Perfect conditions at Edderton, 14 MRR teams on the start line, a medal haul of 4 silver and 2 bronze across the groups and 2 quickest overall laps made it an outstanding day for the Club as East Sutherland once again played host to the North District XC Relays. The junior girls set the standard with some impressive performances. Our A team of Megan McKay, Morven Ross and Grace Whelan (fastest overall lap) battled strongly to take silver in a highly competitive race. Well done to our other team of Hannah Stephen, Grace Jenkins and Niamh Whelan. Not to be outdone, the Junior Boys of Bruce Newlands, Blair Milne and Morgan Lewis ran a great race to take bronze, just missing out on silver in the latter stages. How great to see Finlay Downey, Ryan Cantlie and Joshua Milne also competing well against tough opposition.
This year saw the Senior Men and Women starting together so 10 yellow vests on the start line for Leg 1 was a great sight to see. As the race unfolded it was difficult to keep track of placings, especially in the Masters category, but it was obvious that the team scenario had everyone raising their game. Solid runs from the Women’s A Team resulted in 4th place overall – as good as we could have hoped for given the quality of the opposition. It was apparent that our Women’s Masters teams were featuring prominently but it was unclear as to their exact positions until the prizegiving. How delighted we were when MRR were announced as silver and bronze medallists in that category. With 2 other teams taking part, many ‘relaying’ for the first time, it was an impressive performance from our Ladies.
Little separated our Senior Men’s A team and leading Masters team at the end of Leg 1. As the race progressed, our A team battled through the field, with Kenny Wilson (fastest overall lap) powering his way to the silver medal position on the final leg. Again, the Masters medals were unclear until the prizegiving and a silver medal was just reward for a tremendous team performance. Our 3 other teams showed great spirit with many first timers enjoying the experience.
A huge thank you to all the officials and helpers on putting on a fantastic event. Finally, thank you to all at MRR for supporting the Relays, supporting each other and making it a fantastic day for the Club.
Report by: Gareth Jenkins