Recent Results
Boxing Day Race
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Greenock Parkrun - 25th December
1st Jonny G 15.09 2nd Michael H 15.52 4th Sean G 16.50 6th Stephen C 17.02 9th Chloe S 18.40 1st Lady 10th Josh H 18.49 13th Jude B 19.37 22nd Morris G 20.44 44th Zooming Zebra 24.33 54th Hazel B 26.56 60th Janice H 29.03 |
Owen McGhee - 20th December
Finishing position & time then actual time (with position in brackets). 1. Craig Winter 37.28 - 29.44 (6) 2. Damien Mallett 37.44 - 25.48 (5) 3. John Bannister 37.46 - 30.30 (7) 4. Matthew Thomson 38.00 - 24.40 (3) 5. Gerry Gaffney 38.23 - 24.51 (4) 6. Sean Gaffney 38.57 - 23.01 (2) 7. Michael Houston 39.06 - 22.22 (1) 8. Tom Tracey 40.59 - 36.51 (8) |
European Cross Country & Young Athletes Indoor League
Inverclyde AC's Jonny Glen has received an early Christmas present by being selected to represent Team GB at the Great Edinburgh Cross Country event in January. Jonny will join arguably the greatest endurance athlete in the world Mo Farah who has confirmed his place in the same GB team for Edinburgh. Jonny received his second selection for the British team after a fabulous performance at the European Cross Country Championship held last week in Bulgaria.
Jonny not only representing the Inverclyde sporting community was tasked with performing on the most demanding of arenas under the GB banner. As the race progressed the step up in class was evident, but with Jonny's inbuilt determination he was holding his own in the classy field, coping with the underfoot conditions well Jonny was holding his own making progress through the field at a steady rate. With the altitude starting to take effect a final push to the finish saw Jonny move up the GB pecking order to secure a position in the top half of the field and a memorable debut.
In addition to recognition at GB level Jonny has been selected to represent Scotland in Ireland at the Celtic Games again in January. Jonny paid tribute to his coaches Mark Pollard and Ian Cameron who have programmed Jonny's rise from a raw talent to a GB athlete.
As Jonny was performing on the highest of stages Inverclyde youngest athletes were starting their athletic journey at the Young Athletes Indoor league held at the Emirates Indoor Arena in Glasgow.
In the under 11 age groups Harris Morrison had double celebration taking victory in the 60m and the 600m. Joining Harris was Niamh McIntosh who recorded a fine victory in the girls 60m.
The under 13 girls 800m Leah Cameron transferred her endurance form claiming victory with a late burst over the final 100m. In the boys 800 Andrew Winter went with a determined start and found his endurance training paying credit as he moved through the field to claim a top position and a huge personal best.
Samantha Williams benefitted from her training programme with a 200m win in the under 15 category. It was business as usual in the girls 300m
with Robyn Kelly striding to the front on the first bend and holding gold medal position till the finish line.
Drew McIntyre was crowned speed king for the day with victory and the fastest time of the weekend over 60m. The biggest personal achievement on the day was a personal best of 2 seconds by Andrew Hunter in the 400m.
Jonny not only representing the Inverclyde sporting community was tasked with performing on the most demanding of arenas under the GB banner. As the race progressed the step up in class was evident, but with Jonny's inbuilt determination he was holding his own in the classy field, coping with the underfoot conditions well Jonny was holding his own making progress through the field at a steady rate. With the altitude starting to take effect a final push to the finish saw Jonny move up the GB pecking order to secure a position in the top half of the field and a memorable debut.
In addition to recognition at GB level Jonny has been selected to represent Scotland in Ireland at the Celtic Games again in January. Jonny paid tribute to his coaches Mark Pollard and Ian Cameron who have programmed Jonny's rise from a raw talent to a GB athlete.
As Jonny was performing on the highest of stages Inverclyde youngest athletes were starting their athletic journey at the Young Athletes Indoor league held at the Emirates Indoor Arena in Glasgow.
In the under 11 age groups Harris Morrison had double celebration taking victory in the 60m and the 600m. Joining Harris was Niamh McIntosh who recorded a fine victory in the girls 60m.
The under 13 girls 800m Leah Cameron transferred her endurance form claiming victory with a late burst over the final 100m. In the boys 800 Andrew Winter went with a determined start and found his endurance training paying credit as he moved through the field to claim a top position and a huge personal best.
Samantha Williams benefitted from her training programme with a 200m win in the under 15 category. It was business as usual in the girls 300m
with Robyn Kelly striding to the front on the first bend and holding gold medal position till the finish line.
Drew McIntyre was crowned speed king for the day with victory and the fastest time of the weekend over 60m. The biggest personal achievement on the day was a personal best of 2 seconds by Andrew Hunter in the 400m.
West District Cross Country - Linwood - 6th December
Ryan Gray of Inverclyde AC produced a devastating display of aggressive running in arguably the most challenging weather conditions experienced so far in the winter season. Ryan returned to top of the pile in the under 15 age group while competing at Linwood in the West District cross country championship.
Ryan took the race by the scruff of the neck from the off and at half way moved clear after injecting pace to pull him clear, he maintained this display until the final straight claiming another district title and a place at the top of the podium.
