Drymen: A 10k run but not as you know it!

On a very rainy Saturday afternoon four super keen Westies, Nige, DavidR, Robert and I, turned up for the Drymen 10km. It was in aid of the Blythswood charity and, since we were promised spectacular views over Loch Lomond and the Campsies and a new, improved route it seemed well worth the pennies.

As the start drew nigh a hundred or so drenched runners gathered at the line, huddling under various trees and buildings, anticipation growing as the provost made his good luck speech. The field comprised a hoard of Dumbarton AAC runners, whose black and red vests struck fear into us hill runner types - they looked like they meant business. Then we saw Stewart Whitlie in his red Carnethy colours. Obviously this wouldn't be the walkover that David and Nige would have liked. Then finally with a blast of the starter's hooter we were off......

For the next 10km we were treated to an unexpected but very enjoyable mix of forest trails, bridleways, farm tracks, country roads, grassy paths and a pleasant mix of ups and downs (just enough to give us hill runners a wee advantage as the roadies peched up the inclines!). We even caught a glimpse of the spectacular views promised as the clouds cleared and revealed Loch Lomond glistening in the distance. A fantastic route with plenty variety and more like a trail race than a road run. Well worth doing if you're free this time next year.

In the end us Westies proved that it's quality not quantity that counts. Although Alistair Morrison of Dumbarton was 1st and Stewart Whittlie was 2nd, DavidR continued his speedy performances to be 3rd and Nige wasn't far behind in 4th. I was 2nd lady, way behind a whippet like 1st lady, and Robert got a 10km PB. Well done Westies!!

Posted by Cat Miller on Mon 28 Aug 2006 | comments are closed

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