In near-perfect running conditions, nine Greenock Glenpark Harriers joined athletes from across the country at Clydebank Business Park for the Scottish Veteran Harriers Club 5km. A fresh course layout, featuring just over four laps of the industrial estate, was welcomed by competitors for its safety and simplicity.
The 7:30pm start saw Neil Lafferty surge straight to the front, signalling his intent. In an exciting head-to-head with local talent Jorg Gurney, Neil held strong throughout, crossing the line in an excellent 15:45 to claim 3rd place overall and 1st M45. This continues his impressive form following a 15:36 PB at the Fast ‘n’ Flat 5km, placing him 10th fastest in Britain for his age group in 2025. And, we’ve just learned Neil won the best age grading on the night with 91.53%!
Such was the depth of talent on the night that 25 runners broke the 17-minute barrier, four of them Greenock Glenpark Harriers. Andy McCall was next to finish, clocking 16:09, his second-fastest 5km, after a recent dip in form. He was closely followed by the welcome return of Stephen Trainer (16:20), and John Logan (16:44), both showing the rewards of consistent training under Trainer’s Tuesday night sessions. Logan in-particular impressed with a 30-second PB, capping a determined comeback from injury.
Club captain Stephen Harrison is targeting an 18:30 this year and took another step closer with a strong 19:02 performance, securing 3rd M50 and finishing just ahead of teammate Owen Atkinson (19:17).
Veteran favourite Graham McGrattan made a welcome return to this race, running his quickest 5km since 2022 to take 4th M65 in 20:20. Behind him, a fast-starting Robin McAuslan (21:40) dug deep to hold on for 4th M60.
Rounding off the team effort with typical grace and grit was Charlotte McKay, finishing 2nd W70 in 28:55, her fourth race in six days, and still smiling at the finish line.
Thanks to Peter McLaughlin and Jill Cox for the photographs.
Next up for the Harriers is the popular club trip to the Isle of Bute for the Singlehurst 5km on Saturday 5th July, a great family day out. Members are encouraged to keep an eye on social media for updates.
Results
- Neil Lafferty, 3rd (1st M45) – 15:45
- Andy McCall, 6th (1st M35) – 16:09
- Stephen Trainer, 11th (4th M35) – 16:20
- John Logan, 18th (8th M35) – 16:44
- Stephen Harrison, 48th (3rd M50) – 19:02
- Owen Atkinson, 52nd (11th M45) – 19:17
- Graham McGrattan, 68th (4th M65) – 20:20
- Robin McAuslan, 79th (4th M60) – 21:40
- Charlotte McKay, 103rd (2nd W70) – 28:55