Gowans Steals City of Edinburgh’s Thunder
April 3rd, 2006Gala Harriers had five teams in Livingston taking part in the National 6 and 4 Stage Road Relays on Saturday the 1st of April.
The ladies ‘A’ team of Fiona Dalgleish, Dianne Lauder, Gillian Duncan and Karen Haldane ran well to finish 12th in a combined time of 2.01.12, with the ‘B’ team of Karen Renton, Caroline McDermott, Eileen Nicol and Julie Anderson finishing 27th from the 34 teams that started, in a time of 2.22.47.
There were a few concerns before the start of the race when a Health and Safety notice at the entrance of the changing area pointed out that because of a low bridge on the 3.1 mile short leg course, no athlete over 5’ 10” would be allowed to run that leg. Caroline Mcdermott stands 6 feet tall and was not relishing the prospect of having to run the 5.8 mile long leg, until the date was pointed out to her!
The men had three teams in their 6 stage race, with the ‘A’ team of Steve Gillan, Euan Jardine, Rory Methven, Iain Fairbairn, Ewan Lindores and Graeme Murdoch finishing 25th from the 56 teams taking part, in a combined time of 2.41.20.
Fastest short leg time for the harriers was Rory Methven in 18.26, with Euan Jardine clocking a very respectable 32.07 over the long leg. The veteran’s team had Jack Knox, Martin Clarke, Alastair Laurie, Tony Lunn, Robin Murray and Dave Nightingale running for them and finished 32nd in a time of 2.48.38.
Malky Gowans was the undoubted star of the day as he ran in the ‘C’ team, comprising Malky, Graham Capper, Will McDermott, John Cairns, Graham Pogson and John Patterson. The team finished 41st overall in a time of 3.00.42 but it will be the sprint finish at the end of Malky’s 5th leg that will be long remembered.
City of Edinburgh runner Matty Bell had just overtaken him at the end of his 6th leg and was taking the applause of everyone over the last 200 metres as he led his team to victory in the championships, when a determined Gowans sprinted back past the surprised Matty to steal his thunder.
Mike Young was taking part in the Dunbar 10K on the same day and ran a modest 45.24 over a muddy and windy course but will be pleased to get back running after a long injury layoff.
Tony Lunn Says:
First time I’ve run this event which I really enjoyed. Well organised, tricky little course, good facilities near by and the event promotes a good club and team spirit. Well done to the captians and other race organisers and supporters.
Katy Says:
Just wanted to say well done to you all, especially the girls! So sorry I couldnt join you, but cant wait until next year! Hopefully see you in training before too longx