Historic quartet - West District Cross Country championship - Sun 6th December
Inverclyde AC senior ladies created history at the West District cross country championships held in Glasgow.
The historic quartet of Sharon Muir, Nyke Mulholland, Rachael Bushfield and Julie Gordon wrote themselves into local folklore being the first senior ladies team to win a team award at the Scottish district cross country championships.
In the worst cross country conditions ever experienced the ladies were into their running and packing well as a team at the front of the large field. Using the fast pace of Nyke and the endurance of Sharon the pair pulled into a slight gap over Rachael and Julie. As the conditions started sapping the energy from the legs Sharon opened a small distance as she was also contesting her age group rivals.
With the four ladies all appearing in sight in the 3 lap race the supporters were using all their maths skills to let them know that team medals were a realistic possibility.
Going into the final lap Sharon was leading the team and securing herself an individual award. Nyke was determined to ensure she was back to her competitive best pushing on past the tiring athletes. Rachael was producing the talents her training has evidenced and ladies captain Julie was playing the captains role keeping close order of her teammates.
As Sharon came home and individual bronze was secured just holding off Nyke in the final straight. Rachael completed a solid last lap for a top 20 finish and Julie used all her experienced to record the final team member and run her team into local history to win silver for the first time ever at this event.
The historic quartet of Sharon Muir, Nyke Mulholland, Rachael Bushfield and Julie Gordon wrote themselves into local folklore being the first senior ladies team to win a team award at the Scottish district cross country championships.
In the worst cross country conditions ever experienced the ladies were into their running and packing well as a team at the front of the large field. Using the fast pace of Nyke and the endurance of Sharon the pair pulled into a slight gap over Rachael and Julie. As the conditions started sapping the energy from the legs Sharon opened a small distance as she was also contesting her age group rivals.
With the four ladies all appearing in sight in the 3 lap race the supporters were using all their maths skills to let them know that team medals were a realistic possibility.
Going into the final lap Sharon was leading the team and securing herself an individual award. Nyke was determined to ensure she was back to her competitive best pushing on past the tiring athletes. Rachael was producing the talents her training has evidenced and ladies captain Julie was playing the captains role keeping close order of her teammates.
As Sharon came home and individual bronze was secured just holding off Nyke in the final straight. Rachael completed a solid last lap for a top 20 finish and Julie used all her experienced to record the final team member and run her team into local history to win silver for the first time ever at this event.
Magnificent Seven at the West District Cross Country championship - Sun 6th December
A magnificent seven awards for Inverclyde AC athletes at the West District Cross Country championship in a very muddy Bellahouston Park, Glasgow.
Junior section talisman Jonny Glen was the hottest favourite of the day in the under 20 men's race and red hot he was too as he proved too strong for the opposition in the heaviest under foot conditions experienced by the youngsters. Jonny setting the pace from the off saw the gap open early in the race and get wider as the miles were clocking by. With the finish approaching it was clear Jonny was collecting another individual title and a trip to the top of the podium.
Under 17 Ryan Gray was starting to find his form over the past few weeks and with a course suited to the slighter built runners Ryan took full advantage on the toffee like mud. Ryan was always on the leading pack before sensing the competition buckling under the pace as Ryan went through his gears to move clear and return to the top of the pack thus ensuring his 100% victories at West District cross country continues.
Similar framed under 15 Cameron Watson enjoyed the conditions as he to found the challenge to his liking. Cameron rose in confidence at the halfway stage and with the vocal support encouraging him on moved into medal winning position. As the other runners were fading Cameron pulled clear securing a fine bronze and the third trip to the podium.
Shelby Morrison after anchoring the girls team to relay bronze was out to prove that was not fluke performance. Shelby was always at the front of the race working hard and using her undoubted talent to drive through the mud. After the opening challenges Shelby like Cameron pulled herself into a successful position holding this to the finish line.
With the individual successes secured the official recorders brought more good news for IAC as they announced that the under 15 boys of Cameron, Adam Hay and Dylan Crawford won the bronze team medal. Adam who has impressed in his racing tactics was just outside the top 10 with Dylan revelling in his new sport and anchoring the team home to podium finish.
One of the most competitive age groups, the under 15 girls saw the trio of Nuala McCheyne, Niamh Docherty and Jennifer Lynne work together as a team keeping each other in sight and close enough that the points system be awarded saw another local team stand high on the podium.
Having won national cross country team medals last year the under 20 men, Ross Gray and Callum Hunter joined the champion Jonny Glen to form the second placed team on the day collecting another fine award for the young men.
A number of other athletes were enjoying success at the opposite end of the age range with Gerry Gaffney collecting silver for the over 60 category. Gerry made the statement that the underfoot conditions were the worst he had competed in and with over 40 years racing experience behind him it gave an indication of how challenging the course was for the less experienced members.
John Bell again rose to the top of the local pack being the leading local home in the senior men. Nicola Doohan had an excellent 4th place finishing just behind club mate Shelby and a confirmed position that should see her join IAC winners representing the West in the coming weeks at the inter district match in Edinburgh.
