As Storm Amy swept across the country, forcing cancellations to races, the organisers of the Scottish Veteran Harriers Cross Country Trial stood firm, the race would go ahead. With the storm pushing north, Glasgow was left with blustery winds and persistent rain making for some classic cross country conditions. Despite the weather, a determined group of Harriers lined up, each with hopes of earning a coveted spot on the Scotland team for the British & Irish Masters International in November.
The quartet of Stephen Trainer, Andy McCall, Paul Monaghan and Steven Campbell would take on the familiar 4.5 miles course in the East End of Glasgow.
At 12:45, around 40 athletes took to the start line, forming one of the quickest fields seen in recent years. Stephen Trainer, continuing his impressive comeback, wasted no time asserting himself, leading the race through the first lap. His experience showed as he stayed within striking distance of the top v35 contenders, keeping his Scotland selection hopes alive. It was confirmed pre-race that the top 3 in each category would gain automatic qualification to represent Scotland.
Further back, clubmates Paul Monaghan and Andy McCall were locked in their own battle. Paul surged early, aiming to secure a top v50 spot, leading Andy through the first two laps. But McCall was closing the gap, and by the third lap, the pair were neck and neck. Meanwhile, Stevie Campbell was having a strong race, staying within 200m of his teammates, though the fast start began to take its toll as the race wore on.
As the athletes entered the fourth and final lap, Lothian’s David Wright had built a commanding lead. The chasing pack remained tightly bunched, with Trainer still in the mix. Struggling with his breathing, he dug deep to hold onto third place in the v35 category, the final automatic qualifying spot. But with 400m to go, Scott MacLeod surged past, pushing Trainer into fourth. In a thrilling sprint finish, Stephen held off the fast finishing Chris MacDonald to secure 4th v35, a performance that will surely catch the selectors’ attention.
In the v50 category, Jim Tole impressively stormed to second place overall and first v50, delivering a dominant run. The battle for the remaining automatic spots came down to the wire. Brent Brodie had a strong final lap, pulling away from Monaghan and McCall. Paul, running a smart and gritty race, held off a chasing pack containing five v50 athletes to finish third in category and secure his place on the Scotland team once again. Less than 50 seconds separated Paul and Stevie Campbell, highlighting just how competitive the v50 field was.
Paul Monaghan earns his 7th Scotland vest at this event, representing his country in Leeds on Saturday 15th November. This is testament to his consistency and class over the years. Stephen Trainer’s performance, just outside automatic selection, will no doubt put him firmly on the selectors’ radar.
Results
- 10th (4th v35) – Stephen Trainer – 26:07
- 16th (7th v35) – Andy McCall – 27:35
- 19th (3rd v50) – Paul Monaghan – 27:47
- 25th (8th V50) – Steven Campbell – 28:34