Virtual Race Series - November Results!

it’s been a wet, windy and cold Novemer. Once again, a busy last few days with lots of last ditch performances to get through and find our november winners…

Paul Hammond was the only male runner to complete the lagoon loop this week, completing in 23:08 (21:37) and was the 2nd fastest time around the course - well done. Lots of muddy legs for the women... Clair Howison's 29:02 (26:14) put her into 2nd place in both the scratch and handicap table. Kathryn Holm was just behind her in 30:12 (29:19). Tracy Curle ran 32:55 (27:34), Linzi Matheson 48:25 (32:56) and Gillian McDonald 50:06 (37:08).

James Hammond keeps getting faster and ran what I think is the only sub 18 min round the reverse 5k route in 17:58 (17:58) for top spot. Paul Hammond 19:34 (18:17) for 2nd and Martin Maginnis a solid 20:12 (19:02) for 3rd. Neil Barnes kept it under 21 mins for his 20:53 (18:38) and Ian Fyfe continuing his good form with 21:25 (18:53). Roddy Simpson ran 26:42 (19:35).

Lynsey Hay didn't quite make it a royal flush of bettering last months time but her 20:52 (20:50) was still enough for the fastest time. Kathryn Holm's 21:59 (21:20) earned her second spot and Clair Howison in 22:45 (20:33) takes 3rd and the 2nd handicap time. Joyce Tannahill's 24:45 (20:27) took the fastest handicap time and Linzi Matheson finished in 30:06 (20:29).

Lots of 30 min challenges to report...

Lynsey Hay ran a distance of 4.40 miles (4.41) for the furthest distance, but has to settle for 3rd in the handicap behind Clair Howison's 4.54 (4.1 scratch) and Linzi Matheson's 4.44 (3.02 scratch). Kathryn Holm ran 4.22 (4.35 handicap), Gillian McDonald 3.1 (4.18 handicap) and Mandy 3.78 (4.28 handicap).

Very closely packed in the men's table… apart from James Hammond that is, who smashed through the 5 mile barrier with 5.13 miles (5.13). Keeping it in the family, Paul Hammond ran 4.77 (5.10) with Martin Maginnis 4.68 (4.97). Neil Anderson ran 4.42 miles to record the furthest handicap of 5.15miles. New Member Martin Hawksey ran 4.41 (4.70) and Paul Emery hot on his tail with 4.40 (4.88). Malcolm Hughes ran 4.28 (4.99 handicap) on his 2nd attempt and Ian Fyfe ran 4.18 (4.74).

Remembering that its the best 2 events that count… this means our November winners are:

Overall:

• 1st - James Hammond and Lynsey Hay.

• 2nd - Paul Hammond and Kathryn Holm.

• 3rd - Martin Maginnis and Clair Howison.

Handicap:

• 1st - James Hammond and Clair Howison

• 2nd - Neil Anderson and jointly between Lynsey Hay and Linzi Matheson

• 3rd - Paul Hammond and Mandy Cazes.

Here is a sneak preview of the December trail course from our king of the small screen.

Virtual Race Series - November race update (2)

A few more results to add to the leaderboards this week with just over a week of racing in November to go.

Mandy Cazes and Lynsey Hay have both completed the now very soggy lagoon loop. Mandy in a time of 32:25 (28:38) and Lynsey in 24:48 (24:46). Impressive times on what appears to be a course that's not going to get any easier - well done to both for getting out there in the mud. The lagoon was Mandy's 2nd event this month and so takes her to the top of the leaderboard. Young James Hammond has continued his great form into this month, showing us all how to do it with a very impressive 20:54 (20:54) for the fastest time around the lagoon course so far. Neil Barnes the only other male result this week with his 26:28 (23:37).

Clair Howison remains the only woman to have tackled the 30 min challenge. Paul Dudchenko has had a second go and increased his distance to 4.4miles (taking his handicap over the 5 mile mark to 5.02). David Mumford has also had a go at the 30 min challenge covering 3.75 miles in the time, giving him a handicap distance exactly the same as Malcolm Hughes of 4.92 miles.

Malcolm Hughes is the only male to try the 5k this week with his 21:20 (18:18) which, combined with James Hammond's lagoon time, knocks Neil Anderson off top spot. Finally, Tracy Curle is the only woman to complete the 5k course this month, with her 25:23 (21:15). Well done folks.

So a bit of a shake-up in the tables, but once again, looks like it's going to go down to the last few days.

Virtual Race Series - November race update (1)

We’re half way through November and only a few performaces on the board. as usual it looks like athletes are keeping their best until the end of the month.

Neil Anderson sits at the top of the mens tables having done both the lagoon loop and the 5k. He's the fastest round both (albeith the only 5k entry so far) with his times of 24:32 for the lagoon and 21:39 for the 5k. He's also top of the handicap with his conversion times of 21:02 and 18:34 for the lagoon and 5k, respectively.

The ubiquitous Paul Dudchenko has also got his trail shoes out for teh lagoon loop and ran 25:26 (22:17) and Ian Fyfe continuing his good form with a 27:19 (24:05)

Paul Dudchenko and Malcolm Hughes have given the 30 min challenge a go and it would have been a close run race. Paul covered 4.27 miles whereas Malcolm 4.22. The result is reversed in the handicap with Malcolm 4.92 miles and Paul 4.87.

No lagoon results for the ladies so far. I suspect they're all sharpening their spikes for a proper go. Clair Howison has given the 30min challenge a go and covered 4.1 miles (4.54 handicap). Mandy Cazes and Gillian MacDonald the only 5k performances in 23:26 and 28:02 respectively (20:50 and 20:47 handicap...close stuff)

Keep your results coming in… here are the scores on the doors so far.

Virtual Race Series - October Results!

The end of October is here, and we've had a stampede of entries for the virtual races. Keeping it exciting right up until the last day. So here goes...

Beecraigs Trail Race

Lynsey Hay, once again showed her form and class to storm round the beecraigs route in a very impressive 33:52 which was also good enough for 2nd handicap (33:36) to take maximum points on both routes. Clair Howison dipped just under the 40min mark in 39:46 (36:11) for 3rd place, narrowly missing out on Kathryn Holm's 39:35 2nd place marker. Next up was Mandy Cazes in 40:22 (36:42) and then one of our new recruits Rebecca Hammond in 41:02 to take the handicap win in 32:07. Well done Rebecca. Tracy Curle managed the 2 lap course in 42:46 (35:48), Linzi Matheson in 51:53, for 3rd overall handicap in 35:10. Gillian McDonald in 52:03 (37:18) and Roberta Whyte in 53:17 (38:30).

