The Final Fortnight of London Marathon training has gone to plan. Last Sunday’s 12.5mile run was rewarded on Monday by a rest day but on Tuesday it was back to speed work doing 1mile jog, 10x400m @5k pace and 1mile jog. I was a bit worried that my hamstring might be a problem but there was no cause for concern and I was happy with my session. I was a bit tight for time on Wednesday lunch time, so I settled for 30mins on the power plate at the gym and saved my 6mile run for the evening. Thursday was another evening run with 3miles at Half Marathon pace, sandwiched between 1mile jogs. There seemed to be a lot of runners, particularly female ones, out and about in the South Side of Glasgow, presumably in training for the forthcoming Women’s 10k race.
parkrun 104
Whilst Friday was another rest day, I still rewarded myself by having a few drinks in Sammy Dow’s in the evening. Some bad company resulted in me doing my 104th parkrun in the morning slightly worse for wear. I decided not to risk the drive to Strathclyde Park, where they were celebrating their second birthday, opting for my 89th running of the Pollok Park event instead. My 3mile easy 27mile run ended up being a 5k in 25:03 but no less enjoyable for that. I like to take the time to encourage other runners and thank the marshals for their support, when I am not running flat out.
It was good to chat with some fellow London Marathoners before and after the race, to make some new running buddies and to reconnect with a few old friends too. Some strong coffee and good banter was in order at the Burrell Café before making my way home for a quiet day watching the football and rugby.
Sunday Run
A beautiful Spring Sunday morning and I made my way back to Pollok Park. Mine is usually the only car parked at the local rugby club but there was a woman’s rugby tournament taking place and I was lucky to get a parking place at all. My start was a little delayed as I chatted with Bellahouston Harrier, Ian MacLeod who had just finished his run before I dragged my second day hangover around Pollok and Bellahouston Parks. My Sunday schedule was 10 ‘steady’ miles, which my plan told me means 8:30min/miles. I enjoyed my run and, as usual, saw a few other runners too, including David Mooney and Julie Docherty who were doing a crazy 24mile run!
Just under 85mins later, I warmed down around Cartha Queens Park Rugby playing fields taking in some of the Women’s Rugby before making my way home through the large travelling Hearts support on their way to a successful Hampden Semi Final.
My foot started to hurt after about 55mins and I felt a few niggles too but nothing serious. I’m now looking forward to my London Marathon.
Final Week
Monday’s another rest day, Tuesday 1M jog then 12 x 200m at 5K speed (or 45secs) with 200m (or 1-min) jog recoveries then 1M jog; Wednesday 4M easy (approx 36 mins) with 5 marathon pace 100m strides; Thursday 3M easy (approx 27 mins) with 4 marathon pace 100m strides; Friday: Rest, Saturday 2M easy (approx 18 mins) with 3 marathon pace 100m strides and Sunday….hmm Sunday must be on the next week’s training plan..
Not long now…..I wonder what the weather will be like.
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After learning that I had Plantar Fasciitis, I thought it best that I give running a break and hope that the fibres in my foot would start to heal. I took six days off from running and did a bit of cycling instead. Last Saturday morning I drove to Bishopbriggs and supported those crazy ultra-runners as they made their way along the 56miles between Glasgow and Edinburgh in the G2E Race. Seriously, I have nothing but the utmost of respect for these runners and the amount of training, which they must put in. I took a few photos too. Photos Here
I was planning in doing a cycle in the afternoon but time seemed to slip away and I made the decision to combine a ride with a trip to St Mirren Park and support the Ayrshire Killie. I was amazed to see some 1,113 Killie fans there, although I’m guessing that I was the only one that cycled there and back, a total of 16 miles.
On the way along Paisley Road, I noticed that there was a local Gala day taking place in Barshaw Park and I recalled that there was a MadHatters Fun Run held there at Easter. I had received some medical advice, from a fellow runner, who is also an MD, that short distance running would be good for me, as it would help to stress my plantar, even if it was painful. I searched the Internet and found that the 3k run was being held the following day.
Big Kid!
Although I had a couple of pints on the Saturday night, I wasn’t really in the mood. I guess I don’t feel that I deserve a drink if I’ve not been running.
Sunday morning arrived and I decided to give it a bash. I jumped on the bike and made my way towards Paisley. I passed a group of Glasgow parkrunners on their longer than normal run and against a strong head wind, I arrived at Barshaw Park in time to register for the my first run in over a week.
After the ‘warm up’ I lined up with a wide range of runners, joggers and walkers. We were sheltered in the park from the wind and the morning sunshine provided ideal running conditions. The organisers explained the route of the two-lap course and with a leading cyclist in front we set off at 11am. I wasn’t surprised to see a host of tiny tearaways sprinting away at the start, the exuberance of youth! I knew that the majority of them would soon tire and I had illusions of placing first. I was having mixed feelings about being the first person across the line and I was glad when another adult over took me. It was actually a hard wee course, starting on level ground but then turning right, around part of the duck pond, a further right and we continued our slow ascent before a further right took us up a trail. A left turn and we continued to the highest point, a climb of some 20metres or so. The trail led us back to the tarmac and downhill towards the Start Line for the first time. I was in third place with the other adult and a youngster a good bit in front. I caught up with the young lad in front of me on numerous occasions but every time I reached him, he dug deeper and managed to pull away. I was impressed with his bottle, he just wasn’t for letting me pass. I crossed the Line for the second time and Garmin revealed that the distance had been 1.96miles and my time 13:44. Spot on 7min/miles. Not bad, all things considered.
