London Marathon & Run Balmoral
Inverclyde AC endurance duo Andy Douglas and John Sharp were at opposite ends of the country representing IAC at national events.
Andy was in Balmoral competing in the 15K trail race and John pounding the streets in the London Marathon. Andy a regular Team GB athlete and one of the most feared trail and hill runners started the prestigious Balmoral event as one of the favourites. So it proved as he hit the front as the gun went and began increasing the pressure on the opposition as one by one the leading pack reduced in numbers. In the last few kilometres Andy pushed the pain barrier up a few notches which saw him pull clear and power his way toward the finish for another fine victory and confirmation of his current UK ranking. In London John Sharp hit the streets with the thousands of elite and fun runners making the UK capital event a focus for his personal target. John settled well into his pace as is required for an event like the marathon and went through the half way mark well within his target time and a new personal best should he continue in that vain. As the miles went by it was clear that John was going into unchartered territory. However with excellent preparation and training plans behind him John crossed the line stopping the clock in a new best of 2.32 hours. |
Scottish National University track and field Championships
IAC's top 200m runner claimed another honour winning silver at the Scottish National University track and field Championships recently held at Grangemouth stadium.
Shaun Tonner exploded back after a few injury set backs to cruise through the heats, after a steady start Shaun switched on the burners coming diown the home straight passing his competitors and crossing the line to win silver in a new best of 22.10 for the 200m.
Shaun Tonner exploded back after a few injury set backs to cruise through the heats, after a steady start Shaun switched on the burners coming diown the home straight passing his competitors and crossing the line to win silver in a new best of 22.10 for the 200m.
Thank you Cafe Riva
Ali Nardini of Cafe Riva at Kip Marina, Inverkip has kindly given financial support to the young athletes travelling to Dumfries this Sunday to compete in Nithsdale AC track and field competition.
This support will go directly to support the travel costs associated with the trip.
Massive thanks go to Ali and all at Cafe Riva who continue their support of all development opportunities for young athletes at IAC.
This support will go directly to support the travel costs associated with the trip.
Massive thanks go to Ali and all at Cafe Riva who continue their support of all development opportunities for young athletes at IAC.
Ayrshire open meeting - Kilmarnock - 12th April
Drew McIntyre lead a contingent of Inverclyde AC athletes to the Ayrshire open meeting in Kilmarnock last weekend.
Using the meeting as an opener to the season athletes were looking to test their training programmes in the lead in to the track and field season ahead.
Drew competing over 100m did not disappoint, recording the fastest 100m of the day. With a blisttering start he pulled clear after 20m and increased the gap between himself and the opposition to record his first win of the season.
Harris Morrison emulated Drew in the under 11's 80m with a fine victory in the youngest of age groups. Harris followed this up with podium finishes in the long jump and 600m.
Andrew Hunter continued his rich run of form over 400m. As the gun went Andrew attacked the first half of the race with some gusto gaining a 200m split faster than he has run a 200m. He continued in this spirit hitting the heavy wind on the home straight didnt deter him as he to recorded a fine victory for IAC.
Shaun Tonner and Craig Eaglesham ensured the senior ranks were represented with fine openers in the 200 and 100 respectively.
Under 15 Georgia Morrison tackled not only the opposition in the 800m but the windy conditions, a determined effort had Georgia stopping the clock in a new best for the two lap race.
Using the meeting as an opener to the season athletes were looking to test their training programmes in the lead in to the track and field season ahead.
Drew competing over 100m did not disappoint, recording the fastest 100m of the day. With a blisttering start he pulled clear after 20m and increased the gap between himself and the opposition to record his first win of the season.
Harris Morrison emulated Drew in the under 11's 80m with a fine victory in the youngest of age groups. Harris followed this up with podium finishes in the long jump and 600m.
Andrew Hunter continued his rich run of form over 400m. As the gun went Andrew attacked the first half of the race with some gusto gaining a 200m split faster than he has run a 200m. He continued in this spirit hitting the heavy wind on the home straight didnt deter him as he to recorded a fine victory for IAC.
Shaun Tonner and Craig Eaglesham ensured the senior ranks were represented with fine openers in the 200 and 100 respectively.
Under 15 Georgia Morrison tackled not only the opposition in the 800m but the windy conditions, a determined effort had Georgia stopping the clock in a new best for the two lap race.
Tom Scott Memorial Road Races (including Scottish Championships) - Sun 5th April
Craig Ruddy of Inverclyde AC rose to the top of Scottish endurance running by winning the Scottish 10 miles title clocking an incredible sub 50 minutes in the process.
Craig travelled to Strathclyde park to take on the best Scotland had to offer over the gruelling 10 miles.
