Athletics: Kilmarnock Harriers dash to club’s Irvine Valley handicap race

May 27 2011 by Lizzie Smith, Kilmarnock Standard

AN intrepid bunch of 19 Kilmarnock Harriers ran in the Valley Dash Handicap last Thursday – the first of this summer’s club competitions.

The testing four-plus mile circuit follows the River Irvine from Newmilns to Galston and tracks back over the challenging Windy Hill to the starting point.

The handicapper underestimated the talents of Jacqueline Neil, first, and Brian McManus, second, who both outperformed their predicted times to race away from the bulk of the field.

Jacqueline, in particular, blew away the handicap which had been based on time trial results – secret training is suggested here.

Iain Connell was the fastest man in an impressive net time of 26.35, with Paula Wilson the quickest lady in 32.21.

Mike Corson, Alasdair Murray, Kate Todd and Colin Crosbie were all faster than their previous year’s times. Iain McAughtrie was the most improved knocking 1.11 off last year’s time.

Given Jacqueline, Brian and Iain’s performances, the 7pm Fitness and Health Group, of which they are all members, must be doing something right.

Runners and timekeepers, including Ed Bollemo, who departed these shores last year to return to his homeland in New York, and is over on holiday at present to the delight of everyone, then retired to the Riverside Inn.

Also special mentions to race organiser and handicapper Ian Gebbie for making the night yet another successful one.

Full times were: Iain Connell 26.35, Mike Corson 29.22, Les McDerment 29.33, Alasdair Murray 30.44, Mark Hamilton 31.06, Paula Wilson 32.21, Matt Dodds 33.44, Kate Todd 34.28, Liz McDerment 34.36, Ewan Ramsay 34.37, Paul Ramsay 36.14, Brian McManus 38.09, Jacqui Neil 38.39, Ian McAughtrie 39.15, Colin Crosbie 44.27.

NEXT race in the summer club scene is the Rowallan Rosebowl in June followed by the Crazy Craigie Handicap in early August.

AS A footnote to last weekend’s Dunlop 5k and 10k road races, a special mention to Susan Ballantyne who showed her excellent form in winning the shorter of the two races.

NEXT Tuesday (May 31), the club will hold their popular monthly 5k time trial starting at the Western Road Cycle Path at 7pm. It is a perfect opportunity for athletes to test themselves.

Club fees are due in by the end of May so members should see treasurer Alasdair Murray at the time trial, which is the last day of the month.

THIS Saturday (May 28), Kilmarnock Harriers are bag packing at ASDA as a fund- raiser for the club. The club want to make sure all the aisles are manned.

Juniors and seniors will be taking part. Members are being encouraged to help out for a couple of hours on the day by seeing any coach or committee member.

For more club news, visit www.kilmarnockharriers.com