Earlier in the day Nuala McCheyne made her attempt to claim the under 13 girls gold and with a fine tactical race she broke from the field with the leader and was unfortunate to fall slightly off pace while keeping her own performance going ensured she won silver to add to her growing collection of awards.
In the senior mens race Craig Ruddy lead the team over 6 miles on a course which by their start was very wet and very muddy, this didn't deter Craig who was among the leaders heading the hundreds behind him, keeping close order was Mark Pollard who was enjoying the conditions more so than some. As the race entered the final stages Craig was secure in bronze with Mark chasing close behind as both crossed the finish line at the head of the hordes still out on the course.
In the younger age groups under 13's Hannah McGeehan and Georgia Morrison were showing good form and pleased coach Janice Hendrie with their efforts. Cameron Watson and Sammy Hearl under 15 boys finally delivered their ability with racing to their potential at the front of the pack.
Ross Forbes, Ross Gray and Matthew McKinnon packed well in the under 17 boys are were unlucky to finish just outside the medals.
The senior women had Julie Gordon, Sharon Muir and Nynke Mulholland all chasing each other and the three can look forward to selections for the West of Scotland team in the coming weeks.
With a busy weekend ahead Inverclyde AC will be on tender hooks as Jonny Glen represents Great Britain in Bulgaria and the entire athletic community send their best to Jonny, coaches Mark and Iain and parents Morris and Karen.
Ryan took the race by the scruff of the neck from the off and at half way moved clear after injecting pace to pull him clear, he maintained this display until the final straight claiming another district title and a place at the top of the podium.
Earlier in the day Nuala McCheyne made her attempt to claim the under 13 girls gold and with a fine tactical race she broke from the field with the leader and was unfortunate to fall slightly off pace while keeping her own performance going ensured she won silver to add to her growing collection of awards.
In the senior mens race Craig Ruddy lead the team over 6 miles on a course which by their start was very wet and very muddy, this didn't deter Craig who was among the leaders heading the hundreds behind him, keeping close order was Mark Pollard who was enjoying the conditions more so than some. As the race entered the final stages Craig was secure in bronze with Mark chasing close behind as both crossed the finish line at the head of the hordes still out on the course.
In the younger age groups under 13's Hannah McGeehan and Georgia Morrison were showing good form and pleased coach Janice Hendrie with their efforts. Cameron Watson and Sammy Hearl under 15 boys finally delivered their ability with racing to their potential at the front of the pack.
Ross Forbes, Ross Gray and Matthew McKinnon packed well in the under 17 boys are were unlucky to finish just outside the medals.
The senior women had Julie Gordon, Sharon Muir and Nynke Mulholland all chasing each other and the three can look forward to selections for the West of Scotland team in the coming weeks.
With a busy weekend ahead Inverclyde AC will be on tender hooks as Jonny Glen represents Great Britain in Bulgaria and the entire athletic community send their best to Jonny, coaches Mark and Iain and parents Morris and Karen.
Race results - 29th/30th November
Ferguson Cup:- Today's race results below - finishing position & time then actual time and position in brackets.
1. Craig Winter 29.52 - 23.15 (10) 2. Matthew Thomson 31.10 - 18.02 (6) 3. Damien Mallett 31.29 - 19.33 (8) 4. Kenny Morrison 31.56 - 21.09 (9) 5. Duncan McFadyen 32.00 - 17.25 (3) 6. Gerry Gaffney 32.26 - 18.47 (7) 7. Stephen Cooke 32.28 - 17.56 (5) 8. David Tamburini (guest) 32.33 - 17.20 (2) 9. Michael Houston 32.42 - 16.30 (1) 10. Sean Gaffney 33.25 - 17.35 (4) 11. Tom Tracey 33.44 - 27.07 (11) |
European Trial races Liverpool:-
Senior race C Ruddy 44th 30.54 U20 J Glen 8th 20.57 U15 R Gray 15th 10.01, C Watson 85th 11.14 U11 R Gray 14th 7.53 Greenock Parkrun:- 1st Female U13 N McCheyne 18.45 (85.16% age rating) 2nd Female U13 C McCheyne 19.41(81.12% ar) Glasgow Uni 5:- 79th C Simpson 31.46 (1st U20) 107th J Gordon 34.01 |
Jonny Glen selected for GB team
Inverclyde AC athlete Jonny
In truth, he doesn’t need all that long a memory with the Greenock teenager having finished 18th in the National Cross Country Champs at Falkirk as recently as 2011.
Glen was nothing special on the track back then, either, with an 800m time of 2.21 not long before his 15th birthday and a 1500m PB that was at 4.36.
Joining Inverclyde’s lineage of GB Junior Internationals must have seemed as distant as the 1569 miles between Clydeside and Samokov, Bulgaria.
But that’s where he will pull on the Team GB and NI vest on Sunday week in the Euro Cross with his appearance in the Men’s U20 race a truly inspirational example of what can be achieved by hard work and commitment over a number of years, with steady progress blossoming spectacularly and the sacrifices of searching for tracks while on a family holiday now feeling all worthwhile.
‘I do feel as if I was a bit of late developer and there were times a few years back when I wasn’t even competitive in terms of Scottish titles,’ Jonny told scottishathletics.org.uk
‘I remember that year of 2011 in particular and I wasn’t happy that I couldn’t finish higher up or get better times.