Junior section talisman Jonny Glen was the hottest favourite of the day in the under 20 men's race and red hot he was too as he proved too strong for the opposition in the heaviest under foot conditions experienced by the youngsters. Jonny setting the pace from the off saw the gap open early in the race and get wider as the miles were clocking by. With the finish approaching it was clear Jonny was collecting another individual title and a trip to the top of the podium.
Under 17 Ryan Gray was starting to find his form over the past few weeks and with a course suited to the slighter built runners Ryan took full advantage on the toffee like mud. Ryan was always on the leading pack before sensing the competition buckling under the pace as Ryan went through his gears to move clear and return to the top of the pack thus ensuring his 100% victories at West District cross country continues.
Similar framed under 15 Cameron Watson enjoyed the conditions as he to found the challenge to his liking. Cameron rose in confidence at the halfway stage and with the vocal support encouraging him on moved into medal winning position. As the other runners were fading Cameron pulled clear securing a fine bronze and the third trip to the podium.
Shelby Morrison after anchoring the girls team to relay bronze was out to prove that was not fluke performance. Shelby was always at the front of the race working hard and using her undoubted talent to drive through the mud. After the opening challenges Shelby like Cameron pulled herself into a successful position holding this to the finish line.
With the individual successes secured the official recorders brought more good news for IAC as they announced that the under 15 boys of Cameron, Adam Hay and Dylan Crawford won the bronze team medal. Adam who has impressed in his racing tactics was just outside the top 10 with Dylan revelling in his new sport and anchoring the team home to podium finish.
One of the most competitive age groups, the under 15 girls saw the trio of Nuala McCheyne, Niamh Docherty and Jennifer Lynne work together as a team keeping each other in sight and close enough that the points system be awarded saw another local team stand high on the podium.
Having won national cross country team medals last year the under 20 men, Ross Gray and Callum Hunter joined the champion Jonny Glen to form the second placed team on the day collecting another fine award for the young men.
A number of other athletes were enjoying success at the opposite end of the age range with Gerry Gaffney collecting silver for the over 60 category. Gerry made the statement that the underfoot conditions were the worst he had competed in and with over 40 years racing experience behind him it gave an indication of how challenging the course was for the less experienced members.
John Bell again rose to the top of the local pack being the leading local home in the senior men. Nicola Doohan had an excellent 4th place finishing just behind club mate Shelby and a confirmed position that should see her join IAC winners representing the West in the coming weeks at the inter district match in Edinburgh.
UK Cross Country Challenge - Sat 28th November
World Cup holder for mountain running Andy Douglas lead the local contingent competing in the senior men's race, Andy always a solid performer at elite level did not disappoint on the day. As is normal at this level the pace was electric from the gun with over 500 senior athletes tackling UK's best. Andy moved into his efficient style gradually making his way through the field as the miles went by. Reaching the5K halfway point Andy was in full flow hitting a top 20 place and closing in on the leading packs. Approaching the last mile Andy started his bid for a top place as he passed a number of athletes on the way home to record a fabulous time and a top 20 placing.
In the under 20 men Jonny Glen was at his determined best keeping an eye on the leading athletes. After the first couple of miles at a fierce pace a small gap emerged with Jonny sitting in the top10. Clocking down the miles it was clear Jonny was hitting a top 10 finish if he continued with the pace he was setting. In true Jonny style he dug deep in his talents and began an assault on the finish pacing athletes and bringing in the leaders who seemed to be suffering after the initial fast pace, in the final straight Jonny hauled himself into a very good seventh place ensuing that he remains in the top 10 under 20 athletes that the UK have to offer.
In the younger age groups Inverclyde were well represented with a few having a debut at this level of competition. Cameron Watson starting to find some of his previous talents was one of the front runners in the large under 15 boys field. Cameron got up to pace early battling well with his fellow athletes as he held a top position as the first lap went by. Holding his own Cameron impressed his coaches with a solid finish in the top half of the field.
Adam Hay was shadowing Cameron in the boys race ensuing the black and white stripes were to the fore, going through the latter stages of the race Adam let a small gap open up on Cameron however a determined effort saw Adam keep close enough that both IAC athletes crossed the line shortly after one another. Ben Nicol has been improving ever since his victory in the Inverclyde schools 800m, now tackling the cross country Ben was under coaches advice to use the race for experience however his new found confidence saw Ben having a fine race with the other athletes and a determination to do well had Ben stopping the clock in another impressive time, he will now focus more in training to get closer to Cameron and Adam.
In the under 15 girls race the trio of Nuala McCheyne, twin Cliona and Jennifer Lynn were having their first outing at the UK championship. Nuala was first to the fore challenging the leaders at the start before the race settled down, with surges throughout the race Nuala was matching her competition coming home Nuala lead the local girls contingent to record a top half finish. Cliona and Jennifer were having a local battle matching each other stride for stride with Cliona getting the edge over Jennifer as the finish approached with the time difference being a few seconds.
Nicola Doohan and Shelby Morrison were the under 17 representatives and after a small technical challenge at the start Shelby and Nicola got into their running. Shelby started to return to form after a hiccup in previous weeks, she put that behind her and began striding confidently round to gain a performance to please coach Janice Hendrie. Nicola always a solid performer was emulating Andy Douglas moving effortlessly through the field with every stride to enjoy the challenge and gain valuable experience for the coming races.
