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Weekly Update

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Weekly Update: 40th anniversary celebrations and annual awards

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Over a hundred Linlithgow Athletic Club members, past members, friends and family gathered on Saturday evening in the Burgh Halls to celebrate the Club's 40th Anniversary. The Club was inaugurated back in November 1979 (in the very same room as Saturday evening’s event). 

Club President Angus Gallie shared news of the Club's recent Scottish Athletics award nomination for 'Impact Club of the Year' and went on to describe how the nomination was not only down to the efforts of current membership, but that the Club owed a debt of gratitude to all founder and past members.

Among the guests was former Olympic 1500 metre finalist Frank Clement, who recalled his involvement at the first meeting which came about through a Scottish Sports Council initiative and how he also joined the Club after moving to the town. Jack Adair (former Linlithgow Provost and founder member of the Club) also recalled 'How it All Started' and paid tribute to past and present members. There was also another former provost, Norman Cummings, in attendance who provided guests with some humorous anecdotes from the Club's early days. However, it was with some sadness that members learned of the very recent passing of Tom Wood, who gave thirteen years of sterling service to the Club. Sadly, Tom and his wife Sylvia had planned to attend the event. 

Moving on to the present day, Angus was delighted to also inform guests of the vastly expanded Club membership in the last 18 months, almost one hundred adult members and over sixty youth and junior members. A very large proportion of the senior members actively compete in a huge variety of events throughout the year and this was evident in the number of trophies to be presented for the annual awards. 

Onto the awards. In the overall Club Championship standings, John Redding was once again male champion for the 6th consecutive year, a fantastic achievement. Whilst in the female competition, Mairi Watts became the 6th different female winner in as many years. In the Handicap competition, which recognises the most improved runners over the year, Scott Hyslop picked up the male prize (who also won the monthly Handicap race competition) and Mandy Cazes the female prize. Cross Country prizes went to Paul Dudchenko and Frances Wood. This year’s WAVA age-graded awards, in memory of the late Arnie Mouat, were awarded to Angus Gallie and Siobhan Coleman. 

The ‘Athlete of the Year’ voted by Club members went to Frances Wood for her much-valued contribution to the Club both as an athlete and the time she invests in coaching fellow members. The ‘President’s Award’ this year had joint winners in the shape of Roddy Simpson and Alex Wood for their commitment to supporting the Club’s couch-to-5k initiative, Let’s Go Linlithgow.

This week was the last week of the couch-to-5K programme on Friday. The 'Graduation 5K’ will be at Falkirk parkrun on Saturday 21st December where the group will be joined by all current and previous participants of the Let's Go Linlithgow Jogscotland Group, as well as a few Club regulars.

At parkrun this week, the Club had 13 runners across 4 different runs.

At Edinburgh, Malcolm Hughes ran in 24:17 and Alex Wood in 28:35. At Falkirk, Ian Boxall ran in 20:52, Paul Dudchenko in 21:26, Lynsey Hay in 23:32, Ian Lockhart in 23:40, Mandy Cazes in 24:57 and Rhiann Ferguson in 28:23. At Queen’s Park, Neil Anderson ran in 23:09, Ian Fyfe in 23:16, David Main-Reade in 25:28 and Jill Horsburgh in 27:01. Scott Cumming ran Oriam in 26:06.

Photo credit: Paul Dudchenko

Weekly Update: Win an Edinburgh Marathon place, ‘Athlete of the Year’ vote and Lorna secures coaching qualification

The Club’s coaching team go from strength to strength. Lorna Simpson recently achieved her Level 3 (Event Group Coach - Endurance) Coaching License at the Emirates Arena, Glasgow. Well done Lorna!

This Saturday will see the Club celebrate its 40th Anniversary at the Burgh Halls and is now sold out! A key part of the annual awards & prize giving is the crowning of the Club’s Athlete of the Year 2019. Check your inbox (or junk folder just in case) and make sure you share your votes with Graeme who is compiling the votes - send your votes to: spikeyboy@blueyonder.co.uk. Voting closes at 23:59 on Thursday 12th December. 

Competition time! Planning your running calendar for 2020? If you’ve got the Edinburgh Marathon Festival in your sights but haven’t entered yet, the Club has one spot up for grabs. If you’re interested in winning our free spot drop an email to Alex Wood to put your name in the draw. The winner will be announced by 31st Dec 2019.

At parkrun this week, the Club had 17 runners across 6 different runs.

At Edinburgh, Jude Moir ran in 22:54. At Falkirk, Paul Dudchenko ran in 21:33 followed by Ian Lockhart in 23:53, Rebecca Hammond in 24:22, Mark Anderson in 27:08, Alex Wood in 27:57, Rhiann Ferguson in 28:07, Isobel Lockhart in 29:35 and Yvonne McHugh in 31:15. Malcolm Hughes ran Livingston in 24:36 along with Neil Halliday in 25:51. At Oriam, Scott Hyslop ran in 22:06 along with Neil Anderson in 22:24, David Main-Reade in 24:22 and Mandy Cazes in 25:38. At Drumpellier, Scott Cumming ran in 24:44. Our parkrun tourist, Mike Watts ran Delamere in 20:28.

Weekly Update: Podium finish for Linlithgow AC at 7R Half Marathon

On Friday Scott Cumming got the weekend running off to a fast start at 3k on the Green. A flat, fast race ran at the end of each month at Glasgow Green. Scott finished in 13:06.

Congratulations to John Redding who took first place at the 7 Reservoirs Half Marathon on Sunday. The underfoot conditions were challenging and icy in places but despite this the race had some excellent finishing times. John finished in a fantastic 1hr 24m 51s. Mike Watts also ran and finished in 1hr 48m 29s. Great running from both.

