Race results & reports

If you have any results or reports for inclusion on the site (good or bad) please forward them on to me at steviemcloone@ntlworld.com

So close but yet so far!!!!

Berlin Marathon 28th September 2008

This is your ultimate glorious failure, snatching defeat from the jaws of victory etc etc.

Picture the scene - I've just ran 42,185metres and here I am with less than 10 metres to go with the line in sight. I have 7 secs to get across the line and break the 3hr barrier in the marathon at my 4th attempt. I got it in the bag but what do I do, I COLLAPSE.

I ran really well up to 20miles, going thru in 2hrs 14mins but gradually slowed down from there in. Probably ran too quick between Halfway and 20miles which probably didn't help. Really began to overheat with 6miles to go and had to stop for a couple of seconds every km to take a full cup of water to try and rehydrate a little.

The last km was the most surreal experience in my life. The last thing I remember is seeing the Brandenburg Gate in the distance, looking at my watch and realising I have 5mins22secs to run the final 1195metres. I decide to give it one final effort and the rest is just a blur of which I have no memory of. I cannot even remember going thru the Brandenburg gate. As I approached the finish I couldn't hear the crowd (my ears stopped working) and I started getting tunnel vision (my eyes are now packing it in). With the finish within touching distance just when I thought it couldn't get worse it did. My brain was telling my legs "Just a few more steps" and my legs were saying "Go and take a good.... to yourself" (you know what I'm saying). The legs literally stopped working and I just collapsed.

Now this is when it becomes even more warped. When I passed out, blacked out, took a whitey, hit the wall (whatever happened) my mind has convinced me that a marshall came to my aid, picked me up and helped me across the line. But as you can see from the attached finish clip there was no marshal (maybe it was the guardian angel of marathon runners). All you have is the hilarious movie of me falling flat on my coupon and then dragging myself up and staggering like a guy, who has just downed a bottle of vodka, across the line whereupon I collapse again into the arms of 2 stewards obviously poised like coiled springs for diddy men like me. I should be gutted but to be honest I am chuffed and not down at all. I know in my head that I totally flogged myself out there to the point where my body could give no more. Just have to start making plans for my next sub 3 attempt.

From a racing point of view I would strongly recommend Berlin and I put it up there on par with London. The city was great and the race, the crowd and the general organisation was brilliant. To top the weekend we got upgraded at the Hilton and had free access all weekend in the Executive lounge which meant lots of free drink after behaving myself over the last few weeks. God bless Tesco Clubcard vouchers.

For the saddos here was my kilometre splits - 4.12, 08, 15, 09, 12, 10, 11, 11, 09, 07, 04, 11, 19, 06, 01, 08, 08, 09, 07, 10, 11, 11, 12, 09, 13, 08, 16, 20, 20, 17, 19, 14, 22, 25, 29, 33, 33, 27, 34, 29, 29, 31, 5.29 (1.2km)

http://www.finisherclip.de/en/previews/index/28/22022

Alan Dorando O'Rourke lunges for the line in 3hours 00minutes 07 seconds

Orangefield Women go close in County Road Race Championships

George Cummings Relays 27th September 08

Emily Pollock leads the womens team off on the 1st leg followed closely by Mick Harrington.

The ladies A team finished 4th in the county championships,(8th overall) showing a big improvement on last year.

Emily Pollock was Greenock Glenpark Harriers top performer at the George Cummings road relays at Houston. Out on the opening leg she recorded the team’s quickest time finishing in 8^thoverall and also lying 4^th in the local county championship. Sharron Skinner and Alison King gave their all as they opened the gap on the chasing Bellahouston ladies team, but they couldn’t find enough to catch a strong Kilbarchan trio.

A very experienced men’s A team were led off by club captain Danny McLaughlin, his impressive form this term, shown by his improvement of over 40 seconds quicker than last year. Andy McCall took over on leg 2 catching five runners to pull the team up to 12^th place. The final two runners, over 50 veterans Robert Mitchell and Robert Dolan were surprised to be thrown into the top team at the last minute, but they stuck to their task matching the teams 21^st position from last year.

Danny does the Hakka at the start of the race

Pat Duffy was fastest man from the B team with a storming run on the anchor leg. William Graham who recently joined the club showed the most improved from last weeks trial race, and was quickest in team C. Ladies captain Terry Wall led the B team to 21^st place in the women’s race. Results:

A team: D.McLaughlin 14.48, A.McCall 14.29, R.Mitchell 16.18, R.Dolan 17.33.

B team: M.Harrington 16.59, J.Cuffe 18.01, A.MacLean 18.53, P.Duffy 15.26.

C team: R.Hodelet 22.18, W.Graham 21.34.

Ladies Ateam: E.Pollock 17.00, S.Skinner 18.15,A.King 18.02.

Ladies Bteam: T.Wall 18.48, D.McCormick 21.00, Y.Prager 21.41.

Campbell Climbs New Heights.

Congratulations to Steven Campbell who raced to his first ever win at the Richie Wannacott 5mile trail race at Garelochead training camp on Sunday 28th September. After getting sent the wrong way by stewards in his last race at Newton Mearns which denied him victory, he got off to the worst possible starts.

On being told that his 5mile race would be starting 10 minutes after the 9mile race, he decided to shelter in his car from the rain. As he sat watching the start he soon realised that everyone had gone off together, which resulted in a mad dash to the the start line to catch the rest of the field who were quickly disappearing into the distance. He eventually hit the front just after 1/2 way and held on for a hard fought win in a time of 31.09, Andy MacLean finished in 14th (41.14).

