West Districts

22/1/2000

The conditions for the West Districts on Saturday were ideal; unfortunately the condition of Westies runners was far from ideal. Although there were 17 gallant Westies entrants originally, this was eventually pared down to 10 starters, some of whom were clearly struggling against all odds.

The trail at Rouken Glen was excellent with an undulating 4 miles for women and 6 for the men. The sun shone throughout and there was an excellent turnout of spectators in Helen plus weans, Donald, Muffy and James.

In the women’s race, the going was firm underfoot and Chris Menhennet ran well to finish 18th in 30:07. Pat was 32nd and Christine Patterson was 33rd. Overall, the women took 6th team place.

In the men’s race, Damon showed that he has recovered fully from his traumatic experience at the Nigel Barge, finishing 24th overall in 32:53. Rumour has it that he deliberately held back from the front for fear of getting too close to the winner, Tommy Murray. Those of you who read Damon’s unflattering remarks about Tommy’s looks in the recent newsletter will understand his reasoning. Next in was Dave, with a heroic performance overcoming the cold to get Brian’s scalp for the first time in almost a year. Gibson showed signs of getting back to fitness, finishing 77th. To be fair, Brian was obviously struggling all the way round, which explains why he could only finish 48 places behind Dave, but hey, what’s fairness got to

do with it! Gordon Robinson only just failed to hold off Brian while Charlie and Keith battled it out for last Westie, with Keith taking the honours.

In the team event, Westies men were 9th. The good news is that we were 2nd Dunbartonshire team, behind Clydesdale (the winners). The not-so-good news is that we were beaten by Giffnock North!

Results

Women

1 Suzanne Owen C. of Glasgow 25:31

18 Chris M 30:07

32 Pat McL 33:55

33 Christine P 37:59

39 finished

Team 6th

Men

1 Tommy Murray 32:53

24 Damon R 37:12

60 Dave C 39:24

77 Gibson F 40:58

John Donnelly (Renegade Shettleston) 42:12

108 Brian B (ex winner of the Kirkpatricks Race) 42:45

109 Gordon R 42:50

125 Charlie C 44:28

126 Keith A 44:31

157 finished

Team 9th