London Marathon
Craig Ruddy lead the team of Inverclyde AC athletes in the London marathon with an excellent life time best of 2 hours, 22 minutes and 22 seconds.
Craig accompanied by Mark Pollard, David Henderson, Andrew Harkins, Nicholas Gemmel and Brian Harkins made the trip south after months of planning their own training programmes to achieve the goal of finishing in one piece with a good time.
At the mass start Craig was soon into his stride having to make the decision of following a group slightly faster than his planned pace or being on his own for the 26 miles 365 yards. Craig elected for the former and was ahead of schedule at the 6 mile mark. His pace was steady going through halfway now comfortable that his body could sustain the pain as he crossed the 20 mile marker. A controlled last 6 miles brought Craig home in a new best and the second Scottish athlete to finish.
Next across the line was endurance specialist Mark Pollard. Mark one of the most disciplined marathon runners was spot on his target times as he went through all his kilometre markers within a few seconds of each other. Using his previous London experiences Mark was secure in his mind that completing the distance was never going to be the main challenge. Entering the last few miles Mark was still clocking his exact timings before crossing the line just outside the 2 hours 30 minute mark.
David Henderson and Andrew Harkins were using the team spirit in the early exchanges working together to keep the control of pace and stick to the race strategy to enable another fine performance. With both athletes in full flow passing mile markers toward the final few miles David got a slight edge over Andrew. This gap continued along The Mall to the finish with the athletes recording 2 hours 42 and 2 hours 43 respectively.
Nicholas Gemmell had a big personal best reducing his time by some 5 minutes stopping the clock exactly on the 3 hours mark. After running for 26 miles and stopping the clock on the 3 hour mark Nicholas is now focused on his next marathon the get his time into the magical 2 hour region.
Another with a massive 8 minute best was Brian Harkins. Brian benefiting from his detailed training plan put this into his race plan as he made his way around the landmark detailed route. Despite looking to increase pace Brian kept his enthusiasm in tact to reach the Mall and enjoy the last few hundred yards to record 3 hours 7 minutes.
Craig Ruddy lead the team of Inverclyde AC athletes in the London marathon with an excellent life time best of 2 hours, 22 minutes and 22 seconds.
Craig accompanied by Mark Pollard, David Henderson, Andrew Harkins, Nicholas Gemmel and Brian Harkins made the trip south after months of planning their own training programmes to achieve the goal of finishing in one piece with a good time.
At the mass start Craig was soon into his stride having to make the decision of following a group slightly faster than his planned pace or being on his own for the 26 miles 365 yards. Craig elected for the former and was ahead of schedule at the 6 mile mark. His pace was steady going through halfway now comfortable that his body could sustain the pain as he crossed the 20 mile marker. A controlled last 6 miles brought Craig home in a new best and the second Scottish athlete to finish.
Next across the line was endurance specialist Mark Pollard. Mark one of the most disciplined marathon runners was spot on his target times as he went through all his kilometre markers within a few seconds of each other. Using his previous London experiences Mark was secure in his mind that completing the distance was never going to be the main challenge. Entering the last few miles Mark was still clocking his exact timings before crossing the line just outside the 2 hours 30 minute mark.
David Henderson and Andrew Harkins were using the team spirit in the early exchanges working together to keep the control of pace and stick to the race strategy to enable another fine performance. With both athletes in full flow passing mile markers toward the final few miles David got a slight edge over Andrew. This gap continued along The Mall to the finish with the athletes recording 2 hours 42 and 2 hours 43 respectively.
Nicholas Gemmell had a big personal best reducing his time by some 5 minutes stopping the clock exactly on the 3 hours mark. After running for 26 miles and stopping the clock on the 3 hour mark Nicholas is now focused on his next marathon the get his time into the magical 2 hour region.
Another with a massive 8 minute best was Brian Harkins. Brian benefiting from his detailed training plan put this into his race plan as he made his way around the landmark detailed route. Despite looking to increase pace Brian kept his enthusiasm in tact to reach the Mall and enjoy the last few hundred yards to record 3 hours 7 minutes.
Scottish Relay Champs, Sat 22nd April - Grangemouth
At the Scottish National relay championships held in Grangemouth, Inverclyde AC were podium finishers once again at a major championship.
In the under 17 girls 3 x 800m the trio of Georgia Morrison, Zoe Renfrew and Nuala McCheyne had set their sights high despite being the trio moving into the older age group this year. Georgia on the first leg hit the front of the field and dictated the pace for the competition to following. In the home straight approaching one lap to go Georgia increased pace to open up a gap which few could follow. With 200m to go another increase of pace carried Georgia clear as she handed over to Zoe for leg two.
