The Tap o’ Noth invasion

Results

The annual Rhynie Gala has (allegedly) been host to the Tap ‘o Noth hill race for each of the past fifty years, making this one of the oldest hill races in Scotland. This year, the race was elevated to SHR championship status, and hence a Westies summer league counter. Despite being a short race a long way away, nearly 20 Westies turned up, due largely to the inspired introduction of a club-sponsored mini-bus.

The race itself is an out-and-back, summiting at the site of an ancient fort and starting and finishing at the gala field. Thankfully, there was no gratuitous lap of the field, although there was a kilometer or so of road to endure before the hill proper began. Conditions were dry and the hill mostly runnable, making for a delightfully fast descent. We were even treated to a short shower on the return, before the day relaxed into blue sky and sun.

Yellow Westies vests swarmed the field as runners came in. Gwyn impressed once again, picking up a podium place ahead of some keen competion. Val stormed home as second ladies vet, and we also picked up the mens team prize.

After soaking up the festive gala atmosphere in the warm summer sun, we headed off on the long drive home, enjoying a few beers and some fine company. Special thanks to Owen and Brian for the driving!