Athletics: Scott Martin races for his country

Nov 23 2012 by Lizzie Smith, Kilmarnock Standard

Kilmarnock Harrier Scott Martin donned the Scottish vest for the British and Irish Masters Cross Country International Championships in Belfast.

He raced for his country in the 8k race for 35 to 49 year olds setting off at the city’s Queens University.

The course had cut up badly with previous races making it a tough four laps. Despite this, Scott ran 29.08 for 73rd place overall, finishing within three minutes of the race winner.

Although Scotland finished outside the medals, Scott was happy to compete for his country for a second time and will be hoping for selection in North Wales in 12 months’ time.

Kate Todd and Iain Connell also gained national selection but were unable to make the race.

Kara Tait was the sole senior in the national 4k championships. She ran the two-lap race in 15.25 to finish 14th overall.

A trio of young Harriers made impressive debuts lining up with 200 athletes in the men’s national 4k. Roy Shankland and Ross Connelly clocked identical times of 15.05 with Cameron Mackie not too far behind.

The Kilmarnock Cross Country Open Races had a smaller than usual turnout as the date clashed with the national 4ks.

In the senior men’s race, hill specialist Colin Glencorse was Killie’s top performer finishing second behind winner Kenny Neil, of Ayr Seaforth. Connell Drummond was sixth and Tony Rudden was the third Harrier home in 16th spot.

Young Harrier Robert Brady raced to raise more than £200 for Children in Need.

The 11-year-old completed a sponsored 100m sprint during his club training at the Ayrshire Athletics Arena (AAA).

The Darvel Primary seven pupil clocked 15.3 seconds, timed by his coach Harald Bartl. Robert’s personal best is 14 seconds.

The club are holding a Mo 3k fun run at the AAA on Saturday, December 1.

The run, marking the end of the Movember campaign, will be in aid of Prostate Cancer, the provost’s chosen charity.

The run is open to men and women with moustaches, real or fake.

Facepainting will be available for those without a moustache on the day.

To register, see a coach or committee member.