All athletes thank Janice for travel and accommodation arrangements.
In the under 20 men Jonny Glen was at his determined best keeping an eye on the leading athletes. After the first couple of miles at a fierce pace a small gap emerged with Jonny sitting in the top10. Clocking down the miles it was clear Jonny was hitting a top 10 finish if he continued with the pace he was setting. In true Jonny style he dug deep in his talents and began an assault on the finish pacing athletes and bringing in the leaders who seemed to be suffering after the initial fast pace, in the final straight Jonny hauled himself into a very good seventh place ensuing that he remains in the top 10 under 20 athletes that the UK have to offer.
In the younger age groups Inverclyde were well represented with a few having a debut at this level of competition. Cameron Watson starting to find some of his previous talents was one of the front runners in the large under 15 boys field. Cameron got up to pace early battling well with his fellow athletes as he held a top position as the first lap went by. Holding his own Cameron impressed his coaches with a solid finish in the top half of the field.
Adam Hay was shadowing Cameron in the boys race ensuing the black and white stripes were to the fore, going through the latter stages of the race Adam let a small gap open up on Cameron however a determined effort saw Adam keep close enough that both IAC athletes crossed the line shortly after one another. Ben Nicol has been improving ever since his victory in the Inverclyde schools 800m, now tackling the cross country Ben was under coaches advice to use the race for experience however his new found confidence saw Ben having a fine race with the other athletes and a determination to do well had Ben stopping the clock in another impressive time, he will now focus more in training to get closer to Cameron and Adam.
In the under 15 girls race the trio of Nuala McCheyne, twin Cliona and Jennifer Lynn were having their first outing at the UK championship. Nuala was first to the fore challenging the leaders at the start before the race settled down, with surges throughout the race Nuala was matching her competition coming home Nuala lead the local girls contingent to record a top half finish. Cliona and Jennifer were having a local battle matching each other stride for stride with Cliona getting the edge over Jennifer as the finish approached with the time difference being a few seconds.
Nicola Doohan and Shelby Morrison were the under 17 representatives and after a small technical challenge at the start Shelby and Nicola got into their running. Shelby started to return to form after a hiccup in previous weeks, she put that behind her and began striding confidently round to gain a performance to please coach Janice Hendrie. Nicola always a solid performer was emulating Andy Douglas moving effortlessly through the field with every stride to enjoy the challenge and gain valuable experience for the coming races.
All athletes thank Janice for travel and accommodation arrangements.
County XC Championships - Sat 14th November
Inverclyde AC swept a number of awards at the Renfrewshire Cross Country championship held at Tower Hill in Gourock. From under 11 to senior athletes each age group were on the podium reaffirming that IAC’s development programme continues to be on the correct pathway for individual athletes.
First off were the under 11 boys who tackled the very muddy course and as usual the mass speed start soon settled with Robert Gray, Harris Morrison and Matthew McGeehan leading the way for IAC. With a number of strategically placed coaches encouraging the young athletes round the last 300m saw the Inverclyde trio move past a number of tiring athletes to secure close team placing’s and the first visit to the podium to collect team silver.
Not to be outdone the under 11 girls started in similar fashion to the boys and determination from Orla McGeehan, Erin Law and Amelie Jay had the trio at the front of the race. Working well as a team the girls assisted each other as the weather turned for the worse. The finish line was a welcome sight as the girls crossed the line and onto the podium to emulate the success of the boys with silver award.
In a competitive under 13 boy’s race Josh Law, Andrew Winter and Ross Davidson were the counting team members with Josh battling for a top place at the front. Andrew and Ross were holding form well rising to the challenge of the opposition to stay within sight of Josh approaching the tough uphill finish area. Vocal support provided the lift needed as the boys crossed the line to win bronze.
Hannah McGeehan, Leah Cameron and Abi Hammerman were the successful under 13 girl’s trio collecting bronze after their efforts. Hannah having a particularly good run in what is a current purple patch with successes over the last few weeks. Hannah forming part of the leading athletes was always to the fore and a gritty final 100m secured her individual bronze. Close behind Leah and Abi finished the counting team and bronze medal success.
With the course now very muddy and challenging Cameron Watson’s slight frame was beneficial in the under 15 boy’s race. Appearing undeterred by the weather Cameron strode round the course confidently winning silver and the first counter for the team. Adam Hay improving every week wasn’t far behind and pleasing his coaches with his efforts saw him in the top 10. Securing silver for the team was debutant Dylan Crawford who showed a steely determination to do well and was suitably rewarded for his efforts with the team award.
Nuala McCheyne was the first Inverclyde athlete home in the under 15 girl’s race with a second place finish after another fine performance. Twin Cliona picked her way through the field to gain valuable points for the team and the ever improving Zoe Renfrew surprised herself with a very good performance to secure and win team silver.
The under 17 boy’s had Ryan Gray back at the front of the pack where at the finish was just pipped for gold on the day. Sammy Hearl secured his first victory over club mate Matthew McKinnon however collectively the talented trio won silver in the team event.