James Hammond, calling on his orienteering experience, set the fastest trail time of 30:02 which was also the 2nd fastest handicap time of 29:40. Martin Maginnis was 2nd over the line, probably before lots were awake, in 31:46 to take the fastest handicap by 7 seconds from James in 29:33. Malcolm Hughes ran 37:08 (31:21) and next across the line was Neil Barnes, who ran quickly but unfortunately added a wee bit extra onto his run, but still managed to get under 40min in 39:52 (36:11). Scott Hyslop, returning to some virtual racing this month ran 42:20 (35:58).

5k Road Race

Lynsey Hay and Clair Howison hold onto their 1st and 2nd spots respectively. Mandy Cazes came in third with her 23:30 (21:22). Rebecca Hammond, with what looks to be her first run around the 5k course, ran 25:20 to add the 5k handicap win (19:50) to her trail handicap victory. Linzi Matheson tackled the reverse route in 30:46 (20:51)

James Hammond, like Lynsey Hay, is looking like an immovable object at the top of the leaderboard as he also ran the fastest 5k in 18:41 (18:28). However, he would have been pushed all the way by Ian Logan just 7 seconds back in 18:48 (18:48). Neil Barnes was just outside the 21 mark with 21:03 (19:06) for the 3rd fastest male 5k. Ian Fyfe just a few seconds back in 21:19, which took the handicap win in 17:42.

The results

• James Hammond and Lynsey Hay are once again our October Champions.

• Paul Dudchenko and Clair Howison take silver.

• Ian Fyfe and Mandy Cazes take bronze.

• Rebecca Hammond and Ian Fyfe are our monthly handicap winners

• David Mumford and Lynsey Hay take the handicap silver

• Lynsey Matheson and James Hammond come home for the bronze handicap.

Well done to all our competitors!

Find out all you need to know about the November races…

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - October race update (2)

One more week to go for our October races. since last week, we've had a few changes to the leader board with some impressive performances.

Kathryn Holm is the female pioneer of the trail race, completing the 2-lap course in 39:35. A decent marker for the other ladies to chase down. 

Clair Howison ran 22:57 around the reverse 5k route to currently sit 2nd for the and 3rd for the handicap (20:53). Gillian McDonald ran 28:11 for the current 3rd fastest time but also the fastest handicap time of 20:11. Lynsey Hay's 20:41 remains the fastest around the course. 

Angus Gallie took on the trail race and recorded an impressive 36:12 (30:48) to take the overall fastest time in the mud....however just a few days later, Paul Dudchenko had a 2nd go and took the crown back with his 35:58 (30:51). David Mumford ran 42:27 to record the exact same handicap time as Angus in 30:48 (which is also the 2nd fastest). Ian Fyfe remains the handicap leader.

Ian Logan took on the reverse 5k route and now holds the fastest time in 18:48. Both Malcolm Hughes and Neil Anderson had a 2nd go and finished just 1 second apart in 21:55 and 21:56, respectively. 

Paul Dudchenko remains top of the mens table, Kathryn Holm and Lynsey Hay are joint top. 

David Mumford tops the male handicap with Kathyrn Holm and Gillian McDonald joint handicap leaders for the ladies. 

Plenty of time to get some good running in.

Find out all you need to know about the October races…

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - October race update (1)

We’re around halfway into the October virtual races and time to look at how the members have been getting on with some muddier races.

Timing might be key this month... go after a few wet days and you may find the trail course more challenging and there might be yet more road works on Blackness road!

4 men have taken on the trails of Beecraigs. Paul Dudchenko is the fastest around the 2-loop course in 36:28 (31:17 handicap), with Ian Fyfe very close behind in 36:49. Ian's time is currently the fastest handicap of 30:34. Neil Anderson in 3rd currently just 12 seconds down from Ian at 37:01 (31:07) with Roddy Simpson at 47:12 (32:37).

I’ve not yet seen any of our ladies results from Beecraigs. 

This month, the 5k is the reverse route of the previous months. The Jury is still out on which way is the fastest. So far, some quicker, some not. However, Lynsey Hay has put down a strong time on the new route, again going a little faster month on month to record 20:41 (20:31 handicap). Lynsey is also currently our fastest October athletes around the new route. 

Paul Dudchenko is also our fastest male around the 5k in 21:27 (18:24) to hold maximum points on both routes as it stands. Malcolm Hughes, also under 22 min in 21:59 (18:33) with Neil Anderson just 30 seconds behind in 22:29 (18:54). Roddy Simpson completes a group of 3 who have done both events with his 25:47 which is also the fastest male handicap time so far (17:49).

Plenty more time to get some local Beecraigs knowledge and get a time on the board. don't forget to upload your run to the website.

Find out all you need to know about the October races…

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - September Results!

Another closely fought month in our virtual RAce series with some athletes' inseparable over the 10 mile and 5k races.

Just 1 additional 10 miler from the ladies in the last few days. Roberta Whyte running 1:48:29 (1:18:23 handicap) which means very little change to the 10 mile table. In the ladies 5k, Clair Howison ran just 1 second faster than Mandy Cazes (22:47 and 22:48, respectively) with Clair's performance putting her 2nd in the handicap (20:14) and Mandy 5th (20:39). Linzi Matheson ran 30:53 over the 5k distance. 

For the men, a busy last few days. Ian Logan grabbed the 10 miler by the horns and ran the fastest overall time of 1:02:46 (1:02:46 handicap). Neil Barnes ran 01:13:00 (01:07:15) and was 5th overall fastest. Then a few 2nd attempts... Malcolm Hughes took a few minutes off to record 1:15:41 (01:04:53), Neil Anderson ran 01:18:26 (01:06:41) to also improve his time, as did Geoff Pendrill for a 1:22:35 (01:07:30). This did not affect the handicap podium. 

