Athletics: Runners take part in the Trossachs 10k

Jun 5 2009 by Donald Morton, Stirling Observer Friday

BLISTERING heat on Saturday might not have been the ideal conditions for running but it didn’t stop 150 athletes taking part in this year’s Trossachs 10K.

Starting and finishing at the Forth Inn, Aberfoyle and running in the shade through Loch Ard Forest, the athletes helped raise more than £4000 for the Anthony Nolan Trust.

First past the post for the gents was Mat Sullivan while Edel Mooney took the honours in the ladies event.

Organiser Jillian McLean was delighted with the day’s proceddings. “We had 150 runners which is a small field compared to the other local runs but we are planning to get Scottish Athletics affiliation next year and this should secure more club runners.

“It is a difficult one as the runners that come year after year tell us they like the fact that it is small and friendly. We may get bigger but we will always maintain our friendly approach and we have also been told we have the best marshals!

“We also have no overheads and all money raised goes to the trust.”

Jillian added: “In the past we have never offered goody bags etc as the thought is that they generally go in the bin and cost money which is best going to charity.

“However this year, Forest Hills (McDonald Hotels) came down and gave a bag to every runner with water, chocolate, beauty voucher and a day pass to the new health club. We would like to thank Forest Hills for this gesture and we’ll be recognising them on our marketing material next year.”