I congratulated the young lad and the other two and, after receiving my medal, water and Easter Egg, I cheered the other runners home before cycling back to Glasgow with the wind on my back.
Unfortunately my foot was sore after my run but I took advantage of this by having a good gym session on Monday, including some upper body, core and leg work and also some time on the Elliptical and Powerplate machines. On Tuesday I tried a wee 30min run on the treadmill at just faster than marathon pace. I increased the time to 45mins on Wednesday and covered 5.7mile and on Thursday reverted back to my Marathon Training Plan, 1M jog, 4M @ Marathon Pace, 1M jog. Friday was a ‘rest day’ as well as a holiday and I settled for a walk through Queens Park and around Shawlands.
On Saturday I made my way along to Pollok Park to complete my 88th Glasgow parkrun. There was another excellent turnout with some 363 taking part in the 5k, including Killie Harrier Willy Duffy and his sister. My work colleague Ian Dysart and my old foe Graeme Aitken, who has shed a couple of stones in weight in the last few months. A number of my running buddies enquired about my foot and if I was still running London.
It never took me long for me to realise that my foot and leg were hurting and as I approached the cut off point at the end of the first lap, I’ve never been closer to being a ‘did not finish’. However I decided to complete the race instead and actually increased the pace a little in the second lap. A fast finish saw me catching a few runners and I crossed the line in 23:21in 110th position. Full Results
Much of the post race chat centred around the London Marathon and the enthusiasm of those other runners who are participating in the race rubbed off on me. I should really be looking forward to the race but I’m not sure at all that my right foot is up to 26.2miles.
Well Plan B didn't last long. On my first night of my new training schedule, I jogged the mile along to Maxwell Park and then as soon as I increased my pace to start my intervals I felt the strain on my abductor and hamstring muscles. I hobbled home and took an enforced break from running. The good news was that I refreshed my training by doing some cycling and resorting to working on my upper body and abs during the next week.
This meant that I had to postpone my 100th parkrun and had to pull out of the Inverness Half. I managed a 5.5mile run on Thursday though and, with no real adverse affects, decided to run my 100th parkrun on Saturday 10th March.
The wonders of the Internet, social networking and good old-fashioned word of mouth, meant that when I arrived at Pollok Park, I was greeted with one good wish after the other. The acknowledgements continued as I did my warm up and by the time we lined up at the start of my 100th parkrun I was on a real high. However I was wary of my leg and I didn't want to damage it again. I recalled the old running adage: "Don't start like an idiot and don't finish like a wimp."
At 9:30am I set off with another 365 runners, spooky with this being a leap year. I ignored my fellow runners who darted off, whilst I tried to restrain my pace. Despite the large turnout, including some who had came along especially to join me in my centennial canter, some regulars were missing with: holidays, the Inverness Half and the local Jack Crawford 10k all attracting Glasgow parkrunners.
Martin Myant gave me a friendly pack on the back as he overtook me and marshalls and supporters smiled, waved and provided words of support and recognition of my century of runs.
In the race itself, I was a bit surprised to catch Martin up as he is one of the most consistent runners at the event. He did reappear on my shoulder a bit later but he didn't have quite enough to overtake me as I stuck to my task of having a respectable, if not spectacular race. I increased the pace a little in the final third of the 5k event and continued to make my way through the field. I passed in-form Graeme Pert on his way to another PB. With a kilometre to go, I felt my hamstring straining and, for a second, I thought about pulling over and walking for a bit. "Don't finish like a wimp" I reminded myself and stuck to my task. I finished strongly but resisted the temptation to go hell for leather on the last 200m. I didn't want to do anymore damage to my leg and I crossed the line in 66th place with a time of 21:56. I was happy enough with that, my fastest time at Glasgow since November 2011 and almost half a minute faster than my last outing two weeks ago. I shared congratulations with those around me and others in the queue as they waited to hand in their barcodes.
This was my 86th Glasgow parkrun and I've run it in sunshine and in snow, in hail and in rain. I've run at least six different routes in Glasgow and I've finished as high as 14th and with a fastest time of 20:50. I've run it at the end of long run training sessions and I've run it in support of others, encouraging them on their way round. Competitively, I've had some good tussles over the time, not least of all racing against my cousin Kenny Rae on his sole outing.
I've also completed 10 Strathclyde parkruns, on two slightly different routes, in my century of parkruns, placing as high as 12th, with a best time of 20:29. I had the pleasure of acting as a pacer at one of the Strathclyde races, helping fellow runners to complete the course in around 21 minutes. I've had three outings at the Edinburgh parkrun, on three, slightly different Cramond courses. My best Edinburgh place being 30th but my best time there was a PB of 20:19. My single sojorn to Falkirk, saw me placing 44th in the inaugural event, with a time of 23:15, as I commemorated my 100th 5k race by tackling Callendar Park's now infamous Heartbreak Hill. I've made a lot of friends as I've run my 500km through Scotland's parks, some of them were kind enough to help me celebrate my century of canters by joining me in the Burrell Cafe for some cake, chocolates and coffee to mark the occasion after Saturday's events. Thanks to all of you for making each one of the hundred 5k races so special.