In the under 17 girls Nicola Doohan gained the top local spot over team mate Shelby Morrison both girls now gaining reward from their commitment on training nights.
In the senior and under 20 women’s race Rachael Bushfield was relishing the conditions pulling clear with the leader as the race progressed. Getting to the halfway stage Rachael was clear in second and enjoying a top place in the county championship finishing second and winning silver. In the under 20 race Chloe Simpson had a walk over victory collecting gold after a solid run in the difficult conditions.
The final race of the day saw the senior men line up against arguably one of Scotland’s top endurance athletes in Derek Hawkins and it wasn’t long after the gun that Derek was gone with the following athletes trying to keep pace. John Bell seized the opportunity and struck early to open a gap over his club mates with Ross Gray in hot pursuit. Michael Houston and Sean Gaffney were having their own personal dual with David Tamburini leading the over 40 age group.
As the numerous laps went by John entered the finish straight and won silver to lead the Inverclyde team home for the first time since joining. Ross continued his improvement with Michael, Sean, Jason Kane and Callum Hunter forming the six team places and a return to the top of the Renfrewshire podium as champions.
David continued his lead in his age category to obtain another top gold for IAC.
First off were the under 11 boys who tackled the very muddy course and as usual the mass speed start soon settled with Robert Gray, Harris Morrison and Matthew McGeehan leading the way for IAC. With a number of strategically placed coaches encouraging the young athletes round the last 300m saw the Inverclyde trio move past a number of tiring athletes to secure close team placing’s and the first visit to the podium to collect team silver.
Not to be outdone the under 11 girls started in similar fashion to the boys and determination from Orla McGeehan, Erin Law and Amelie Jay had the trio at the front of the race. Working well as a team the girls assisted each other as the weather turned for the worse. The finish line was a welcome sight as the girls crossed the line and onto the podium to emulate the success of the boys with silver award.
In a competitive under 13 boy’s race Josh Law, Andrew Winter and Ross Davidson were the counting team members with Josh battling for a top place at the front. Andrew and Ross were holding form well rising to the challenge of the opposition to stay within sight of Josh approaching the tough uphill finish area. Vocal support provided the lift needed as the boys crossed the line to win bronze.
Hannah McGeehan, Leah Cameron and Abi Hammerman were the successful under 13 girl’s trio collecting bronze after their efforts. Hannah having a particularly good run in what is a current purple patch with successes over the last few weeks. Hannah forming part of the leading athletes was always to the fore and a gritty final 100m secured her individual bronze. Close behind Leah and Abi finished the counting team and bronze medal success.
With the course now very muddy and challenging Cameron Watson’s slight frame was beneficial in the under 15 boy’s race. Appearing undeterred by the weather Cameron strode round the course confidently winning silver and the first counter for the team. Adam Hay improving every week wasn’t far behind and pleasing his coaches with his efforts saw him in the top 10. Securing silver for the team was debutant Dylan Crawford who showed a steely determination to do well and was suitably rewarded for his efforts with the team award.
Nuala McCheyne was the first Inverclyde athlete home in the under 15 girl’s race with a second place finish after another fine performance. Twin Cliona picked her way through the field to gain valuable points for the team and the ever improving Zoe Renfrew surprised herself with a very good performance to secure and win team silver.
The under 17 boy’s had Ryan Gray back at the front of the pack where at the finish was just pipped for gold on the day. Sammy Hearl secured his first victory over club mate Matthew McKinnon however collectively the talented trio won silver in the team event.
In the under 17 girls Nicola Doohan gained the top local spot over team mate Shelby Morrison both girls now gaining reward from their commitment on training nights.
In the senior and under 20 women’s race Rachael Bushfield was relishing the conditions pulling clear with the leader as the race progressed. Getting to the halfway stage Rachael was clear in second and enjoying a top place in the county championship finishing second and winning silver. In the under 20 race Chloe Simpson had a walk over victory collecting gold after a solid run in the difficult conditions.
The final race of the day saw the senior men line up against arguably one of Scotland’s top endurance athletes in Derek Hawkins and it wasn’t long after the gun that Derek was gone with the following athletes trying to keep pace. John Bell seized the opportunity and struck early to open a gap over his club mates with Ross Gray in hot pursuit. Michael Houston and Sean Gaffney were having their own personal dual with David Tamburini leading the over 40 age group.
As the numerous laps went by John entered the finish straight and won silver to lead the Inverclyde team home for the first time since joining. Ross continued his improvement with Michael, Sean, Jason Kane and Callum Hunter forming the six team places and a return to the top of the Renfrewshire podium as champions.
David continued his lead in his age category to obtain another top gold for IAC.
National Short Course XC Championships
Double podium visit again for Inverclyde AC's Jonny Glen, Jennifer Lynn, Nuala and Cliona McCheyne. In arguably the wettest race day of the calendar so far IAC athletes competed in the Scottish National 4K short course cross country championship at Bellahouston Park in Glasgow.
On a water logged course Jonny Glen lead the line winning the National under 20 title. The under 20 age group was competing alongside the senior men and an undeterred Jonny was at the sharp end of the race after just 200m running side by side with the best senior athletes in the country. As the race progressed Jonny settled into his stride sitting in the top six at the end of lap one. Going into lap two where the heavy under foot conditions were taking its toll Jonny moved toward the top places and with 400m to go made a bid to catch his more experienced athletes and was pleased to record a fourth place finish overall and another national under 20 title to join his impressive collection.
