Portobello Road Race – The view from the other sideFor every race we compete in or aim to look to achieve our next PB, people have spent the time and trouble to make sure that everything runs smoothly. This time it was our turn to host an event with the annual Portobello Road Race.
The Portobello Road Race has been run for over 15 years now and it takes the dedication and support of Portobello members, their family and friends to make it a race that we can feel proud of and one that runners of all abilities will take part in. As the requirements for holding races become more complicated the work required before the race starts becomes more important and time consuming.
We would like to thank everyone who supported the race by helping at the registration, marshalling or at the clear up at the end. Jennie Young deserv
es a special mention for being a stalwart of the race and provided calm and reassurance at the registration that has enabled this first time organiser to breathe a sigh of relief.
Paul Eunson as the senior member of the race committee for remembering all the things I forgot. Jim Henneghan for his support and work despite handing over the duties as his help prevented many problems surfacing, which made a smooth race possible.
Mrs Gilmore and her staff at Towerbank Primary school who allowed us to use their facilities and preventing a minor problem turning into a catastrophe. Scott Findlay and Tom O’Brien at Edinburgh City Council along with Sgt George Arnott from Lothian & Borders Police for their help and support that meant we had permission to hold the race in the first place. Without their approval the road race would not be held, but they realise the importance the race has for the community and provide support that helps smooth out any problems we may encounter.
Alec Jackson and his team provided an excellent job in the timing and working out who finished first. Again, without the support of people outside of the club holding this race would be a lot more difficult.
From the comments of the runners taking part this race forms part of their race calendar and they look forward to competing in the event. The look on the children’s faces tells you they enjoy this race. All of these things combined mean a race where any problems are solved in advance or without the competitor’s knowledge. For this to happen it means that everyone has pulled together to make the Portobello Road Race a success. So give yourself a clap on the back and get ready for next year.
Chris Melville