Reagan's First One special runner at the Glasgow parkrun on Saturday was Reagan Maliska who was tackling his first 5k to raise funds for The Prince and Princess of Wales Hospice, who had cared for his Grandfather Jack during the last few weeks of his life, which sadly ended in December 2011. The youngster has raised over £1200, so far, for the Hospice and deserves all of
our respect and admiration. Well done Reagan!
I caught another damn cold, when I was out running on Wednesday 28th December, I had hoped to miss the rain showers but unfortunately that was not to be the case and things got worse when the freezing cold wind delivered some hail stones too.My legs were that cold, that they were burning!I struggled out on the Thursday to keep up my Marcothon and again on Friday, when I cut short my steady state run from 12miles to around 8.Things were not looking good for the parkrun on Hogmanay and I struggled around being overtaken by loads to finish in 23:29, the only light being a strong finish, where I just managed to catch Troon’s running farmer, David Etchells.Despite being way short of 100%, I had managed to complete the Marcothon and had run my 68th race of 2011.
After a quiet old year’s night, I was lining up again at Pollok Park for my first race of 2012.I had broken out in a fever during my night’s sleep and was feeling a bit better.This was reflected in my performance, which was a little better, completing the testing 5k in 23:01, a 28 second improvement but still a long way short of where I would like to be. It was also good to exchange new year greetings with some good running buddies.
Although I had taken the decision to concentrate on my Marathon training this year, I just couldn’t resist the temptation to join in with the runners at Lenzie.Well I had a six mile training run to do and there was a 9k race at a cost of £1, with the promise of a cup of hot soup after the run.Wrapped up, against the cold wind, I joined in with over 300 others competing in one or other of the three races.My appearance was not to go unnoticed as the Community Council reported:
Pic by Karen Craig
The 2012 New Year Jog in Lenzie broke all previous records for numbers taking part by about a third. There were 308 entrants split between the short route, the 4.5k route and the two-lap 9k run. The weather was judged to be a significant factor. It was certainly very cold and slightly damp at times, but there was no snow and ice. This was a welcome relief to the organisers, as 2010 Jog was cancelled due to ice on the track and 2011 only went ahead with a route curtailment and after sterling work with shovels and salt on part of it. The event was, as always, a combined effort of Kirkintilloch Olympians running club and Lenzie Community Council. There were many more ‘teams’ this year from as far away as Kilmarnock among other places and Lenzie Rugby Club was also represented.
I had hoped to run around with a group of other runners, who would help to shelter me from the wind and make the session a bit easier than doing it myself.However there didn’t seem to be anyone running at my pace and, particularly in the second lap, I found myself running alone until near the Finish, with only Alex Chatham in sight and no-one within a minute of my tail.My time of 40:14 was fine for a decent training run and once again it was good to meet some running buddies, some of which I hadn't seen since the same event last year.
A great night out at The Ferry with Chris Glen and the Outfit, featuring Gordon Bell on vocals, and I awoke with a stinking hangover to the worst storm that the country has had in a decade.It would be fair to say that my 5k recovery run on Tuesday was one of the slowest I’ve ever done.
Chris and Gordon
Wednesday 3rd January was my first non-running day, since 30th November, as I stuck to my training schedule and had a ‘rest day’.Thursday and I was at Bellahouston Velodrome doing my first track session in almost three years.4x800m reps.
My legs were a bit heavy on Friday, as I ran my 8mile Steady State run, and I was fearful of doms as I made my way to my 93rd parkrun on Saturday.I half decent warm up and I joined a bumper crowd of 358 for the 155th Glasgow parkrun. I was happy enough to take another 15secs off of my New Year’s Day time to complete the 5k in 22:46.A warm down took me to my scheduled 6miles and the end of week 3 of my Marathon Training, only another 15 to go.
As far as racing is concerned I’ve got 13.1mile Steady State runs scheduled for the 19th February and the 11th March, the first date coincides with the Kinloss to Lossiemouth Half, which I might do, whilst the latter coincides with the Inverness Half, which I’ve now registered for.Of course, I’m sure there will be one or two others along the way.
Remember if you wish to sponsor me to raise funds for Scottish MND can you can do so here.
My cold(s) and injury, combined with the terrible weather and demands of my new job had curtailed my running in November. In fact I hadn’t run, cycled or swam since the Movember Run on Sunday, 20 November. This isn’t a disaster as I’ve had a good year and I probably needed a rest before starting my London Marathon Training Schedule on 18 December.
I wasn’t able to do the Marcothon last year as I was in transit between Thailand and Glasgow for over 24 hours and wasn’t able to run whilst flying. The challenge being to run a minimum of 3 miles or 25 mins every day in December. I’m not sure if I agree with the whole Ron Hill concept of running every day, arguing instead that rest is an important part of any training plan. However I had lost my mojo in late November and was prepared to use anything to motivate me to get the trainers on and head out for a run in the dark and wet winter nights of old Glasgow toun. So on Wednesday 1 December, after returning from a meeting at Ayr College, I donned my trainers, leggings, long sleeved vest and gloves and headed out for a slow 3.63 mile run in 32:23. Of course I rewarded myself on Thursday night with a few pints in Sammy Dowe's, where I had the pleasure of chatting with percussionist legend RayWeston after he performed two numbers with host band Independence.
