This race starts the 100 race challenge as Sarah and I started at 1pm, a good hour or so before the McAndrew’s.
This was the last of the SHR championship races this year so a big field of quality runners took part. The weather was wet, driech and the most of Ben Venue was covered in mist, however it was warm. The route starts going up through forest trails, the trail being crossed by loads of water run offs. Once out of the forest there is a long slog of climb to the top of Ben Venue, this seem to go on a long time as there always seemed to be another climb appearing out of the mist. After reaching the top, there is a rocky and boggy route following an old fence to Creag a’ Bhealaich. From here there is a steep heather and grass descent back to a deer fence. The run back follows a forestry road and trails back down past the start point to the car park where you registered.
The race was won by Finlay Wild, Lochaber in 1:11:32.
First female was Catriona Buchanan, Ochils, in 1:26:21
I finished 100th in 1:40:29 and Sarah was 145th in 1:50:47.
There were 195 runners in the race.
Thanks to Andy Birnie and Bellehouston RR for organising the race, the proceedings from which go to Lomond Mountain Rescue Team who also provide cover for the race.