Zoe set off with a talented Falkirk team trying to keep in contact. A steady first lap had Zoe controlling the pace before emulating Georgia's tactics to push the pace on in the back straight. The gap continued to increase on the home straight as Zoe drove herself on into the change over zone before passing to Nuala for the anchor leg.
Nuala had the unenviable task of keeping one of the UK's top female athletes over 800m at bay. A controlled start ensured Nuala held the lead going into the last lap where her race exploded to life as the pace increased in a bid to break the chasing athlete. As both athletes passed 200m to go it was a head to head as both were in full flow approaching the home straight, with the finish in sight Falkirk's athlete edged ahead to cross the line first with Inverclyde's trio achieving an excellent silver in a record time.
In the senior men 4 x 100m sprint relay Inverclyde had two teams through to the final. At the first change over the 'A' team suffered from the relay hoodoo leaving the 'B' team to carry the hopes of the local club.
Under 17 Scott Hannaway carried the pressure of the first leg on his young shoulders exploding from his blocks to ensure the team were always in contention as he approached his changeover zone before handing over to Andrew Hunter. Realising the 'A' team had gone Andrew rose in stature and powered down the back straight keeping his team in contention for a top place.
On leg three, new to the sport Ryan Neilson controlled his nerves and made sure a secure change over had the baton at top speed cruising round the last bend before handing over to club captain Mark Magee to anchor the team home. Mark playing his captains role received the baton and was off at top speed to leave the minor placings behind, getting closer to the finish line a medal was a realistic prospect and in a few seconds Mark had secured an unexpected but well deserved national bronze medal and a place on the podium for the quartet.
Inverclyde had a number of other teams on show contesting the 3 x 800 relays at under 15 girls where Abi Hammermann, Hannah McGeehan and Leah Cameron transfered their winter programme onto the track securing a fine performance after making the final with ease.
Andrew Winter, Lewis Hainey and Caleb Dunning contested the under 15 boys 3 x 800m and just missed a final place, the experience will now focus their mind while training on the track for the summer season.
Adam Hay lead the under 17 boys team, joined by Ben Nichol and Dylan Crawford with the boys suffering the same hoodoo as their senior 4 x 100 team mates despite a fine performance.
At the Scottish National relay championships held in Grangemouth, Inverclyde AC were podium finishers once again at a major championship.
In the under 17 girls 3 x 800m the trio of Georgia Morrison, Zoe Renfrew and Nuala McCheyne had set their sights high despite being the trio moving into the older age group this year. Georgia on the first leg hit the front of the field and dictated the pace for the competition to following. In the home straight approaching one lap to go Georgia increased pace to open up a gap which few could follow. With 200m to go another increase of pace carried Georgia clear as she handed over to Zoe for leg two.
Zoe set off with a talented Falkirk team trying to keep in contact. A steady first lap had Zoe controlling the pace before emulating Georgia's tactics to push the pace on in the back straight. The gap continued to increase on the home straight as Zoe drove herself on into the change over zone before passing to Nuala for the anchor leg.
Nuala had the unenviable task of keeping one of the UK's top female athletes over 800m at bay. A controlled start ensured Nuala held the lead going into the last lap where her race exploded to life as the pace increased in a bid to break the chasing athlete. As both athletes passed 200m to go it was a head to head as both were in full flow approaching the home straight, with the finish in sight Falkirk's athlete edged ahead to cross the line first with Inverclyde's trio achieving an excellent silver in a record time.
In the senior men 4 x 100m sprint relay Inverclyde had two teams through to the final. At the first change over the 'A' team suffered from the relay hoodoo leaving the 'B' team to carry the hopes of the local club.
Under 17 Scott Hannaway carried the pressure of the first leg on his young shoulders exploding from his blocks to ensure the team were always in contention as he approached his changeover zone before handing over to Andrew Hunter. Realising the 'A' team had gone Andrew rose in stature and powered down the back straight keeping his team in contention for a top place.
On leg three, new to the sport Ryan Neilson controlled his nerves and made sure a secure change over had the baton at top speed cruising round the last bend before handing over to club captain Mark Magee to anchor the team home. Mark playing his captains role received the baton and was off at top speed to leave the minor placings behind, getting closer to the finish line a medal was a realistic prospect and in a few seconds Mark had secured an unexpected but well deserved national bronze medal and a place on the podium for the quartet.