As the race started clocking through the miles Craig was with the leading group, as some athletes fell away from the fierce pace leaving a small group going into the last miles. Craig started pushing on the pace inflicting pain not only on the opposition but himself. As the final straight approached Craig unleashed his kick to pull clear claiming his first senior Scottish title and a very impressive 49:23.
Craig travelled to Strathclyde park to take on the best Scotland had to offer over the gruelling 10 miles.
As the race started clocking through the miles Craig was with the leading group, as some athletes fell away from the fierce pace leaving a small group going into the last miles. Craig started pushing on the pace inflicting pain not only on the opposition but himself. As the final straight approached Craig unleashed his kick to pull clear claiming his first senior Scottish title and a very impressive 49:23.
World Cross Country Championships - 28th March
18 year old Jonny Glen returned from the World Cross Country Championships in China having successfully put Inverclyde AC on top of the world.
Jonny made the very long journey to the far east having been crowned the UK Cross Country Challenge champion earlier in the month. This was the pinnacle of Jonny's season and brought the curtain down on another very successful cross country season for IAC.
The planning of Jonny's season was meticulous in its detail from coaches Mark Pollard + Ian Cameron. Over seeing numerous national title winners and GB representative athletes Mark + Ian were pleasantly surprised when Jonny took on the best the UK had to offer and won, ensuring he would be representing Team GB at the highest level in China.
Coping with an increase in temperature and humidity as well as a totally different culture Jonny took on the best the world had available over the 8K course. With a step up in class Jonny was digging deep into his reserves to stay in contention. As the athletes strode round the course at a rapid pace
Jonny was ensuing his supporters back home were not disappointed with the 4am rise to witness his first assault on the World championship.
At the finish a delighted home support were ecstatic that a local 18 year old had taken on the best and proved a match for them on the day.
Competing at this level does not come without sacrifices, Inverclyde AC acknowledge the support of his employers WLF Electrical, his coaches and medical support team who were vital in ensuring the Inverclyde area has a teenage role model for other young sports people to follow.
Jonny made the very long journey to the far east having been crowned the UK Cross Country Challenge champion earlier in the month. This was the pinnacle of Jonny's season and brought the curtain down on another very successful cross country season for IAC.
The planning of Jonny's season was meticulous in its detail from coaches Mark Pollard + Ian Cameron. Over seeing numerous national title winners and GB representative athletes Mark + Ian were pleasantly surprised when Jonny took on the best the UK had to offer and won, ensuring he would be representing Team GB at the highest level in China.
Coping with an increase in temperature and humidity as well as a totally different culture Jonny took on the best the world had available over the 8K course. With a step up in class Jonny was digging deep into his reserves to stay in contention. As the athletes strode round the course at a rapid pace
Jonny was ensuing his supporters back home were not disappointed with the 4am rise to witness his first assault on the World championship.
At the finish a delighted home support were ecstatic that a local 18 year old had taken on the best and proved a match for them on the day.
Competing at this level does not come without sacrifices, Inverclyde AC acknowledge the support of his employers WLF Electrical, his coaches and medical support team who were vital in ensuring the Inverclyde area has a teenage role model for other young sports people to follow.
Sat 7th - Sun 8th March
Craig Ruddy confirmed his status as a top 10K runner in Scotland with a 30;02 minute for the Trafford 10K road race.
The Inverclyde athlete was part of a glorious weekend for Inverclyde AC where athletes competed in a number of events last weekend.
Craig travelled to compete against some of the top road racers in the country and test his current form. With a tremendous pace set Craig was marking the miles past in under 5 minutes per mile. Going through the halfway marker a new best was evidently on the cards and so it proved to be clocking 30.02 knocking a considerable margin from his previous best.
In Irvine, Nuala McCheyne fresh from her silver medal at the recent National cross country took on the National Scottish Schools competition. With her normal aggressive approach to racing, her target of making the top 8 places to confirm selection for the Scottish schools team to compete in Dublin later this month. Nuala followed the leaders as the lead swung between the leading group athletes, the finish was in sight as the push for medals and team places heated up. A fine run in the home straight secured Nuala a place and another top finish in national competitions.
Just behind Nuala twin Cliona was arguably having the best race of her season missing out on a top 10 finish by the narrowest of margins.
At the inter counties championship in Birmingham under 20 Chloe Simpson was representing the West of Scotland and having recovered from the winter illness gave a dogged performance to secure major points for the district team.
The Inverclyde athlete was part of a glorious weekend for Inverclyde AC where athletes competed in a number of events last weekend.
Craig travelled to compete against some of the top road racers in the country and test his current form. With a tremendous pace set Craig was marking the miles past in under 5 minutes per mile. Going through the halfway marker a new best was evidently on the cards and so it proved to be clocking 30.02 knocking a considerable margin from his previous best.