Stevie Campbell leads the climb earlier this summer at Glen Masson

Micky Dunn was in action in the 9mile trail race as he continued his comeback finishing in an excellent 3rd place in 65minutes.

McLoone wins final race in Championship 20/9/08
Stevie McLoone returned from international duty in the Czech republic to
cruise to victory in Greenock Glenpark Harriers 2.7mile JG Cameron road
race, held on Saturday at the Esplanade.
In perfect racing conditions a pack of 4 including McLoone soon broke
clear of the field. Attempts by Mick McLoone and club champion Andy McCall
failed to split the group who remained together until Stevie eased clear
with 1mile to go. Running within himself he continued to pull clear to
come home 12 secs clear of his cousin with Danny McLaughlin claiming 3rd
spot ahead of McCall.
Making an excellent return was Pat Duffy who put in a blistering finish to
win the battle for 5th spot ahead of Steven Campbell and Alan O'Rourke.
Good runs also came from Phil Russell, Robert Mitchell and Robert Adams
who produced his best performance yet in Glenpark colours. Further down
the field, but no less impressive, were Stevie McDade and Bernie Kangley,
both parents of the clubs junior athletes, and happy taking the scalps of
some established harriers.
Whilst the men's race was dominated by the vets, the opposite was the case
for the Ladies race. U17 Emily Pollock stamped her authority from the
start and left the opposition trailing. For the 2nd race in a row she
fought tooth and nail for the entire race with Mick Harrington only to
break the veteran's heart at the end with a sprint finish. This capped the
end to a very good summer season for Emily during which she has lowered
her PBs at all distances from 800m to 5km. Coming home in 2nd and making a
welcome return after a study break was Emma Baxter ahead of Alison King
who did enough to retain her club champion title for a 3rd year in a row.
Good runs also came from Natalie Donald and Fiona Cushnaghan who has
obviously benefited from recent speed sessions. Making it a family affair
was Irene McDade who used the race as a confidence booster ahead of next
months Great North Run.
The club would like to thank all the volunteers who helped on the day as
well as Race sponsors www.papyrusgifts.co.uk .

(see junior section page for young athletes report and results)

Senior results: S.McLoone 14.33, M.McLoone 14.45, D.McLaughlin 14.51, A.McCall 14.55, P.Duffy 15.08, S.Campbell 15.12, A.O'Rourke 15.31, J.Knowles 15.58, P.Russell 16.04, R.Adams 16.08, R.Mitchell 16.11, D.McCorkindale 16.41, R.Dolan 16.54, N.Orr 17.05, E.Pollock 17.07, M.Harrington 17.12, M.Dunn 17.22, S.Forbes 17.31, K.Pryde 17.34, E.Baxter 17.42, K.Scott 17.47, A.King 17.59, J.Montgomerie 18.18, J.Cuffe 18.41, N.Donald 18.47, T.Wall 18.55, f.Cushnaghan 19.52, M.McLoone 20.05, A.McLean 20.05, B.Kangley 20.44, I.McDade 20.58, Y.Prager 21.28, S.McDade 22.18, D.Hodelet 22.25, W.Graham 22.25.

Greenock Glenpark Harriers travelled far and wide at the weekend, with their biggest turnout reserved for Sunday's Great Scottish Run in Glasgow.

O'Rourke & Wall take the honours at Glasgow

Alan O'Rourke led home the 14 Harriers, and it was a result of his recent marathon training that bore fruit as he recorded 1hr23m his fastest time in years, finishing 125th from over 7000 competitors. Alan Henderson was next back for the Orangefield club despite a long absence he still managed to complete the 13.1 miles in 1hr30m, ahead of Phil Russell, Robert Dolan and Robert Mitchell.

Robert Mitchell, Robert Adams & Allan Henderson
Fairing less well were Robert Adams who had hoped to break 90minutes but fell short by 5minutes. Gerry McManus, performing in Glenpark colours for the 1st time also found the going tough over the hilly course, as did Iain Rankin who was totally unprepared for the race, having not pulled on his trainers for 2 months, but the veteran runner did well to break 2hrs.

Ladies captain Terry Wall and Sharron Skinner showed what results that can be achieved by putting in punishing speed sessions. Terry reduced her best by 3mins to 1hr39m, and Sharron finished in 1.43hrs, some 5mins quicker than her previous mark. Also competing but just missing out on PBs were Fiona Cushnaghan and Yvonne Prager.

Danny Sails under the 1 hour mark

At Millport on Sunday in the Round Cumbrae 10 ¼ mile road race, men’s Captain Danny McLaughlin produced another excellent performance. In a quality field he went under 60mins for the 1st time in several years to finish 12th (2nd vet) in a time of 59.03. Following him were Steven Campbell, Davy McCorkindale and Micky Dunn who is quickly regaining his fitness. Making up the group was Kenny Pryde, the only man this weekend to gain a personal best, running 72mins.

Campbell in the soup at Newton Mearns

Bad luck befell Steven Campbell the previous day at the Newton Mearns 5k, whilst running in the leading pack at 1km, his hopes of recording a first open win were quashed when poor stewarding sent the leaders a mile in the wrong direction. Suffering to a lesser degree were David McCorkindale and Micky Dunn who although also going off course were able to recover lost ground to claim the 2nd and 3^rd spots.

McLoone's Czech delight

Stevie McLoone delivered his best performance in his 5^th World Masters Mountain Running Championships in the blazing sun on Mount Kralicky Sneznik. Starting in the eastern Czech village of Dolni Morava the race wound up the 11.3km mountain track to the exposed 1200metre summit.