Inverclyde had a number of other teams on show contesting the 3 x 800 relays at under 15 girls where Abi Hammermann, Hannah McGeehan and Leah Cameron transfered their winter programme onto the track securing a fine performance after making the final with ease.
Andrew Winter, Lewis Hainey and Caleb Dunning contested the under 15 boys 3 x 800m and just missed a final place, the experience will now focus their mind while training on the track for the summer season.
Adam Hay lead the under 17 boys team, joined by Ben Nichol and Dylan Crawford with the boys suffering the same hoodoo as their senior 4 x 100 team mates despite a fine performance.
Indoor Relay Champs - Emirates Arena, Sat 4th March 2017
Inverclyde AC's under 13 boys 4 x 200m relay team were national medalists at the recent Indoor relay championships held at the Emirates Indoor Arena in Glasgow.
The quartet of Harris Morrison, Edward Docherty, Aidan McGarragle and Charlie Semple were looking to emulate their summer relay success on arrival at the indoor arena. Having to contest heats was not an issue for the youngsters as they crusied through before lining up for the final.
Harris lead the team off , with a sharp start Harris was soon making inroads on the stagger created by the lane draw, he maintained this position before handing over to Edward on leg two. After the first bend in lanes Edward had the challenge of runners merging into lane one but a fast back straight saw Edward pass to Aidan in medal contention. With a speedy first half Aidan was in determined fashion before handing over to Charlie to complete the team in the traditional 'Glory leg'. Using his endurance abilities Charlie brought the baton home cleanly and in an excellent bronze medal position.
With all age groups competing in the championships the 4 x 200m female team of Evie Semple, Georgia Morrison, Robyn Kelly and Sophie Williams were out to try and copy their young team mates. After a solid performance saw the girls qualify through the heats a place in the final was always an excellent result for the team.
With Evie leading the team off a very quick acceleration from the blocks had her up with her opponents before striding down the back straight moving into top gear before handing over to Georgia. On the second leg Georgia was soon at full flow keeping the local club in close contention as her finishing strength proved valuable in the closing stages. Robyn returned to competitive action after considerable period on the side lines for leg three, having lost none of her competitive edge she was soon into her determined race mode as she cruised past her competition. Sophie tackled the last leg and like her team mates made the back straight look effortless. As she approached the home straight the local support were delighted to witness the girls finish in a position just outside the medals and a ranking of the top 6 teams in Scotland.
Inverclyde AC's under 13 boys 4 x 200m relay team were national medalists at the recent Indoor relay championships held at the Emirates Indoor Arena in Glasgow.
The quartet of Harris Morrison, Edward Docherty, Aidan McGarragle and Charlie Semple were looking to emulate their summer relay success on arrival at the indoor arena. Having to contest heats was not an issue for the youngsters as they crusied through before lining up for the final.
Harris lead the team off , with a sharp start Harris was soon making inroads on the stagger created by the lane draw, he maintained this position before handing over to Edward on leg two. After the first bend in lanes Edward had the challenge of runners merging into lane one but a fast back straight saw Edward pass to Aidan in medal contention. With a speedy first half Aidan was in determined fashion before handing over to Charlie to complete the team in the traditional 'Glory leg'. Using his endurance abilities Charlie brought the baton home cleanly and in an excellent bronze medal position.
With all age groups competing in the championships the 4 x 200m female team of Evie Semple, Georgia Morrison, Robyn Kelly and Sophie Williams were out to try and copy their young team mates. After a solid performance saw the girls qualify through the heats a place in the final was always an excellent result for the team.
With Evie leading the team off a very quick acceleration from the blocks had her up with her opponents before striding down the back straight moving into top gear before handing over to Georgia. On the second leg Georgia was soon at full flow keeping the local club in close contention as her finishing strength proved valuable in the closing stages. Robyn returned to competitive action after considerable period on the side lines for leg three, having lost none of her competitive edge she was soon into her determined race mode as she cruised past her competition. Sophie tackled the last leg and like her team mates made the back straight look effortless. As she approached the home straight the local support were delighted to witness the girls finish in a position just outside the medals and a ranking of the top 6 teams in Scotland.
National XC Champs, Sat 25th Feb. Falkirk
Inverclyde AC traveled to a very muddy Callander Park in Falkirk to contest the National Cross Country championships. A happy hunting ground for local athletes over the years and this years proved no different returning rich reward especially for Ryan Gray and Cameron Watson (pictured).