‘But I made a big breakthrough the following year both in cross country and on the track and hard work in training began to pay-off. Maybe it proves you don’t necessarily need to win everything going at U13 and U15 level to do well at a later stage, I don’t know.
‘I’ve had fantastic support from my parents, Karen and Morris, over the years, a great training group at Inverclyde AC and my coaches, Ian Cameron and Mark Pollard.
'To win a GB vest for the Euro Cross was definitely a dream – a goal that we’d discussed for this season – but it was still so exciting for it to actually happen.’
Glen’s call-up for Bulgaria comes after a typically determined finish in the Euro Trial at Liverpool when he recovered from around 20th place at halfway in the 6.7k race to finish eighth – with two ineligible athletes above him and a team of six to be selected for Samokov.
‘I thought at halfway on Saturday that the chance of making the team was long gone,’ said the 18-year-old bluntly.
‘There were a few guys ahead of me and they’d been pretty quick so all I could think of doing was trying to pick up a few places and finish strongly. I couldn’t tell you who I went past and, after I finished, I barely knew what place I was – my dad said he thought eighth or ninth.
‘The winner of the race was an Eritrean who was not eligible for GB but it was only a bit later on Saturday that we realised there was an Irish athlete in third (Kevin Mulcaire, already picked for the Euro Cross by Ireland).
‘I’d a sleepless night after the race and again on Sunday night. I went training after work on Monday (Jonny is an apprentice electrician) and when we came in from our run, Mark (Pollard) asked me if I’d heard anything because he knew British Athletics were making calls. I checked my phone and my mum had texted me to say they had phoned the house to tell us I was selected.’
It’s clear all at Inverclyde AC will share in Glen’s glory. And rightly so for those involved at the scottishathletics Impact Club of the Year for 2014 following our recent Awards Night.
He came through the ranks of Run, Jump, Throw with Janice Hendrie – ‘I was a bit of a character when younger and only wanted to run – so Janice moved me up quite quickly’ – and hard work with training partners has helped him progress. And good coaching from Cameron and Pollard.
The club was formed in 1996 with the likes of Chris Robison and Tommy Murray among the leading lights. Pollard won a GB U20 vest in 2000 and Craig Ruddy did so in 2007. There’s a seven-year itch in Greenock, it would appear.
‘It is a good environment at the club,’ said Jonny.
'I train with some great guys and while they might not quite be at the same level as me at the moment they are helping me get better and I appreciate that help.
'Athletics loses a lot of people at 16, 17 and 18. There are distractions and I think any athlete who tells you they never think about quitting is lying. You hit a bad patch and it is really difficult.
'But I just adore running and I think it would really foolish to waste the talent I have. I want to make the most of it if I can and that means a few sacrifices along the way.
‘I run when we are on holiday and we’ve had the family searching for tracks in various places so we can keep doing sessions.’
Glen was ranked at a lowly 58 in Scotland for the 800m and 25 for the 1500m back three years ago. English rivals he faced on Saturday have rapid track PBs with one rated better than Mo Farah over 1500m and 3000m when an U15.
‘Some of these guys have insanely fast track times. But, now I am with the team, my main aim will be to try and justify my selection – and that means simply trying to beat at least one of the other GB athletes out there. I’ve looked at past races and the Brits usually do pretty well so, if I could do that, it would probably be a decent performance.
‘It does feel like winning the vest is the result of years of hard work but I also hope it is the start of something. I want to win one as a Senior athlete in a few years.’
Don’t bet against Glen achieving his goals.
Glen still remembers vividly when he didn’t even compete for Scottish titles at age-group level.
In truth, he doesn’t need all that long a memory with the Greenock teenager having finished 18th in the National Cross Country Champs at Falkirk as recently as 2011.
Glen was nothing special on the track back then, either, with an 800m time of 2.21 not long before his 15th birthday and a 1500m PB that was at 4.36.
Joining Inverclyde’s lineage of GB Junior Internationals must have seemed as distant as the 1569 miles between Clydeside and Samokov, Bulgaria.
But that’s where he will pull on the Team GB and NI vest on Sunday week in the Euro Cross with his appearance in the Men’s U20 race a truly inspirational example of what can be achieved by hard work and commitment over a number of years, with steady progress blossoming spectacularly and the sacrifices of searching for tracks while on a family holiday now feeling all worthwhile.
‘I do feel as if I was a bit of late developer and there were times a few years back when I wasn’t even competitive in terms of Scottish titles,’ Jonny told scottishathletics.org.uk
‘I remember that year of 2011 in particular and I wasn’t happy that I couldn’t finish higher up or get better times.
‘But I made a big breakthrough the following year both in cross country and on the track and hard work in training began to pay-off. Maybe it proves you don’t necessarily need to win everything going at U13 and U15 level to do well at a later stage, I don’t know.
‘I’ve had fantastic support from my parents, Karen and Morris, over the years, a great training group at Inverclyde AC and my coaches, Ian Cameron and Mark Pollard.
'To win a GB vest for the Euro Cross was definitely a dream – a goal that we’d discussed for this season – but it was still so exciting for it to actually happen.’
Glen’s call-up for Bulgaria comes after a typically determined finish in the Euro Trial at Liverpool when he recovered from around 20th place at halfway in the 6.7k race to finish eighth – with two ineligible athletes above him and a team of six to be selected for Samokov.