Also on Sunday, Jill Horsburgh ran the Gravy Pud fell race starting in Tintwistle (Peak District). The 5.5 mile race also has 1000ft of ascent. Jill finished in 57m 35s (1st V55).

It was the final weekend to put down a fast parkrun time meaning the Club Championship came to a close for another year. The Club’s annual prize giving and awards night will also soon be upon us and this year the Club will also celebrate its 40th Anniversary. This year’s event will take place at the Linlithgow Burgh Halls on the 14th December and will host members past and present in what is sure to be an excellent evening.

Lastly, a small group of Club coaches and Jogleaders spent Sunday learning emergency first aid, practicing CPR, how to use an AED amongst other life saving skills – congratulations to Yvonne McHugh, Rachel Waugh, Graham Chambers, Paul Mayland, Frances Wood, Alex. Wood, Karen Duncan, Ian Douglas, Roddy Simpson and Ian Fyfe. 

A belated congratulations also to Mike Watts and Ian Fyfe who recently completed their Coaching Assistant course at Grangemouth and join the ranks of the Club’s coaching team and are currently leading the paced run sessions on alternate Tuesday evenings.  

At parkrun this week, the Club had 14 runners across 5 different runs.

At Falkirk, James Hammond finished in 19:05, Ian Boxall in 20:44, Scott Hyslop in 21:54, Gary Welsh in 24:36 and Roddy Simpson in 27:25. At Livingston, Martin Maginnis finished in 19:36, Geoff Pendrill in 21:49, Frances Wood in 23:17 (1st VM60), Scott Cumming in 23:26, Mandy Cazes in 24:49 and Alex Wood in 28:31 (1st VW60). Neil Anderson ran Plean in 22:43 and Ian Fyfe ran Montrose in 21:41. Our parkrun tourist this week was Jill Horsburgh who ran Cheadle Hulme near Stockport in 29:44.

Weekly update: Linlithgow AC nominated for top award

Linlithgow Athletic Club members attended the recent FPSG Scottish Athletics and Jog Scotland Annual Awards Dinner. The Club was shortlisted for the ‘Impact Club of the Year’ award. Although the award went to Harmeny Athletic Club, it was a fantastic honour for the club to receive the nomination and be present at this glittering award ceremony which celebrated all this year’s achievements by Scottish Athletics clubs and individuals. The nomination was in recognition of all the work that the club has done this year. Membership has been increased by 20%, the club has increased its volunteer coach base allowing consolidation of many years of commitment in providing an athletics experience for the town’s young people as well as increasing the coaching provision for adult athletes. Along with the incredibly successful Jog Scotland beginner’s group ‘Let’s Go Linlithgow’ and of course record entries for the 27th Linlithgow 10k and fun run events, it really has been a bumper year for the club! 

The celebrations will continue at the Burgh Halls on Saturday 14th December, when the club will celebrate its 40th anniversary. All members, friends and of course ex-members are welcome. Book your tickets here.

Earlier in the day, the Club was well represented at the East District Cross Country League meeting at Broxburn. In the Senior Women’s race Frances Wood was first home in 27:18, Jill Horsburgh in 27:55, Kathryn Holm in 27:55 and Mandy Cazes in 28:32 placing the LAC women 15th overall. For the men, Ian Logan finished in 32:38, Martin Maginnis in 36:12, Paul Dudchenko in 37:20, Neil Barnes in 38:26, Scott Hyslop in 39:20 and David Mason in 39:45 placing the LAC men 19th overall. In the Junior races, Jessica Marshall finished 07:19 in the U11 girls and Chloe Hughes finished in 16:26 in the U13s girls.

On Sunday, Frances and Alex Wood returned for the third year running to the Bob Stark Memorial 5k Trail Race in Falkland, Fife. The run us in aid of Prostrate Cancer Scotland in memory of Bob, a long-standing Fife AC member. Frances finished in 24:55 and Alex in 30:05.

At parkrun, the Club had 12 runners across 4 different runs.

At Falkirk, Alex Wood finished in 28:19 and Neil Anderson in 30:33. At Livingston, Martin Maginnis finished in 19:39, Ian Boxall in 20:45, Geoff Pendrill in 22:16, Darren Dick in 23:15, Scott Cumming in 23:42, Jennifer Newton in 23:43, Roddy Simpson in 26:14 and Charlotte Moran in 26:44. Ian Fyfe also ran Oriam in 22:57. Our lone parkrun tourist was in Canada this week, David Main-Reade ran Heritage Harbor, Ottawa in 23:23.

Weekly update: Tues paced runs, Bella 10k, Tweed Valley Ultra and parkrun

Tuesday evening saw the second of the Club’s newly established paced running sessions. With over 30 local runners in attendance, the sessions are proving a hit not only for those new to running but also those who are more experienced. The next paced run will be on Tuesday 26th November meeting at the Low Port Centre at 7.30pm.

On Sunday, Frances and Alex Wood along with Kenny Gray ran the Jimmy Irvine Bella 10k in Glasgow. The race which involves two loops of Bellahouston Park takes runners past the iconic House for an Art Lover. Kenny was first home in 43:17 followed by Frances in 48:18 and birthday boy Alex in 58:48.

Also on Sunday, Paul Dudchenko, David Mason and Trevor Galloway competed in the Tweed Valley Ultramarathon.  The 41 mile course started in Glentress, and travelled across Minch Moor on the Southern Upland Way. After 8 hours on the trail, Paul, David and Trevor finished within minutes of one another in 8:18, 8:25 and 8:27, respectively. A fantastic effort by all 3 in bitterly cold conditions, especially Paul who suffered a dislocated thumb along the way.

At parkrun, the Club had 22 runners across 7 different runs.

