I gave some thought about whether to give the Troon 10k a go only a week after the 5k in Edinburgh, eventually deciding that it would be ideal to get the previous week out my head quickly. I therefore learnt the lessons of the week before, ate enough during the day and left the office in plenty time to reach the Ayrshire coast without a panic. It actually turned into a pleasant drive on a dry night.
From Cambuslang, I was joined by Stephen Paris (I think he tapers for this race every year), Robert Rossborough and new member David Stirling. Before too long the massive field of over 900 were lining up for what was the 30th edition of the Troon 10k.
Weather conditions never seem to be perfect in Troon. On my last venture there in 2013, we faced a galeforce wind on the way out. This time, we had it to look forward to in the later stages. Very soon I had David Millar for company.
Above: David Millar (692) and I (944) slowly breaking away with eventual 3rd place finisher Kenneth Neill (251) shadowing us. Photo courtesy of Kenny Phillips.
Even in his veteran years, David remains a very capable athlete and, in our most recent encounter, made me work very hard for the win at the Beith Harriers New Year Race. After running almost stride for stride for just over 3km, I gradually forced a little gap and worked hard on what was a fast, secluded section of the course to try and widen it. I think I succeeded but took nothing for granted and kept battling on. By 9km, I was on for a time around the 31:20ish mark but now had to run along the coast into the gale. A finishing time of 31:48 shows how much resistance I met from the elements. Having the time slip away was frustrating but I couldn't complain with the race result. David was similarly affected, finishing in 32:55 with 3rd place going to Kenneth Neil in 34:36. Amongst the ladies, Kara Tait took the honours in 13th overall with a strong time of 36:32 (not far from a course best for her) ahead of Lesley Chisolm and Laura Wallace (who I keep mistaking for Toni McIntosh, her twin sister).
As for the remaining Cambuslang contingent, Stephen finished 10th in 36:20, Robert continued his battle to regain fitness with 42:14 and David was pleased not only to clock 46:44 but to be in the right place at the right time to receive a spot prize. Well done David. Apparently Stephen promised Robert a fish supper if he could break 43 minutes. I think Robert is still waiting for it.
Finally, we're clearly being ripped off in East Kilbride chip shops since, while waiting for the prize giving, I enjoyed a fish supper of my own which cost the princely sum of £3.50! A 50% mark up on the winnings compared to 2013 saw me take home a cheque for £150. I needed it for some expense incurred a week and a half later. Details to come in a later post.
Full race results can be found here.
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