Ian Fyfe, fresh from his 2nd 10 mile attempt took on the 5k and ran 22:23 which was the fastest handicap time (16:35). James Hammond put down the fastest overall 5k in 18:40 (18:09) continuing his good form. Meanwhile, Martin Maginnis' 19:53 (18:35) continues his form of being ever so slightly slower each month!! 😉 but still picked up 2nd place in the 5k. Neil Barnes over the line in 3rd in 20:24 (18:48). Angus Gallie in 21:49 (18:50) and David Mumford in 25:44 (18:49).

and so...

1. James Hammond takes the September win for the men with Lynsey Hay the ladies victor for the month. 

2. Martin Maginnis is 2nd with a 3-way ladies tie for silver between Kathryn Holm, Clair Howison and Mandy Cazes. 

3. Neil Barnes and Paul Dudchencko joint 3rd alongside Joyce Tannahill.

In the handicap

1. A 3-way overall tie for the ladies between Joyce Tannahill, Clair Howison and Lynsey Hay, as Ian Fyfe easily takes the handicap win for the men.

2. Gillian MacDonald and Mandy Cazes joint 2nd with Paul Dudchenko and Martin Maginnis also inseparable silvers.

3. Kathryn Holm and Linzi Matheson Koint 3rd and James Hammond bronze for the men. 

Well done everyone.

Now lets see how you all get on when it gets a bit muddy underfoot! Take a look at October’s races…

Virtual Club Championship

Linlithgow AC Weekly Update

In a week that many of us would have been building up for the local 10k race, some of you have managed to get out and do some racing!

Brian is the king of the Castle.

But before we get into the racing part. Special mention to Brian Couper this week for completing his 100km challenge from Crail to Edinburgh Castle. Starting at 8am, just over 14hrs later Brian made it to the Castle at 10.15pm. Kudos also to his LAC support crew of Paul Dudchenko, Neil Anderson, David Dalmau, Bryan Grome, Darren Dick plus Brian’s wife and honorary member, Linda. Brian has raised over £1100 for SAMH (Scottish Association for Mental Health) and Lymphoma Action charities. Well done on a great achievement.

Paul’s torso and inversion at the top

Scottish Hill Championships

Paul Dudchenko not surprisingly chose a hill race for his first race after 6 months. The course was an uphill only course over 12km with 830m of climb. The first runners to reach the summit of Carn Chois were treated with a cloud inversion in the valley below. Paul finished 7th M50 and 89th overall, in 01:19:26.

Frances at the Monument Mile

Monument Mile

Back in December when the race was announced there had been hope of a sub-4 effort from Andy Butchart who was on the entry list. Fast-forward 9 months and 2 postponements later everyone was just grateful to have some competitive action to be part of. Hosted by Central AC who put on a great event despite all the restrictions imposed upon them. You can watch back the races here.

Our very own Frances Wood was on the start list. Using all her track experience she finished in 6:59:57 achieving her goal of sub 7 minutes (just) for an 83% age-graded time - great effort Frances!

Summer virtual series

Only a few more days in September which means just a few more days to get your 10 mile and your 5k times in. A few more runs to add to the September leader board this week. 

An outstanding run from Lynsey Hay in the 10miler breaking the tape at 01:10:45 (01:09:53) to take the fastest female over the route. This run also puts her first in the handicap, well done Lynsey. Kathryn Holm has added her 10mile in 1:22:41 (1:18:43). Linzi Matheson and Gillian MacDonald stepped up to the longer distance well with their 01:49:12 (01:14:10) and 01:49:36 (01:14:22), respectively. 

James Hammond has again shown us all how to do it with his very impressive 01:04:54 (1:03:06) over the 10 mile course. Ian Fyfe had another go at the 10 and bettered his time to 1:18:53. This further cements his first place in the handicap to 58:28 - is there anyone out there who can go under the hour? Angus Gallie ran 1:15:50 (1:05:29), Geoff Pendril ran 1:24:12 (01:08:49) coming back from injury and David Mumford ran 1:30:17 (01:06:01).

Malcolm Hughes is the only 5k'er this week with his bang on 22mins (18:51) for 2nd fastest male time and 3rd fastest handicap. 

Which means Lynsey Hay once again makes her way to the top of both leader boards with a few days to go and Paul Dudchenko is still aloft the men's table. Malcolm Hughes and Kathryn Holm in 2nd with Malcolm also 2nd in the handicap. Joyce Tannahill currently in silver for the women handicap. Neil Anderson 3rd in both with Joyce and Gillian MacDonald 3rd in the scratch and handicap respectively.

Remember, you've got until Wednesday to get your runs done. Good luck!

See the latest standings for September.

Monthly Handicap Results - September

It was also our seventh virtual handicap race this week too, well done to our 8 handicappers this month. Check out the results here.

Virtual Race Series - September update (1)

Our first update for the September virtual races featuring the classic distance of 10 miles and the ubiquitous 5k. We've heard some tales of those who have done the 10 and looks to be providing a challenge!

4 ladies have completed the 10 miler. Lynne McGill, in what looks to be her debut in the virtual series entered the game with an impressive 1:14:18 for the current fastest lady. Given it's her first race, it doesn't look like we have a handicap for Lynne. Please get in touch. Mandy Cazes is currently holding 2nd for the Winchburgh crew with her 1:19:22 (01:04:28 handicap). Clair Howison looks to have had an extended warm up before her effort 😉 but then ran an excellent 1:22:12 (1:05:28) for the current 3rd spot. Joyce Tannahill is in 4th with 1:28:15 (1:04:29). In the handicap, just 1 second separates 1st and 2nd with Mandy just infront of Joyce

We have 7 men on the board for the 10. Martin Maginnis with the fastest time in 1:06:30 (1:02:09) which is also the 2nd fastest handicap. Paul Dudchenko left his camera at home for his hard effort and posted 1:12:57 (01:02:15). Malcolm Hughes in 3rd with 1:16:55 (1:05:56) and then a group of Neil Anderson (1:21:38), Graham Chambers (1:22:53) and Ian Fyfe (1:22:59). Welcome back Ian after a break who currently holds the fastest handicap (1:01:30). David Main-Reade is our 7th runner in 1:27:15. 

Paul Dudchenko (21:38) and Neil Anderson (22:06) have also completed the 5k which puts them to the top of the overall september leaderboard, respectively. 