In Irvine, Nuala McCheyne fresh from her silver medal at the recent National cross country took on the National Scottish Schools competition. With her normal aggressive approach to racing, her target of making the top 8 places to confirm selection for the Scottish schools team to compete in Dublin later this month. Nuala followed the leaders as the lead swung between the leading group athletes, the finish was in sight as the push for medals and team places heated up. A fine run in the home straight secured Nuala a place and another top finish in national competitions.
Just behind Nuala twin Cliona was arguably having the best race of her season missing out on a top 10 finish by the narrowest of margins.
At the inter counties championship in Birmingham under 20 Chloe Simpson was representing the West of Scotland and having recovered from the winter illness gave a dogged performance to secure major points for the district team.
UK Age Group Indoor Championships
Inverclyde AC Drew McIntyre is now ranked in the top 10 fastest teenagers in the UK after competing over 60m at the UK age group indoor championships held in Sheffield recently.
Having ran 10 seconds for 100m outdoor last summer Drew has been progressing in the shortest sprint in athletics the 60m, indoor.
After coping with a couple of set backs due to muscle strain, Drew focused his training on travelling to Sheffield to take on the fastest teenagers in the UK.
In the first round Drew exploded from the blocks to hit the front and cruise through the line in a new best. With his second run a more focused approach saw the fastest under 17s gathered and as the gun set them off, their feet a blur crossing the line I a blanket finish. After deliberation over the photo finish Drew was awarded another personal best of 7:1 seconds a fraction of a podium trip.
Drew now returns to training having set new best in both 60m and 100m ensuring he is fastest teenager in Scotland and one of the fastest in the UK.
Having ran 10 seconds for 100m outdoor last summer Drew has been progressing in the shortest sprint in athletics the 60m, indoor.
After coping with a couple of set backs due to muscle strain, Drew focused his training on travelling to Sheffield to take on the fastest teenagers in the UK.
In the first round Drew exploded from the blocks to hit the front and cruise through the line in a new best. With his second run a more focused approach saw the fastest under 17s gathered and as the gun set them off, their feet a blur crossing the line I a blanket finish. After deliberation over the photo finish Drew was awarded another personal best of 7:1 seconds a fraction of a podium trip.
Drew now returns to training having set new best in both 60m and 100m ensuring he is fastest teenager in Scotland and one of the fastest in the UK.
Scottish National Cross Country - Sun 22nd February
GB Internationalist, Inverclyde ACs Jonny Glen was crowned Scottish Champion after an impressive showing at the national cross country championships in Falkirk.
Jonny was one of the pre race favourites in the under 20 men's race having won the under 17 race last year. In horrendous wind and rain it was a steady start from the field of athletes for the first 800m. Entering into the second mile the pace increased with a group of leaders involving Jonny broke from the field. With the second lap looming a break away of two saw Jonny turn the screw on his opponents as he hit the front on the heavy uphill section before striding clear with 400m to go. Entering the final 150m straight, Jonny enjoyed the approach to the finish knowing a second Scottish title was in the bag a fitting reward for the hard work and sacrifices made by him and his coaches Ian and Mark.
Earlier in the day the stage had been set by Nuala McCheyne. Fresh from her recent 800m national medal Nuala moved up in distance by some two miles. A sensible race plan had Nuala always in the top six. As the race moved into the more challenging areas athletes began dropping off leaving Nuala contesting the silver medal position for the last 800m. Rising over the final uphill section Nuala dug deep pulling clear of the chasing athletes ensuring a clear run home to secure her second national medal in a matter of weeks.
Inverclyde's consistent endurance young athlete Ryan Gray, was a determined young man as the under 15 race began. Positioning himself in the top ten for the first half of the race Ryan began passing athletes as the finish approached. Passing the big local support with 400m to go Ryan had hunted down the leaders and placed himself in a bronze medal place which he held successfully crossing the line and a visit to the accustomed podium for the local youngster.
To support the individual winners the under 20 men of Greg Williams, Michael Houston and Callum Hunter pulled their training ethos together at the right time to complete the four man team with Jonny, winning bronze in the process. With Jonny leading the race, Greg was returning to his old self edging through the field steadily passing athletes as he went. Michael was having a solid performance and the Scottish University medallist Callum was keeping close order to allow a team medal to become a reality. As the finishers crossed the line the mathematicians were frantically counting the runners in which for the tight training group saw them visit the national podium.
Local athletics looks bright with this group of teenagers who over the coming seasons will move into the senior ranks and collectively become a force in Scotland.
Elsewhere there were fabulous performances in the under 13 girls Cliona McCheyne returning to her best after illness and a mature run from Hannah McGeehan, her first over the very testing Falkirk course. In the boys race Ben Nicol benefitted from his return to training with an improved run.
In the under 15 age groups Cameron Watson had a confident return with Sammy Hearl moving closer to the front of the field at the finish. Gillian Carmichael carried the girls hopes and will be happy with her performance.