‘I thought at halfway on Saturday that the chance of making the team was long gone,’ said the 18-year-old bluntly.
‘There were a few guys ahead of me and they’d been pretty quick so all I could think of doing was trying to pick up a few places and finish strongly. I couldn’t tell you who I went past and, after I finished, I barely knew what place I was – my dad said he thought eighth or ninth.
‘The winner of the race was an Eritrean who was not eligible for GB but it was only a bit later on Saturday that we realised there was an Irish athlete in third (Kevin Mulcaire, already picked for the Euro Cross by Ireland).
‘I’d a sleepless night after the race and again on Sunday night. I went training after work on Monday (Jonny is an apprentice electrician) and when we came in from our run, Mark (Pollard) asked me if I’d heard anything because he knew British Athletics were making calls. I checked my phone and my mum had texted me to say they had phoned the house to tell us I was selected.’
It’s clear all at Inverclyde AC will share in Glen’s glory. And rightly so for those involved at the scottishathletics Impact Club of the Year for 2014 following our recent Awards Night.
He came through the ranks of Run, Jump, Throw with Janice Hendrie – ‘I was a bit of a character when younger and only wanted to run – so Janice moved me up quite quickly’ – and hard work with training partners has helped him progress. And good coaching from Cameron and Pollard.
The club was formed in 1996 with the likes of Chris Robison and Tommy Murray among the leading lights. Pollard won a GB U20 vest in 2000 and Craig Ruddy did so in 2007. There’s a seven-year itch in Greenock, it would appear.
‘It is a good environment at the club,’ said Jonny.
'I train with some great guys and while they might not quite be at the same level as me at the moment they are helping me get better and I appreciate that help.
'Athletics loses a lot of people at 16, 17 and 18. There are distractions and I think any athlete who tells you they never think about quitting is lying. You hit a bad patch and it is really difficult.
'But I just adore running and I think it would really foolish to waste the talent I have. I want to make the most of it if I can and that means a few sacrifices along the way.
‘I run when we are on holiday and we’ve had the family searching for tracks in various places so we can keep doing sessions.’
Glen was ranked at a lowly 58 in Scotland for the 800m and 25 for the 1500m back three years ago. English rivals he faced on Saturday have rapid track PBs with one rated better than Mo Farah over 1500m and 3000m when an U15.
‘Some of these guys have insanely fast track times. But, now I am with the team, my main aim will be to try and justify my selection – and that means simply trying to beat at least one of the other GB athletes out there. I’ve looked at past races and the Brits usually do pretty well so, if I could do that, it would probably be a decent performance.
‘It does feel like winning the vest is the result of years of hard work but I also hope it is the start of something. I want to win one as a Senior athlete in a few years.’
Don’t bet against Glen achieving his goals.
Glen still remembers vividly when he didn’t even compete for Scottish titles at age-group level.
Weekend of 29th November
Inverclyde AC had athletes competing the length and breadth of the country with the elite of UK cross country runners travelling to Liverpool to compete in the UK cross country trial to select the GB team for the European cross country to be held in Bulgaria next month.
Jonny Glen lead the Inverclyde contingent to Liverpool with a determination to be a force in the under 20 race. As the race got under way the pace was frightening at the front but a balanced approach by Jonny saw him settle in the middle of the field approaching half way. At this Jonny sprung into action and powered past the athletes in front of him as the distance wore on Jonny battled through the heavy course as his competitors fell in his wake, approaching the last kilometre Jonny was in full flow and finishing fast with the tape approaching the IAC man recorded an excellent 6th place putting him in contention for the GB team to travel to Bulgaria.
Acknowledgement must go to Ian Cameron and Mark Pollard who have planned Jonny's path and were delighted with his performance.
In the senior race Craig Ruddy continued his progress in the elite with another impressive 10K time to add to his plans for the coming races. Equally impressive in the under 15 Ryan Gray tested himself against UKs best and will be content with his performance, backing Ryan up was Cameron Watson who will take the experience of travelling and competing to enhance his development in months to come.
Closer to home in Glasgow, IAC girls were performing at the Glasgow University 5 mile road race with Chloe Simpson being the top lady on the day.
Back on home soil the senior club races got under way with the battery park being the venue for Craig Winters debut race and a victory to boot. Craig took up fitness after witnessing the success of son Andrew last year and with an educated programme he lost a few pounds and has now progressed to running competitively.
Behind Craig, Matthew Thompson ran well to hold off Damian Mallet to claim the top three places. Michael Houston was fastest on the day and shows some promise for the remainder of the season.
Jonny Glen lead the Inverclyde contingent to Liverpool with a determination to be a force in the under 20 race. As the race got under way the pace was frightening at the front but a balanced approach by Jonny saw him settle in the middle of the field approaching half way. At this Jonny sprung into action and powered past the athletes in front of him as the distance wore on Jonny battled through the heavy course as his competitors fell in his wake, approaching the last kilometre Jonny was in full flow and finishing fast with the tape approaching the IAC man recorded an excellent 6th place putting him in contention for the GB team to travel to Bulgaria.
Acknowledgement must go to Ian Cameron and Mark Pollard who have planned Jonny's path and were delighted with his performance.