Lynsey Hay continues her good form by again running faster over 5k (20:49). Well done to Kathryn Holm who I believe ran an outright 5k PB in 21:18 to make Lynsey and Kathryn the fastest LAC athletes around the 5k in September. Joyce has also completed the 5k in 25:10, Gillian MacDonald in 29:10 (to take the current handicap lead of 17:45).

Phew…!

Don't forget to submit your times through our website. It's much easier to collate results when they’re all in the same place - bookmark the link below for all you need to know.

The tables are close with a week to go - take a look at the latest standings in September

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - August Results!

August has come and gone and our miles and 5k's have been run. Here are the latest performances and overall August results.

Continuing his strong performances this summer, James Hammond ran the fastest mile time in 5:41 (5:26 handicap). He was closely followed by a photo finish in 5:46 by Neil Barnes and Martin Maginnis (5:16 and 5:25 handicap respectively). After Paul emery's previous 6:17, there are then 3 athletes over the line in 6:21. Joining Scott Hyslop at the line are Angus Gallie and Paul Dudchenko (5:18,5:41 handicap).  David Main-Reade came in just 2 seconds back in 6:23 (5:17), then Graham chambers in 6:38, however this gives a very impressive 4:56 handicap. Scott Cumming posted a 6:57 (5:26) and Graham Burrows 7:26 (5:34).

Lynsay Hay pushed Kathryn Holm's 6:04 right to the line, coming home just 2 seconds back in 6:06 (6:06). Claire Howison posted an impressive 6:22, to take 2nd in the handicap in 5:50, with Mandy Cazes in 6:40 (5:56). Joyce Tannahill came home in 7:12 (5:55), Tracy Curle in 7:23 (5:58), Gillian McDonald 8:35 (6:03) and Linzi Matheson 8:56 (6:18).

In the 5k, Lynsey Hay remains with the fastest time of 20:55. Kathryn Holm came through in 2nd in 21:44 (20:19) leaving Mandy Cazes in 3rd. Tracy Curle had a great run for her 24:50 to take the Handicap win in 20:05. Gillian McDonald ran 30:51 (21:43).

James Hammond again showed his speed by taking the 5k win also in 18:59 (18:10). Martin Maginnis over the line in 2nd in 19:47 (18:34) and Neil Barnes in 3rd just outside 20 in 20:05 (18:21). Angus Gallie takes the agonising 4th in 21:29, however takes a consolation 3rd handicap in 17:56. Malcolm Hughes on the last day after a few attempts got his time down to 21:39 (18:17). Neil Anderson home in 21:50 (19:09), Neil Halliday in 23:14 (18:38) and Graham Burrows in 26:24 (19:47)

Phew....which means.. we have a tie!!!

1. James Hammond, Lynsey Hay AND Kathryn Holm are our August Champions

2. Martin Maginnis, Mandy Cazes AND Clair Howison take 2nd place

3. Neil Barnes and Tracy Curle take 3rd.

For the Handicap.... 

1. Graham Chambers and Kathryn Holm are our August Handicap Champions

2. Tracy Curle, Angus Gallie AND Neil Barnes take 2nd Place

3. James Hammond, Clair Howison AND Mandy Cazes take 3rd

Well done everyone

This month…

For September we have upped the distance, giving you a 10 mile race for you to build up to. You also have another opportunity to improve on your 5k time too. Good luck!

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - August update (2)

As we approach the final week of the August virtual races, the tables are filling up with some impressive efforts - but who will take the respective crowns this month?

Kathryn Holm has set a high bar of 6:04 in the mile (5:40 Handicap) to currently hold the ladies top spot. Joyce Tannahill is currently in 2nd place with her 7:24 (6:05).

Lynsey Hay has consistently improved over the summer and has now pushed under 21 mins for the 5k in 20:55 (20:55 handicap). Mandy Cazes currently holds 2nd spot in the 5k at 22:53 (20:21) with Clair Howison in 3rd with 23:22 (21:25). Linzi Matheson ran 30:49 (21:43) to make the handicap competition very close. 

Martin Maginnis is our fastest man for the mile with his impressive 5:46 (5:25). Then it’s a frantic finish so far with Paul Emery in 6:17 (5:35), then Scott Hyslop and Angus Gallie in an identical time of 6:21 (5:42 and 5:18 handicap respectively... with Angus currently holding the top handicap spot), then Paul Dudchenko just another 1 second back in 6:22 (5:42). Malcolm Hughes made good use of his second attempt and reduced his time to 6:36 (5:34). David Mumford also had another go, but as far as i can see, it appears to be the same time of 7:18? Let me know if this is true David! 

Paul Dudchenko's 21:45 (19:27) is currently the fastest male 5k, with Scott Hyslop just 6 seconds behind in the same time as Malcolm Hughes with 21:51 (19:38). Geoff Pendril's 2nd attempt went 1 second faster over the distance for a 22:45 (17:52) with David Main-Reade just 10 seconds back in 22:55 (18:58). Graham Chambers appears to be getting faster and faster with his 23:15 which is shown in his 17:18 handicap - well done Graham.

The tables are close with a week to go - take a look at the latest standings in August

Don't forget that you can now submit your race times through our website (and please do as it's very useful to have all your fantastic performances in one place) - see link below for all you need to know.

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - August update (1)

We are now half way through August and well into races 5 and 6 of our Summer Virtual Race Series. This month we have The Mile and another chance to run a fast 5k.  

Handicaps have been recalculated and a select few athletes have got themselves on the board early. 

Neil Halliday has run our fastest mile so far in 6:52 (giving a handicap time of 5:30). Malcolm Hughes would have been testing current social distancing rules if it had been a real race, coming in just 2 seconds back in 6:54 (5:50 handicap). David Mumford ran a solid 7:18 on the canal, however, more impressively this equates to a 5:20 handicap mile!

David and Malcolm are the only 2 athletes to have both races done so far. David in 25:32 (18:39) and Malcolm in 21:51 (18:27), again a close handicap race. Geoff Pendrill, having taken a break during July is back in August to post a 5k time of 22:46 and an impressive 17:53 handicap.

The ladies seem to be saving their fitness for the end of the month (or you’re all on holiday?) and therefore there are no updates for them just now…

Take a look at the latest standings in August

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - July Results!

Well done to everyone who has competed in our July race series. There is lots to report in the final few days of the month and we can now announce the winners. 