In the under 15 girls Nuala and Cliona McCheyne and Jennifer Lynn were to visit the podium again at a national event winning bronze. Nuala forming part of the leading pack from start to finish was the first local to finish with Jennifer finding her competitive edge again was not far behind and another determined effort saw Cliona bring the counting team home close to the top finishers to ensure the young girls were awarded bronze on the day.
Also in the under 15 race Zoe Renfrew built on the good running from recent training sessions to gain a top local spot and is sure to kick on from this run. In the young boys race Cameron Watson was the leading athlete coping well with the heavy conditions despite his slight frame. Adam Hay after a wardrobe malfunction in his footwear managed to complete the course in a fine time just behind Cameron.
A number of senior men are starting to find their feet in the competition calendar with John Bell getting closer each week to his fellow team mates. David Tamburini created a new best time over the course proof of his undoubted talent on the country races. Birthday boy Craig Winter had to work for his gifts running well ticking off his seasons talents. As is normal routine in the over 55s Gerry Gaffney with a determined run finished in the top half of the field and among the top elder statesmen of the race.
On a water logged course Jonny Glen lead the line winning the National under 20 title. The under 20 age group was competing alongside the senior men and an undeterred Jonny was at the sharp end of the race after just 200m running side by side with the best senior athletes in the country. As the race progressed Jonny settled into his stride sitting in the top six at the end of lap one. Going into lap two where the heavy under foot conditions were taking its toll Jonny moved toward the top places and with 400m to go made a bid to catch his more experienced athletes and was pleased to record a fourth place finish overall and another national under 20 title to join his impressive collection.
In the under 15 girls Nuala and Cliona McCheyne and Jennifer Lynn were to visit the podium again at a national event winning bronze. Nuala forming part of the leading pack from start to finish was the first local to finish with Jennifer finding her competitive edge again was not far behind and another determined effort saw Cliona bring the counting team home close to the top finishers to ensure the young girls were awarded bronze on the day.
Also in the under 15 race Zoe Renfrew built on the good running from recent training sessions to gain a top local spot and is sure to kick on from this run. In the young boys race Cameron Watson was the leading athlete coping well with the heavy conditions despite his slight frame. Adam Hay after a wardrobe malfunction in his footwear managed to complete the course in a fine time just behind Cameron.
A number of senior men are starting to find their feet in the competition calendar with John Bell getting closer each week to his fellow team mates. David Tamburini created a new best time over the course proof of his undoubted talent on the country races. Birthday boy Craig Winter had to work for his gifts running well ticking off his seasons talents. As is normal routine in the over 55s Gerry Gaffney with a determined run finished in the top half of the field and among the top elder statesmen of the race.
Edinburgh 10K Road Race
World Cup winner Andy Douglas of Inverclyde AC was at his dominating best winning the Edinburgh 10K road race last weekend.
Andy recently crowned World Cup winner for mountain running put his reputation on the line as he lined up against the quality field in Edinburgh on the bright sunny morning. However after the starters gun set the athletes off Andy was soon in command as he broke from the chasing pack at the halfway stage building an increasing lead.
Despite more akin recently to tackling severe incline and declines in his mountain pursuits Andy proved more than apt on the road as he strode confidently into the last mile with a commanding lead over the large chasing numbers.
As the finishing straight approached Andy dug deep in a bid to break the 30 minute barrier and with the vocal support at the finish Andy collected and regained his title clocking a time just outside the 30 minute barrier, proving once again the talents of the local endurance athlete.
Andy recently crowned World Cup winner for mountain running put his reputation on the line as he lined up against the quality field in Edinburgh on the bright sunny morning. However after the starters gun set the athletes off Andy was soon in command as he broke from the chasing pack at the halfway stage building an increasing lead.
Despite more akin recently to tackling severe incline and declines in his mountain pursuits Andy proved more than apt on the road as he strode confidently into the last mile with a commanding lead over the large chasing numbers.
As the finishing straight approached Andy dug deep in a bid to break the 30 minute barrier and with the vocal support at the finish Andy collected and regained his title clocking a time just outside the 30 minute barrier, proving once again the talents of the local endurance athlete.
National Cross Country Relays - Sat 24th October
Inverclyde AC won another National Cross Country Relay medal after impressive performances from the senior team of Andy Douglas, Mark Pollard, Jonny Glen and Craig Ruddy.
Andy fresh from his World Cup success in mountain running came down in distance quite considerably to compete over the testing 4,000m course in Cumbernauld on the first leg. Typically as the athletes passed the half way mark Andy began passing his fellow competitors especially on the uphill part of the course before a blistering down hill section moved Andy into medal contention before setting Mark off for leg two. Mark always a steady performer again showed his class keeping the team in contention before he set off his young stable mate Jonny.