In the senior race Craig Ruddy continued his progress in the elite with another impressive 10K time to add to his plans for the coming races. Equally impressive in the under 15 Ryan Gray tested himself against UKs best and will be content with his performance, backing Ryan up was Cameron Watson who will take the experience of travelling and competing to enhance his development in months to come.
Closer to home in Glasgow, IAC girls were performing at the Glasgow University 5 mile road race with Chloe Simpson being the top lady on the day.
Back on home soil the senior club races got under way with the battery park being the venue for Craig Winters debut race and a victory to boot. Craig took up fitness after witnessing the success of son Andrew last year and with an educated programme he lost a few pounds and has now progressed to running competitively.
Behind Craig, Matthew Thompson ran well to hold off Damian Mallet to claim the top three places. Michael Houston was fastest on the day and shows some promise for the remainder of the season.
Scottish Athletics 'Impact Club of the Year'
Inverclyde AC was awarded one of Scottish Athletics top awards at the annual awards ceremony held at Hampden Park last weekend.
Inverclyde were nominated in the ‘club of the year’ category due to the impact they have had on the sport of athletics both locally and nationally over the past 12 months. The panel recognised the Run, Jump, Throw programme being delivered by coaches of the club was the foundation of the development programme which had lead to young athletes improving their balance, coordination and agility which not only ensure competence levels in athletics but allows for athletes to transfer these skills to other sports.
In addition to this foundation programme the improvement and identifiable progress made by athletes in the competitive arena where the club have achieved success at local, Scottish District, Scottish National, UK and International level events ranging from under 11 age group to elite senior athletes.
On the night Gerry Gaffney, Kenny Morrison and Mark Pollard represented the club and were delighted with the result.
President Gerry Gaffney ‘It is always a privilege and honour to represent Inverclyde AC, the commitment and enthusiasm of our coaches, volunteers and athletes never ceases to amaze me. On the night when I heard the other nominees and the strength of their report I didn’t think we would receive the award. To hear Scottish Athletics development manager announce us as winners was yet another day where I felt immense pride to represent this club’ .
Inverclyde were nominated in the ‘club of the year’ category due to the impact they have had on the sport of athletics both locally and nationally over the past 12 months. The panel recognised the Run, Jump, Throw programme being delivered by coaches of the club was the foundation of the development programme which had lead to young athletes improving their balance, coordination and agility which not only ensure competence levels in athletics but allows for athletes to transfer these skills to other sports.
In addition to this foundation programme the improvement and identifiable progress made by athletes in the competitive arena where the club have achieved success at local, Scottish District, Scottish National, UK and International level events ranging from under 11 age group to elite senior athletes.
On the night Gerry Gaffney, Kenny Morrison and Mark Pollard represented the club and were delighted with the result.
President Gerry Gaffney ‘It is always a privilege and honour to represent Inverclyde AC, the commitment and enthusiasm of our coaches, volunteers and athletes never ceases to amaze me. On the night when I heard the other nominees and the strength of their report I didn’t think we would receive the award. To hear Scottish Athletics development manager announce us as winners was yet another day where I felt immense pride to represent this club’ .
County XC Championships - 16th November
Inverclyde AC's Jonny Glen became senior men county champion after winning the title last weekend.
The stage was set for Jonny in a sunny course in Johnstone, Renfrewshire by his under 11 team mates. The boys team of Robert Gray, Harris Morrison and Caleb Dunning ran the perfect race to pack well supporting race winner Robert with Harris and Caleb right behind to secure sufficient points to claim their first gold medal to the delight of their run, jump, throw coach Rachael Bushfield.
After the young boys set the bar the gold feast continued with Nuala McCheyne claiming an expected under 13 girl title and equal favourite in under 15 boys Ryan Gray strode to victory.
With under 20 and senior male and female athletes running the same race it was a procession behind Jonny Glen who hit the lead with local training partner Stephen Trainer as the lead changed time and again both pulled clear with the aggressive Jonny hitting the final hill and pulling clear to claim his first senior county title at his first attempt.
Jonny was joined by top female endurance athlete Sharon Muir who claimed her first title with a race plan which saw her move through the field with a maturity to hit the lead and hold off a few challenges to enjoy the home straight support to top the podium. Sharon was chased relentlessly by Chloe Simpson who claimed gold under 20 medal again a first for Chloe.
As the senior race progressed it became apparent that IAC older statesmen Duncan McFadyen was rolling back the years as he moved passed his younger competitors on the final laps to win over 50 title and record a placing ensuring he scored good points in the team event.
In addition to the under 11 boys topping the podium the under 13 girls of Nuala and Cliona McCheyne and Neave Docherty made their way to the top of the podium also.
With a recognition of the Run, Jump, Throw development programme IAC had podium finishes for under 11 girls Abbi Hammerman, Orla McGeehan and Elize Morrison. Under 13 boys Josh Law, Jack Stuart, and Andrew Winter and under 15 boys Ryan Ggray, Cameron Watson and Sammy Hearl.
With elite seniors participating in England the young seniors made the podium with Michael Houston, Thomas Jamieson, Callum Hunter and Matthew Thompson joining Jonny and Duncan to take team medal.
IAC now look to open their indoor account in the coming weeks and further test their recognised Run, Jump, Throw development programme.