We had had no fewer than 11 performances from the ladies in the last week of July! In the 10k, Lynsey Hay remains on top, with Karen Outram the 2nd fastest around the course however, Kathryn Holm ran Karen very close, only 3 seconds slower with her 46:25 (44:04 handicap). Mandy Cazes ran 48:48 (44:35) and Joyce Tannahill had another go and improved her time to 52:52 (43:09). Joyce's run puts her top of the handicap for this route. New club member Tracy Curle ran an impressive 53:17 on her LAC debut (45:17). Well done Tracy. Gillian McDonald and Linzi Matheson must have run hand in hand as they finished in 1:01:39 (46:48) and 1:01:34 (45:06) respectively. 

In the 5k, Lynsey Hay once again showed her return to form with the fastest time around the course in 21:07, improving on her June time by 14 seconds. Kathryn Holm kept hold of the 2nd fastest time around in 21:55 as Clair Howison ran the 3rd fastest time of 22:40 (20:45). Tracy Curle ran 25:57 (21:53), Gillian McDonald 28:04 (21:18) and Linzi Matheson 32:12 (23:35). Well done ladies.

For the men, Martin Maginnis ran the fastest 10k time in 41:08 (39:03) only for less than 24 hours later, young James Hammond taking the crown with his 40:21 (38:43). Neil Barnes ran an impressive 42:17 (38:54) for the 3rd fastest 10k.  Paul Dudchenko improved his time to 43:11 (for an impressive 37:29 handicap time) by having to chase Martin and Neil around the course. Paul Emery put his first virtual racing on the board with his 43:41 (39:20) and David Mumford ran 52:51 (38:05... another quick handicap time). 

In the 5k, Martin and James traded places but only by a few seconds. Martin in 19:44 (18:44) and James in 19:48 (19:00). However, it was Ian Logan who improved his June time by a few seconds to run 18:26 for the fastest overall time around the course. Paul Emery ran 21:09 (19:10) and Angus Gallie ran 21:41 on the second attempt for another impressive handicap of 18:01.

So the final results are:

• James Hammond and Lynsey Hay are our July virtual race champions

• Angus Gallie and Joyce Tannahill are our July Virtual handicap champions

• 2nd place goes to Martin Maginnis and Kathryn Holm

• Scott Hyslop and Clair Howison take the handicap silvers

• 3rd Place goes to Neil Barnes and Clair Howison

• David Mumford and Lynsey Hay take the handicap bronze

To note: some results were so close the overall result points was even and it was cumulative time that made the difference..... every second counts out there.

Well done to everyone and good luck for August!

Next month…

Virtual Club Championship

For August, Race 5 is the same 5k route as previous (or your own if social distancing guidance dictates). Race 6 is "the mile". Find a route and run your fastest mile. As simple as that. Like the other races, please no downhill routes and no one-way routes. However, flat routes (like the canal towpath) are just fine - going further out of Linlithgow tends to be quieter.

Virtual Race Series - July update (3)

Paul, Neil, Martin and Paul’s post 10k debrief…

With 1 week to go, July’s virtual championship table is starting to fill up…

We have 4 ladies performances in the 5k event. Kathryn Holm stormed round the course in 21:55 to record the fastest July time. Mandy Cazes (23:37) and Jill Horsburgh (24:55) have also entered the game for July. Joyce Tannahill has added the 5k to her previously completed 10k to complete in 25:18 and take her to the top of the table having now completed both events. In joint 2nd place are Lynsey Hay and Kathryn Holm both currently having maximum of 100 points on the events they have completed. However only 4 points separate 2nd to 8th

Handicap wise it’s really tight…. Joyce is at 20:39, Kathryn at 20:48, Jill 21:05 and Mandy 21:35. All within a minute. Yvonne McHugh remains with the fastest 5k handicap time of 18:34. Joyce also sits at the top of the handicap, but will she remain there as athletes record their 2nd events? This time it’s Clair Howison and Yvonne McHugh sitting on 100 points in Joint 2nd place.

2 Men have completed the 10k. Martin Maginnis in 44:25, Neil Halliday in 48:10 and Angus Gallie in 46:16. Extra kudos to Angus who, I understand did his effort at around 5am!! Scott Hyslop remains the fastest runner around the 10k course. Neil Halliday’s run puts him 2nd in the 10k handicap at 38:05, with Angus’ handicap 38:28 and Martin’s 42:10

In the 5k, Neil Barnes has broken the 20min barrier (is this for the first time Neil?) with a storming 19:52. He’s now the fastest man round the route for July. Malcolm Hughes ran 21:59, David Mumford 25:48 and Bryan Grome 28:15. Handicap wise, again it’s very tight. All 11 men in the 5k are between 18 and 19 minutes. Bryan Grome has the outright fastest handicap of 18:15, with Neil’s run putting him just 2 seconds back at 18:17.

Scott Hyslop stays at the top of the leader board with Neil Anderson and David Main-Reade in 2nd and 3rd. Scott also heads the handicap with Roddy Simpson and Neil Halliday in 2nd and 3rd. 

Just to note, with the recent Garmin issues. You can take a picture of your watch, or just email your time if you are unable to upload it. The service has started to update again but estimated to take a week to get through the backlog.

Good luck for the rest of the month everyone.

Take a look at the latest standings

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - July update (2)

Take a look at Paul’s 10k video guide… (only on Facebook)

We are now around half way through July and we've had a few more virtual race performances to report.

This month we have a 10k and 5k route for you - take a look. However, please be aware that at busier times, in order to maintain social distancing guidelines, you may run your own 10k or 5k route and submit your time (for fairness, please no 1 way routes, completely flat routes or routes with an overall elevation loss).

Only 2 Ladies performances to report this week. Lynsey Hay has added to her impressive June performances with a 43:24 around the 10k route.  This puts her firmly at the top of the leaderboard.  It also makes for very close handicap racing. Clair Howison keeps her lead by just 4 seconds (Clair's handicap of 43:20 against Lynsey's 43:24), but Lynsey puts Karen Outram back into 3rd (43:58 handicap). Joyce Tannahill also completed the 10k (53:38) giving a handicap of 43:47 which puts all 4 current times in the 43 something bracket... close racing!

For the Men, Graham Chambers improved his 10k effort to 51:53 (40:34 handicap), as did David Main-Reade (47:27 (38:37)). Scott Hyslop still has the fastest scratch 10k time of 42:58 which is also the fastest handicap of 37:48.