With his recent good form he was hoping to improve on his previous best finish when he placed 37^th at Innsbruck in 2002. After a steady start he quickly moved through the field to 13th, trying to hold onto English Internationalist Craig Roberts (who would eventually go on to claim the Bronze medal) at the half way stage.

But as the temperature soared to 30degrees, and the gradient on the upper slopes steepened to 25%, which brought most of the runners to a virtual crawl, he slipped back a few places, but still came home delighted with his 17^th position.

Stevie McLoone

McCall's at Fort William

It was an unhappy debut for Andy McCall at Ben Nevis. After a promising climb to over half way, an unexplained lack of energy caused him to struggle to maintain his early pace. Deciding to ease off, he waited and ran the remainder of the race with his dad Andy Snr, the pair finishing comfortably in just over 3 hours.

The club will now enjoy 2 weeks break from racing before they enter six consecutive Saturdays of Relay races which start with the club's 4km JG Cameron trial race on the 20th September.

Inverclyde Triathlon/Biathlon - Sunday 24th August

Great weather and some exciting competition at Inverclydes 2nd Triathlon made for a fantastic day out for everyone involved whether it was competing, watching or timekeeping. 11 Harriers took part in the Triathlon, and in the Biathlon, a new event for Junior athletes , Emily Pollock Matthew Deegan Lauren Mulaghton and William Graham made up a quarter of the field.

At the top of the field Hugh Stewart was cruelly passed in the last 200m of the run after leading from the start by Colin Wilson. David McCorkindale 3rd just ahead of Graham Forbes. Danny McLaughlin, David Henderson, Stevie Campbell finished in 8, 9 and 10th respectively. Stevie recording the fastest time on the run beating Danny by 40 seconds.

All the results can be found on the following links:

Triathlon results: http://www.inverclydeleisure.com/news3/read.asp?NewsID=143

Biathlon results: http://www.inverclydeleisure.com/news3/read.asp?NewsID=144

Race Results - May/June 2008

17^th May Cape Wrath Challenge full marathon with 2500ft ascent

Bill Downie 5:03, William Downie 4:06 (P.B)

5^th June Dumbarton 10k

Stevie Campbell 36.52, Robert Wilson 37.58, Mick Follan 42.19, Kenny Pryde 44.11, Sharron Skinner 45.43, Terry Wall 45.46, Lorna Coyle 48.59, Irene McDade 51.05, Kirsty Jagielko 52.02, Yvonne Prager 53.05

7^th June Under 17 Scottish 3000m Championships

7^th Emily Pollock 11.09

King leads the way

Race For Life 8th June 2008

Alison King inside the final kilometre with Kirsty McClurg closing her down.

Alison King just missed out on winning the Glasgow Race for Life on Sunday, where an amazing 13,000 women started the 5km race at Glasgow Green.

The Greenock Glenpark Harrier led the race until the last 400m, when Kirsty McClurg eventually pulled level then passed the tiring King.

Although outside her best, she was happy with her time of 19.48, an indication of her continuing improvement after a lengthy lay off.

Spot the young Glenparkers in this short video from the race.

http://www.eveningtimes.co.uk/news/display.var.2326717.0.video_special_glasgow_race_for_life_2008.php

Kilpatricks Hill Race 4^th June 2008

Greenock Glenpark Harriers Andy McCall despite running a personal best at the Kilpatricks Hill race was denied victory by mountain specialist Jethro Lennox.

The Shettleston Harrier currently lying second in the British Championship blasted away from the rest of the field right from the start opening up a large lead by the first long climb up onto the Kilpatricks plateau above Erskine.

McCall a relatively slow climber was back in 12^th position at this stage, and when team mate Stevie McLoone pulled level, he got the wake-up call he needed and he pushed on pulling in the runners in front. But it wasn’t until the long drop off the hillside that he came into his own passing the rest of the chasing pack and actually closing the gap on Lennox, to take the runners up spot.

McLoone just failed in his quest for the first veteran’s prize. He caught and passed Carnethy’s veteran internationalist Ronnie Gallacher, and Kilmarnocks Haining, but lost the lead just before the final drop off the summit, and was unable to get back on terms with the pair finishing 8^th overall.

The Orangefield club had six competing among the record 94 runners, Danny McLaughlin, having his best season in years, was next in 22^nd, while Mick Harrington despite suffering cramp on the descent, put in a strong run to come home in 58^th.

Sharron Skinner and Terry Wall after competing in their first hill race at Cornalees the previous week were back for more, over the longer, tougher and higher 10k course. And the pair showed a marked improvement, with both having enough energy to put in a blistering finish to gain a number of places on the final ½ mile road section. Against quality opposition Skinner finished in 11^th with Wall taking the 4^th vet’s position.

Results: A.McCall 45.55, S.McLoone 48.14 D.McLaughlin 52.36, M.Harrington 62.08, S.Skinner 67.35, T.Wall 69.44.

Frank Sinclair 10K Road Race – 31^st May08

A blistering hot day for Inverclyde AC’s annual 10km saw Danny 1^st back for the club finishing in 3^rd place.

Results

1.S.Miller IAC 33.50, 3.Danny McLaughlin 35.18, 10.Chris McCall 40.43, 11.Andy McCall 40.43, 16.Robert Mitchell 42.40, 18.Ernie Currie 44.57, 25.Davie Henderson 49.33, 31.JimSheridan 61.43

Clydebank 10K Road Race – 29th May08

A warm evening for the 2nd in the Polaroid 10K series, an excellent run from Stevie, while Robert was still suffering from the Hill race the night before.