Both contesting the under 17 boys race Ryan and Cameron were soon in the leading pack as their opponents were suffering with the pace and underfoot condition. Both athletes utilised their lighter frames to maximum effect as they pulled clear of the chasing athletes into a possible medal position. Going into the last half mile Ryan and Cameron were sitting second and third and were swapping the pace with each other as they both pushed for local glory. With the muddy conditions causing a fall to Ryan, Cameron moved slightly ahead. A determined Ryan got back to his feet pulling in the small gap to go stride for stride with each other in the closing stages. As the final home straight to victory beckoned Ryan pulled a stride clear and held on with both athletes crossing the line with an excellent silver and bronze for the local boys.
In the under 13 boys race Lewis Hainey rose to the occasion of the national championship and was leading the local charge in the youngest of race categories. Keeping close contact to the leading pack Lewis created a gap over his club mates as the demands of the course took effect on the young legs. Lewis held his own pace and negotiated the good running areas to record a fine performance and top local athlete on the day.
Craig Ruddy lead the charge in the senior men's race which boasted a who's who of Scottish endurance runners. Craig always a quality performer at National championships settled in the leading group at a fierce pace despite the very muddy and water logged course. Moving passed the vocal local support at halfway Craig was moving well at the head of the extremely large field. In the closing stages positions were not changing as the leaders were in top gear speeding toward the finish line where Craig recorded yet another top national finish position.
In the ladies age group race Sharon Muir finished a fabulous fourth place. Sharon an economical runner relied on this efficiency as the race distance had increased to 10K for the first time ever. This additional distance did not cause Sharon any great difficulty as she covered the course passing her fellow challengers along the way, crossing the finish line a few strides off a visit to the podium.
In the under 17 girls race Shelby Morrison always a major force at the blue riband cross country race in Scotland was holding her own at the front of the pack. In one of the most challenging age groups Shelby like Craig has performed well over the year, equally on the day was within the leading pack contesting the top positions as the race evolved. Coming into the final stages Shelby pulled on her previous experiences to cruise home recording a top 10 finish.
Inverclyde AC traveled to a very muddy Callander Park in Falkirk to contest the National Cross Country championships. A happy hunting ground for local athletes over the years and this years proved no different returning rich reward especially for Ryan Gray and Cameron Watson (pictured).
Both contesting the under 17 boys race Ryan and Cameron were soon in the leading pack as their opponents were suffering with the pace and underfoot condition. Both athletes utilised their lighter frames to maximum effect as they pulled clear of the chasing athletes into a possible medal position. Going into the last half mile Ryan and Cameron were sitting second and third and were swapping the pace with each other as they both pushed for local glory. With the muddy conditions causing a fall to Ryan, Cameron moved slightly ahead. A determined Ryan got back to his feet pulling in the small gap to go stride for stride with each other in the closing stages. As the final home straight to victory beckoned Ryan pulled a stride clear and held on with both athletes crossing the line with an excellent silver and bronze for the local boys.
In the under 13 boys race Lewis Hainey rose to the occasion of the national championship and was leading the local charge in the youngest of race categories. Keeping close contact to the leading pack Lewis created a gap over his club mates as the demands of the course took effect on the young legs. Lewis held his own pace and negotiated the good running areas to record a fine performance and top local athlete on the day.
Craig Ruddy lead the charge in the senior men's race which boasted a who's who of Scottish endurance runners. Craig always a quality performer at National championships settled in the leading group at a fierce pace despite the very muddy and water logged course. Moving passed the vocal local support at halfway Craig was moving well at the head of the extremely large field. In the closing stages positions were not changing as the leaders were in top gear speeding toward the finish line where Craig recorded yet another top national finish position.
In the ladies age group race Sharon Muir finished a fabulous fourth place. Sharon an economical runner relied on this efficiency as the race distance had increased to 10K for the first time ever. This additional distance did not cause Sharon any great difficulty as she covered the course passing her fellow challengers along the way, crossing the finish line a few strides off a visit to the podium.
In the under 17 girls race Shelby Morrison always a major force at the blue riband cross country race in Scotland was holding her own at the front of the pack. In one of the most challenging age groups Shelby like Craig has performed well over the year, equally on the day was within the leading pack contesting the top positions as the race evolved. Coming into the final stages Shelby pulled on her previous experiences to cruise home recording a top 10 finish.