Craig Ruddy was top local senior performer with another classy run from a very smooth efficient performer. Over 50 Duncan McFadyen was enjoying his challenge with the younger athletes, a worth while charge as he was announced at top over 50 on the day and yet another national title for the local area.
Special thanks to all coaches and supporters who have travelled throughout the country since September ensuring Inverclyde remain a visible performer in the athletics calendar.
Jonny was one of the pre race favourites in the under 20 men's race having won the under 17 race last year. In horrendous wind and rain it was a steady start from the field of athletes for the first 800m. Entering into the second mile the pace increased with a group of leaders involving Jonny broke from the field. With the second lap looming a break away of two saw Jonny turn the screw on his opponents as he hit the front on the heavy uphill section before striding clear with 400m to go. Entering the final 150m straight, Jonny enjoyed the approach to the finish knowing a second Scottish title was in the bag a fitting reward for the hard work and sacrifices made by him and his coaches Ian and Mark.
Earlier in the day the stage had been set by Nuala McCheyne. Fresh from her recent 800m national medal Nuala moved up in distance by some two miles. A sensible race plan had Nuala always in the top six. As the race moved into the more challenging areas athletes began dropping off leaving Nuala contesting the silver medal position for the last 800m. Rising over the final uphill section Nuala dug deep pulling clear of the chasing athletes ensuring a clear run home to secure her second national medal in a matter of weeks.
Inverclyde's consistent endurance young athlete Ryan Gray, was a determined young man as the under 15 race began. Positioning himself in the top ten for the first half of the race Ryan began passing athletes as the finish approached. Passing the big local support with 400m to go Ryan had hunted down the leaders and placed himself in a bronze medal place which he held successfully crossing the line and a visit to the accustomed podium for the local youngster.
To support the individual winners the under 20 men of Greg Williams, Michael Houston and Callum Hunter pulled their training ethos together at the right time to complete the four man team with Jonny, winning bronze in the process. With Jonny leading the race, Greg was returning to his old self edging through the field steadily passing athletes as he went. Michael was having a solid performance and the Scottish University medallist Callum was keeping close order to allow a team medal to become a reality. As the finishers crossed the line the mathematicians were frantically counting the runners in which for the tight training group saw them visit the national podium.
Local athletics looks bright with this group of teenagers who over the coming seasons will move into the senior ranks and collectively become a force in Scotland.
Elsewhere there were fabulous performances in the under 13 girls Cliona McCheyne returning to her best after illness and a mature run from Hannah McGeehan, her first over the very testing Falkirk course. In the boys race Ben Nicol benefitted from his return to training with an improved run.
In the under 15 age groups Cameron Watson had a confident return with Sammy Hearl moving closer to the front of the field at the finish. Gillian Carmichael carried the girls hopes and will be happy with her performance.
Craig Ruddy was top local senior performer with another classy run from a very smooth efficient performer. Over 50 Duncan McFadyen was enjoying his challenge with the younger athletes, a worth while charge as he was announced at top over 50 on the day and yet another national title for the local area.
Special thanks to all coaches and supporters who have travelled throughout the country since September ensuring Inverclyde remain a visible performer in the athletics calendar.
Scottish National Age Groups Indoor Championships
Nuala McCheyne of Inverclyde AC won another national medal, while contesting the Scottish Indoor track and field championships held at Emirates Arena in Glasgow.
Nuala, in the under 15 girls 800m, recorded two personal bests and a bronze medal in her first year at the older age group. In her heat a fast time was required to ensure a spot in the final, true to form Nuala recorded her fastest ever 800m to make sure she was on the start line at final time.
In the final, a typical gutsy run keep Nuala at the front with the leaders as the laps went by a bid for the tape was on in the last 200m. Nuala battles strongly around the last bend before crossing the line in another lifetime best securing national bronze.
There were a number of other athletes who excelled expectations with new bests set during the weekend of competition.
Andrew Hunter in the under 17 400m started the indoor season having recorded 58 seconds for the long sprint. A new found determination and quality training programme saw Andrew qualify for the final having recorded an excellent 52 seconds. In the final an aggressive run saw him cross the finish recording another new best and a shadow outside the medals.
In the under 17 girls 300m Robyn Kelly cruised her heat running intelligently to make the final where she was just outside her best time in a very fast race.
Stephanie Docherty exploded in the 60m putting all her work in training to good use lowering her time to the 8 second mark, this will no doubt stand her in good form for the 100m outdoor come April.
Stephanie's training partner Ciaran McMillan had a profitable championship. In the 60m he set a new best of 7.6 seconds following this up in the afternoon with a 24,6 over the 200m.
There was more joy for coach Emma Forester as her other young sprinters Morgan McColl and Samantha Williams finished the indoor season recording new bests of 29,4 and 29.5 over 200m respectively.