Results: Stevie Campbell 36.46, Robert Wilson 38.57, Yvonne Prager 53.23

Andy's 4 in a Row - Cornalees Hill Race 28^th May 2008

Greenock Glenpark Harriers Andy McCall claimed a record fourth victory in the 12^th running of the Cornalees hill race.

Westerlands Chris Upson leads Andy, Danny and Stevie up the first climb.

McCall took the lead after the first half mile steadily opening up the gap on the chasing group of Stevie McLoone, Danny McLaughlin and Westerlands Chris Upson. He never looked back finally winning with a comfortable 2 min lead over McLoone, with Upson not far behind in 3^rd.

Robert Wilson had a race long battle with Scott McKendrick only to finally break clear for 5^th place when McKendrick took a spectacular fall just before the line.

Robert Wilson & Scott McKendrick before the final descent to the finish.

Westerlands Elsie Reilly won the Women’s race in a new course record, 10 seconds ahead of teammate Catrina Miller, While Glenpark’s Sharron Skinner held off the fast finishing Terry Wall.

Sharron Skinner attempts to fly down the final hill.

Low lying cloud on the hill caused a number of the 23 runners problems as visibility was down to 30 metres on the summit, but after a few unintentional detours everyone managed to get back off the hill safely.

In the annual interclub challenge the Harriers took revenge on last years winners Westerlands winning by 106 to 112 pts.

Thanks to stewards and timekeepers Jean, Jim, Davy, Mick, Andy, Irene, Dorothy, and Yvonne who braved the wet and cold conditions and midges.

Stevie passes over the bridge on the Greenock "Cut" - Thanks to Charlie Campbell for race photographs!!!

Results: Seniors: A.McCall 32.13, S.McLoone 34.36, C.Upson 35.16, D.McLaughlin 37.12, R.Wilson 38.01, S.McKendrick 38.06 , M.McLoone 38.11, D.Riach 38.12, S.Triger 38.33, J.Penderis, A.O’Rourke 41.19, J.Kashoul 41.34, D.Calder 41.54, P.Clarke 42.12, M.Harrington 42.32, E.Reilly 43.27, Catrina Miller 43.37, C.Menhennet 47.35, S.Skinner 49.04, T.Wall 49.22, P.McAdam 52.59, T.Knight 63.26, P.McLaughlin 63.31.

Women's Glasgow 10K 18th May 2008

Results of Glenpark women and other local runners at the Glasgow 10k. J.Knowles 37.24, R.Bushfield 38.31, A.King 42.57, M.Campbell 44.51, L. Rogers 45.04, T.Wall 45.05, L.Coyle 46.44, F.Cushnaghan 47.13, E.Murdoch 47.47, K.Jagielko 51.22

Helensburgh 10km 22nd May 2008

Only a trio of Glenparkers made it to Helensburgh for the first of the Polaroid 10k series while the rest of us watched the Premier League deciders.

Stevie Campbell 37.27, Mick Follan 41.01, Robert Dolan(sen) 41.44

Kircudbright 11.2km 24th May 2008

Robert Wilson claimed victory in the new11.2km Kircudbright road race winning easily in 41.37, 2 minutes clear of the 2nd place athlete. His wife Carol finished in 73 .47.

Ben Lomond Hill Race 10th May 2008

Andy McCall goes 1 place better than 2007 to finish runner-up in this years Ben Lomond race in 75.26, for the 9 mile/3100ft run. 22nd Danny McLaughlin 83.58, 71st Davy Ballantyne 1.40.10.

Race report and more pictures on the Scottish Hill runners website:

http://www.shr.uk.com/NewsItems.aspx?NewsItemID=255

Troon 10K 7th May 2008

Personal best's from Mick McLoone and Davy Ballantyne at the Troon 10k where almost 1000 starters took to the streets for the popular race. Results: 20.Mick McLoone 35.43, 88.Davy Ballantyne 40.07, 149. Robert Dolan 42.49, 2.88.Terry Wall 46.36, 595. Sharron Skinner 54.19

Chisolm Mile Tuesday 6^th May 2008

As the mini heat wave hit the country the pace was just as hot in Glenpark Harriers Chisolm Mile race along Greenock Esplanade last Tuesday evening.

After the initial mass charge at the start the Harriers Robert Docherty and Chris McCall showed briefly at the front early on, but their lack of training soon put paid to any realistic challenge.

It was guest runner John Cooke who made the early break from Andy McCall, with Stephen McLoone, looking out of it in a distant 3^rd. But just as the race looked as if it was over as a contest, McLoone made his move at half way to close down the gap on the leading two. Hopes of gaining a place floundered when McCall sensing the Inverclyde athlete in front tiring moved up a gear in the final quarter mile. It was despair for McCall, who had left his effort too late but joy for Cooke who crossed the line 4 seconds clear.

There was delight too for Mick McLoone, Steven Campbell and David Ballantyne who all dipped under the 5minute mark for the first time, as they were closely chased by Robert Wilson who was first over 50.

Under 17 girl Emily Pollock won the Women’s race for her second time in a new personal best, with her main challenge coming from junior girls Meighan McDade and Shannon Kangley. Alison King who had only recently returned to training just held off the fast finishing Sharron Skinner to finish as first senior woman.

Craig Knight produced the biggest surprise of the night winning the junior boys contest. After being put under extreme pressure from Ross Forbes, Michael Isaac and Jack Harrington he kept his nerve to hold off the challengers, with only 3 seconds separating the quartet. Craig also taking great delight in beating his Grandad Tommy, who was first over 60.

There was plenty of promise shown by the youngest athletes competing, Francesca Fisher, Olivia Black , Clara Pollock and Calum O’Neill.

