Athletes from Dumbarton and the surrounding area run the West Highland Way

Jun 26 2009 by Lorraine Waddell, Lennox Herald (main ed)

A LARGER than normal group of local athletes took to the start line in this year’s West Highland Way Race.

Runners have 35 hours to complete the route from Milngavie following the West Highland Way to Fort William leisure centre.

The race is an extreme test of endurance with the athletes climbing around 12,000 feet in total, with the highest point at the Devil’s Staircase topping out at 584 metres.

The reward for the finishers is a crystal goblet, engraved with a map of the course and thistles. The winner receives a fluffy toy in addition.

Five Millburn Harriers took part, and were assisted by fellow members who accompanied them on runs. Special mention to Steph Johnson who mapped out a training schedule and, along with Jim Robertson, organised training runs.

The runners would also like to thank their support crews who kept them fed, watered and encouraged throughout the race, and all those friends, relatives and clubmates who turned out along the trail to watch.

The race was won by Scott Bradley, of Fife, with Sharon Low of Kilbirnie taking the ladies title.

Local results were: Stevie Bell (Helensburgh) 19hrs 56mins 28 secs, Mike Thomson (Balloch) 21.33.23, Aileen Scott (Helensburgh) 22.23.21, Marc Casey (Dumbarton AC) 23.13.19, Marco Consani (Alexandria) 23.33.47, Brian Garry (Millburn) 26.19.43, John Foley (Clydesdale Harriers) 27.59.01 Ellen McVey (Cove) 28.37.11, Jim MacKenzie (Millburn) 29.16.25, David Hall (Millburn) 30.54.49, Geraldine Currie (Millburn) 33.14.10.

Peter Halpin (Clydesdale Harriers) and Jim Robertson (Millburn) both ended their race at Bridge of Orchy after 60 miles.