Inverclyde track and field training now starts in earnest for the summer season and any young athlete wishing to sprint, jump and throw is welcome to attend Tuesday at 5pm at Ravenscraig stadium.
Nuala, in the under 15 girls 800m, recorded two personal bests and a bronze medal in her first year at the older age group. In her heat a fast time was required to ensure a spot in the final, true to form Nuala recorded her fastest ever 800m to make sure she was on the start line at final time.
In the final, a typical gutsy run keep Nuala at the front with the leaders as the laps went by a bid for the tape was on in the last 200m. Nuala battles strongly around the last bend before crossing the line in another lifetime best securing national bronze.
There were a number of other athletes who excelled expectations with new bests set during the weekend of competition.
Andrew Hunter in the under 17 400m started the indoor season having recorded 58 seconds for the long sprint. A new found determination and quality training programme saw Andrew qualify for the final having recorded an excellent 52 seconds. In the final an aggressive run saw him cross the finish recording another new best and a shadow outside the medals.
In the under 17 girls 300m Robyn Kelly cruised her heat running intelligently to make the final where she was just outside her best time in a very fast race.
Stephanie Docherty exploded in the 60m putting all her work in training to good use lowering her time to the 8 second mark, this will no doubt stand her in good form for the 100m outdoor come April.
Stephanie's training partner Ciaran McMillan had a profitable championship. In the 60m he set a new best of 7.6 seconds following this up in the afternoon with a 24,6 over the 200m.
There was more joy for coach Emma Forester as her other young sprinters Morgan McColl and Samantha Williams finished the indoor season recording new bests of 29,4 and 29.5 over 200m respectively.
Inverclyde track and field training now starts in earnest for the summer season and any young athlete wishing to sprint, jump and throw is welcome to attend Tuesday at 5pm at Ravenscraig stadium.
Stoddard/Moon Race - Sat 14th February
Craig Winter maintained his 100% handicap record on Saturday by winning the Stoddard/Moon Race. Craig triumphed over a strong field which included previous Scottish internationalists Michael Houston (who had the fastest time of the day), Greg Williams, Duncan McFadyen and Gerry Gaffney. Chloe Simpson was the first finishing female and Sharon Muir had the quickest female time of the day. Well done everyone who took part and thanks as always to our volunteers!
Handicap time Scratch time & Place
1st C Winter 31.59 25.24 10th
2nd M Houston 32.43 U20 18.43 1st
3rd D McFadyen 32.59 M50 20.17 3rd
4th C Simpson 33.01 2nd Lady U20 22.49 8th
5th S Muir 33.04 1st Lady F40 21.54 7th
6th G Gaffney 33.09 M55 21.13 6th
7th G Williams 33.29 U20 20.20 4th
8th J Bannister 33.33 M55 27.49 12th
9th R Gray 33.53 U17 21.11 5th
10th R Gray 34.12 U15 20.12 2nd
11th G Heggarty 34.44 M45 25.27 11th
12th T Tracey 36.52 M60 33.28 13th
13th D. Mallet 38.16 23.04 9th
Handicap time Scratch time & Place
1st C Winter 31.59 25.24 10th
2nd M Houston 32.43 U20 18.43 1st
3rd D McFadyen 32.59 M50 20.17 3rd
4th C Simpson 33.01 2nd Lady U20 22.49 8th
5th S Muir 33.04 1st Lady F40 21.54 7th
6th G Gaffney 33.09 M55 21.13 6th
7th G Williams 33.29 U20 20.20 4th
8th J Bannister 33.33 M55 27.49 12th
9th R Gray 33.53 U17 21.11 5th
10th R Gray 34.12 U15 20.12 2nd
11th G Heggarty 34.44 M45 25.27 11th
12th T Tracey 36.52 M60 33.28 13th
13th D. Mallet 38.16 23.04 9th
Scottish Masters Cross Country Championships - Sat 31st January
Over 20 years since Duncan McFadyen and Gerry Gaffney were winning & representing Scotland at senior cross country championships throughout the UK both continued this standard at the Scottish Masters cross country championships at Kilmarnock.
The Inverclyde AC duo travelled with their normal determined focus seldomed wained since their hay day. In the over 50 category Duncan was part of the leading group throughout the race dropping the competition as the miles went by. With the finish in sight Duncan was secure in silver stalking the leader right to the finish crossing the line just seconds from another national title .
Gerry was participating in the over 55 category after a steady start approaching the halfway stage, Gerry started passing athletes struggling in the underfoot conditions and with 400m to go a medal was a realsitic possibility. The gritty determined focus remained as he pulled through the field into winning bronze medal to join Duncan on the podium in another success for IAC.
The Inverclyde AC duo travelled with their normal determined focus seldomed wained since their hay day. In the over 50 category Duncan was part of the leading group throughout the race dropping the competition as the miles went by. With the finish in sight Duncan was secure in silver stalking the leader right to the finish crossing the line just seconds from another national title .