The race was moved to a midweek slot for the first time and the numbers were boosted to a record attendance of 46, with all the entry fees being donated to Inverclyde Cardiac Unit. The Harriers would like to express their thanks to all the volunteers, the cyclists for clearing a path for the runners through the busy Esplanade, and timekeepers and stewards, and a special thanks to Race sponsors Papyrus.

Results: J.Cooke 4.25,A.McCall 4.29, S.McLoone 4.36 C.McCall 4.47, M.McLoone 4.48, S.Campbell 4.56, D.McLaughlin 4.58, D.Ballantyne 4.59, R.Wilson 5.02, G.Morrison 5.06, R.Docherty 5.11, E.Pollock 5.24, M.Harrington 5.24, M.Follan 5.32, G.Cooke 5.37, C.Knight 5.39, R.Forbes 5.40, M.Isaac 5.41, J.Harrington 5.42, K.Pryde 5.43, M.McDade 5.44, S.Kangley 5.48, A.King 5.50, S.Skinner 5.51, C.Dalgleish 5.55, J.Pollock 6.26, T.Wall 6.30, K.Abercrombie 6.41, G.Black 6.47, A.Gray 6.50, L.Mulaghton 6.52, T.Knight 6.58, G.Fisher 7.01, C.Abercrombie 7.02, R.Fulton 7.03, A.Taylor 7.04, L.McCready 7.15, Y.Prager 7.30, A.Fisher 7.32, M.Shaw 7.36, F.Fisher 7.36, R.McDiarmid 8.04, O.Black 8.33, A.Russell 8.35, C.Pollock 8.37, C.O’Neill 8.44.

London Marathon 13/4/08 – Wilson breaks 3hours

Six Glenpark Harriers travelled to London for Britain's biggest and one of the world’s major Marathons on Sunday 13th April, which had more than 34,000 people finishing this years event.

There was no surprises as Robert Wilson was first back for the club with a time of 2.56.10, although not as fast as in previous years, this was due to his cut back on training this season, followed by Phil Russell and Robert Dolan who both achieved the qualifying time for “good for age” with times of 3.11.17 and 3.14.30 respectively. Best personal performance from the club came from Robert Dolan jnr who achieved a personal best and his fastest London from 6 attempts with a time of 3.21.09. Michael Follan in 3.27.38 who was pleased with his time after having a few months out due to injury, and finally Eeyin Rankin soaked up the atmosphere and enjoyed the sights as he strolled round the course in 4.55.53.

Lochaber Marathon 27/4/08 – Glenpark Ladies Claim Silver

Six commited (and so they should be- but who let them out?)Glenparkers, accompanied by a band of loyal supporters, made their way to Fort William last weekend – most of them by car and a crazy couple on a tandem!

The day started off overcast and cool but soon warmed up and by the time the runners reached the first water station most had discarded gloves and extra layers. For those handing out drinks and encouragement it was very pleasant standing in the warm sunshine, but hard for the runners as the route offers very little shade on an out and back course.

But they battled on with Robert Wilson in the top 7 all the way to within 5 miles of the finish. Unfortunately coming just two weeks after the London marathon he was unable to maintain his position and ended up finishing in 15^th place, and 2^nd in his age category, still an admirable achievement.

There was a close battle between Anne Hay and Terry Wall who finally passed Anne just before the turn at half way. Terry then surged on to finish in a fantastic 3hrs 37mins, taking 7 mins off her pb and giving her a guaranteed entry to next year’s FLM. Anne was 2^nd in her age category and Terry was 3^rd in hers. Fiona Cushnaghan was disappointed to finish a few seconds slower than last year and just over a minute outside the London qualifying time but resolved to do better at the Edinburgh marathon later this month. And the ladies team were delighted to come away with Silver behind Metro Aberdeen.

Iain Rankin was the next Glenparker home in 4hrs 22mins just two weeks after London and the day after a hard cycle ride to Fort William. And finishing with another pb was Margaret MacCabe who took 3 mins of her previous best time.

Times: Robert Wilson 2.56.06; Terry Wall 3.37.45; Anne Hay 3.41.47; Fiona Cushnaghan 3.46.13; Iain Rankin 4.22.01; Margaret MacCabe 4.37.50.

Blackpool ½ Marathon 27/4/08 – Ballantyne becomes untied

Davy Ballantyne was the lone Glenparker, to travel south to Blackpool for this year’s half-marathon. With a time just off his personal best he was more than pleased considering his lack of quality sessions this year. Like the true Glenparker he is, he enjoyed too much of the local lager the Friday before the race, but a 30 minute run on the Saturday had him raring to go come Sunday morning. He would have been quicker, but the numpty had to stop and re-tie his shoelaces mid way through the race.

Kaim Hill Race 30/4/08 – Andy McCall claims Hat-trick of wins

Andy McCall was in top form at Fairlie on Wednesday evening winning the Kaim Hill race for the 3^rd year in arrow. Once again his main opposition came from prolific Hill runner Alan Smith from Aviemore (useless piece of information: He is the owner of the only Reindeer herd in the UK). Despite falling on his backside 5 times on the descent Andy managed to run clear for his hat-trick of wins in a time of 31.31mins. And Glenpark also took the team prize, with Danny McLaughlin in 10^th 35.35, and Michael McLoone jnr 15^th 37.09, on a rare outing this year due to his university studies.

Linwood Open Grade Track Meeting 30/4/08. – Juniors 1^st outing of the season

Wet cold and windy conditions met the Glenpark youngsters for the first open graded meeting of the season. 10 youngsters travelled up to Linwood to compete in the 100m, 200m and long jump, (and 1500m for Emily).

