First Race of the Eastern Borders Winter Cross-Country Series
November 23rd, 2003A very cold and icy Dunbar was the venue for the start of this popular race series and a healthy turn out of Harriers, senior and junior, competed. On Sunday there was a healthy turn out of harriers, senior and junior, for the first race of the Eastern Borders Winter Cross-Country series. A very cold and icy Dunbar was the venue for the 48 juniors and 69 seniors who lined up at the start of this popular race series.
It was left to the very promising Sarah Mathers to lead the Gala juniors home, finishing 12th overall and first in her age group. Sarah was followed in by Kirstie Thomson 22nd, Ross Johnston 27th and Lucy Jones 33rd.
The icy conditions were a good test for the seniors and in a very close race which was left to a sprint finish for the first five runners over the last hundred metres. Kelso’s Chris Black, (City of Edinburgh), came out top this time with Lauderdale Limper Mark Bryson taking second spot. Iain Arnott is planning on doing more sprint training this season as he finished 5th on the day.
Gary Alexander, running for Teviotdale, ran well to finish 9th in front of Lauder’s George Runciman, who just held off a very determined effort from Martin Clarke. Alastair Laurie was pleased with his15th place, which put Gala second in the team event, behind host club Dunbar.
Other harriers competing were Robin Murray 22nd, Kate Jenkins 23rd, (1st Female), Graham Capper 29th, David Darroch 34th, Jim Langsdale 36th, Paul Morris 41st, Eileen Nicol 50th and Karen Renton 56th.
Next race for the harriers is the East District League meeting at Kirkaldy on Sunday 30th November.
