Archiestown 5km – 30/04/2017

I’d been aware of this race for the last few years, but running in ‘Archiestown’ always conjured up visions of crampons and ice axes. However, having driven the Cooncil bus up there several times recently, I realised that it wasn’t such a hostile environment after all. (On a good day)
Nestling high in the hills above the Spey Valley, Archiestown commands amazing views towards the Convals and Ben Rinnes. The village sits at 751 feet, and I knew that all 3 roads out of the town are downhill.

And so it was that a record field of 158 runners, including 14 yellow vests, lined up on the windy, cold, start line looking at a very inviting 1 mile downhill stretch. I’m sure I’m not the only one that had a Garmin boasting a 1 mile PB! But what goes down must come back up again, and a steady climb back to Archiestown ensued…

An uphill finish really tested the stamina of all the runners, but the thought of a huge spread of food spurred us on. A foolish comment to Michelle before the race that she wouldn’t be fit for cake after eating my dust for 5K backfired as expected. (A sprint finish saw her thrashing me by a huge 2 seconds)

Inverness Harriers had a very strong presence at the race and, apart from the Jog Scotland awards, had a clean sweep of the prizes. First MRR home was James Wilson in second place, with Michelle Slater finishing as 3rd lady.

There were lots of spot prizes (I didn’t win any) and even more raffle prizes (I didn’t win any) and the spread of food was very impressive. ( PJ took advantage of this to get properly fuelled up for the Dufftown 10K in the afternoon)

This event is going from strength to strength and it’s easy to see why. Well organised and very friendly with views to rival anywhere. Well done to Team Bain for all their hard work.

The race is the first in the Speyside Series – next race is the Dufftown 5 hills followed by the 12 Mile Windmill Challenge. (See MRR Calendar for details)

Report by:  Simon MacDonald

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