Laggan 10K, 31/5/14

The Laggan 10k is an out-and-back, starting at the village hall close to the river Spey. In aid of the local primary school, it promises beautiful views in “Monarch of the Glen” country, legendary home baking, and an impressive array of trophies, all for a tenner.

It didn’t promise sunshine, but when I arrived it was a beautiful blazing hot highland day, bright yellow gorse, snowy peaks and blue sky. I picked up my race number from the village hall and set off on a quick warm up.

There is also a fun run, and the village hall was soon filling up with local kids, volunteers and even dogs wearing running numbers, giving a great community feel to the event. As 2pm approached, a start line was chalked across the road, the piper struck up a tune, and we were off. The course is quite hilly, undulating 400ft over the 6.2 miles. Having run Dumbarton 10k only a couple of days before, I started cautiously and hoped to reel in a few runners on the way back. As the route unfolded, the views to the west really were spectacular, and apart from the occasional mouthful of midges I was feeling good. At the turn I was in 10th, and thought I might make it into the medals as the event promised a first, second and third in the SV category. I picked up another two places on the back 5k to finish 8th in 40:18, but didn’t quite manage to bring home any silverware, placing 4th SV. Congrats to first male Paul Murdoch (36:53) and first female Megan Wright (38:46).

The post-race spread was even more spectacular than the views (thanks to the ladies of Laggan church) followed by the prize giving led by the Primary School Head. A cracking race, really well organised and supported, definitely one to do again. Thanks to all the organisers and volunteers, well worth the round trip.

Hamish