Greg Black 16.37, 36.42, Jack Harrington 31.73, Ross Forbes, 32.74,Craig Knight 14.94, 31.67, Rebecca McDiarmid 16.99, 37.85, Shannon Kangley 14.92, 31.74, 3.37M, Meighan McDade 15.15, 32.68, 3.73M, Gabrielle Fisher 15.03, 33.15, 3.70M, Emily Pollock 5.17, and Ryan Sinnamon 14.47,29.99.

The youngsters have been all training for endurance events over the winter, so the sprints provided a chance to put a bit of speed into their training, and this resulted in a few personal best’s. A Special mention to Rebbeca McDiarmid, in her club debut, who showed a great competitive attitude in both her sprint races, and to Ryan Sinnamon also his debut who recorded the quickest Glenpark times of the night.

Is there no levels that club secretary Stevie McLoone will stoop to gain a victory? After the planned 5k race was cancelled at the last minute, he managed to get a run in the 1500m. With no time to warm up for the 1^st race, his only other option was for the 3^rd race. So up against the best under 13 boys and girls in Renfrewshire, the veteran runner warned them all that in no circumstances were they to pass him (which they all ignored).

After 100m he was lying in 7^th place, but using all his experience he kicked, nudged, tripped and pushed them off the track to eventually hit the front. With the crowd all booing, McLoone led to the end to break the tape in 4.31minutes. - It is rumoured that he will be auditioning for the next series of “Shameless”.

Special thanks to all the parents who came through to provide transport and support the young athletes.

Edinburgh 10K 4/5/08 – Glenpark pair in capital show.

Only two from the Harriers went through for the Great Edinburgh run, Mick Follan in 42.56 minutes led Lorna Coyle 50.28.

Mainz Marathon 4/5/08 – Susanne wins Hahn’s down!!

Congratulations to Susanne Hahn who is now on her way to Peking in August for the 2008 Olympics. Her target was not only to win the German Marathon title at Mainz, but also to achieve the Olympic qualifying standard of 2.31 hours.

Susanne, Glenpark Harriers "Adopted Athlete" at the World x-c championships, produced the performance of her career to smash her personal best by 3 minutes, winning in a time of 2.29.35 hours.

http://www.leichtathletik.de/index.php?NavID=1&SiteID=28&NewsID=16936

Willie Jukes Memorial 5 Mile Road Race, 5th April 2008
Guest runners Lyndsay MacNeill of City of Glasgow and Inverclyde's John Cooke claimed the top spots in Greenock Glenpark Harriers Willie Jukes 5 mile road race at Dunoon on Saturday. Given the cold and windy conditions MacNeill's performance was particularly impressive finishing 7th overall on her way to smashing the women's course record.
An unexpected blast of winter hit Dunoon just before the start, but thankfully cleared in time for the beginning of the 3 races. With the wind at their backs the opening pace was quick with Inverclyde's John and Stephen Cooke and Glenpark's Stevie McLoone and Andy McCall breaking away at the start from the rest of the field of 42 runners. First to drop from the group was Stephen Cooke then at 2 miles it was McCall's turn to fall off the pace. The remaining pair reached the turn point at Inellan level, but immediately Cooke put in an attack into the strong headwind to which McLoone was unable to respond. By the finish Cooke had eased clear by 200metres.
Sharron Skinner won her first club trophy as the 1st Glenpark lady home, but was made to work for it all the way by Terry Wall, Skinner eventually opening up a gap of 30 seconds, with Fiona Cushnaghan a well-deserved third. In the veterans categories Robert Wilson was top over 50, while Jim Sheridan took the 1st over 60 spot.
There was a fine performance from youngster Steffan Tormar who won the prize for the best local runner, finishing in 12th place.

Most improved performance of the day came from Phil Russell. With his best winter’s training behind him the Marathon runner gradually pulled in the fast starters to break the 30min mark and finish 10^th overall. Good club debuts also came from new girl Sharon Caldwell who just edged out Bernie Campbell in a sprint finish. Bernie made up for it on the trip home when he led a fine rendition of ‘You’ve lost that loving feeling’ to his wife Heather.

Robert Dolan jnr showing a big improvement was rewarded with the Kirkwood trophy in the handicap competition, but it was heartbreak for Fiona Cushnaghan, after leading the overall handicap championship, she was pipped at the post by a single point by the on-form Mick McLoone.

In a fiercely contested 1.5mile junior race it was Ross Forbes who came out on top to claim his first ever victory after a titanic battle with Jack Harrington. Neck and Neck for the entire race Forbes turned into the home straight just ahead of Harrington. His chances of glory looked doomed as Harrington edged up alongside him with only 20m left, however Forbes had one final kick inside him to get across the line by the narrowest of margins.
Closely following in 3rd spot was Craig Knight. Meighan McDade gave the boys a run for their money but found the fast pace in the closing stages too hot to handle. She was nevertheless happy to come home in 4th and leading girl. The In-form Shannon Kangley continues to edge ever closer to McDade, on this occasion only13 seconds adrift, just ahead of the improving Gabrielle Fisher. Whilst the group are still all relatively young they have made incredible progress during the winter and their coaches can't wait to see the juniors track times tumble in the forthcoming summer season. Special praise goes to Aaron Salom and Katrina Bryce who successfully completed the distance for the first time. Biggest cheers of the day went to the mini Glenparkers who ran a 300m race prior to the main event with Michael O'Rourke leading the charge to the line.
Thanks to Race sponsor David Hamill of TeamAndy and staff at Riverside Pool, and to hosts the View Bar for post race refreshments.