Renfrewshire Road Rad Champs, Battery Park 5th February
Inverclyde AC senior men recorded another milestone by adding the Renfrewshire Road race title to the other two County titles sealing the hat trick of available titles.
Having secured the Relay title in October, Cross Country title in December finishing with the Road title in the Battery Park a fitting location to conclude the trio.
Craig Ruddy lead the senior team from the off with Cross Country champion Mark Pollard in hot pursuit. Under 20 Ross Gray was keen to stay with his more experienced club mates as the race left the battery for the stretch along the Esplanade. Keeping the local club in team contention were previous winner Graeme Hyett, captain Sean Gaffney and marathon specialist David Tamburini. With the six athletes counting toward the title and club rankings at stake Craig was piling the pressure on at the front as he opened a small gap over Mark. Ross was remaining ahead as the trio of Graeme, David and Sean who were making efforts to pull in the athletes just ahead.
With the finish being one lap of the battery the local venue proved profitable as Craig strode home to claim the individual title with the remaining five working hard to cross the line and capture the hat trick of titles, a first under the captaincy of Sean.
In the senior womens race Sharon Muir was the leading local taking the over 40 title in the process. A rejuventated Rachael Bushfield ran her fastest time over the five mile course and is reaping reward for concerted training plan.
In the younger age groups Inverclyde was to the fore starting with the under 11 boys where Harris Morrison was always to the fore after winning the cross country a few months back. Harris had a steady start before relying on a spirited finish to bring himself through the pack crossing the line in silver position. Harris was well supported by Keir Arthur and new athlete Scott Newman who reacted to the local support passing their competitors in the last 200m to win team silver on the day.
At under 13 Robert Gray was always in contention for the title until the last bend when a slip allowed the leaders to move ahead. Undeterred, Robert raised his game bringing himself into third place this also assisted his team of Lewis Hainey and Caleb Dunning to win team silver.
Abi Hammerman was the top under 13 girl with an excellent third place finish after holding off the fast finishers on the home straight.
In one of the most competitive age groups, under 17 Cameron Watson gained the bragging rights over team mate Ryan Gray. With both boys occupying some of the country's top placings the race got off to a steady start before an injection of speed at halfway broke the field. Coming into the finish Cameron was a few strides ahead of Ryan securing a fine bronze on the day. Ryan was joined by Dylan Crawford to conclude the team counters winning another trip to the podium to collect silver.
Recognition must go to the volunteers on the day for officiating and catering.
Inverclyde AC senior men recorded another milestone by adding the Renfrewshire Road race title to the other two County titles sealing the hat trick of available titles.
Having secured the Relay title in October, Cross Country title in December finishing with the Road title in the Battery Park a fitting location to conclude the trio.
Craig Ruddy lead the senior team from the off with Cross Country champion Mark Pollard in hot pursuit. Under 20 Ross Gray was keen to stay with his more experienced club mates as the race left the battery for the stretch along the Esplanade. Keeping the local club in team contention were previous winner Graeme Hyett, captain Sean Gaffney and marathon specialist David Tamburini. With the six athletes counting toward the title and club rankings at stake Craig was piling the pressure on at the front as he opened a small gap over Mark. Ross was remaining ahead as the trio of Graeme, David and Sean who were making efforts to pull in the athletes just ahead.
With the finish being one lap of the battery the local venue proved profitable as Craig strode home to claim the individual title with the remaining five working hard to cross the line and capture the hat trick of titles, a first under the captaincy of Sean.
In the senior womens race Sharon Muir was the leading local taking the over 40 title in the process. A rejuventated Rachael Bushfield ran her fastest time over the five mile course and is reaping reward for concerted training plan.
In the younger age groups Inverclyde was to the fore starting with the under 11 boys where Harris Morrison was always to the fore after winning the cross country a few months back. Harris had a steady start before relying on a spirited finish to bring himself through the pack crossing the line in silver position. Harris was well supported by Keir Arthur and new athlete Scott Newman who reacted to the local support passing their competitors in the last 200m to win team silver on the day.
At under 13 Robert Gray was always in contention for the title until the last bend when a slip allowed the leaders to move ahead. Undeterred, Robert raised his game bringing himself into third place this also assisted his team of Lewis Hainey and Caleb Dunning to win team silver.
Abi Hammerman was the top under 13 girl with an excellent third place finish after holding off the fast finishers on the home straight.