Scott has also put in a charge for July's all rounder with the fastest July time for 5k in 21:20 (18:46). Neil Halliday (23:52 (18:52)) and Paul Dudchenko (21:48 (18:55)) also completed the 5k this week. Like the ladies competition, this is handicap racing at it's best with all 7 male performances separated by just 29 seconds (Graham Chambers at 18:30 to Neil Anderson at 18:55)

It's tight at the top and with only seconds separating athletes in the handicap times it truly is all to run for....

Take a look at the latest standings

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - July update (1)

We are now into July and races 3 and 4 of our summer virtual series are underway. These are a new 10k route, starting and finishing on the peel and the same 5k from June.

In the first 10 days we've had a few marker performances to set the tone for the rest of the month. Now that we've all had some virtual racing under our belt, we're expecting the handicap racing to be close, nail biting stuff (spoiler alert.... it is!!).

So please get involved, whether you are fast, slow or somewhere in the middle, there's something here to challenge you.... and every second counts as you will see.

Starting with the 10k. Just 2 Ladies currently on the board. Karen Outram and Clair Howison ran 46:22 and 47:20 respectively. Karen taking the scratch victory so far with Clair taking the handicap spoils (handicap times 43:20 (Clair) and 43:58 Karen)).

Only Yvonne McHugh on the 5k roster so far for the ladies with her excellent 29:15 (18:34), well done Yvonne. 

Scott Hyslop leads the 10k way with his 42:58 for the fastest scratch time around the route. This gives him a handicap time of 37:48. Next up is Neil Anderson in 44:02 with his handicap less than 30 seconds down on Scott in 38:16. Roddy Simpsons 55:53 puts him just 2 seconds slower than Neil (38:18), come on Roddy, I'm sure you can find a few seconds.... And then less than 20 seconds back again to David Main-Reade's 38:37 handicap (scratch time of 47:27). That puts the top 4 within 50 seconds. Graham Chambers and Ian Fyfe posted close scratch times of 52:08 (40:46) and 52:06 (44:49), respectively.

The 5k is even closer. 4 athletes all within 30 seconds handicap time. Graham Chambers currently leads (23:39 (handicap 18:30), then Roddy Simpson just 1 second back (27:01 ((18:31)), and David Main-Reade in 3rd (23:12 (18:53)). Neil Anderson is currently in 4th with 21:50 (18:59).

Just a wee note to runners to ensure you familiarise yourself with the 10k route. There is a map on the series page and Paul Dudchenko has very kindly posted a video to the Linlithgow runners Facebook page. 

Plenty of time to go and plenty of virtual racing to be had.

Take a look at the latest standings

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series - June Results

After a manic last few days of competition, we are pleased to announce the results of the June LAC Virtual Race Series.

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On the last weekend of competition, For the men, Martin Maginnis and Mike Watts added their names to the sub-40 Cockleroy list with their 37:53 (34:38 handicap) and 39:28 (37:01), respectively. Neil Barnes just missed out on this with his 40:01 (35:28). Perhaps having done the 5k the previous day left him just 1 second short. Bryan Grome also completed the route in 58:06 (44:44).

Quite a few of the ladies left the hill to the last few days. Kathryn Holm staked her place as the 2nd fastest lady up and down with her 42:51 (42:51), Mandy Cazes (46:19 (45:25)) and Claire Rice (48:25 (43:23)) not too far behind. Gillian McDonald (58:01 (39:43)) and Linzi Matheson (58:23 (40:44)) look like they would have been neck and for a large part of the race. Well done to you all on what is a tough route.

Some speedy times around the 5k loop from both men and women mean there have been some changes to the overall leader board.

Our new fastest athlete around the course is Ian Logan (18:30 (18:30)), with Lynsey Hay remaining the fastest female with her 21:21.  The Hammonds were not too far behind Ian with young James in 19:19 (17:43) and Paul in 20:03 (18:08) (reversing family bragging rights from Cockleroy). Would Chris Duffy, just 4 seconds behind Paul in 20:07 (17:52) been able to muster up a sprint had it been a real race situation? And I’m sure that Neil Barnes (20:11 (17:53)) would have been in there too with 3 athletes separated by just 8 seconds. Michael Watts (20:59 (19:41)), David Mumford (26:01 (17:46)) and Bran Grome (29:07 (22:25)) finished off the men’s table.

With no fewer than 9 women completing the 5k over the last weekend, the table was sure for a shake-up.

On Saturday, Kathryn Holm went round in 22:33 (22:33) for the 2nd fastest time. Karen Outram went for it on Sunday and the question is, was she aware of Kathryn’s time… Karen put in a bitter sweet time of 22:34 (22:02) to be just 1 second slower! Ready for a July showdown ladies? A minute down the road and Clair Howison (23:34 (21:50)) and Mandy Cazes (23:27 (23:00)) were having their own mini sprint finish. This time it was Clair who took the spoils by 3 seconds.  Alison Marshall (24:53 (22:28)) and Claire Rice (25:11 (22:34)) were next across the line with Gillian McDonald (28:24 (19:27)) and Linzi Matheson (29:28 (20:34)) completing the table.

Given all the above…… this means that…..

• Ian Logan and Lynsey Hay are our June Virtual race champions!

• David Main-Reade and Gillian McDonald our June Virtual handicap champions.

• 2nd Place goes to James Hammond and Kathryn Holm

• Graham Chambers and Lynsey Hay take our handicap silvers

• 3rd place goes to Paul Hammond and Karen Outram

• Neil Anderson and Linzi Matheson our handicap bronze

Well done to our virtual Medallists for June and to all the 35 people who have taken part so far.

Next month…

As we move into July we have 2 races for you. You all have another opportunity for the same 5k route and we now have a new 10k route for you to check out. See summer race series page for details.

Note: now that we know how speedy you all are, we will be adjusting your handicap for July based upon your June performances. I think there will likely be some very close handicap racing to come.

Virtual Club Championship

Virtual Race Series update (4)

The final few days of June are upon us and race 1 and 2 of our virtual series will be coming to an end. Look out for details over the next few days for races 3 and 4 to be completed in July. Going into the last few days, there have been some changes in our leaderboards. 