Unassuming Ray Weston @sammys
Friday was a holiday to mark St Andrew’s Day and I headed out for a similar run, although this time I increased the pace for the middle kilometre and completed 3.74 miles in 31:30.
I had wanted to support the Glasgow University Hares andHounds 5 mile race on Saturday but didn’t feel that I was ready for it and settled for the Glasgow parkrun’s third anniversary instead, my 75th . I didn’t want to push myself too much but found myself sandwiched for much of the race between Martin Myant and Killie Women’s captain, Liz McDerment, Bella Harrier Jennifer Clark, having overtaken me at the 3k mark, much to my relief as she was making me work too hard. I took the foot off the gas for the 4th k but increased it slightly in the last kilometre to cross the line in 68th position, with a time of 22:42.
After sharing mutual congratulations with my fellow runners, I introduced, first woman, Paula Wilson to Jennifer, who plays in the band Horse, which Paula is a big fan of and was actually going to see on Saturday night.
A short warm down and I made my way to a packed Burrell to get changed into some dry clothes and enjoy some post race chatting, a hot cup of coffee and some birthday cake. Congratulations to John Gilhooly, who won the men’s annual points league and his female counterpart, who’s name I didn’t catch. In fact I didn’t catch much of, Race Director, Richard Leyton’s speech and I’m sure that I’m not the only one, as although he is a self confessed geek and does a power of work for parkrun, I’m afraid that public speaking is just not one of his strengths.
I would have loved to have gone to Garscube to support the 5 mile racers, or even make the trip to Rugby Park to watch the famous Ayrshire Killie, I thought it was probably better that I headed home for brunch, a hot bath and a well earned siesta.
I had run my third run of December, my 61st race of 2011 and my 87th parkrun and, of course, I have another run tomorrow.
I’ve been suffering with the cold for a wee while now and didn’t manage a race last weekend. I had planned another race free race this weekend, as I wasn’t up to racing the Brampton to Carlisle 10 mile road race, nor the Ayrshire Cross Country Championships. Instead I enjoyed the relatively unusual occurrence of a Friday night out and had a few drinks in Sammy Dows as Kong put on another excellent show. However when I awoke from my stupor at 8:50am on Saturday, I knew that I could, just about, make the 9:30 Start Line for the weekly Glasgow parkrun. A quick wash and I was out the door with my bottle of Lucozade Sport and heading towards Pollok Park. “You’re looking a bit rough” commented a running buddy and he was right, in fact I was probably feeling even worse than I looked. My choice was either to stay in bed and rest, or run and try to sweat the cold and alcohol out of my system. Obviously, I chose the latter.
I coughed, spluttered and spat out phlegm as I struggled around the undulating course, increasing my pace slightly in the second lap to overtake, amongst others, Kilmarnock youngster Alasdair McGhee and Gerry Gallacher of the Scottish Prison Service, on his way to a new PB. I managed to hold off a strong challenge from Alan Bow to place 110th with a time of 23:30 in my 86th parkrun.
Back in the Burrell Café, Gerry and Sarah Whalen asked if I was doing the inaugural Glasgow Mo Running 5k Race on the Sunday. Although I had thought about it, I hadn’t got around to registering and the race site indicated that the event was full.
Mo Running
I was up bright and early on Sunday morning and was looking forward to a decent cycle ride, however the possibility of running my 60th race of 2011 was playing on my mind, so I decided that I would include Glasgow Green as part of my ride and enquire about the possibility of being a ‘late entry’. I met up with Gerry and Sarah as they approached the registration desk and I was pleased when the organisers agreed to accept my £15. A bit expensive but it is for a good cause and the organisers had provided a breakdown of costs on their web site.
It's Not About the Bike
A quick change into running mode and I was just about to chain my bike to the railings when, Race Director, Dave Krangel asked, over the tannoy, if anyone had a bike that he could use to lead the race around the course. I immediately volunteered my bike, gave my bag to Annette Whalen for safe keeping and set about warming up. Although there was an organised session, I prefer to do my own race preparation, which, to be honest, is very much like the pre rugby preparation that I first learned about 40 years ago. Suitable warmed up, I made my way along to the Start line where I joined with Cambuslang’s Shaz Hakeem, a guy from Motherwell AC and another 170 runners and walkers for the 10:30 start. The race started on rather soft grass but it wasn’t long until we were on la terre ferme and following some of the Jog Scotland 5k route.
I was a bit surprised to see so many people pass me in the early stages but I was confident that I would catch at least some of them as the race progressed. Although there were a large number of fun runners, there were still a significant number of decent runners for me to compete against. Again I was coughing, spluttering and spitting phlegm but today my pace was a bit faster. It took almost half of the race for it to settle down and allow me to start targeting runners in front. As I thought he would, Shaz led the race from start to finish. I tried to keep the leading lady, Elodie Bourgault, in sight. Although there was no chance of catching her I did manage to catch a few others especially in the long flat section after the 4k marker. I was slowly catching the two runners immediately in front as we approached the final strait but they both found an extra gear and sprinted towards the Finish. I found a little bit more speed to race across the Line and finish in a watch time of 21:35. I received my goody bag and headed behind a tree for some more coughing and spluttering before rejoining the mutual congratulations. I was advised to return to the Race Directors tent, where I added my race number and received a print out of my gun and ship times as well as my placing. I had finished in 19th position and 1st M50+, with a chip time of 21:32. All things considered, I was more than happy with that.
