THE last race of the Borders Cross Country series was held in the stunning setting of Floors Castle in Kelso last Sunday.
Hosted by Norham Running Club, the event attracted 140 runners who enjoyed a beautifully sunny but cold, dry day to finish off the series. The course route took in various man-made zig zags and loops of the castle grounds and had the added challenge of numerous jumps and steps.
The race itself proved to be a very keenly-contested affair with Moorfoot’s Michael Reid edging it in 20 minutes and 38 seconds, just ahead of Corstorphine’s Christopher Black who finished in 20.54. Adam Craig was third in 21.12.
First V40 and fifth overall was Bellahouston’s Greig Glendinning in 21.52. Lauderdale’s Ronnie Gallacher was first V50 in 23.19. The ladies’ race was close with Carnethy’s Charlotte Morgan pipping Edinburgh’s Sue Ridley by one second to take the title in 22.59. Kate Jenkins from Hunters Bog Trotters was third (24.07).
The day finished with soup and rolls at Kelso Rugby Club, much appreciated by all involved. Afterwards, the presentation of the series prizes took place with Dunbar’s Andrew Crichton taking first place overall and Charlotte Morgan winning the ladies’ series.
Gala Harriers were lying in favourable positions both individually and as a team going into the final round, and the performances on the day consolidated this for the club with top placings for the senior teams and juniors. Go to www.norhamrc.co.uk for full confirmed results.