Jill Horsburgh was joined by 10 fellow members to celebrate her 60th different parkrun venue and 200th parkrun on Saturday at Stirling University. Jill finished in 24:02 and was joined by Martin Maginnis in 20:12, Scott Hyslop in 21:38, Neil Anderson in 22:09, Ian Fyfe in 22:34, Frances Wood in 24:27, Mandy Cazes in 24:28, Graham Burrows in 25:53, Joyce Robertson in 26:02, Roddy Simpson in 26:47 and Alex Wood in 29:07. Elsewhere, Scott Cumming ran Edinburgh in 23:18. Mike Watts ran Carlisle in 21:23. Ian Boxall ran Aviemore in 20:14. At Falkirk, Louisa Cockburn finished in 25:37, Rhiann Ferguson in 27:17 and Yvonne McHugh in 30:57. At Livingston, Paul Emery finished in 20:22 (a new PB), Jennifer Newton in 23:32, Charlotte Moran 24:41 and Graham Chambers in 25:26. The intrepid parkrun explorer, David Main-Reade added his 11th parkrun country running Mullingar in Ireland, finishing in 21:19 (a new PB).

Weekly update: Solid showing at a soft and squelchy National Short Course Cross Country Champs

On Saturday afternoon Linlithgow had 6 runners at the National Short Course Cross Country Championships in Kirkcaldy. Conditions were soft underfoot despite the cold temperatures and made for challenging course. In the senior races, Annabel Simpson of Fife AC won the women’s race, and Olympian Andrew Butchart won his fifth title in the men’s event. For Linlithgow, Mairi Watts was first home for the women in 16:36, Frances Wood in 19:08 (3rd FV60) and Jill Horsburgh in 19:48. For the men, Martin Maginnis finished in 16:30, Michael Watts in 17:23 and Alex Wood in 22:53.

On Sunday, Neil Anderson was in Greece for the Athens Original Marathon, finishing in 3:46:23 - he also ran the Athens 10K the day before in 49:26 as a warm-up! The race starts at Marathon (naturally) and undulated its way along the coast, and over the hills, to finish in the Panathenaic stadium in the centre of Athens.  Scott Cumming was closer to home in Glasgow for Strathclyde Country Park Half Marathon, which involved 3 laps of Strathclyde Loch. Scott finished with a new PB of 1:54:44. In Falkirk, Claire Rice and Kathryn Holm ran the 5K Supernova run at the Helix Park and Kelpies, finishing in 23:29 and 20:55, respectively (both new personal best times). Jude Moir also ran, finishing in 20:02.

At parkrun, the Club had 16 runners across 8 different runs.

Colin Sumpter was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Livingston in 19:27. Also at Livingston, Paul Dudchenko finished in 21:04, Ian Lockhart in 23:16, Mandy Cazes in 23:21, Graham Chambers in 25:29, Charlotte Moran in 25:33, Isobel Lockhart in 28:51 and Jill Horsburgh in 59:24 (Tail walker). At Falkirk, Roddy Simpson finished in 26:26 and Yvonne McHugh in 30:53. At Edinburgh, Rhiann Ferguson ran in 27:15. At Perth, Joyce Robertson ran in 23:36. At Stirling University, Graeme Wilkinson ran 26:14. At Ganavan Sands, Ian Fyfe ran 25:09. At the Orian, Scott Hyslop ran in 21:49. Our ever present parkrun tourist, David Main-Reade was in Portrush, finishing in 22:43.

On Saturday 14th December the Club will celebrate it’s 40th Anniversary at the Burgh Halls in Linlithgow. The Club will welcome members both past and present to join in a celebration of the Club alongside it's annual prize giving event. Don’t miss out on what is sure to be great night, book your tickets online.

Weekly update: NYC Marathon, Men's Health 10k, Strathaven Striders Run with the Wind 10k and parkrun

Jennifer Newton was in the United States on Sunday for the New York City Marathon, an IAAF Gold Label road race. Jennifer joined the 52,000+ runners on what was a perfect day for running in the Big Apple, with cool temperatures and bright blue skies, finishing in a fantastic 03:42:24. 

Closer to home, Linlithgow had 8 runners at the Men’s Health 10k race in Edinburgh. John Redding was first home for the Club in 34:57, Ian Logan in 36:11, Michal Sroka in 40:06, Neil Barnes in 40:50 (a new PB for the distance), Malcolm Hughes in 44:36, David Main-Reade in 45:03, Kenny Leamy in 46:24 and Gary Welsh in 52:50.

Elsewhere on Sunday, Frances and Alex Wood (and family) joined 600+ runners at the Strathaven Striders Run With the Wind 10k. A well-organised and fun point-to-point race on quiet country roads starting at Whitelee Wind Farm and ending at Kirkton Park in Strathaven. Alex finished in 57:17 and Frances in 47:10 (4th V55).

At parkrun, the Club had 14 runners across 5 different runs.

Mairi Watts was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Livingston in 20:10. Also at Livingston, Scott Hyslop finished in 21:17, Angus Gallie finished in 21:41, Ian Lockhart in 23:44, Rosemary Gallagher in 24:27 (her first parkrun) and Charlotte Moran in 25:42. At Falkirk, Roddy Simpson finished in 27:25, Rhiann Ferguson in 28:25 and Yvonne McHugh in 31:50. At Edinburgh, Scott Cumming finished in 23:22. At the newly set-up Oriam run, Neil Anderson finished in 21:28, Jill Horsburgh in 24:56 and Lorna Simpson in 24:56.

Our parkrun tourist this week was David Main-Reade who ran Bois de Boulogne, Paris in 22:17.

Super Sunday Run-day for LAC

It was a Super Sunday for LAC this weekend. The Club had runners at races in The Highlands, The Scottish Borders and in Frankfurt, Germany.