After his exertions the day before, Gerry had decided to run round with Sarah and they finished 54th and 53rd with chip times of 25:37.
60 Races
A did an interview for quirky young journalist Harriet Brace of the Glasgow Journal before collecting my bag and bicycle and making my way home for a hot shower and well earned brunch. I had run my 60th race of the year, had done quite well and had supported a good cause.
It’s a long journey from Jomtien to Glasgow but it’s one that went as smoothly as possible for me. I’d booked a ‘limousine’ taxi for the 120k journey to Bangkok, which took about 90 minutes and cost 1200 Bhat, or about £24. I thought that I’d got my flight times mixed up when I arrived at the KLM Check-in Desk at 21:30 to discover that there was no queue. Once relieved of my luggage, I made my way to the appropriate Departure Gate, just in time to board the aeroplane. I was pleased to hear that the plane wasn’t full and even more so when I discovered that the adjoining two seats to mine where unoccupied and that I would be able to lie down, after a fashion, and get some shut eye. The process was just as efficient when I reached Amsterdam airport. I made my way to the appropriate Departure Gate, just in time for boarding and a smooth flight to a dark and wet Glasgow, where my brother was waiting at 7:35 to take me home.
The flight had taken its toll though and I was shattered for the rest of the day, I ventured out to Sammie’s, for a wee while, in the evening to see Independence and their regular Thursday night Jam Session. Although the welcome I received was as warm as ever, it was nothing like the “Welcome” that you get when you approach any bar in Thailand.
3K on the Green
I headed down to Glasgow Green on Friday for the second of the 3k Run on the Green Series of Races. It was a beautiful, sunny day, albeit a little cooler than what I was used to recently. It was good to see so many running buddies, many of whom had kept in touch during my holidays through Facebook. My warm up only helped to confirm that I was still shattered and jet lagged but nevertheless I still lined up, with the other 30 runners, under the McLellan Arch for the 12:30 start.
I started near the back of the field and stayed there as my initial pace of 3:44, slipped to 4:08 and then settled into a pace of 4:18, increasing it slightly to 3:54 for the last 0.5k. My time being 12:21, 22 seconds slower than my last outing in February, but I was still happy enough with my performance. I could have worked harder and I could have increased the pace a bit more in the final strait but it wouldn’t have made too much difference. I enjoyed the run and meeting up with so many running buddies, it was also good to meet ex Kilmarnock Harrier, Allison Simpson nee Higgins. The former Commonwealth Game’s athlete was making her return to racing, after retiring through injury three years ago.
After my warm down, I bumped into another Killie Harrier Harald Bartl as I headed to the Winter Gardens with Tom Keenan to sort out the world’s economic woes, over a cup of coffee and slice of carrot cake.
On Saturday morning I made my way along to Pollok Park for my 72nd outing at the Glasgow event and my 84th parkrun. It seemed a lot quieter than usual. I knew that the Big Fun Run was on at 11am and that many club runners would be competing at the Allan Scally Road Relays, later in the day, but it still seemed very quiet. However there was no need for concern as, with around ten minutes to go, the numbers swelled to a healthy 264 runners, including at least four who had raced the previous day’s 3k on the Green.
After my warm up and pre race catch ups I joined the assembled ranks in time for the 9:30am Start. I was right about the lack of some of the regular club runners but despite the attraction of earning some decent points, I decided that I would be taking it relatively easy. I knew that Tom Keenan was looking for a decent run and I noticed that he set off quickly as I trundled down the first part of the course. I kept my eye on him for much of the race and he was looking very determined as he battled it out with Watson Jones around the two lap 5k course. I was content to settle for getting another race under my belt, although I did step it up a bit for the final kilometre and gained a few places to finish 62nd with a time of 22:50. Tom had placed 52nd in 22:31, with Watson two places behind in 22:34. I didn’t realise that Jennifer Clark had used me as a target and had taking 55 seconds off of her previous PB to finish one place and one second behind me, earning runner up spot in the women’s race, with a new PB of 22:51.
As for me, again considering everything, I was happy enough with my run and, as usual, enjoyed the post race coffee and chat.
With its close proximity to my holidays, I had decided not to enter the inaugural Southside Six 16 mile undulating race around six parks in Glasgow’s Sou’side. However I did want to get a decent cycle in before the end of October. I was amazed at the lack of bicycles in Thailand, and I hadn’t been on a bike since 28 September. My initial intention was to do a few miles, get a Sunday newspaper and watch the Great South Run as I enjoyed my brunch before supporting the finishers of the 16 mile race. However I decided to cycle to Queens Park and follow any arrows indicating the route of the race. When I reached Stewarton Road, I looked at my watch and worked out that I could get back to Queens Park just about in time for the Start. I cycled along with the 220 runners to Linn Park and then made my way back to Stewarton Road to provide some more support as the runners exited Rouken Glen Park.