Jonny cruised through the gears and it wasn't too long before he was bearing down on the third place athlete and with a very vocal support the thought of one of the UKs top under 20 tracking you was to much to cope as Jonny went passed bringing the team into third. Craig Ruddy was anchor leg for the day and was making inroads to the leaders again the support carried him into the final 400m just running out of distance at the end to secure silver but delighted to collect yet another national award for the local area with a bronze.
The senior ladies team secured local top spot with a top ten national finish after Chloe Simpson set them up on leg one with a dogged run over the demanding course. Sharon Muir typified the effort and commitment of IAC with a performance that saw her among the top females over 30! Nyke Mulholland had the fastest time of the day for the area setting off in committed fashion passing athletes as she secured a top ten finish for the ladies for the second year in a row.
The younger girls team of Hannah McGeehan, Nuala McCheyne and Shelby Morrison proved to be a competitive force at national level after medal winning performances over the past few weeks. Hannah got the team off to a good start in the youngest age group on leg one, with 2,500m to contend with Hannah was soon in the finishing straight before setting Nuala off chasing the pack just in front. On the downhill straight with 600m to go Nuala was working hard and strode past the opposition as she set Shelby up for a top placing on the last leg. Shelby now on the path of returning to her quality best scythed through the opposition on the first half of the course before striding toward the finish with a placing just outside the medals but the best performance from the young girls in some years.
This being the final cross country relay of the year IAC had a number of teams competing and a number of excellent individual performances. Craig Winter after spectating last year put a years plan in place and competed with distinction on his first outing at national level. Michael Houston found his mojo again and recorded a very impressive time seconds off his 'A' team club mates. Similarly David Tamburini was nearly 30 seconds faster than his previous best.
In the younger teams Jack Stuart is now benefitting from his training programme and reacting to coaches advice on the course saw an impressive run recorded. Cameron Watson and Adam Hay had their own personal battle with Cameron getting the edge on Adam at the finish. Jennifer Lynn moved up the club rankings clocking the second fastest under 15 time and Nicola Doohan supporting and pushing Shelby for the top under 17.
Andy fresh from his World Cup success in mountain running came down in distance quite considerably to compete over the testing 4,000m course in Cumbernauld on the first leg. Typically as the athletes passed the half way mark Andy began passing his fellow competitors especially on the uphill part of the course before a blistering down hill section moved Andy into medal contention before setting Mark off for leg two. Mark always a steady performer again showed his class keeping the team in contention before he set off his young stable mate Jonny.
Jonny cruised through the gears and it wasn't too long before he was bearing down on the third place athlete and with a very vocal support the thought of one of the UKs top under 20 tracking you was to much to cope as Jonny went passed bringing the team into third. Craig Ruddy was anchor leg for the day and was making inroads to the leaders again the support carried him into the final 400m just running out of distance at the end to secure silver but delighted to collect yet another national award for the local area with a bronze.
The senior ladies team secured local top spot with a top ten national finish after Chloe Simpson set them up on leg one with a dogged run over the demanding course. Sharon Muir typified the effort and commitment of IAC with a performance that saw her among the top females over 30! Nyke Mulholland had the fastest time of the day for the area setting off in committed fashion passing athletes as she secured a top ten finish for the ladies for the second year in a row.
The younger girls team of Hannah McGeehan, Nuala McCheyne and Shelby Morrison proved to be a competitive force at national level after medal winning performances over the past few weeks. Hannah got the team off to a good start in the youngest age group on leg one, with 2,500m to contend with Hannah was soon in the finishing straight before setting Nuala off chasing the pack just in front. On the downhill straight with 600m to go Nuala was working hard and strode past the opposition as she set Shelby up for a top placing on the last leg. Shelby now on the path of returning to her quality best scythed through the opposition on the first half of the course before striding toward the finish with a placing just outside the medals but the best performance from the young girls in some years.
This being the final cross country relay of the year IAC had a number of teams competing and a number of excellent individual performances. Craig Winter after spectating last year put a years plan in place and competed with distinction on his first outing at national level. Michael Houston found his mojo again and recorded a very impressive time seconds off his 'A' team club mates. Similarly David Tamburini was nearly 30 seconds faster than his previous best.
In the younger teams Jack Stuart is now benefitting from his training programme and reacting to coaches advice on the course saw an impressive run recorded. Cameron Watson and Adam Hay had their own personal battle with Cameron getting the edge on Adam at the finish. Jennifer Lynn moved up the club rankings clocking the second fastest under 15 time and Nicola Doohan supporting and pushing Shelby for the top under 17.
County Cross Country Relays - Sun 18th October
After last weeks success of Inverclyde AC young girls team this week it was the turn of the older girls to take gold with a fine victory in the Renfrewshire Cross Country Relay championships.
The triumphant trio of Nynke Mulholland, Chloe Simpson and Sharon Muir lead the Inverclyde team to Pollock Park to take on the best in the county.
On the first leg a dominating run from Nynke from the gun saw the team open up distance from the chasing ladies teams and as Nynke approached the change over zone a fine lead and a time which transpired to be the fastest of the day. Chloe handled the second leg with fine maturity building on her success from an excellent performance the previous week to give Sharon an equally big gap to hold. Sharon coping well with the pressure of facing the chasing pack strode round confidently to bring IAC home in gold winning place and the title of best ladies team in Renfrewshire.