Senior Times: J.Cooke 26.59, S.McLoone 27.35, A.McCall 27.10, D.Riach 28.13, C.Upson 28.14, M.McLoone 28.15, L.MacNeil 28.19, D.McLaughlin 29.09, R.Wilson 29.20, P.Russell 29.51, S.Campbell 30.18, S.Tormar 30.34, A.Orourke 30.40, G.Forbes 30.48, E.Homewood 31.54, R.Dolan Jr 32.04, D.McCorkindale 32.20, S.Way 33.09, R.Dolan 33.25, M.Dunn 33.47, J.Bennet 34.28, M.Harrington 34.55, K.Pryde 35.27, S.Skinner 35.27, T.Wall 35.55, K.Scott 36.15, S.Lewis 36.50, S.Robinson 36.58, F.Cushnaghan 38.52, A.Witherow 40.34, S.Caldwell 41.05, N.Fitzpatrick 41.10, B.Kangley 41.10, K.Jagielko 41.12, L.Robinson 41.24, S.Ireland 41.39, I.McDade 41.41, L.Marshall 44.16, J.Sheridan 45.55, A.Ireland 55.32.

Junior Times: R.Forbes 8.33, J.Harrington 8.34, C.Knight 8.55, M.McDade 9.02, S.Kangley 9.15, R.Todd 9.25, J.Pollock 9.29, G.Fisher 10.01, L.Davies 10.10, L.Mulaughton 10.35, A.Salom 11.57, K.Bryce 12.21

World X-C, Edinburgh, 30^th March 2008

The Harriers were out in force to give their support to Susanne Hahn, Germany’s lone representative at the IAAF World cross-country championships.

Against the scenic backdrop of “Arthur’s seat” (the 251 m hill which rises above Edinburgh’s city centre) on one side and the modern Scottish Parliament building on the other, and with an estimated 15,000 enthusiastic and colourful supporters filling Holyrood park, the stage was set for an exciting Championship.

Over a tough hilly course in Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, which was to prove a true test of strength and endurance for the world’s best runners, was made all the more difficult after heavy early morning rain caused some athletes major problems with the underfoot conditions, with quite a few fallers on the tight turns around the course.

Susanne, being supported by her coach and husband Frank, and national coach Detlef Uhlemann, along with her new found Scot’s fans from Greenock also giving their full backing, were hoping to urge her on to meet the high target of a top 1/3 placing she had set herself.

The Women’s course consisted of 2 small flat laps around the park, followed by 2 large laps, which included the short but extremely steep climb up and over the volcanic outcrop “Haggis Knowe”.

And Susanne lived up to expectations, as she moved strongly through the field from 55th after the first lap, gaining places lap after lap to eventually finish the 8km race in a time slightly over 27 minutes, in 33^rd position from the 99 starters.

The “Harriers” dressed in Deutschland hats and flags cheered on their new favourite, around the course, who later met up with her delighted Scot’s fans, who presented her with a small gift to remember her visit. She proved herself to be the perfect ambassador by chatting with the youngsters before taking them along on her warm down, after her gutsy performance. Her next big target is to achieve the Olympic qualifying time of 2.31 hours at the Mainz Marathon in May.

Results: 1 Tirunesh Dibaba (ETH) 25.10; 2 Mestawet Tufa (ETH); 3 Linet Masai (KEN) 25.17……..33. Susanne Hahn 27.09

Docherty Cup 15^th March 2008

Skinner's a Winner as McCall gives his All

Andy McCall blew away the opposition to triumph at the weekend in Greenock Glenpark Harriers 10mile Docherty Cup. In very windy conditions starting from Gourock pool he soon broke clear of Stevie McLoone, reaching the turn point at Inverkip in 25.00. There was no let up from the youngster who increased his lead into the strong head wind on the return journey to win in convincing style in an impressive 51.44 minutes. There was no disappointment from runner-up McLoone, as the veteran was more than happy in setting a personal best of 53.28.

Sharron Skinner produced what was arguably the run of the day. After Eleanor Kane had set the early pace in the women’s race closely followed by Terry Wall, Skinner was looking well out of the reckoning, even at the half way stage. But it was remarkable turnaround from midway as Skinner went from strength to strength as she saw the gaps disappear. She eventually caught then passed the leading pair, running clear by over a minute. Kane can be pleased with her second place, taking into account her short lay off.

Danny McLaughlin and Robert Wilson had a tremendous battle for 3^rd place. The on-form McLaughlin had set off at a blistering pace, actually leading the race for the 1^st half mile, to build up a considerable lead on Wilson. But the tenacious Wilson remained focussed on closing down the gap, eventually getting within just 100 metres of McLaughlin.

The new venue for the race was voted a big success with numbers doubled on previous years when it was held at Millport. Of the 20 starters, those showing the biggest improvement were Kenny Pryde and Yvonne Prager who put in a tremendous sprint finish to defeat training partner Irene McDade.

Following his impressive run at the National Schools Championships Gerard Smith claimed the honours in the Junior ¾ mile race along Ashton Promenade. He did it the hard way, running from the front all the way. Pursued by a group of 4 including the vastly improved Meighan McDade, Smith was made to work all the way to the line with Ross Forbes snapping at his heels. This pair were closely followed in quick succession by Craig Knight and Meighan McDade. The diminutive Lauren Mulaughton and Alexandra Fisher were worthy of special mention in their first club race, even though they were almost blown to a standstill by the strong wind on the 2^nd half of the race, a fantastic effort saw Lauren go comfortably under 6 minutes.

Thanks to Race sponsors Inverclyde Leisure and staff at Gourock Pool, and to hosts Spinnaker hotel for post race refreshments.