In one of the most competitive age groups, under 17 Cameron Watson gained the bragging rights over team mate Ryan Gray. With both boys occupying some of the country's top placings the race got off to a steady start before an injection of speed at halfway broke the field. Coming into the finish Cameron was a few strides ahead of Ryan securing a fine bronze on the day. Ryan was joined by Dylan Crawford to conclude the team counters winning another trip to the podium to collect silver.
Recognition must go to the volunteers on the day for officiating and catering.
National Indoor Champs, Emirates Arena - 28th January
Inverclyde AC under 17 athletes were in full flow at the age group National Indoor championships.
In the 800m Nuala McCheyne and training partner Zoe Renfrew continued their purple patch by being convincing qualifiers for the final after dictating their respective heats.
The final saw a fierce pace from the gun with Nuala keeping apace with the leader creating a gap over the chasing athletes with Zoe operating her own race plan in the pack. With two laps to go Nuala was still operating at a high speed in silver medal position with Zoe starting to move through the chasing athletes into the remaining medal position. With 100m to go Nuala made her traditional move for glory and began reducing the gap to the leader however with limited distance left Nuala finished an excellent silver in a new best. Zoe a few strides behind had pulled clear of the opposition to cross the line in bronze medal position and another lifetime best, confirming two inverclyde athletes on the podium.
Adam Hay was contesting the boys 800m he to qualified for his final and after the four short laps in a very competitive race Adam crossed the line just outside the medals equaling his lifetime best. Dylan Crawford was another who has gained confidence from his structured training plan knocking a massive 7 seconds off his previous best.
Lifetime bests were falling with local athletes performing better than ever before, Scott Hannaway over 200m went through three rounds of his 200m races to qualify as one of the fastest teenagers in the country and after a very sharp start went through his race tactics keeping himself in contention for the major awards as a blanket finish required the use of photo finish equipment. After examination the narrowest of margins allocated Scott a position just outside the medals, but three lifetime bests in the one day was impressive running.
Similarly over 300m Georgia Morrison benefited from a few runs previously and was at full flow after one lap, pushing into the pain area on the back straight Georgia worked hard toward the finish clocking a new best to bring a very successful indoor championship for the local club.
Inverclyde AC under 17 athletes were in full flow at the age group National Indoor championships.
In the 800m Nuala McCheyne and training partner Zoe Renfrew continued their purple patch by being convincing qualifiers for the final after dictating their respective heats.
The final saw a fierce pace from the gun with Nuala keeping apace with the leader creating a gap over the chasing athletes with Zoe operating her own race plan in the pack. With two laps to go Nuala was still operating at a high speed in silver medal position with Zoe starting to move through the chasing athletes into the remaining medal position. With 100m to go Nuala made her traditional move for glory and began reducing the gap to the leader however with limited distance left Nuala finished an excellent silver in a new best. Zoe a few strides behind had pulled clear of the opposition to cross the line in bronze medal position and another lifetime best, confirming two inverclyde athletes on the podium.
Adam Hay was contesting the boys 800m he to qualified for his final and after the four short laps in a very competitive race Adam crossed the line just outside the medals equaling his lifetime best. Dylan Crawford was another who has gained confidence from his structured training plan knocking a massive 7 seconds off his previous best.
Lifetime bests were falling with local athletes performing better than ever before, Scott Hannaway over 200m went through three rounds of his 200m races to qualify as one of the fastest teenagers in the country and after a very sharp start went through his race tactics keeping himself in contention for the major awards as a blanket finish required the use of photo finish equipment. After examination the narrowest of margins allocated Scott a position just outside the medals, but three lifetime bests in the one day was impressive running.
Similarly over 300m Georgia Morrison benefited from a few runs previously and was at full flow after one lap, pushing into the pain area on the back straight Georgia worked hard toward the finish clocking a new best to bring a very successful indoor championship for the local club.
National Indoor Open, Emirates Arena - 14th January
Inverclyde AC had a number of athletes participating at the Emirates Indoor Arena contesting the National Indoor Open, the event has athletes seeded on performance and offers the opportunity to test themselves against the best in the country.
Inverclyde athletes recorded a number of personal bests in all age groups. In the 200m Scott Hannaway (pictured) benefited from being abroad during the festive period as he shot from his blocks was on the shoulder of the athlete outside him on the back straight, Scott remained focused as he moved into the lead with 50m to go and enjoyed crossing the line in under 24 seconds for the first time.