The young girls team were in medal winning mode again with under 15 trio Cliona and Nuala McCheyne and Jennifer Lynn claiming a fine silver. Cliona had a strong first leg before Jennifer pulled in places leaving Nuala to bring the team home for the second week in a row in podium finish position.
At the youngest end of the age group under 11, Orla McGeehan, Erin Law and Amy Cumming enjoyed their taste of competition at this level resulting in silver at the end of their race. Orla setting her team mates up on the first leg before Erin consolidated on the second and Amy confirming IAC development plan is still on track through the age groups as she celebrated the team coming home second.
In the boys under 11 Harris Morrison had a good first leg handing over to Matthew McGeehan who pulled in a place before Robert Gray, the youngest of the Gray endurance dynasty secured winning bronze.
Ryan Gray got the under 17 boys off to a good start setting his team mates Sammy Hearl and Matthew McKinnon on the road to another silver for the club. Sammy built on the start made by Ryan before Matthew handled the challenging anchor leg to win the team another trip to the podium.
The under 15 boys were not to be out done when Adam Hay after his blistering start on the first leg built the foundation for Cameron Watson to work with on the second leg before Ben Nicol produced another good run to bring the team home in bronze medal winning position.
In the senior mens race there was the chance for athletes to step up with the elite team having a well deserved rest. Ross Gray started well on leg one before a mix up on leg two caused Michael Houston to go off course. Despite the challenges of Callum Hunter and John Bell IAC were to win silver on the day. Right behind and frightening the 'A' team were the quartet of Sean Gaffney, Jason Kane, Thomas Jamieson and the joker in the pack Jonny Glen who was allegedly on a coaching instruction but in true Jonny fashion he saw his team mates in the 'A' team junst in front and went for the challenge in the process bring his team home in bronze medal position ensuring two IAC teams on the podium.
Inverclyde had a number of other teams out with Gerry Gaffney again defying age by clocking times his younger team mates would have been proud of and Morris Glen just missing out on a faster time than son Jonny.
The triumphant trio of Nynke Mulholland, Chloe Simpson and Sharon Muir lead the Inverclyde team to Pollock Park to take on the best in the county.
On the first leg a dominating run from Nynke from the gun saw the team open up distance from the chasing ladies teams and as Nynke approached the change over zone a fine lead and a time which transpired to be the fastest of the day. Chloe handled the second leg with fine maturity building on her success from an excellent performance the previous week to give Sharon an equally big gap to hold. Sharon coping well with the pressure of facing the chasing pack strode round confidently to bring IAC home in gold winning place and the title of best ladies team in Renfrewshire.
The young girls team were in medal winning mode again with under 15 trio Cliona and Nuala McCheyne and Jennifer Lynn claiming a fine silver. Cliona had a strong first leg before Jennifer pulled in places leaving Nuala to bring the team home for the second week in a row in podium finish position.
At the youngest end of the age group under 11, Orla McGeehan, Erin Law and Amy Cumming enjoyed their taste of competition at this level resulting in silver at the end of their race. Orla setting her team mates up on the first leg before Erin consolidated on the second and Amy confirming IAC development plan is still on track through the age groups as she celebrated the team coming home second.
In the boys under 11 Harris Morrison had a good first leg handing over to Matthew McGeehan who pulled in a place before Robert Gray, the youngest of the Gray endurance dynasty secured winning bronze.
Ryan Gray got the under 17 boys off to a good start setting his team mates Sammy Hearl and Matthew McKinnon on the road to another silver for the club. Sammy built on the start made by Ryan before Matthew handled the challenging anchor leg to win the team another trip to the podium.
The under 15 boys were not to be out done when Adam Hay after his blistering start on the first leg built the foundation for Cameron Watson to work with on the second leg before Ben Nicol produced another good run to bring the team home in bronze medal winning position.
In the senior mens race there was the chance for athletes to step up with the elite team having a well deserved rest. Ross Gray started well on leg one before a mix up on leg two caused Michael Houston to go off course. Despite the challenges of Callum Hunter and John Bell IAC were to win silver on the day. Right behind and frightening the 'A' team were the quartet of Sean Gaffney, Jason Kane, Thomas Jamieson and the joker in the pack Jonny Glen who was allegedly on a coaching instruction but in true Jonny fashion he saw his team mates in the 'A' team junst in front and went for the challenge in the process bring his team home in bronze medal position ensuring two IAC teams on the podium.
Inverclyde had a number of other teams out with Gerry Gaffney again defying age by clocking times his younger team mates would have been proud of and Morris Glen just missing out on a faster time than son Jonny.
renfrewshire_xc_relays_2015_results_summaryx.pdf |
West District Cross Country Relay Championships - Sun 11th October
With two Inverclyde AC teams making the podium at the West District Cross Country relay championships held at Hamilton race course it was a good start to the winter championships.
First relay of the day were the young girls where Hannah McGeehan lead off in the under 13 category, a solid run from Hannah who coped well with the pressure keeping the team in contention before under 15 Nuala McCheyne set off in pursuit of the leaders. Nuala pulled the team through a few places over the 2,500m course handing over to Shelby Morrison with an outside chance of a medal. Shelby set off in determined fashion hunting down the runners in front, half way round the course Shelby was sitting fourth but with a vocal support carrying her round the last 400m Shelby rose to the occasion taking the team in bronze medal winning position setting the standard for the rest to follow.