Jenny MacLean
At this stage the main places for the first runners were already settled, with Carnegie’s Andrew Wright having established a significant lead over his closest rival, Grant Baillie of East Kilbride, with Bellahouston Road Runner Bruce Carse in third place. Likewise in the women’s race Edinburgh’s Jennifer MacLean was well ahead of Bellahouston Road Runner, Deborah Gray although at this stage there was a bit of a battle for third spot, with little to choose from between Deb’s club mate Katie Padgham and the evential victor, Giffnock’s Mary McCutcheon.
I then cycled down to Nithsdale Street and guided the runners onto Pollockshaws Road towards the Finish back at Queens Park before peddling to the Finish and enjoying in the post race banter, soup and cakes.
By the time I had stopped off for a paper and reached my home, I had cycled a total of 39.71k, not too bad for my first cycle of the month. My total for the year now stands at 1560k, with a target of 2011. My other targets of swimming 10k, has been achieved (12k to date) and I’m well on course to reach my running target of 2011k, having already run 1920k.
In summary, three great races , which all relied, almost exclusively, on people volunteering their services and doing a heck of a lot of hard work in the background to ensure that the races run smoothly and incident free. My thanks to each and everyone of you!
Work
It was back to work today, after being on annual leave since 28th September, a bit of a shock to the system but all good things etc
I had had a decent week training: including running; cycling and swimming. I’d looked into signing up for swimming lessons with one of the local tri-athlete clubs but had noticed that the minimum ability was to be able to swim four lengths freestyle. Of course, I can swim four lengths, the only problem being that I tend to stop after every one, or sometimes two. So on Wednesday morning, in the pouring rain, I headed to Bellahouston Sports Centre. I entered the 25m pool and swam four lengths, had a wee rest and then did another four. I repeated this until I had completed 16 lengths. I think 400m is about right for a novice tri, so I rewarded myself with a rest in the steam room. Cooled down and did a further four lengths, rewarded myself with a sauna, did another four lengths and then had a relaxing spa before heading homeward.
My knee seemed alright after my swim, so I gave it a test on Thursday, by running 11.8 miles on the treadmill. There was some minor pain but nothing serious, although my hamstrings started to tighten up after my run. Friday was the local September Weekend holiday, what used to be known as the Blackpool Weekend – as bus loads of Glaswegians used to head to the Lancashire resort for their fun. I settled for a seven mile cycle, in an effort to slacken some of the hamstring tightness.
Saturday is parkrun day
Saturday morning arrived and my hamstrings were still tight, so I gave them a massage with some balm that I’d bought in Thailand last year, before making my way to Pollok Park for the Glasgow parkrun.
Although a number of the regular club runners were not participating, as they had the George Cummins Relays in the afternoon, there was still a surprisingly large turnout of some 245 runners. As well as my usual warm up and pre-race chats, I had a wee blether with Smiley Pace’s Charlotte Jenkinson. The Sheffield lass was running the Glasgow course for the first time, whilst I was doing it for the 71st! Well she said that she was from Sheffiled but she'd never heard of Graham Fellows, Jilted John or John Shuttleworth !
My Race
Knowing that the field wasn’t as strong as usual, I made my way to closer to the front than normal. I had decided to try my knee without any support and started more conservative than usual. The 1st k took me 4:22. By the time I was approaching the 2nd K, I was quite happy as I was set to catch Clydesdale’s Watson Jones. It had taken me 4k to catch him last week at Strathclyde Park. However I then heard someone sprinting down the hill and looked on with disbelief as I noticed that it was my old Nemesis, Norman Boyle, who was storming past me. I passed Watson and was surprised to see Norman just ahead of me at the first hill after the glade. He complimented me on my running as I overtook him on the hill. I was focussing on Irvine’s Mike Flinn and Giffnock’s Martin Myant who were both well ahead of me. Mike seemed to find another gear going down towards the glade in the second lap and I saw him pass Martin with relative ease. I stuck to my task, presuming that any slip in my pace would allow Norman to catch me. l passed Ken MacArthur just before the sign for the last 200m and although I caught up with Daniel Robertson, my challenge wasn't enough to beat him but it did help spur him onto a great finish and a PB of 22:19.
I finished in 57th place, with a time of 22:24. Exactly the same time as it had taken me to complete the quicker Strathclyde race the previous week! Mike Flinn placed 44th with 21:46, whilst I ended up surprisingly just four places behind Martin Myant, who had taken 22:08 for the undulating 5k. Watson had placed 60th with 22:39, whilst Norman’s burst of speed had cost him and he placed 68th in 22:47. The Bellahouston Road Runner, being overtaken by rival Harriers William McAllister and Michael Healy, who placed 66th and 67th consecutively, with times of 22:45 and 22:46. Ayrshire lass Marianne Wilson placed 71st in 22:48, with Angela Campbell running yet another PB to finish in 72nd spot with a time of 22:56.
Results
Up at the front of the race, Victoria Park/City of Glasgow’s teenager Ethan Sloan- Dennison crossed the line first in a time of 16:19. Runner-up spot was earned by Sheffield’s Philip Cooper with 16:48, with Giffnock teenager Andrew Clark collecting bronze with a new PB of 17:03.
Youth was also to the fore in the women’s event, where Giffnock’s J14 Chloe Cowan took pride of place with a time of 20:11. In a successful day for Sheffield runners, Charlotte Jenkinson earned silver, in 21:14, with someone who may hail from even further than South Yorkshire, Nataliya Polozhehentseva placing third, with a time of 21:32.