200m was proving to be the distance to tackle as Scott's training partner Ciaran Hogg was delighted to dip under 27 seconds after a number of attempts during the summer. In the young age group Harris Morrison set his own target and after a determined run lowered his best to 29 seconds. Catriona McPherson new to athletics this year also produced a performance that takes her into the competitive level in the weeks to come.
Nuala McCheyne stepped down in distance from her more accustomed 800m to broaden her range over 300m. After a solid start Nuala was soon into her running and was starting to dictate the race relying on her strength to pull clear, on the last bend she found another level and ran clear to record a lifetime best of 42 seconds.
Equally impressive over 800m, Zoe Renfrew followed the leaders for two laps before taking and increasing the pace of the race. Reaching the bell there was a challenge to Zoe's lead however an increase in speed carried Zoe clear to dip under the 2:20 minutes for the first time. Lewis Hainey was another athlete over 800m looking to improve, with some tactical changes Lewis was running well within his new strategy and was pleased to record his best time and will now focus in training to get his time quicker.
In the shortest event contested, 60m sprint Edward Docherty raised the young athletes bar by clocking a fast 8 second run. Niamh McIntosh recorded an other best as she finished her 60 in under 9 seconds.
Inverclyde AC had a number of athletes participating at the Emirates Indoor Arena contesting the National Indoor Open, the event has athletes seeded on performance and offers the opportunity to test themselves against the best in the country.
Inverclyde athletes recorded a number of personal bests in all age groups. In the 200m Scott Hannaway (pictured) benefited from being abroad during the festive period as he shot from his blocks was on the shoulder of the athlete outside him on the back straight, Scott remained focused as he moved into the lead with 50m to go and enjoyed crossing the line in under 24 seconds for the first time.
200m was proving to be the distance to tackle as Scott's training partner Ciaran Hogg was delighted to dip under 27 seconds after a number of attempts during the summer. In the young age group Harris Morrison set his own target and after a determined run lowered his best to 29 seconds. Catriona McPherson new to athletics this year also produced a performance that takes her into the competitive level in the weeks to come.
Nuala McCheyne stepped down in distance from her more accustomed 800m to broaden her range over 300m. After a solid start Nuala was soon into her running and was starting to dictate the race relying on her strength to pull clear, on the last bend she found another level and ran clear to record a lifetime best of 42 seconds.
Equally impressive over 800m, Zoe Renfrew followed the leaders for two laps before taking and increasing the pace of the race. Reaching the bell there was a challenge to Zoe's lead however an increase in speed carried Zoe clear to dip under the 2:20 minutes for the first time. Lewis Hainey was another athlete over 800m looking to improve, with some tactical changes Lewis was running well within his new strategy and was pleased to record his best time and will now focus in training to get his time quicker.
In the shortest event contested, 60m sprint Edward Docherty raised the young athletes bar by clocking a fast 8 second run. Niamh McIntosh recorded an other best as she finished her 60 in under 9 seconds.
Scottish National Indoor 3000m Champs, Emirates Arena - 4th January 2017
Inverclyde AC enjoyed more success with David Henderson reaching his goal after being crowned Scottish 3,000m Indoor champion. In the same championship Gary Mckendrick won his age group silver over a similar distance.
Both David and Gary tackled the 3,000m some 15 laps of the indoor track at the Emirates Indoor Arena competing against the best over 35's in the country. David was quick to establish himself at the front and dictate the race on his own terms, coupled with the mental strength to remain calm as the lap numbers tumbled. Getting into the final few laps David began turning the screw on the opposition and created a gap which proved decisive as he acknowledged the delight of his club mates crossing the line in gold medal position and the honour to be IAC's newest National Champion.
At the same venue in the masters 3,000m Gary was a thorn on the leaders side as he equaled all moves to try and distance themselves. In a very competitive race Gary so concentrated on his race plan failed to realise he was positioning himself in a medal winning place with so many athletes on the track and so many laps to contest. Gary stuck to his task as he piled on the pace over the last lap and was delighted to win his first national medal collecting silver, proving you're never too young or old to produce performances which see IAC athletes being crowned national champions.
Inverclyde AC enjoyed more success with David Henderson reaching his goal after being crowned Scottish 3,000m Indoor champion. In the same championship Gary Mckendrick won his age group silver over a similar distance.
Both David and Gary tackled the 3,000m some 15 laps of the indoor track at the Emirates Indoor Arena competing against the best over 35's in the country. David was quick to establish himself at the front and dictate the race on his own terms, coupled with the mental strength to remain calm as the lap numbers tumbled. Getting into the final few laps David began turning the screw on the opposition and created a gap which proved decisive as he acknowledged the delight of his club mates crossing the line in gold medal position and the honour to be IAC's newest National Champion.