The stage was set for Jonny in a sunny course in Johnstone, Renfrewshire by his under 11 team mates. The boys team of Robert Gray, Harris Morrison and Caleb Dunning ran the perfect race to pack well supporting race winner Robert with Harris and Caleb right behind to secure sufficient points to claim their first gold medal to the delight of their run, jump, throw coach Rachael Bushfield.
After the young boys set the bar the gold feast continued with Nuala McCheyne claiming an expected under 13 girl title and equal favourite in under 15 boys Ryan Gray strode to victory.
With under 20 and senior male and female athletes running the same race it was a procession behind Jonny Glen who hit the lead with local training partner Stephen Trainer as the lead changed time and again both pulled clear with the aggressive Jonny hitting the final hill and pulling clear to claim his first senior county title at his first attempt.
Jonny was joined by top female endurance athlete Sharon Muir who claimed her first title with a race plan which saw her move through the field with a maturity to hit the lead and hold off a few challenges to enjoy the home straight support to top the podium. Sharon was chased relentlessly by Chloe Simpson who claimed gold under 20 medal again a first for Chloe.
As the senior race progressed it became apparent that IAC older statesmen Duncan McFadyen was rolling back the years as he moved passed his younger competitors on the final laps to win over 50 title and record a placing ensuring he scored good points in the team event.
In addition to the under 11 boys topping the podium the under 13 girls of Nuala and Cliona McCheyne and Neave Docherty made their way to the top of the podium also.
With a recognition of the Run, Jump, Throw development programme IAC had podium finishes for under 11 girls Abbi Hammerman, Orla McGeehan and Elize Morrison. Under 13 boys Josh Law, Jack Stuart, and Andrew Winter and under 15 boys Ryan Ggray, Cameron Watson and Sammy Hearl.
With elite seniors participating in England the young seniors made the podium with Michael Houston, Thomas Jamieson, Callum Hunter and Matthew Thompson joining Jonny and Duncan to take team medal.
IAC now look to open their indoor account in the coming weeks and further test their recognised Run, Jump, Throw development programme.
Scottish National Short Course Championships - 9th November
Inverclyde Athletic Club were announced Scottish National short course cross country champions after a determined team effort in the final competition the National 4K championship held at Bellahouston Park in Glasgow.
The event follows the series of five relay competitions and puts all athletes out from the gun in a race where all team members count, as the ground vibrated under the pace of hundreds of runners charging at the start of the race hitting the front early on was the Inverclyde trio of Dan Mulhare, Craig Ruddy & Jonny Glen.
The fierce pace continued which ensured the field was scattered early on as Inverclyde fourth counter Mark Pollard was using his experience to pick off runners in front of him. At the front Dan powered through the muddy conditions shadowing the leader with Craig flowing with seeming ease just behind. Jonny keeping close order in the top 10 despite his junior years.
As the race approached the finish Dan and Craig were clear front counters with second and fourth positions secured, Jonny dug deep into his reserves to ensure a top 10 finish as Mark being the teams final counter powered through a few athletes to bring Inverclyde home victorious by a large margin and regain the title last won 4 years ago by the local team.
In the same race David Mulhare made his team debut and sets his marker for future events. Greg Williams and Matthew Thompson are acclimatising to the distance and country conditions as both stamped their track ability over the course. Ali Law continued his return to competition after some considerable years off and used that maturity in the sprint home.
In the junior age groups Ross Forbes was top performer with a strong run and a determined finish to hold off the chasing pack. In the girls race Sara O'Docherty took strides toward full competitive fitness with a strong finish securing a few local scalps in the process, Samantha Dunning has made huge strides forward in her recent races and has clearly benefitted by her efforts in training which is showing rich rewards in her racing.
The event follows the series of five relay competitions and puts all athletes out from the gun in a race where all team members count, as the ground vibrated under the pace of hundreds of runners charging at the start of the race hitting the front early on was the Inverclyde trio of Dan Mulhare, Craig Ruddy & Jonny Glen.
The fierce pace continued which ensured the field was scattered early on as Inverclyde fourth counter Mark Pollard was using his experience to pick off runners in front of him. At the front Dan powered through the muddy conditions shadowing the leader with Craig flowing with seeming ease just behind. Jonny keeping close order in the top 10 despite his junior years.
As the race approached the finish Dan and Craig were clear front counters with second and fourth positions secured, Jonny dug deep into his reserves to ensure a top 10 finish as Mark being the teams final counter powered through a few athletes to bring Inverclyde home victorious by a large margin and regain the title last won 4 years ago by the local team.
In the same race David Mulhare made his team debut and sets his marker for future events. Greg Williams and Matthew Thompson are acclimatising to the distance and country conditions as both stamped their track ability over the course. Ali Law continued his return to competition after some considerable years off and used that maturity in the sprint home.
In the junior age groups Ross Forbes was top performer with a strong run and a determined finish to hold off the chasing pack. In the girls race Sara O'Docherty took strides toward full competitive fitness with a strong finish securing a few local scalps in the process, Samantha Dunning has made huge strides forward in her recent races and has clearly benefitted by her efforts in training which is showing rich rewards in her racing.
Scottish National Cross Country Relays - 25th October
Another National podium finish for Inverclyde AC was added to their honours list by the senior men at the National Cross Country relays last weekend held in Cumbernauld.