Gerry was participating in the over 55 category after a steady start approaching the halfway stage, Gerry started passing athletes struggling in the underfoot conditions and with 400m to go a medal was a realsitic possibility. The gritty determined focus remained as he pulled through the field into winning bronze medal to join Duncan on the podium in another success for IAC.
Renfrewshire Road Race Championships - Sun 1st February
With the countdown on to the Scottish National Cross Country, Inverclyde AC athletes were testing themselves in a crisp sunny Battery Park and Esplanade competing at the Renfrewshire road race championship.
The youngest age group under 11 started with the boys with Robert Gray to the fore early on being supported by Harris Morrison and Lewis Hainey as the race hit the final 100m Robert was contesting the lead and crossed the line winning silver, Harris just behind sprinted past a few athletes in the run in with Lewis just behind giving the boys the silver team award.
Orla McGeehan, Abbi Hammerman and Elize Morrison emulated the boys with excellent pack running to add another trip to the medal collections for silver in their under 11 race.
The under 13 race Nuala McCheyne carried the heavy favourite tag and didn't disappoint as she dictated the race to secure victory in commanding fashion. Cliona McCheyne returned after illness and will be pleased with her efforts, leah Cameron completed the team ensuing another podium visit for Nuala and her team mates.
It was a similar story as Ryan Gray took to the start line in the under 15 boys, Ryan accustomed to carrying his favourite tag started steady until 400m gone then ran away from the field to claim yet another victory.
In the under 20 and senior race a large field assembled and at the gun filed in behind Commonwealth games athlete Derek Hawkins, hot on his heels was Craig Ruddy leading the IAC charge, with a fierce first two miles in just over 9 minutes the field split wide on the Esplanade as Craig continued his form to the finish line being first local athlete across. Michael Houston had found his form and produced a performance he should continue to display in the coming weeks. Stephen Cook ran a very mature measured race and moved took a few local scalps in the last lap of the Battery toward the finish.
Nynke Mulholland lead the girls charge claiming silver in the senior women's race. Chloe Simpson went one better claiming gold in the under 20 race now giving her the Renfrewshire double of road and cross country.
Thanks also go to IAC members who assisted with officiating, stewarding and hospitality.
The youngest age group under 11 started with the boys with Robert Gray to the fore early on being supported by Harris Morrison and Lewis Hainey as the race hit the final 100m Robert was contesting the lead and crossed the line winning silver, Harris just behind sprinted past a few athletes in the run in with Lewis just behind giving the boys the silver team award.
Orla McGeehan, Abbi Hammerman and Elize Morrison emulated the boys with excellent pack running to add another trip to the medal collections for silver in their under 11 race.
The under 13 race Nuala McCheyne carried the heavy favourite tag and didn't disappoint as she dictated the race to secure victory in commanding fashion. Cliona McCheyne returned after illness and will be pleased with her efforts, leah Cameron completed the team ensuing another podium visit for Nuala and her team mates.
It was a similar story as Ryan Gray took to the start line in the under 15 boys, Ryan accustomed to carrying his favourite tag started steady until 400m gone then ran away from the field to claim yet another victory.
In the under 20 and senior race a large field assembled and at the gun filed in behind Commonwealth games athlete Derek Hawkins, hot on his heels was Craig Ruddy leading the IAC charge, with a fierce first two miles in just over 9 minutes the field split wide on the Esplanade as Craig continued his form to the finish line being first local athlete across. Michael Houston had found his form and produced a performance he should continue to display in the coming weeks. Stephen Cook ran a very mature measured race and moved took a few local scalps in the last lap of the Battery toward the finish.
Nynke Mulholland lead the girls charge claiming silver in the senior women's race. Chloe Simpson went one better claiming gold in the under 20 race now giving her the Renfrewshire double of road and cross country.
Thanks also go to IAC members who assisted with officiating, stewarding and hospitality.
renfrewshire_rr_results_2015.xlsx |
Sainsbury's Glasgow International Match - Sat 24th January
Inverclyde AC under 17 boys quartet of Drew McIntyre, Andrew Hunter, Christopher Tanoh and Ciaran McMillan celebrated national award in the 4 x 200m relay indoor championships.
The Scottish National relay championships were incorporated into the Sainsbury International Indoor match at the Emirates Indoor arena in Glasgow with Inverclyde AC having two teams representing the area, along with over 600 young athletes.
The heats were held in the morning with the added advantage of the finals being contested during the full international programme.
First up the girls Morgan McColl, Samantha Williams, Georgia Morrison and Jennifer Lynn took to the track in the under 15 girls race. Morgan set the team off with a solid start before handing to Samantha who broke after the top bend with a favourable position. Georgia Morrison had the third leg where she reduced the gap on the athletes in front to allow Jennifer Lynn to hunt down the leaders on the anchor leg crossing the line just a breadth away from a qualifying spot.
