Sunday 9th November 2025
Traditionally a much feared route around Bellahouston Park due to the triple hill climb section, this year’s event saw a new two lap route largely avoid the steeper sections and was well received by the crowds taking on the popular Jimmy Irvine 10k. The weather on the journey up to Glasgow was extremely worrying, with flooded roads and difficult driving but thankfully the skies cleared as the runners headed up to the start line. The new route was much improved, with the only slight issue being some of the longer straight sections being narrow and looped out and back, meaning faster runners could get caught in packs and unable to pass.
Possibly due to the high number of races recently, Greenock Glenpark Harriers fielded a smaller turnout than usual this year, with only 14 runners representing the club, and the ladies far outnumbering the gents again. For the gents, it was great to see Shaun Lyon at the start line, and he put in a the best performance on the day with a time of 36:04 and 23rd overall. Next in was Stephen Harrison (41:01) and in 9th in his V50 age category, one place higher than last year despite having run in the Lanark XC the day before. Third male harrier was Graham McGrattan, very pleased to record 46:39 and go under 47 minutes after some recent injury worries. The gents complement was brought in by Stuart Crawford, who ran extremely well and was delighted with a new PB with his time of 49:17, well under the 50 minute target.
The ladies also saw some strong performances, with arguably the run of the day coming from ladies Captain Lynne Harrison. Lynne also recorded a new all time PB, going 5th in her V50 age category and taking 34th from 321 ladies running with a time of 47:11. Jill Aikman was close behind, just not finding the sprint at the end to catch Lynne but finishing 7th age cat with 47:18. Melissa Magee (48:59) and Nathalie Smith (49:44) also ran well to dip under the 50 minute barrier. The Harriers ladies representation was completed by Rebecca McCluckie (50:59), Kirsten Robin (58:05), Lynsey Mooney (59:40), Charlotte McKay (1:03:46), Doris Heron (1:09:18) and Julie Morrison (1:12:47).
After the race, it was great to head into the Race HQ for the usual amazing buffet of sandwiches and cakes, an absolute highlight for all.
Thank you to Bellahouston Road Runners for the fantastic organisation and hospitality.
Photos by David McNulty Running Photography
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Watch the Video of the day here!