The race of the weekend was undoubtedly in Germany, where Alison Marshall, Karen Outram and Clair Howison were part of the 14000+ runners at the Frankfurt Marathon. All 3 managed to get under the 4-hour milestone with some consistent running. Karen was first over the line for Linlithgow in 03:45:49, followed by Clair Howison in 03:50:47 and Alison Marshall in 03:57:21.

Also on Sunday, Paul Ward was at a very wet and windy Culloden 10K, near Inverness. The event is wholly organised by Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland and the National Trust for Scotland (NTS). The fast, mostly flat route passes around the quiet perimeter roads of historic Culloden Battlefield. Paul finished in 42:20.

In contrast to the weather in the north, Frances Wood and Martin Maginnis were in a sunny but cold Scottish Borders for the Jedburgh Running Festival. Frances, running the 10k, finished in 48:12, 12th woman and 1st FV60. Martin ran the Half distance, earning a PB in the process, finishing 01:29:30, 6th M30 and 28th overall.

Earlier in the week, the Club welcomed 25 runners at the first of its newly set-up 5km Paced Social Runs. The pacer-led sessions are aimed at those new or returning to running. If the first session is anything to go by, these sessions are very much welcomed by the local running community. The next paced session will be on Tuesday 12th November starting at the Low Port Centre, 7.15pm.

At parkrun, the Club had 14 runners across 7 different runs.

Ian Boxall was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Falkirk in 21:03. Also at Falkirk, Ian Lockhart finished in 23:38, Rhiann Ferguson in 26:47, Alex Wood in 27:59, Roddy Simpson in 30:25 and Yvonne McHugh 31:18. At Edinburgh, Graham Chambers ran a PB time of 25:42. At Polkemmet, Neil Anderson finished in 44:44 (tail walker). 

Our parkrun tourists. Malcolm Hughes ran Mura di Lucca in 21:47, David Main-Reade and Mandy Cazes ran Crathes Castle  in 24:39 and 26:09, respectively. Graeme Wilkinson ran Dean Castle Country Park in 25:05. Scott Cumming and Lorna Simpson ran University of Stirling, Scott in 23:27 and Lorna in 24:52.

Weekly update: East Districts XC league, Langdale Half, SVHC trail race, Ultra tour of Edinburgh and parkrun

Linlithgow fared well at the first meeting of the East District League Cross Country on Saturday at the University of Stirling. Conditions were very muddy after heavy rainfall, and made for a challenging course. With Olympian Andrew Butchart in attendance for Central AC, runners were in good company.

The Linlithgow women were the 13th (of 32) team overall and 6th (of 23)Masters team (over 40s). Individually, Frances Wood finished in 29:33, Jennifer Newton in 29:45, Jill Horsburgh in 31:06, Mandy Cazes in 32:06 and new member to the Club and cross country, Rhiann Ferguson in 35:49. The men were 28th (of 36) team overall and 27th (of 30) Masters in a race dominated by the host club. Individually, Martin Maginnis finished in 38:53, Angus Gallie in 42:11 and Mark Collier, also new to the Club and this event, finished in 53:07.

Also on Saturday, Richard Wood ran the Langdale Half Marathon, one of the UK’s toughest half marathon road races due to its hefty elevation (1700ft of climbing). Richard finished 40th male finisher in 01:44:20. 

Frances and Alex Wood ran the Scottish Veteran Harriers Club 7.4k Trail Race in Pollok Country Park on Sunday afternoon. Two circuits of the woods with steep up and down hills and about a third of the course run on thick and often ankle deep mud! The Stirling course paled in comparison. Many tumbles and lost shoes, but enjoyable nonetheless. Frances was 2nd woman in 40:41 and Alex. finished in 53:20.

On Sunday, Marta Sroka ran the Ultra Tour of Edinburgh. The route was a contrasting combination of cobbled city streets, suburbia and the wilderness of the Pentland Hills. It was especially tough coming only two weeks after her efforts at Dunoon. Marta finished in 06:30:33.

At parkrun, the Club had 11 runners across 6 different runs.

Neil Anderson was the Club’s fastest finisher this week, completing University Stirling parkrun in 21:13. At Falkirk, Ian Boxall finished in 21:14, Malcolm Hughes in 22:22, Jennifer Newton in 23:25, Gary Welsh in 25:17 and Alex Wood 28:50. At Strathclyde, Ian and Isobel Lockhart finished in 28:42. Graeme Wilkinson ran Drumpellier in 25:01.

Our parkrun tourists. Lorna Simpson ran Aviemore in 24:24 and David Main-Reade ran Kashiwanoha, Tokyo in 22:13.

Weekly update: East District XC relays, Loch Rannoch Marathon and parkrun

The Club’s offroad season got underway on Saturday at the East District Cross Country Relay Championships in Livingston. Frances Wood, Jill Horsburgh and Jennifer Newton made up the Club’s only team entry. Despite glorious sunshine on the day, the recent wet weather meant the 3x4k course was very soft underfoot and made for a tough race. The trio placed 37th team out of 53 overall in a time of 58:49 (FW 19:11, JH 20:07 and JN 19:32).  They were 7th Masters team out of 14 but, importantly, the first Masters team without any under 50s in it. Next up, East Districts League event in Stirling on the 19th October.

On Sunday David McNish ran the Loch Rannoch Marathon, while Scott Cumming completed the half marathon. David finished the picturesque route along the shores of Loch Rannoch in 03:22:45, 15th overall, 2nd V45. David also set a new PB for the distance beating his previous best by 9 minutes. Scott finished the half distance in 01:58:08. Great running by both. 

At parkrun, the Club had 13 runners across 7 different runs.