The quartet of Jonny Glen, Andy Douglas, Craig Ruddy and Dan Mulhare carried the threat of Inverclyde elite and with some testing wet and windy weather Jonny set the team off. The under 20 athlete moving into the senior team for his first season did not disappoint with a dogged first leg keeping Inverclyde in the top positions before handing over to mountain expert Andy. Andy moved past the few leaders and hit the lead after the first mile, conscious of being tailed by Commonwealth athlete Callum Hawkins, Andy drove round the course in determined fashion holding off Callum until the finish came in sight with Craig waiting to spring into action in second place. Craig had a steady first half but managed to move into the lead as he strode over the challenging second half to hand over a slim lead to Dan. Dan gave his usual easy on the eye effortless style which belies the pace and power he generates over the ground. Holding of GB internationalist Andy Butchart was never going to be easy and so it panned out with Dan giving his all to win silver and record the fastest time of the day.
The other senior teams witnessed a return to form for Greg Williams who looked more like his old self and needs to build on this foundation for the coming indoor season. Ali Law made his senior debut and made it a family affair with wife Kim and son Josh out for the ladies and junior boys team respectively.
In the junior boys Ryan Gray eased through the field on the under 15 age group leg to record the fastest time of the day, his team mate at under 17 level Ross Forbes was equally impressive after his top Renfrewshire spot last week and a text book sprint style for the finish was to be emulated by his younger club mates.
Cliona and Nuala McCheyne were the star turns in the girls race with Nuala bringing the team home in second place before twin Cliona competing against the under 15s and holding her own to ensure Inverclyde consolidated their position, Jennifer Lynn completed the team in the under 17 group despite being under 15 and brought the team home just outside the top 10. Leah Cameron recorded a fabulous time and confidently looks forward to the coming races as did Jack Stuart on his first competitive run for Inverclyde.
The quartet of Jonny Glen, Andy Douglas, Craig Ruddy and Dan Mulhare carried the threat of Inverclyde elite and with some testing wet and windy weather Jonny set the team off. The under 20 athlete moving into the senior team for his first season did not disappoint with a dogged first leg keeping Inverclyde in the top positions before handing over to mountain expert Andy. Andy moved past the few leaders and hit the lead after the first mile, conscious of being tailed by Commonwealth athlete Callum Hawkins, Andy drove round the course in determined fashion holding off Callum until the finish came in sight with Craig waiting to spring into action in second place. Craig had a steady first half but managed to move into the lead as he strode over the challenging second half to hand over a slim lead to Dan. Dan gave his usual easy on the eye effortless style which belies the pace and power he generates over the ground. Holding of GB internationalist Andy Butchart was never going to be easy and so it panned out with Dan giving his all to win silver and record the fastest time of the day.
The other senior teams witnessed a return to form for Greg Williams who looked more like his old self and needs to build on this foundation for the coming indoor season. Ali Law made his senior debut and made it a family affair with wife Kim and son Josh out for the ladies and junior boys team respectively.
In the junior boys Ryan Gray eased through the field on the under 15 age group leg to record the fastest time of the day, his team mate at under 17 level Ross Forbes was equally impressive after his top Renfrewshire spot last week and a text book sprint style for the finish was to be emulated by his younger club mates.
Cliona and Nuala McCheyne were the star turns in the girls race with Nuala bringing the team home in second place before twin Cliona competing against the under 15s and holding her own to ensure Inverclyde consolidated their position, Jennifer Lynn completed the team in the under 17 group despite being under 15 and brought the team home just outside the top 10. Leah Cameron recorded a fabulous time and confidently looks forward to the coming races as did Jack Stuart on his first competitive run for Inverclyde.
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West District XC Relays - 11th October
Inverclyde AC had both their senior men and ladies on the winners podium at the West District Cross Country relay championships. The event held at Birkmyre Park in Kilmacolm was always going to be a fast and spectator friendly course.
Michael Houston gained promotion to the 'A' team after some positive performances and lead the quartet of in the first leg a solid performance saw Michael bring the team home in the top placing's before handing over to Dan Mulhare. Dan sprinted from the start line and was soon hauling the leading athletes in with every powerful stride as he moved through the field bringing Inverclyde into 3rd position as well as his personal time being the fastest of the day. Jonny Glen was then unleashed, Jonny enjoying a rich vein of form set about his task of consolidating his position on the first lap before moving into closer contention on the final lap, as the change over appeared in sight Jonny pulled Inverclyde into 2nd place.
On the final glory leg Craig Ruddy had it all to do and set a tone early on as he hit top gear within the first few strides, at the halfway mark Craig cruised past the leader and took his club into pole position at this stage there was little doubt as to the outcome as he moved clear bringing the team home in gold medal position and another district title.
The senior ladies team with a change of tact had Chloe Simpson leading off and after a solid run handed over to Rachael Bushfield. Rachael fresh from her past victories pulled the competition in over the first mile or so before striding past putting the team into contention for Julie Gordon on the ladies final leg. Julie using all her experiences and determination steady the team position before moving closer to the other athletes allowing the watching team mates to witness the joy as she moved into bronze medal in the finishing part of the race, adding a fourth award in the past three weeks.
