing past Tom na Moine and Meall Mor before plunging 700' down into Glen Ample. From the bottom of Glen Ample its a tough 1500' climb in about 3/4 of a mile up the Corbett Ben Each. Came off the top of Ben Each feeling unusually good.

Ben Each is connected to the Stuc by a 2 mile long ridge which starts with a steep 500' descent and then undulates along climbing back up 1000' by the top of the 3200' high Stuc a Chroin. This is when you need to dodge the runners ahead who come flying past on their way back. Reached the Stuc summit in 25 seconds over 2 hours so right on target and 12 mins faster than any of my previous attempts at the race.

Set off back down the ridge with a minor tumble, which will not be mentioned, going as fast as possible while trying to retain enough energy for the key climb back out Glen Ample. Luckily the route side steps Ben Each on the return leg cutting down at Bealach Nan Cabar for an ankle trashing as you descend 1000' in a mile running along into Glen Ample. Anyone who thinks running downhill is easier should try this!

Somehow the bottom of Glen Ample seems to have turned into an impossibly gooey mush in the couple of hours since I passed through on the way out. Luckily this only lasts as long as it takes to hit the steep part where the real trouble starts, aches, pains, cramps and the Glen Ample syndrome kicks in (why me, what am I doing here etc etc), swallow an energy gel and plod on to meet the far too cheery marshals at the top, no time to chat as the run back over the moor is not easy on tired legs.

Made it back on to the forrest track in 3 hours 3 mins and just over 2 miles to go with the first half mile of this slightly uphill so ease into a steady run. Once on the down slope push the pace with gravity helping, a quick check of the watch with 50 yards to go and pleasantly surprised 3 hours 21 mins, a 24 minute pb.

Sparkling race (when you have a good one) with organisation which puts most road races to shame. Plenty of race souvenirs to buy, t-shirts, sweat shirts and hats, oh and this year a goody bag as well. You need to prepare to run on the roughest ground for the 1/2 marathon distance but marathon time.

.....and if you have any energy left at night there's a ceildh in the village hall (I've never seen a pint of lager look so good).