Michael O’Hara was the Club’s fastest finisher this week, completing Falkirk in 20:11. Also at Falkirk, Ian Boxall finished in 21:12, Rebecca Hammond in 23:07, Gary Welsh in 26:04 and Yvonne McHugh in 31:49. Elsewhere, Alex Wood ran Edinburgh in 28:46. At Livingston, Malcolm Hughes finished in 21:52, Geoff Pendrill in 22:08, Charlotte Moran in 26:08 and Jill Horsburgh was tailwalker. Richard Wood made a return at Leicester Victoria, finishing in 20:12. Graeme Wilkinson ran Drumchapel in 26:55 and Mandy Cazes ran Lochore Meadows in 24:14.

Weekly update: Record Club turnout for Linlithgow 10k race!

On Saturday, 5 Linlithgow runners were at the Dunoon Ultra Marathon. Starting from the famous Benmore Botanical Gardens the route takes runners through some of the area’s finest beauty spots. Marta Sroka was first home for Linlithgow, just under the 6hr mark in 05:59:35. Marta was followed by Neil Anderson in 06:16:23, Gerry McArdle in 06:24:11, Jennifer Newton in 06:30:45 and Bryan Grome in 07:56:19.

The highlight of the weekend running was undoubtedly the Linlithgow 10k on Sunday - despite the damp conditions. A record turnout for the Club, both in terms of those running but also those members who were part of the army of volunteers and helped put on a first class running event. In a repeat of last year, Central Athletic Club’s Alastair Hay was first male finisher, and Edinburgh Athletic Club’s Rebecca Burns first female finisher. In the Fun Run, Andrew McGill of Livingston AC took first place (00:06:05) for the boys and Jemma Macleod of Cumbernauld Amateur Athletics Club for the girls (00:07:52).

For Linlithgow, John Redding was first male, finishing in 00:35:11, with Mairi Watts first female finisher in 00:41:39 - again a repeat of 2018’s race. There were also podium finishes in the age categories, Angus Gallie (00:43:00) and Frances Wood (00:48:40) both finished 1st V60 with Colin Hutcheon (00:43:25) and Jennifer Newton (00:48:10) 2nd in the V60 and V50 categories, respectively, and Scott Hyslop 3rd male V50 (00:41:46). Amongst the Club’s 15 junior runners in the Fun Run, James Hammond was first boy home for LAC and 2nd overall (00:06:54) with sister Rebecca first for the LAC girls, and 3rd female overall (00:08:17).

The remaining LAC finishers were as follows. For the men, Colin Sumpter finished in 00:39:42, then Martin Maginnis in 00:40:49, Michael O’Hara in 00:40:52, Paul Dudchenko in 00:42:10, Jude Moir in 00:43:27, Ian Boxall in 00:43:42, David Main-Reade in 00:45:28, Neil Anderson in 00:45:15, Geoff Pendrill in 00:46:24, Darren Dick in 00:46:24, Kenny Leamy in 00:47:04, Gerry McArdle in 00:48:20, Scott Cumming in 00:49:56, Ian Lockhart in 00:50:00, Alex Wood in 00:59:42, Chris Duffy in 01:08:00 and Keith Graham in 01:11:01. For the LAC women, Lynne McGill finished in 00:42:28, then Alison Malone in 00:44:58, Mandy Cazes in 00:47:44, Kathryn Holm in 00:48:07, Susie Porteous in 00:49:35, Rosemary Gallagher in 00:50:09, Alison Marshall in 00:50:02, Claire Rice in 00:50:23, Louisa Cockburn in 00:51:42, Ali Stewart in 00:53:22, Isobel Lockhart in 00:59:23 and Roberta Whyte in 01:05:49. For the remaining juniors, Calum Murphy in 00:07:51, Angus Curran in 00:08:22, Katie Bothwell in 00:09:06, Sam Hughes in 00:09:12, Alex Leamy in 00:09:18, Chloe Hughes in 00:10:02, Cori Outram in 00:10:07, Harrison Robertson in 00:10:08, Gillian Emery in 00:10:11, Sabrina Pannozzo in 00:10:57, Mairi Dowens in 00:11:11, Abigail Ponton in 00:11:52 and Alish Malcolm in 00:13:05.

Special mention also to the Let’s Go Linlithgow runners who successfully completed the 10k race with a number of them now committed to joining the Club. 

At parkrun, the Club had 7 runners across 6 different runs.

Mandy Cazes was at Edinburgh finishing in 29:46. At Falkirk, Rhiann Ferguson finished in 27:33. Malcolm Hughes was at St Andrews finishing in 22:00. Our parkrun tourists. Graham Chambers finished Bargara, Australia in 26:52. Graeme Wilkinson was at Herrington Country Park finishing in 27:33 and at Mount Stuart, David Main-Reade and Ian Fyfe finished in 22:45 and 36:37, respectively.

Weekly update: Two Breweries Hill Race, Great Scottish Run, Berlin Marathon, Let’s Go Linlithgow and parkrun

Neil Anderson was at the Two Breweries Hill Race on Saturday. A 31km route with 1,700m of ascent from Traquair House in Innerleithen to Broughton in the Scottish Borders. Favourable conditions meant for an enjoyable race; nothing to do with the very generous race sponsor at the finish. One to add to the 2020 calendar if you love running and beer.

At the Great Scottish Run on Sunday, Isobel Lockhart ran the 10k distance, finishing in 59:01. In the Half Marathon, David Main-Reade finished in 01:44:24, Ian Lockhart in 01:51:32, and Alison Marshall in 01:56:32.

Also on Sunday, Malcolm Hughes, Claire Rice and Kathryn Holm were in Germany for the Berlin Marathon. Claire Rice improved on her previous Berlin effort also bagging a new Marathon PB in the process, finishing in 03:48:59. Kathryn also made it under the 4hr milestone, finishing in 03:58:42. Despite a disrupted training schedule due to injury, Malcolm finished in 04:03:55.