Results:

¾ mile: G.Smith 4.25, R.Forbes 4.28, C.Knight 4.32, M.McDade 4.33, M.Isaac 4.43, C.Dalgleish 4.45, S.Kangley 4.47, G.Fisher 4.54, L.Mulaughton 5.44, A.Fisher 6.03, H.Rankin 6.42

10mile: A.McCall 51.44, S.McLoone 53.28, D.McLaughlin 56.36, R.Wilson 57.01, S.Campbell 59.28, A.O’Rourke 60.12, P.Russell 61.39, R.Dolan jnr 66.30, R.Mitchell 66.30, A.McCall snr 68.57, K.Pryde 69.52, S.Skinner 70.06, E.Kane 71.09. T.Wall 71.28, F.Cushnaghan 75.34, I.Rankin 82.53, Y.Prager 82.59, I.McDade 83.04, T.Knight 92.36.

Sunday 9th March

A hat-trick of 3rd places at yesterdays Balloch to Clydebank 1/2 Marathon. Well done to Mick, Danny and Robert finishing 3rd team behind a very strong Bellahouston, and Kirkintilloch. Mick also finished 3rd over40, and Robert 3rd over50. Almost 400 runners took part. Positions and times below, also another reminder for Saturdays Junior & Senior Club Race. Please come along and help out if you are not competing!!!

15	Michael McLoone	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M40	M	01:18:49
19	Danny McLaughlin	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M40	M	01:19:40
28	Robert Wilson	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M50	M	01:21:54
29	Steven Campbell	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M	M	01:22:15
78	Alan Henderson	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M	M	01:29:40
141	David Henderson	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M	M	01:37:21
183	Kenneth Pryde	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M40	M	01:41:11
213	Eeyin Rankin	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M40	M	01:43:59
332	Bill Downie	Greenock Glenpark Harriers	M50	M	02:00:18

National Cross Country Championships 23^rd February 2008

Meighan McDade was Greenock Glenpark Harriers top finisher as the Orangefield club travelled through to Callendar Park Falkirk for the National cross-country championships.

Meighan along with the rest of the under 13 junior boys and girls squad, displayed no signs of nerves, despite it being their first National championships, performed beyond expectations in the top domestic event of the year.

The girls give a cheesy grin before the start.

The best team performance came from the girls, where they judged their 2mile race perfectly. They never got carried away in the early cavalry charge at the start, but held back in the early stages, and their tactics paid great dividends, as at midway Shannon Kangley closely followed by Meighan McDade were lying in 70^th position. With athletes all around beginning to tire the pair dug deep into their reserves and picked up the pace, passing runner after runner, all the way to the finish in front of Callendar House with Meighan just edging ahead of Shannon to finish 46^th and 50^th respectively. Gabrielle Fisher had the outstanding run of the day of all the Glenparkers, finishing just over a minute behind, a massive improvement from her previous run in the district championships.

Very little separates the junior boys in training and the same can be said when it comes to racing. However Michael Grant managed to put some daylight between the chasing trio of Craig Knight, Gerard Smith and Jack Harrington. Michael's lead was 12 seconds while all 3 of the boys were given the same time as they crossed the line together in a blanket finish.

Surprise performance of the day came from Morag Campbell in her first outing in club colours this season, where she was the first back for the ladies team. For the opening 6km of the 8km course, Morag, Terry Wall and Sharron Skinner were joined at the hip as the trio moved steadily around the course, but with the finish approaching Morag pushed the pace on, bringing them back in 24^th in the team race.

Morag at the head of the pack

In the Senior men's event won by Inverclyde's Mark Pollard in the most exciting finishing in years, a field of 400 of the country's top runners pounded around the testing trail. Stevie McLoone, after a cautious start moved steadily through the field to finish in a respectable 78^th. He managed to gain the advantage on Andy McCall jnr, midway around the first lap, finishing 200m clear. The final 2 from the club were Danny McLaughlin who continued his good run of form, with Steven Campbell putting in another solid performance in his build-up to the Clydebank ½ marathon.

Andy McCall, Stevie McLoone, and Danny McLaughlin (thanks for pictures from David Bauchop, @ www.http://www.roadrunpics.com/ScottishCCChampionships.html

Results: U13Boys(3.2km): M.Grant 13.35, C.Knight 13.49, G.Smith 13.49, J.Harrington 13.49. U13Girls(3.2km): M.McDade 14.20, S.Kangley 14.25, G.Fisher 15.49, Sen Women(8Km): M.Campbell 38.22, T.Wall 38.29, S.Skinner 38.36, Sen Men(12km): S.McLoone 43.47, A.McCall 44.25, D.McLaughlin 45.58, S.Campbell 47.42.

2	S.McLoone	23:47:00
4	Andrew McCall	24:00:00
8	Michael McLoone	24:56:00
11	Michael McLoone	25:28:00
38	Andrew McCall	29:35:00
43	Sharron Skinner	30:52:00
45	Kenneth Scott	31:02:00
49	Terri Wall	31:52:00
55	Tommy Knight	39:40:00
56	Richard Hodelet	39:40:00
58	James Sheridan	42:08:00

Greenock Glenpark Harriers

"The Harriers"

Race results & reports

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Race Results - May/June 2008

Results

Clydebank 10K Road Race – 29th May08

National Cross Country Championships 23^rd February 2008

Greenock Glenpark Harriers

"The Harriers"

Race results & reports

Sponsors

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Race Results - May/June 2008

Results

Clydebank 10K Road Race – 29th May08

National Cross Country Championships 23rd February 2008

National Cross Country Championships 23^rd February 2008