Cockleroy summit…

A very impressive second attempt at Cockleroy from Lynsey Hay saw her take an enormous 2 and a half minutes off her previous time to record 38:52 which leads to the question... what were you doing the first time ;-) - well done Lynsey.

Our 2nd fastest lady up and down Cockleroy is now Karen Outram (43:52 handicap (43:28)) followed by Clair Howison in 45:41 (43:15). Joyce Tannahill (49:50 (41:19)) and Roberta Whyte (58:39 (42:30)) have also completed the ferocious climb. 

The men's Cockleroy podium has not changed this week with Ian Logan's 34:16 the fastest time.  Scott Hyslop has posted a time of 41:07 (34:36) to have 4 athletes all within less than 30 seconds of each other. Chris Duffy has added his name to the sub 40 club with his 37:54 (33:39), with David Main-Reed (45:15(28:59)), Graham Chambers (48:50(32:43)) and David Mumford (52:58(36:10)) also getting in on the action.

Martin Maginnis is now the fastest blue, gold and black hoop around the 5k course with his 19:32 (17:51). Well done Martin (especially as this effort was done before most of the town was awake). Ian Fyfe had another go and looks like is was worthwhile as he dropped his time to 21:39 (16:40).  Graham chambers (23:54 (16:01)), Neil Halliday (23:38 (16:27)), David Main-Reed (22:56 (14:41)) and Geoff Pendrill (23:42 (18:27)) have also completed the 5k. 

Lynsey Hay remains the fastest lady in the 5k. Joyce Tannahil has now entered the game with her 26:21 (21:51) and the ladies leaderboard is now starting to fill up. 

The fastest cumulative time for both events is Lynsey Hay, just 13 seconds shy of breaking the hour mark. Lynsey, do you fancy another go at the 5k? Lynsey also remains on top of both champs and handicap events. Jill Horsburgh and Joyce Tannahill are the other podium places.

Neil Anderson is clinging on to the lead of the champs for the men but our new handicap leader is David Main-Reed. Scott Hyslop has stormed into 2nd place with Paul Dudchenko completing the podium. Neil has been dropped off the handicap summit to 3rd place (by time only) by David Main-Reed and Graham Chambers.

Don’t forget to join our new LAC Strava group of you haven’t already. This helps us pick up times, however, please ensure that your privacy settings are such that the group can see your runs. If you do not want to do this, no problem, please continue to email John your effort.

You have until Tuesday to have another go or post a time. Good luck!

Standings upto Friday 26th June (cumulative time in brackets).

Overall Leaderboard

Male:

1. Neil Anderson - 193 (01:01:53)

2. Scott Hyslop - 191 (01:02:16)

3. Paul Dudchenko - 191 (01:02:27)

4. Malcolm Hughes - 188 (01:02:47)

5. Ian Fyfe - 186 (01:06:12)

6. Angus Gallie - 185 (01:05:40)

7. David Main-Reade - 182 (01:08:11)

8. Neil Halliday - 180 (01:11:31)

9. Graham Chambers - 177 (01:12:44)

10. Graham Burrows - 175 (01:14:52)

11. Roddy Simpson - 172 (01:20:30)

12. Martin Maginnis - 100 (00:19:32)

13. Ian Logan - 100 (00:34:16)

14. Paul Hammond - 99 (00:37:01)

15. James Hammond - 98 (00:37:26)

16. Chris Duffy - 97 (00:37:54)

17. Adam Potter - 96 (00:38:14)

18. Geoff Pendrill - 91 (00:23:41)

19. David Mumford - 85 (00:52:58)

Female:

1. Lynsey Hay - 200 (01:00:13)

2. Jill Horsburgh - 195 (01:35:14)

3. Joyce Tannahill - 192 (01:16:11)

4. Hannah Danson - 99 (00:24:25)

5. Karen Outram - 99 (00:43:52)

6. Clair Howison - 99 (00:45:41)

7. Alison Marshall - 96 (00:49:41)

8. Roberta Whyte - 94 (00:58:39)

Handicap

Male:

1. David Main-Reade - 200 (00:43:40)

2. Graham Chambers - 195 (00:48:40)

3. Neil Anderson - 193 (00:49:41)

4. Neil Halliday - 193 (00:49:46)

5. Malcolm Hughes - 191 (00:50:03)

6. Graham Burrows - 190 (00:50:10)

7. Ian Fyfe - 187 (00:50:58)

8. Scott Hyslop - 181 (00:52:24)

9. Roddy Simpson - 177 (00:53:31)

10. Paul Dudchenko - 176 (00:53:43)

11. Angus Gallie - 172 (00:56:09)

12. Adam Potter - 99 (00:31:12)

13. Paul Hammond - 93 (00:33:29)

14. Martin Maginnis - 92 (00:17:51)

15. Chris Duffy - 92 (00:33:39)

16. Ian Logan - 91 (00:34:16)

17. Geoff Pendrill - 90 (00:18:27)

18. James Hammond - 89 (00:34:20)

19. David Mumford - 85 (00:36:10)

Female:

1. Lynsey Hay - 200 (01:00:13)

2. Joyce Tannahill - 198 (01:03:10)

3. Jill Horsburgh - 193 (01:07:35)

4. Roberta Whyte - 98 (00:42:30)

5. Hannah Danson - 97 (00:23:34)

6. Clair Howison - 97 (00:43:15)

7. Karen Outram - 96 (00:43:28)

8. Alison Marshall - 94 (00:45:32)

Virtual Race Series update (3)

Things are hotting up as we head towards the second half of our June virtual race series.

For the ladies Cockleroy race, Jill Horsburgh has entered the fray with a 48:22 (handicap 44:19), which drops Alison Marshall down to 3rd.  Lynsey Hay however, remains firmly in 1st place with her 41:19.

Cockleroy summit…

In the last week, the fastest male athlete up and down the mighty Cockleroy has changed no less than 3 times.

Young James Hammond, putting his youthful speed to good use, raced up and down in 37:26 (handicap 34:20). Unfortunately for him, he sat aloft the leaderboard for only a short while as his father Paul almost broke the 37min barrier with his impressive 37:01 (33:29) (I wonder what the chat over that evenings dinner was!). Then along come Ian Logan who smashed the record to post a time of 34:16 (34:16). Is there anyone out there who can beat this?