With a number of other teams competing Mark Pollard produced a top display after being a bit off colour over the last few weeks showed why he should never be underestimated over cross country recording one of the fastest runs of the day. Callum Hunter enjoyed the faster course and will take confidence from his fine performance.
Duncan McFadyen was the standard bearer for the older athlete recording a time his young team mates would be proud of. Nyke Mulholland had a gutsy run and puts her in contention for a place in the first team in the coming weeks.
In the young age groups Josh Law had the pressure of leading of the team of Ryan Gray (photo) and Ross Forbes as the boys gained a top 10 finish with Ryan being one of the fastest young athletes of the day . Cameron Watson is getting back to his old self with a good time and Matthew McKinnon returned to action after his shoulder injury.
In the girls race Cliona McCheyne ran a fabulous first leg before twin Nuala produced the talent which saw her win the National 800m title to bring the team home in 2nd place. Jennifer Lynn anchored the team home recording another top 10 finish for the girls.
Michael Houston gained promotion to the 'A' team after some positive performances and lead the quartet of in the first leg a solid performance saw Michael bring the team home in the top placing's before handing over to Dan Mulhare. Dan sprinted from the start line and was soon hauling the leading athletes in with every powerful stride as he moved through the field bringing Inverclyde into 3rd position as well as his personal time being the fastest of the day. Jonny Glen was then unleashed, Jonny enjoying a rich vein of form set about his task of consolidating his position on the first lap before moving into closer contention on the final lap, as the change over appeared in sight Jonny pulled Inverclyde into 2nd place.
On the final glory leg Craig Ruddy had it all to do and set a tone early on as he hit top gear within the first few strides, at the halfway mark Craig cruised past the leader and took his club into pole position at this stage there was little doubt as to the outcome as he moved clear bringing the team home in gold medal position and another district title.
The senior ladies team with a change of tact had Chloe Simpson leading off and after a solid run handed over to Rachael Bushfield. Rachael fresh from her past victories pulled the competition in over the first mile or so before striding past putting the team into contention for Julie Gordon on the ladies final leg. Julie using all her experiences and determination steady the team position before moving closer to the other athletes allowing the watching team mates to witness the joy as she moved into bronze medal in the finishing part of the race, adding a fourth award in the past three weeks.
With a number of other teams competing Mark Pollard produced a top display after being a bit off colour over the last few weeks showed why he should never be underestimated over cross country recording one of the fastest runs of the day. Callum Hunter enjoyed the faster course and will take confidence from his fine performance.
Duncan McFadyen was the standard bearer for the older athlete recording a time his young team mates would be proud of. Nyke Mulholland had a gutsy run and puts her in contention for a place in the first team in the coming weeks.
In the young age groups Josh Law had the pressure of leading of the team of Ryan Gray (photo) and Ross Forbes as the boys gained a top 10 finish with Ryan being one of the fastest young athletes of the day . Cameron Watson is getting back to his old self with a good time and Matthew McKinnon returned to action after his shoulder injury.
In the girls race Cliona McCheyne ran a fabulous first leg before twin Nuala produced the talent which saw her win the National 800m title to bring the team home in 2nd place. Jennifer Lynn anchored the team home recording another top 10 finish for the girls.
WEST DISTRICT RELAYS - CHANGE OF VENUE
Due to the unusually warm summer the underfoot conditions at the original course at Port Glasgow has been assessed as being unsuitable for safe running hence the reason for the change of race course at this time. Please see documents below for further info.
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McAndrew Road Relay - 4th October
Inverclyde AC ladies were victorious for a third time in two weeks, the trio of Sharon Muir, Rachael Bushfield and Julie Gordon were competing in the McAndrew Road Relay in Jordanhill, Glasgow.
This week Sharon set off first over the 3 1/2 mile course and after a solid performance brought the girls team home in the top positions. Rachael running the middle leg began passing her male competitors over the hilly start to the course before relaxing on the way home having taken Inverclyde into the lead for the ladies race. Julie cooped with the pressure on the anchor lag and opened up a greater lead as she hit the finish line first and having the added bonus as the fastest female of the day. In the men's event Neil McLaughlin justified his promotion to the 'A' team by having arguably one of his best races bringing the team home in 7th place before handing over to Jonny Glen. Jonny set of determined and powered over the hilly sections before increasing pace on the flat surface seeing him scythe through the leading athletes as he handed over to Mark Pollard in 2nd place. Mark still a dominant force got into his running early and produced another dogged performance to remain in 2nd place. Matthew Thomson making the transition into endurance running had a shock realising he was to anchor the 'A' team home, as is his nature Matthew gave all on his leg to record a good time despite finishing slightly of a podium finish. In the over 40 team Gerry Gaffney produced another performance which defies his experience before Gavin Morrison and Robert Shaw brought the team home to allow Tom Tracey a fine glory leg. Inverclyde athletes now look forward to the West District relay which is being held on the fields behind Port Glasgow High School next Saturday. A Team (1st place) Sharon Muir 20.02, Rachael Bushfield 20.20, Julie Gordon 19.29 B Team Chloe Simpson 20.57 A Team (4th place) Neil McLaughlin 17.55 , Jonny Glen 16.27, Mark Pollard 17.44, Matthew Thomson 20.17 B Team Gerry Gaffney 19.30, Gavin Morrison 21.01, Robert Shaw 24.24, Tom Tracey 27.03 |