My legs were still a bit tired and sore from Thursday’s Kirkintilloch race, so I had a couple of easy runs over the weekend. I started with my 75th parkrun on Saturday morning, in which I took it nice and slow. I wore my WobblyWilliams TryAthlete vest and started right at the back of the field. I ran round with Bella Harriers: Iain Burke; Mark Paterson and Kristina Greig (who were also having an easy run) for the first lap, before increasing the pace a little for the second half. I placed 135th out of 249 in a time of 26:15. The numbers were down significantly this week as a large number of regulars were running the following day in the Men’s Health 10k.
During post-race coffee and chat in the Burrell Café, I ‘volunteered’ to fill a vacant place in the Bellahouston Harriers team of pacers for the Men’s Health 10k.
I cycled along to Cartha Queens Park Rugby Club on Sunday morning, where I met the other pacers and supporters before warming up and making our way to Bellahouston Park for the 10am Start. I was one of two 55 minute pacers, the other being Derek Shand, and we set off in the second wave of runners, four minutes after the first wave. We were wearing special bright coloured running vests with our times on the back, so that the other runners could easily identify us.
Pacers one and all
We had been instructed that 55 minutes was to be our ‘gun’ time, rather than ‘chip’ time, and that we were to run a little under the 55mins. I started my Garmin as soon as our Start sounded and before I had crossed the blue electronic mats at the Start line. I had Garmin set to Virtual Partner mode and it displayed how much in front or behind the 5:30min/k pace I was at any point.
Pic by Suzanne McMahon
It was a humid morning, and despite taking it relatively easy, the sweat was pouring out of me as we made our way out of the park, up Bellahouston Drive and along Mosspark Boulevard, lined with cheering supporters, and onto Dumbrek Road. As we reached our 3k mark, we cheered leader, and fellow Ayrshire man, David Millar making his way back at the 8k mark and then a little later runner-up, Robert Gilroy. The third runner, Thomas MacDonald, was just coming into sight as we turned right at the water station into Pollok Park. We ran round much of the Glasgow parkrun route before returning to Dumbrek Road and heading back to Bellahouston. We entered the park with 1k to go and a lot of runners, wanting to break 55mins, past by us as we made our way towards the Finish. Bryan Burnett, who had ran the race before resuming his commentating duties, gave me a name check as we entered the final strait. We crossed the line in a time of 54:15. This was slightly faster than what I was aiming at but Garmin also suggested that the route was only 9.92k long.
That said, I am always wary of relying in Garmin when running through a wooded park. I congratulated my fellow pacer and chatted with the other runners as we made our way through the congested post race area to hand in our chip timers and collect our goody bags. After changing into my dry Men's 10k t-shirt, the post race chatting continued with many a running buddy. A number of runners were completing in their first ever 10k, whilst others were returning to gauge their progress, including fellow Kilmarnock Harrier Ian Logan who succeeded in taking more than 10mins off of his inaugural race 12 months ago.
Some of us later made our way back to the Burrell for something to eat and ,of course, some more post race conversation. I managed to cycle home just before the heavy rain came down.
Volunteers
Huge thanks to all concerned and especially the runners, volunteers and supporters who suceeded in making both events so enjoyable.
I decided to have a weekend off from racing and volunteered to take photos and write the report for Saturday's Glasgow parkrun and do a long run on Sunday instead.
There are loads of different runners at the Glasgow parkrun: There’s long ones, short ones, fat ones, thin ones, See how they wriggle when they run.
There are slow ones, fast ones Big fat juicy ones, Eensie weensy squeensy ones, See how they wriggle when they run.
Everybody likes you, nobody hates you I think I’ll do the Glasgow parkrun!
Over three hundred runners and volunteers converged in Pollok Park on Saturday 4 June for the weekly Glasgow parkrun. After the heat of the previous two days, the conditions were a bit more comfortable for running in. This week’s Race Director Alan Dempster assembled the mass of runners at the usual start point, at the top of the Burrell Car Park, and after the usual pre race announcements, the runners were set off at 9:30.
I say ‘runners’ but I mean that in the broadest possible sense, for not only does the parkrun attract some of the best local club runners but it also draws its support from an assortment of: dog walkers; pram pushers; first time runners (some 27 this week); casual runners and even those in fancy dress. This eclectic mixture of participants doesn’t seem to deter from anyone’s individual goals as the field soon opens up and allows participants to run, or walk, their way around the two lap, undulating course.
Pharmacist Andrea YOKER making her third appearance at the weekly, free, event, said:
“It’s a brilliant event, run in a great atmosphere and around such an interesting course. Unfortunately I have to work every second Saturday but I’ll be back in a fortnight.”
Andrea placed 217th overall and 56th woman. Further up the field, Suzanne MCMAHON (VW40-44) of Bellahouston Harriers won for the eighth time, taken 20:01 to complete the 5k course. However the battle of the day was between Hilary ROBINSON (VW40-44) and Clare MACAULAY, (SW30-34) who competed for second and third place, with ROBINSON just holding off the challenge from MACAULAY as they both crossed the line in a time of 21:02.
In the men’s event Cambuslang’s Iain MACCORQUODALE (SM25-29) breezed to victory for the first time, taken 16:37 to complete the testing course, some 70 seconds ahead of Garscube’s David Ian ROBERTSON (VM45-49). Stuart MACDOUGALL (SM25-29) of Greens Health & Fitness RC placed third in a time of 17:52.
