Caerketton Downhill 19/09/07
Ever since I heard there was such a thing - the pleasure of running downhill without the pain of running up - I have been meaning to have a go at this one. It didn't disappoint.
Registering at the bottom carpark Hillend, (only £1!) we then made our way up towards the ski slope and beyond to the hill above. The rules are few. Bring your own number. Run from the top setting off at 15 second intervals, in the order you registered. Pass the cairn at the top of Hillend Hill on the left and after you go through the gate you have to rise to the bench then any way to the finish back down at the carpark. The course is 1.1 miles long.
There was a lovely sunset going on but quite a cold breeze and by the time I set off my hands were numb. They quickly warmed up on the first short choppy descent before a (comparatively) long flat section over to the cairn of Hillend. The next bit is the steepest and I didn't go absolutely flat out as I still had a sore back from the weekend. I did overtake the guy in front however, just before the gate. In previous years there was a stile to vault so it was something of a relief to see a new gate that was wedged open.
Then a brief climb to a bench before trying to spot the next runners ahead and which route was being favoured. It was quite a straight line to the fence at the corner with some steep grass then a hundred yard dash (or less) to the line. I stopped my watch at 5.54. Not very long but my heart was hammering when I stopped.
First down was Al Anthony (Ochils) who broke the previous record. But he was beaten by second runner Ian Wellock (HBT) who was 3 seconds faster. Carnethy's Steve Fallon was third overall and first vet in 5.23 - equalling the previous record. Debbie MacDonald was first lady.
The prize giving was conducted by Mark Johnson who organises the race. After the winners, virtually everyone was called forward for a lucky dip spot prize. The prizes ranged from sporting goods to booze to haberdashery. I came away very pleased with a pair of shorts which was more than many of the faster runners. I was also surprised to finish (a whole second) ahead of Mark even though he was just coasting after a 33 min 10k at Stirling.
Highly recommended: very fun/casual atmosphere. Results and photos up on the Carnethy and Scottish Hill Running sites by the time the time I'd cycled home and showered. Cool!
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Photos: Many thanks to Anne Nimmo for these great images (and Willie Gibson who gave permission to use them) more on Carnethy website.Websites:
Carnethy Photos results etc.
SHR Report