In the under 17 boys Drew McIntyre was set off in a tactical line up for the local club and exploded into life securing a front position before Andrew Hunter consolidated the position as new boy Christopher Tanoh held off the attacking teams on leg three with Ciaran McMillan anchoring the team home to qualify for the final.
The boys had the added support of a full house with the excitement rising as they stepped out just after the 60m and presence of World champion Richard Kilty.
Again Drew set the team off and dominated the back straight before streaking ahead on the home straight to let Andrew stride the bend and break from the lanes to dictate the race from the front. With the competition queuing up behind Christopher used his very new talents to ensure he kept IAC in a prominent position. Ciaran had the pressure of the last leg and rose to the challenge as the Inverclyde support carried him down the back straight as he cruised around the last bend hitting the final straight carrying the area to a fantastic bronze position the first in this boys age group.
The Scottish National relay championships were incorporated into the Sainsbury International Indoor match at the Emirates Indoor arena in Glasgow with Inverclyde AC having two teams representing the area, along with over 600 young athletes.
The heats were held in the morning with the added advantage of the finals being contested during the full international programme.
First up the girls Morgan McColl, Samantha Williams, Georgia Morrison and Jennifer Lynn took to the track in the under 15 girls race. Morgan set the team off with a solid start before handing to Samantha who broke after the top bend with a favourable position. Georgia Morrison had the third leg where she reduced the gap on the athletes in front to allow Jennifer Lynn to hunt down the leaders on the anchor leg crossing the line just a breadth away from a qualifying spot.
In the under 17 boys Drew McIntyre was set off in a tactical line up for the local club and exploded into life securing a front position before Andrew Hunter consolidated the position as new boy Christopher Tanoh held off the attacking teams on leg three with Ciaran McMillan anchoring the team home to qualify for the final.
The boys had the added support of a full house with the excitement rising as they stepped out just after the 60m and presence of World champion Richard Kilty.
Again Drew set the team off and dominated the back straight before streaking ahead on the home straight to let Andrew stride the bend and break from the lanes to dictate the race from the front. With the competition queuing up behind Christopher used his very new talents to ensure he kept IAC in a prominent position. Ciaran had the pressure of the last leg and rose to the challenge as the Inverclyde support carried him down the back straight as he cruised around the last bend hitting the final straight carrying the area to a fantastic bronze position the first in this boys age group.
Celtic Cross Country in Dublin - First International Win For Jonny
Jonny Glen of Inverclyde AC won his first international title while representing Scotland in the Celtic Cross Country championships held in Dublin.
Fresh from his recent success with Team GB Jonny pulled on the Team Scotland colours to lead a strong cross country contingent over to Dublin and it was the Scots who set the early pace with Jonny a major presence in the leading pack.
As the race reached the challenging half way point Jonny began moving the pace on dropping some of the leaders and with 1K to go a long run for home by Jonny saw the remaining contenders fall by the way side as he piled on the pace to race clear striding across the finish to claim a gold for Scotland and notch his first international victory.
Jonny's coaches Mark Pollard & Ian Cameron now turn their attentions to programming his schedule toward the Scottish championships in the coming weeks, where Jonny will go into this to retain the title won in emphatic style last year.
Fresh from his recent success with Team GB Jonny pulled on the Team Scotland colours to lead a strong cross country contingent over to Dublin and it was the Scots who set the early pace with Jonny a major presence in the leading pack.
As the race reached the challenging half way point Jonny began moving the pace on dropping some of the leaders and with 1K to go a long run for home by Jonny saw the remaining contenders fall by the way side as he piled on the pace to race clear striding across the finish to claim a gold for Scotland and notch his first international victory.
Jonny's coaches Mark Pollard & Ian Cameron now turn their attentions to programming his schedule toward the Scottish championships in the coming weeks, where Jonny will go into this to retain the title won in emphatic style last year.
National Indoor Championship
Victories and personal bests were the order of the day for Inverclyde AC athletes at the National Indoor Open held at Emirates Indoor Arena in Glasgow.
Drew McIntyre became the fastest local athlete with an impressive display over 60m. Drew exploded from the blocks and went through his speed phases to shave a fraction off his previous best and the acknowledgement of fastest 16 year old of the day. He then followed this up by reducing his 200m best by a second after taking a more thoughtful approach to the longer sprint.
Equally impressive over 400m was Andrew Hunter who has made huge strides into his 400m times creating yet another best, after a steady first 200m Andrew came to life and pulled the opposition back going down the back straight before moving into the lead in the home straight taking another victory for the local club.
Andrew's brother Callum was more like his old self over 800m as he attacked the race early on and kept an even pace to record a time just outside the magical 2 minutes.