At the same venue in the masters 3,000m Gary was a thorn on the leaders side as he equaled all moves to try and distance themselves. In a very competitive race Gary so concentrated on his race plan failed to realise he was positioning himself in a medal winning place with so many athletes on the track and so many laps to contest. Gary stuck to his task as he piled on the pace over the last lap and was delighted to win his first national medal collecting silver, proving you're never too young or old to produce performances which see IAC athletes being crowned national champions.
Edinburgh Cross Country, Saturday 7th January 2017
Inverclyde AC had a number of athletes representing the West of Scotland at the Great Edinburgh Cross Country event.
Having been selected on the back of some fine performances over the past few months, the inter district championship shares the same course as the international where Mo Farah was defeated by Scottish endurance champion Callum Hawkins, the first by a UK athlete for 8 years.
In the under 17 boys race Ryan Gray was determined not to let the opportunity go by and established himself at the front of the race. As the pace increased Ryan was equal to this and followed the leaders before making his bid for victory with 400m to go. An excellent tussle with his opposite number from the east saw both athletes cross the line almost together with Ryan awarded silver, rich reward for the sacrifice made over the festive period and a return to podium placings.
In the same race Cameron Watson was part of the West team supporting the efforts of his club mate and will build on the extra distance covered for 2017.
Shelby Morrison was a major influence on the under 20 women's race always keeping tabs on the leaders as she cruised round the fast underfoot conditions to finish a counting member for the West ladies team.
Nynke Mulholland was IAC's ladies representative in the senior ladies race which also had international athletes on show. Nynke an experienced athlete at this level having represented the West on a number of occasions producing her normal determined efforts to finish well in the pack of class athletes.
Senior male John Bell experienced his first representative match and learned very quickly of the step up in class. Despite his first outing John used all his endurance training by pulling the athletes in front of him back at the tail end of the race finishing with some excellent experiences to ensure he becomes a permanent fixture at this level.
In the young age groups, under 13 athletes Robert Gray and Abi Hammerman pulled on the West vest for the first time, both not being overawed by the occasion ran well to produce good points for the team race. Similarly in the under 15 boys Josh Law's efforts earned him his first selection and the experience and efforts displayed proved a solid foundation going into the final months of the cross country season.
Nuala McCheyne, under 15 girls committed efforts pushed the West team to a fine performance and will look forward to putting the endurance run to good use over 800m indoor in the coming weeks.
Inverclyde AC had a number of athletes representing the West of Scotland at the Great Edinburgh Cross Country event.
Having been selected on the back of some fine performances over the past few months, the inter district championship shares the same course as the international where Mo Farah was defeated by Scottish endurance champion Callum Hawkins, the first by a UK athlete for 8 years.
In the under 17 boys race Ryan Gray was determined not to let the opportunity go by and established himself at the front of the race. As the pace increased Ryan was equal to this and followed the leaders before making his bid for victory with 400m to go. An excellent tussle with his opposite number from the east saw both athletes cross the line almost together with Ryan awarded silver, rich reward for the sacrifice made over the festive period and a return to podium placings.
In the same race Cameron Watson was part of the West team supporting the efforts of his club mate and will build on the extra distance covered for 2017.
Shelby Morrison was a major influence on the under 20 women's race always keeping tabs on the leaders as she cruised round the fast underfoot conditions to finish a counting member for the West ladies team.
Nynke Mulholland was IAC's ladies representative in the senior ladies race which also had international athletes on show. Nynke an experienced athlete at this level having represented the West on a number of occasions producing her normal determined efforts to finish well in the pack of class athletes.
Senior male John Bell experienced his first representative match and learned very quickly of the step up in class. Despite his first outing John used all his endurance training by pulling the athletes in front of him back at the tail end of the race finishing with some excellent experiences to ensure he becomes a permanent fixture at this level.
In the young age groups, under 13 athletes Robert Gray and Abi Hammerman pulled on the West vest for the first time, both not being overawed by the occasion ran well to produce good points for the team race. Similarly in the under 15 boys Josh Law's efforts earned him his first selection and the experience and efforts displayed proved a solid foundation going into the final months of the cross country season.
Nuala McCheyne, under 15 girls committed efforts pushed the West team to a fine performance and will look forward to putting the endurance run to good use over 800m indoor in the coming weeks.