Pressure is always on the senior men to perform and with a very capable quartet of Michael Houston, Jonny Glen, Mark Pollard and Craig Ruddy a medal was always on the cards.
Michael set the team up well bringing the team home in fifth place before Jonny Glen exploded to life on the second leg hitting silver medal position before the half way stage. Jonny drove on clocking the fastest under 20 time of the day before Mark Pollard took on leg three. Mark always a reliable performer didn't fail to disappoint as he moved into his stride cruising round the fast course despite losing one place was close enough for Craig Ruddy to keep an eye on the runners in front. As Craig ate up the ground at an incredible rate he past the second place team and was gaining ground fast on the leaders, despite his herculean effort just ran out of time but secured a very good silver medal, improving on last years start.
In the numerous other junior teams competing Andrew Winter lead the under 13 boys home with Josh Law just behind. Similarly in the under 13 girls Abi Hammermann had a very good start to the cross country. The under 15 category is a strong age group for IAC with Cameron Watson showing some early form after recording one of the clubs fastest times of the day and new boys Adam Hay and Dillon Crawford showing signs of undoubted talent. Jennifer Lynn and Cliona McCheyene were back to form being among the top individual times in their ages.
In the ladies relay Sharon Muir was the fastest finisher with Chloe Simpson having a performance equal to her commitment in training. John Bell and John Cooke continued the learning curve in competition with performances and times which saw them in the top half of club rankings at the finish.
First relay of the day were the young girls where Hannah McGeehan lead off in the under 13 category, a solid run from Hannah who coped well with the pressure keeping the team in contention before under 15 Nuala McCheyne set off in pursuit of the leaders. Nuala pulled the team through a few places over the 2,500m course handing over to Shelby Morrison with an outside chance of a medal. Shelby set off in determined fashion hunting down the runners in front, half way round the course Shelby was sitting fourth but with a vocal support carrying her round the last 400m Shelby rose to the occasion taking the team in bronze medal winning position setting the standard for the rest to follow.
Pressure is always on the senior men to perform and with a very capable quartet of Michael Houston, Jonny Glen, Mark Pollard and Craig Ruddy a medal was always on the cards.
Michael set the team up well bringing the team home in fifth place before Jonny Glen exploded to life on the second leg hitting silver medal position before the half way stage. Jonny drove on clocking the fastest under 20 time of the day before Mark Pollard took on leg three. Mark always a reliable performer didn't fail to disappoint as he moved into his stride cruising round the fast course despite losing one place was close enough for Craig Ruddy to keep an eye on the runners in front. As Craig ate up the ground at an incredible rate he past the second place team and was gaining ground fast on the leaders, despite his herculean effort just ran out of time but secured a very good silver medal, improving on last years start.
In the numerous other junior teams competing Andrew Winter lead the under 13 boys home with Josh Law just behind. Similarly in the under 13 girls Abi Hammermann had a very good start to the cross country. The under 15 category is a strong age group for IAC with Cameron Watson showing some early form after recording one of the clubs fastest times of the day and new boys Adam Hay and Dillon Crawford showing signs of undoubted talent. Jennifer Lynn and Cliona McCheyene were back to form being among the top individual times in their ages.
In the ladies relay Sharon Muir was the fastest finisher with Chloe Simpson having a performance equal to her commitment in training. John Bell and John Cooke continued the learning curve in competition with performances and times which saw them in the top half of club rankings at the finish.
Mountain Running World Cup
It is not often that a local sport person can claim to be the holder of a World Cup. Andy Douglas of Inverclyde AC now lays claim to that precise title.
Andy competed in series of six mountain running events throughout the UK and Europe and such were his exceptional performances his results placed him on top of the world.
A former Inverclyde Sports Personality Andy focused on mountain and trail running a few years back, such was his success he was a permanent fixture in the Scottish team and latterly Team GB.
This season Andy travelled to Wales for the UK trials and was part of the medal winning Scotland team. This secured his position for Team GB at the World championship where again he visited the podium as the GB team won bronze.
In the final counting race of the series in Slovenia Andy pulled all his efforts together and was among the leaders in the final straight toward the finish, crossing the line and being awarded the World Cup 2015 was described as 'sweet moment to round off a packed mountain running series' by the new World cup holder.
Andy competed in series of six mountain running events throughout the UK and Europe and such were his exceptional performances his results placed him on top of the world.
A former Inverclyde Sports Personality Andy focused on mountain and trail running a few years back, such was his success he was a permanent fixture in the Scottish team and latterly Team GB.
This season Andy travelled to Wales for the UK trials and was part of the medal winning Scotland team. This secured his position for Team GB at the World championship where again he visited the podium as the GB team won bronze.
In the final counting race of the series in Slovenia Andy pulled all his efforts together and was among the leaders in the final straight toward the finish, crossing the line and being awarded the World Cup 2015 was described as 'sweet moment to round off a packed mountain running series' by the new World cup holder.