Cliona McCheyne and Josh Law smashed their own personal bests over 800m after both displayed a new found confidence to get off slightly quicker and rely on the hard work put in during their training plans to carry them over the full four laps.
In the younger 200m races IAC's under 15s Georgia Morrison, Scott Hannaway & Lewis Morrison emulated Drew as they got up to speed early on the first bend before moving past the other athletes to reach the home straight in front and enjoy the supporters adulation as the crossed the line first.
It was not only track where IAC were dominant Ashleigh Lewis took the triple jump to a new high for the club as she launched herself through the air and past the 10m mark for the first time.
Drew McIntyre became the fastest local athlete with an impressive display over 60m. Drew exploded from the blocks and went through his speed phases to shave a fraction off his previous best and the acknowledgement of fastest 16 year old of the day. He then followed this up by reducing his 200m best by a second after taking a more thoughtful approach to the longer sprint.
Equally impressive over 400m was Andrew Hunter who has made huge strides into his 400m times creating yet another best, after a steady first 200m Andrew came to life and pulled the opposition back going down the back straight before moving into the lead in the home straight taking another victory for the local club.
Andrew's brother Callum was more like his old self over 800m as he attacked the race early on and kept an even pace to record a time just outside the magical 2 minutes.
Cliona McCheyne and Josh Law smashed their own personal bests over 800m after both displayed a new found confidence to get off slightly quicker and rely on the hard work put in during their training plans to carry them over the full four laps.
In the younger 200m races IAC's under 15s Georgia Morrison, Scott Hannaway & Lewis Morrison emulated Drew as they got up to speed early on the first bend before moving past the other athletes to reach the home straight in front and enjoy the supporters adulation as the crossed the line first.
It was not only track where IAC were dominant Ashleigh Lewis took the triple jump to a new high for the club as she launched herself through the air and past the 10m mark for the first time.
Great Edinburgh Cross Country
Jonny Glen lead a contingent of Inverclyde AC athletes at the Great Edinburgh cross country challenge, an event where a number of competitions take place from internationals to Scottish Inter District races.
Jonny representing GB for a second time this season was in the under 20 mens race against Europe and America contesting a very challenging 6K course around Holyrood Park. As the race progressed it was the Italian European champion who set the pace with a tight GB team with Jonny to the fore, as the laps went by Jonny was again a team GB counter as the finish approached he battled against the elements to record a fine performance in the GB colours. In the Inter district races Ryan Gray was back to his dominating self as he pushed the leaders in the under 15 boys causing the field to spread open with a small group of hardy athletes to the fore. with 300m to go a long run for home saw Ryan push the leader as both approached the final straight Ryan was edged into silver winning position. Ryan will be happy with two trips to the podium after leading the team to gold. Nuala and Cliona McCheyne represented the West team in the under 13 girls and after both produced fine performances joined Ryan on the podium to collect gold for team West. After a season of fine performances Sharon Muir was part of the gold wining senior womens team ensuring a good day all round for the clubs endurance athletes. Ross Forbes returned to form with a performance to be proud of and a solid foundation to build on for the coming weeks. Similar experience for Jennifer Lynn who has experienced the step up in class. |
New Year's Honour for Janice
Congratulations to Janice who has been recognised again for her services to athletics in Inverclyde. She has been awarded a British Empire Medal. Her father, James Owens, is also being awarded a B.E.M for 'services to badminton in the west of Scotland'.
In a statement on the Scottish Athletics Facebook page, Janice said: "There's definitely a wee glow inside but you don't do something you love for all these years in order to win awards.
"I am indebted really to the person who nominated me. I have my suspicions as to the identity! Seriously, I am chuffed to bits and for my dad to get a B.E.M. as well makes it even more special.
"I guess I've helped coach thousands of athletes down the years and, with the young kids, it's great to see them do things with their lives later on. It is not always in athletics, of course, but it still nice to hear how they are doing or meet them."
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BRITISH EMPIRE MEDAL: Ms Janice Hendrie. Senior Athletics Coach Inverclyde Athletic Club. For services to Sport and Wellbeing in Inverclyde. (Greenock, Renfrewshire)
In a statement on the Scottish Athletics Facebook page, Janice said: "There's definitely a wee glow inside but you don't do something you love for all these years in order to win awards.
"I am indebted really to the person who nominated me. I have my suspicions as to the identity! Seriously, I am chuffed to bits and for my dad to get a B.E.M. as well makes it even more special.
"I guess I've helped coach thousands of athletes down the years and, with the young kids, it's great to see them do things with their lives later on. It is not always in athletics, of course, but it still nice to hear how they are doing or meet them."
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BRITISH EMPIRE MEDAL: Ms Janice Hendrie. Senior Athletics Coach Inverclyde Athletic Club. For services to Sport and Wellbeing in Inverclyde. (Greenock, Renfrewshire)