Back in 2012 I had voiced the opinion to the rest of Ronhill Cambuslang Harriers that the club should be giving the premier road relay in UK athletics an attempt. The suggestion fostered a lively debate which ultimately, sadly, came to nothing. It fell off the agenda until last year when I brought it up again. The crux of my argument was that if Central, Shettleston and Corstorphine, 3 clubs we are competitive with in Scotland, could go and compete, why couldn't we? On this occasion, the message seemed to get through. A commitment was therefore made for this year's edition.
Ultimately 13 athletes, a team of 12 plus one travelling reserve, and a support team of coaches and parents, made the trip south to Sutton Coldfield. All but 2 travelled by car. The odd couple were myself and said travelling reserve, Chris Upson. We travelled by plane from Glasgow Airport, in Chris' case due to childcare duties and me with work commitments. Working in Paisley, it made sense to travel from the airport less than 2 miles away. A hour's flight and then a half hour taxi ride from Birmingham Airport deposited us at the team's base, the Travel Lodge in Sutton Coldfield. We found them in the Wetherspoons next door where, to relax and calm my nerves, I considered it appropriate to have a pint. A glass of Ruddles Best hit the spot. A few of us then retired to the adjacent Harvester Chain pub where I spotted Black Sheep on draught, a light coloured beer I'd enjoyed several years ago on holiday in Southport. The temptation was too great so I sipped a half pint. I felt then I'd had just enough beer to unwind but not too much to impair the following day's performance. A team briefing rounded off the evening.
Part 2 to follow.