Others have also set some impressive times for the lung busting climb. Angus Gallie (43:14 (36:58)), David Main-Reade (45:15 (28:59)) and Graham Chambers (48:50 (32:43)) have all been up and down this week - well done to them.

Scott Hyslop remains the fastest runner around the 5k loop with his 21:09 set last week. Graham Burrows (24:54 (16:41)), Roddy Simpson (27:24 (18:13)) and Hannah Danson (24:25 (23:34)) being the only additions this week - again, well done to you all. 

Neil Anderson and Lynsey Hay remain the 2 fastest cumulative over both events. 

Even with this flurry of activity, there hasn't been a huge change to the overall leaderboard. Neil Anderson remains at the top of both tables for now, with Graham Burrows sneaking into the bronze medal position in the handicap.

Hannah Danson and Jill Horsburgh collectively push Alison Marshall out of the medal positions whilst Lynsey Hay remains on top. It appears the ladies are holding their cards close to their chest for now. Will we see a flurry of activity as the end of June deadline looms?

Quick thank you to all those who have joined the LAC Strava group this past week. This will really help us pick up times, however, please ensure that your privacy settings are such that the group can see your runs. If you do not want to do this, no problem, please just email John your effort.

Standings upto Friday 19th June (cumulative time in brackets).

Overall Leaderboard

Male:

1. Neil Anderson - 195 (01:01:53)

2. Paul Dudchenko - 193 (01:02:27)

3. Malcolm Hughes - 191 (01:02:47)

4. Angus Gallie - 189 (01:05:40)

5. Ian Fyfe - 187 (01:07:18)

6. Graham Burrows - 182 (01:14:52)

7. Roddy Simpson - 180 (01:20:30)

8. Ian Logan - 100 (00:34:16)

9. Scott Hyslop - 100 (00:21:09)

10. Paul Hammond - 99 (00:37:01)

11. James Hammond - 98 (00:37:26)

12. Adam Potter - 97 (00:38:14)

13. David Main-Reade - 91 (00:45:15)

14. Neil Halliday - 90 (00:47:53)

15. Graham Chambers - 89 (00:48:50)

Female:

1. Lynsey Hay - 200 (01:02:37)

2. Hannah Danson - 99 (00:24:25)

3. Jill Horsburgh - 99 (00:48:22)

4. Alison Marshall - 98 (00:49:41)

Handicap

Male:

1. Neil Anderson - 197 (00:49:41)

2. Malcolm Hughes - 195 (00:50:03)

3. Graham Burrows - 194 (00:50:10)

4. Ian Fyfe - 188 (00:51:49)

5. Paul Dudchenko - 183 (00:53:43)

6. Roddy Simpson - 183 (00:53:31)

7. Angus Gallie - 180 (00:56:09)

8. David Main-Reade - 100 (00:28:59)

9. Adam Potter - 99 (00:31:12)

10. Scott Hyslop - 96 (00:17:48)

11. Graham chambers - 96 (00:32:43)

12. Neil Halliday - 95 (00:33:19)

13. Paul Hammond - 93 (00:33:29)

14. Ian Logan - 92 (00:34:16)

15. James Hammond - 90 (00:34:20)

Female:

1. Lynsey Hay - 200 (01:02:37)

2. Hannah Danson - 99 (00:23:34)

3. Jill Horsburgh - 99 (00:44:19)

4. Alison Marshall - 98 (00:45:32)

Virtual Race Series update (2)

After 2 weeks of virtual racing, there are now more names and times on the board for both races. Some athletes are even onto their second attempts (not that they’re competitive).

Roddy Simpson at the Cockleroy summit!

Our fastest runner up and down Cockleroy is now Adam Potter in an impressive 38:14 (however, he admits he would have been quicker had he not taken a wrong turn). A very good marker set especially as this gives him a handicap time of 31:12. Both Malcolm Hughes and Paul Dudchenko have both had another go, however amazingly they are still only separated by 2 seconds (41:02 and 41:00 respectively). This week has also seen Roddy Simpson (53:06 (handicap 35:18), Neil Halliday (47:53(33:19)) and Graham Burrows (49:58 (33:29) summit the immense peak. Typically, Graham decided to do his run on Wednesday, which was the day the weather was awful, so extra kudos to him for that.

Lynsey Hay still leads the women with her 41:16. Alison Marshall has taken a whopping 4 mins off her first attempt to speed up and down in 49:13 (45:32). Well done Alison.

A few of the men have put their markers down for the 5k route. Scott Hyslop is our fastest runner around the 5k circuit (21:09 (17:48)). Angus Gallie (22:16 (19:11)), Paul Dudchenko (21:27 (18:27)), Neil Anderson (21:25 (17:12)) and Ian Fyfe (22:45(17:31) alongside a second run from Malcolm Hughes (21:45 (17:20)) mean that all 6 finishers are all separated by just over 1 minute - competitive stuff! Remember that when you’re emptying the tank coming down Blackness road towards the Low Port…. every second counts!

Lynsey Hay now holds the 2nd fastest time overall around the 5k course with an impressive 21:21 to currently hold full points for both events.

All of the above means that Neil Anderson takes to the top in both scratch and handicap competitions but the chase group is right behind. Neil also currently has the accolade of having the fastest cumulative time for both runs of 1:01:53. It may not be a question of will the hour be broken, but by how much?

The ladies leader board remains unchanged, however is Lynsey Hay running away with it at this early stage?

Don’t forget to keep sending your best attempts by email to John Redding.

Overall Leaderboard

Male:

1. Neil Anderson - 198

2. Paul Dudchenko - 196

3. Malcolm Hughes - 194

4. Ian Fyfe - 191

5. Adam Potter - 100

6. Scott Hyslop - 100

7. Angus Gallie - 96

8. Neil Halliday - 95

9. Graham Burrows - 94

10. Roddy Simpson - 93

Female:

1. Lynsey Hay - 200

2. Alison Marshall - 99

Handicap

Male:

1. Neil Anderson - 199

2. Malcolm Hughes - 197

3. IanFyfe - 192

4. Paul Dudchenko - 189

5. Adam Potter - 100

6. Scott Hyslop - 97

7. Neil Halliday - 96

8. Graham Burrows - 95

9. Angus Gallie - 95

10. Roddy Simpson - 92

Female:

1. Lynsey Hay - 200

2. Alison Marshall - 99