This is a new event, organised and run by the 20th Glasgow Scout group.It is very much the brainchild of Graeme Reid, scout leader and also a veteran of the full WHW race.
With the explosion in recent years in the number of road races, 10k’s in particular, it makes a refreshing change to enjoy a local trail race. The distance is a comfortable 8 1/2 miles, accessible to non- distance runners, yet also providing a nice wee workout for folk attempting the full WHW race on the 20th. Concentrating on the terrain makes the miles slip by so much quicker than in a road run.
Chris and myself were the only two Maryhillers running, Linda being currently a virtual African war correspondent. A better excuse than most for missing an event.
The start & finish were in Lennox Park, behind the Scout hut. I hadn’t realised such a great park was there! The route followed the WHW before climbing that slimy, staple-studded path we mostly know & love, up the hill to Mugdock Park; the major climb of the 500ft total. Then lovely running on really not too muddy woodland trail, descending to re-join the WHW at Carbeth for the return. An interesting wee diversion from the main trail just south of the Khyber Pass road crossing, added more mud and tree root challenges, the worst obstacles on the remaining easy running back to Milngavie being inconsiderate dog walkers. The weather shone, mostly, with the welcome odd passing shower on a warm day for running. Great to get some sun again on my yellowy-white legs. The field was small & friendly, 109 or so finishers, and it looks to become a regular fixture, with winners’ names to be added to a Milngavie Scout Staff as a permanent trophy.
All the organisation, marshalling, and particularly the cakes, were spot on, and I hope this event doesn’t become a victim of its own success if the numbers grow too much, & its character is lost. Bound to be a sell-out next year. Enjoyed the banter with Claire & Monica, anyway!
1st Male; Del Young, Garscube. 52m 31s 1st Female; Elspeth Luke. 1h 04m 03s.
53rd; Chris Hever Maryhill. 1h 16m 26s.
99th; Fletcher Murdoch Maryhill. 1h 36m 15s.
109 finishers.