The Club’s Let’s Go Linlithgow Jogscotland group successfully completed the 5 to 10K programme on Friday with help of Alex Wood, Neil Anderson and Roddy Simpson. Many of them will now be taking part in the WJM Linlithgow 10K.

At parkrun, the Club had 12 runners across 5 different runs.

Steven Laurie was the Club’s fastest finisher this week, completing Edinburgh in 19:23. Also at Edinburgh, Scott Cumming finished in 22:58 (a new PB and first under 23 mins). Special mention to Beverley Dodgson who made a return to parkrun this weekend after her foot operation, finishing in 01:03:25. At Falkirk, Paul Dudchenko finished in 21:29, followed closely by Ian Boxall in 21:42, then Rebecca Hammond in 23:09, Louisa Cockburn in 25:23 and Isobel Lockhart in 52:05 (volunteer).

Our parkrun tourists. Neil Anderson was at Hay Lodge, finishing in 24:47. Gary and Lucas Welsh ran Lochend Woods in 25:10 and 22:41, respectively. Furthest afield was Graham Chambers who ran Bundaberg, Australia in 28:45.

Let’s Go Linlithgow JogScotland group

Weekly update: Ring of Steall, Scottish Half Marathon, Mourne Marathon, XC taster session and parkrun

Paul Dudchenko, David Mason and Trevor Gallagher traveled to a sunny & warm Kinlochleven for the Ring of Steall Skyrace. The 29km route with 2800m of ascent incorporates two lofty ridges within the Mamores, including the Devil’s Ridge, which provides a thrilling (or terrifying depending on your disposition) and exposed traverse high above Glen Nevis with Ben Nevis towering above in the distance - quite a setting. David finished in 6:04:27 (166th), Paul in 6:49:59 (296th) and Trevor 7:09:00 (340th).

On Saturday afternoon, Jill Horsburgh was joined by Club President Angus Gallie and fellow LAC members Lorna Simpson, Roddy Simpson and Graham Burrows for the first of the Club's cross country taster sessions held in Broxburn. The warm weather was far from your typical cross country weather but nonetheless made for an enjoyable session for both the adult and junior runners in attendance.

John Dowens and his wife Claire were in Northern Ireland this weekend for the Mourne Mountain Marathon. The two-day orienteering event involved teams of two, covering 32km (plus 1500m ascent) with all their food and gear for an overnight camp. Team Dowens finished 1st in the novice D class in 7hrs 21mins.

At a soggy Scottish Half Marathon in Musselburgh on Sunday, Alison Malone finished in 01:40:21 (and a new PB!). 

At parkrun, the Club had 10 runners across 4 different runs.

Angus Gallie was the Club’s fastest finisher this week, completing Edinburgh in 20:43. Also at Edinburgh, Scott Cumming finished in 23:04, Lorna Simpson in 23:39, Mandy Cazes in 26:27 (pushing a double buggy!) and David Main-Reade in 28:05. Karen Outram also ran and bagged a 5k PB (finishing in 22:43), completing her personal challenge of ‘4 for 40’ (to get 4 PBs before turning 40 across marathon, half, 10k & 5k distances) - well done, Karen. At Falkirk, Ian Boxall finished in 22:02 and Isobel Lockhart in 28:54. At Portobello, Neil Anderson finished in 22:00 and Jill Horsburgh ran Drumpelier in 23:48 (A new PB and smashed her own age category record by over a minute).

XC taster session in Broxburn

XC taster session in Broxburn

Weekly update: Self Transcendence, British & Irish Masters XC, From Hel N Back, Kyles 10 Miles, RJT Grand Prix and... parkrun

A busy week for the Club started with Alex and Frances Wood who were at Self Transcendence 2 mile race at the Meadows, Edinburgh on Wednesday evening. Frances finished first FV60 in 14:46 and Alex finished in 17:03.

On Saturday, Frances Wood was then at Tollcross Park in Glasgow for the British and Irish Masters XC Trial Race, along with Colin Hutcheon. The course for all women and over 65 men was a three lap, undulating 6k (approx.) on soft ground, but with a few muddy stretches. The event had the best Masters runners in the country vying for places in the Scotland team to race on 16 November in Southport.  Unfortunately, neither hit the qualifying slots but enjoyed the experience against stiff competition. Colin placed 5th VM65 in 24:03 and Frances placed 6th VW60 in 26:43. 

Also on Saturday, Scott Hyslop continued his good form at the From Hel N Back Hill race. Starting and finishing in Helensburgh, the 12km trail route had no shortage of great views. Scott finished 26th in 61mins, 3rd MV50. Roddy Simpson and Bryan Grome were at the Kyles 10 Miles race in scenic Argyll. Roddy finished in 1:41:59 and Bryan Grome in 1:27:48. 

Two of the Club’s Junior Section were at the final Run Jump Throw Grand Prix of the season on Sunday, hosted by Livingston Athletic Club. Sabrina Pannozzo competed in the U11 category, with Gillian Emery in the U13 age group. Gillian's brother Euan also took part in the U9 competition.

At parkrun, the Club had 8 runners across 7 different runs.

Mandy Cazes was at Edinburgh, finishing in 28:38. At Falkirk, Gary Welsh continued his return to fitness by finishing in 25:41 and Joyce Robertson in 26:44. Geoff Pendrill was at Livingston, finishing in 22:07. 

Our parkrun tourists this week. Neil Anderson completed Mount Stuart in 22:05 and was the Club’s quickest finisher this week. Scott Cumming was at Troon, finishing in 24:45. David Main-Reade was at Bressay, finishing in 22:51 and Jill Horsburgh was at Erddig, finishing in 24:36.

