The Whangie Whizz

What a name. I reckon only Weegies could come up with something like that. This however is an observation and not a criticism. The organisation of this race was very good as is expected from the Westies. Marshalling and course marking was excellent and the mini-bus that ran from the overflow car park to the race was quick and frequent.

But, to the race. I didn’t feel particularly up for this one as I was cultivating a nice wee head cold; but go I did and pleased I was. I knew that this race has an uphill start but at no point are you really down to a walk so I thought I could have an easy time of it. A dose of flu relief capsules along with a liberal helping of Vick’s inhaler may have caused a few problems had there been a man at the finish with a wee bottle but it did mean that I got through things with the minimum of discomfort. As well as yours truly, Rod Pugh and Alistair Murray from Kilmarnock were there along with Ian Fraser and the indefatigable Ian McManus from Irvine.

We started by running into a beautiful sunset along with 111 others. I kept to the rear of the field to avoid being trampled and soon got into my rhythm. I passed a few and a few passed me but that’s the norm and soon it was just me, the guy ahead and the guy behind.

There are only two climbs to speak of in the Whangie. The first is over before you know it and the second comes after a longish period of recovery, bringing with it the promise of great views from the trig point at the top. Then it’s downhill from then on in – magic. I had a few folk to chase on the way down and took full advantage. Whilst I picked up a lot of places I couldn’t get near Rod (and certainly not Al). As I was descending I began to think that my right footfall was feeling a bit weird (either that or the Vicks was wearing off). It got so weird that with about 50 yards to go I dropped to a canter. Consequently, I finished looking as if I’d only been out for a stroll. On examination of my right foot I discovered that the sole of my hill shoes had almost completely parted from its upper. Had it done so at an awkward part of the descent I could easily have broken my heel – but it didn’t! Hopefully a dose of Vicks and some strong glue can help there too.

My time was 40:17 and whilst I would have liked to break the 40 minute barrier, under the circumstances I can’t complain. The journey home was a pain as tiredness and darkness closed in. Home, shower, supper and bed. A great wee mid-week race providing a smashing evening.