Wava
In the Age Graded competition, Margaret CARGEY recorded a performance of 84.06%
Points
In the points competition John GILHOOLY has a lead of 56 points over second placed Alastair John MACLACHLAN.
Suzanne REID leads Laura RITCHIE by 514 in the ladies competition.
One look at the weather forecast for Saturday 28 May, predicting heavy rain and gale force winds, was enough for me to cancel my plans to drive to Edinburgh and run in my first ever 5000m track race. Instead I went for the easy option and decided to run my 95th 5k instead.
Going through the motions......pic by Scott.Rutherford
I joined with 336 other participants, including fellow Kilmarnock Harrier William Duffy, in a tree strewn Pollok Park. Well done to the Park Staff for managing to clear the paths in time for the event after the strong winds of last week had taken their toll. At 9:32 we were on our way heading downhill alongside the Burrell Car Park. I had warmed up and stretched well in preparation for my race, however after about 300m, I could tell it just wasn’t going to be my day. I felt shattered and legs felt tired, I actually felt like quitting and given myself a rest. However I reminded myself that it’s only a 5k and kept plodding away. I was surprised when Garmin indicated 4:16 for the first kilometre, as I felt that I was running much slower. There were one or two weel kent faces not too far in front, including Martin Myant, so I must have been doing OK. However as the race progressed the gap increased and I found myself struggling a bit.
Garmin revealed that my 3rd k had taken 4:45 and, although I know it’s inaccurate in the woods, it was enough to give me some incentive to increase the pace. Martin was a good bit in front and about nine places ahead. I set myself the target of decreasing the number of runners between us. By the time that we were hurling ourselves down the final strait, I was just one place behind him. However a youngster, Lewis Ramage, appeared from nowhere and sprinted past me at an unbelievable speed.
Martin placed 72nd with a time of 22:03, Lewis was 73rd in 22:04 and I was 74th in 22:06. Willie Duff had placed 59th in 20:21.
I had a quick look into the assembled 366 other runners, to see if I recognised anyone who may appreciate a pacer before taking my place.I couldn’t see anyone who fitted the bill, so instead I decided that I would start off as usual before slowing down and then speeding up for the final kilometre.
I ran the first kilometre in 4:16 and then settled down to average 4:37 for the next 3k. I increased the pace as I turned left at the Glade and completed the last kilometre in 4:09.Richard Leyton was one of a number that I overtook as I stepped up a gear but fair play to the man behind the Glasgow parkrun, as he came back in the final strait to pip me just before the line.However I was happy with my run and my time of 22:15.
After a warm down it was back to the Burrell for the post race coffee and chat.My table also ‘volunteered’ to sort the 367 tokens back into numerical order.One of the many vital activities which usually go unnoticed in the background but all help ensure that the event runs smoothly on the day and remains the success that it has undoubtedly become.
I ran the Glasgow parkrun #122 on Saturday. My target was to improve on last week’s time of 21:48. I started off fairly cautiously and was just behind Erica Christie for the first kilometre or so. I overtook her on the right and increased the speed a bit before turning left into the woods and the first hill. I noticed fellow Killie fan, Stephen Jones and his wife Caroline, both adorned in their blue Maryhill Harriers vests, in front of me. I managed to narrowly beat both of them at the Marymass 10k last year, when I PB’d with 42:30. However since then I’ve noticed both their times have been improving. Stephen has run a 41:54 10k and Caroline isn’t that far behind having timed 42:11. It wasn’t that long until I had lost sight of Stephen and Caroline was but a dot in the distance.
Encouraged by the shouts of encouragement by the merry band of marshals and supporters, who help to make the parkrun such a success, I kept to my task of trying to run faster than last week. I increased the pace in the second lap, with Caroline some eight or nine places ahead and started to reel in, one by one, the runners in front of me. I always used to struggle on the hills but not so often these days and it gives me so much confidence when I overtake people on them. At the top of the last hill there were still a few people between us but by the time we reached the final 200m downhill section, I was only two places behind. I thought for a moment that I might catch her but it wasn’t to be and she finished with a time of 21:20, with me two seconds behind in 62nd place out of 400.
As we congratulated each other, Stephen appeared from the bushes. He had run a great time of 20:23 but had been rewarded with a bout of vomiting. I guess that can happen if you really push yourself. Garmin revealed that my Heart Rate had increased throughout the 5k and had averaged 155.
I was happy to have taken 26 seconds off of last week’s time. In all of my 63 Glasgow parkruns, I’ve only completed four of them quicker than on Saturday. However there is still a lot of room for improvement.
Race Results
As far as the elites were concerned there were some great performances and PBs from both the local Bellahouston Clubs, who between them claimed 9 of the top 15 places. First over the line was Westerlands’ Niall McAlinden, with a PB of 16:39, followed by the first of the Bella’s, Road Runner Liam Conway in 17:16. Greenock’s Michael McLoone’s PB of 17:23 was rewarded with third spot.
Women's Results
In the women’s race, pride of place went to Clydeside Orienteer Jana Jurackova, who placed first in 20:12, ahead of Motherwell’s Clare Barr in 20:57, with Caroline’s time of 21:20 securing her third place in her first outing.