Weekly update: Ben Nevis Hill Race, Ayr Half, Stirling 10k, Woburn Tri 10k and a new Jogleader

A belated congratulations to Yvonne McHugh who completed the Jogscotland Jogleader course and now joins our cohort of Jogleaders. Well done, Yvonne.

Paul Dudchenko and David Mason completed the Ben Nevis Hill Race on Saturday. Very hot conditions and a busy race with almost 500 runners clambering to the top of Britain's highest mountain then back into Fort William. The race is just over 14km with 1360m of climbing. David finished 203rd in 2:28:03 and Paul was 299th in 2:44:45.

On Saturday evening, Alison Malone and Malcolm Hughes were on the west coast for the Ayr Half Marathon. The route takes runners south of the town before a long straight finish along the beachfront. Alison finished in 1:42:12 and Malcolm in 1:49:03.

On Sunday, 17 Linlithgow AC runners completed the Stirling 10k race, favorable conditions and a fast, flat course meant for few PBs and a chance to grab some Club Championship points. For the men, John Redding was first home in 35:44 followed by Colin Sumpter in 39:39, then Scott Hyslop in 40:59, Paul Emery in 42:01, Angus Gallie in 42:18, Paul Dudchenko in 44:25, Ian Lockhart in 47:09, Scott Cumming in 49:26, Roddy Simpson in 54:26 and Graham Chambers in 59:48. For the women, Mair Watts was first home in 41:13, then Mandy Cazes in 46:05, Karen Outtram 46:16, Rosemary Gallagher in 47:34, Jennifer Newtons in 48:01, Charlotte Moran in 48:05 and Alison Stewart in 53:27.

Also on Sunday, David Main-Reade completed the 10k run at Woburn Triathlon. Improving on last year’s effort, finishing in 47 mins.

At parkrun, the Club had 14 runners across 5 different runs.

The Club’s biggest turnout was at Falkirk where 11 Linlithgow runners were amongst the 571 runners that helped Falkirk celebrate its 400th event. Martin Maginnis was first home in 20:10, then Ian Boxall in 21:04, Rebecca Hammond in 23:30, Ian Lockhart in 23:47, Jill Horsburgh in 23:48, Neil Anderson in 23:59, Gary Welsh in 29:08, Isobel Lockhart in 29:27, Hannah Danson (and buggy!) in 31:50 and Roddy Simpson in 57:30 (tail walker). Elsewhere, Ian Fyfe was at Livingston, finishing in 29:28. 

Our parkrun tourists this week. David Main-Reade was at Bushy Park in London, finishing in 22:33. Joyce Robertson was at Victoria Park in Glasgow, finishing in 26:21 and Michael Watts was at Loch Leven, finishing in 22:07.

Weekly update: The Heb adventure race, Perth 10k and parkrun

Brian Couper, Darren Dick and Neil Anderson (fresh from his trip to Shetland) took part in The Heb, an adventure race set in some of the most spectacular, wild and remote landscape in Scotland – the Hebridean Island chain off the west coast. The trio spent two days cycling along beaches, kayaking, climbing hills and trotting through bogs. The mud and sand will (eventually) wash away but the memories of North and South Uist and Benbecula will never fade - a great race by all accounts. 

On Sunday, Ian Logan and Hannah Danson were in Perth for the 10k race. A popular event on the Scottish running calendar, the race has been going for over 30 years. A flat, fast route taking in views of the River Tay, and offers runners a good opportunity for a fast time. Ian finished in 36:31 mins making him 8th overall (2nd MV), and Hannah finished in 51:46 mins. 

At parkrun, the Club had 8 runners across 6 different runs.

Martin Maginnis was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Livingston in 20:14. Also at Livingston, Lorna Simpson finished in 24:34 and Mandy Cazes in 25:04. At Southwark, Charlotte Fortune finished in 20:43. At Polkemmet, Jill Horsburgh finished in 25:38. 

Our parkrun tourists this week. David Main-Reade was at Zilmere in Brisbane (collecting his ‘Z’ in the process), finishing in 22:44. Scott Cumming was at Hay Lodge, finishing in 26:21 and Ian Box all was in Stonehaven, finishing in 22:04.

Weekly update: Club Mile race, Bridge to Brisbane 10K, Kirkcaldy Parks Half Marathon and parkrun

On Thursday evening, Craigswood track, Livingston, was once again the venue for Linlithgow AC’s annual Mile race. The miserable summer weather meant for slick conditions underfoot. After 4 laps of the track, it came down to hundredths of a second between first and second place - almost a photo finish. For the men, first home was Martin Maginnis in 5:43.21, closely followed by Neil Barnes in 5:43.91 and Paul Emery in 5:44.69, then Scott Cumming in 6:21.34, Darren Dick in 6:22.31 and Bryan Grome in 7:46.52. For the women, Lynne McGill was first home in 5:49.33, then Mandy Cazes in 6:35.63 and Karen Outram in 6:49.69. Thanks again to John, Paul and Roddy.

David Main-Reade was in Brisbane on Saturday. After a delayed arrival and missing out on securing a ‘Z’ for his parkrun alphabet effort at Zilmere parkrun Brisbane. David ran the Bridge to Brisbane 10K race finishing in 55 mins despite the jetlag.

On Sunday, Mandy Cazes was amongst the 930 runners at the Kirkcaldy Parks Half Marathon. The race was the town's first long distance race in nearly three decades, with Fife Provost Jim Leishman officially opening the race. Mandy finished in 1:47:40.

Photo credit: Roddy Simpson and Neil Anderson.

At parkrun, the Club had 10 runners across 6 different runs.

Neil Anderson made the trip to Shetland this weekend to complete his goal of running all the Scottish parkruns - although it is a moving target with several other new runs rumoured to start over the next couple of months. 

Getting to Bressay was a bit of an adventure. Neil made the trip to Lerwick on Friday involving a bicycle, two trains and a ferry, and on Saturday morning, he joined an excited group of runners and volunteers to take the 9am ferry across to Bressay for the run. The Run Director warned of a rogue scorie (that’s a seagull for us southerners) had dived at one of the volunteers checking the route, adding that there were no “dead things” on the course, reassuring no doubt! Motivated by the promise of coffee and cake in the Speldiburn Café next to the finish line, Neil finished the course in 22:04.

Elsewhere, Ian Boxall was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Falkirk in 21:24. Also at Falkirk, Hannah Danson finished in 26:01 and Roddy Simpson in 38:01. At Edinburgh, Scott Cumming finished in 24:31. At Livingston, Colin Hutcheon finished in 21:42 (1st MV65), Brian Couper in 23:37 and Lorna Simpson in 24:44. At Dunfermline, Joyce Robertson finished in 27:54. 

Our other parkrun tourist was Ian Fyfe who was at Drumpellier, finishing in 25:36.

Weekly update: Coll Half Marathon, Forth Bridge 10k and parkrun

It was a battle against the elements this week for Linlithgow AC…

Jill Horsburgh was in the windy (with intermittent hail and vertical rain!) Inner Hebrides on Saturday for the Coll Half Marathon. The route, starting at the Calmac Ferry terminal follows the main road around the island, looping runners back toward Arinagour for the finish. Jill finished the race in 01:58:28 (1st FV60, 13th female). 

4 Linlithgow runners were at the Forth Road Bridge 10k on Sunday. The race, returning to the Scottish running calendar after a break last year, saw runners faced with +40mph winds. Alison Malone was first home for the Linlithgow women, finishing in 46:54 (5th FV40), followed by Claire Rice in 50:09, Lorna Simpson in 50:37 and Louisa Cockburn in 53:15. For the men, Martin Maginnis finished in 42:35.  

Another quiet week at parkrun, the Club had 5 runners across 7 different runs.

Ian Boxall was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Falkirk in 21:32. Also at Falkirk, Rebecca Hammond finished in 24:34 and Roddy Simpson in 27:59. At Plean, Neil Anderson finished in 21:47. At Livingston, Malcolm Hughes finished in 22:21.

Our parkrun tourists this week. Mandy Cazes was at Drumpellier, finishing in 24:26 and Scott Cumming ran Walmer and Deal Seafront, finishing in 25:50.

Weekly update: North Berwick Law race, Grangemouth Open Graded event and parkrun

Ian Logan was in East Lothian for the North Berwick Law race on Wednesday evening.  The race went from the harbour to the top of the Law and back, approximately 4.8km. Ian finished the race 23:01 mins, and was 12th overall and 2nd male veteran.

Also on Wednesday, Scott Cumming was at the Grangemouth Open Graded event. The majority of those competing were juniors, but there were also a fair few seniors. Over 800m distance, Scott secured a PB time of 2 mins 46.76 secs. A well organised event with electronic timing and wind gauges for the sprinters. For anyone interested, there will be a similar event on 21 August at Livingston. 

A relatively quiet week at parkrun, the Club had 11 runners across 4 different runs.

Junior LAC member James Hammond was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Falkirk in 19:39. Also at Falkirk, Martin Maginnis finished in 20:21, Ian Boxall in 21:39, Malcolm Hughes in 22:17, Hannah Danson in 26:49 and Rebecca Hammond in 27:03. At Edinburgh, Scott Cumming finished in 24:43 and Mandy Cazes in 26:16.

Our parkrun tourists this week. David Main-Reade and Jill Horsburgh were at Hazlehead, finishing in 23:10 and 24:57, respectively. Neil Anderson was not far away in Ellon, finishing in 20:36.

Weekly update: Devil in the Highlands, Dunoon Half, Mhor Marathon and a parkrun centurion

On Saturday, David Mason made his first attempt at the Devil in the Highlands Footrace (and his first Ultra distance event). 42 miles with 6500 feet of climbing along the West Highland Way from Tyndrum to Fort William coupled with unseasonably hot temperatures in the high 20's added to this extremely challenging event. David completed the race in 10:00:18, a great achievement.

Also on Saturday, Kathryn Holm and Claire Rice had favorable conditions for the Dunoon Half Marathon. An out and back course along the coast which also concludes with a children’s race, a great family event. Kathryn finished in 1:48:19 (just 4 secs off bettering last year’s effort). Claire finished in 1:50:46, a course PB for Claire and also taking a chunk off last year’s time.

On Sunday, Bryan Grome was in Callander for the Mhor Marathon. The course takes runners along the trails beside Loch Lubnaig and Loch Voil with a total elevation of 2250 feet, finishing at the Monachyle Mhor Hotel, Balquhidder. Bryan finished in 05:24:08 (official time tbc).

At parkrun, the Club had 13 runners across 7 different runs.

Richard Wood was the fastest Linlithgow finisher this week, completing Rutland Water in 19:29. The biggest Club turnout was at Falkirk, where Lorna Simpson completed her 100th parkrun aptly dressed as a Centurion, finishing in 24:51. Angus Gallie also ran, finishing in 20:57 (1st MV60), then Ian Boxall in 21:40, Mandy Cazes (and buggy!) in 29:34 and Yvonne McHugh in 34:38. At Edinburgh, Ian Lockhart finished in 23:23, Scott Cumming in 23:55 and Isobel Lockhart in 28:31. At Livingston, Charlotte Moran finished in 24:44.

Our parkrun tourists this week. Ian Fyfe ran Eglinton in 22:57, David Main-Reade ran Inverness in 22:45, Neil Anderson ran Drumpellier in 21:00.

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