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SRAC Gazette

SRAC Cross-Country Champs 2003
18th January 2003

Due to the stormy conditions midweek it was feared that the second race of the Cross Country series would need to be rearranged for later date in the month. The slight drop in numbers running reflected this, but running conditions could not have been better for those that made it to the starting line on the Lews Castle green.

Eighty five runners of all ages from 9 years and upwards enjoyed perfectly still dry conditions and although the underfoot conditions were heavy, many runners improved on their previous performance over the same course as the first race in December.

There were several very closely fought battles all the way to the finish line and reversal of fortunes in the placings, which only makes the last race in the Lewis and Harris Series an even more exciting prospect. This was probably best demonstrated in the Under 9 girl’s race, which was fought out again by Ailis Murray, winner of the first race and Holly MacIver. At less than 5 meters from the finish line it was anyone’s race but eventually Holly pulled away to gain a one second advantage and therefore reverse the result from the first race. The two will take to the starters gun on Saturday 8th February for the final showdown!

The Under 9 boy’s race suffered the biggest drop in numbers, which should be remedied for the last race. But Sean MacLeod of Tolsta was still pushed hard by good competition for his second victory and looks a strong contender for the overall title. However Calum Robertson still may have a part to play in the series and remains closest rival to Sean.

Daniel Shaw was also a second time winner, in the Under 11 boys race this time with a four second advantage of is team mate Steven Dunn from Stornoway Primary. Their performances may have gone a long way to deciding this age group trophy.

In the Under 11 girl’s category Jane MacIver looks uncatchable but an interesting tussle for the second and third places is developing between Roma MacLeod, Ruth Walker and Eilidh Walker.   

In the boys Under 13 race the unpredictable Grant Stewart produced one of his grit and determination runs taking to the front from the start and leaving the rest to make chase. The Harris pair of Cailean McCombe and Calum Smith will no doubt double their efforts for the last race, (but need to find a third member to make up what would be a formidable team).

C.J MacPhail is on course to win the U13 girls title but a return to form of Elaine MacLean may well prevent her from a three-win victory. Both girls will relish the competition in The Western Isles Cross Country Championships on March 1^st against new opposition from the Uist’s.

Athletes in the Under 15 and Under 17 races ran true to form with positions very similar to the last races. Eilidh MacKenzie, Chirsty Macleod and Murdo Alec Mackenzie all won their second race of the series and Jonathan Murray won his race to take the lead in the series. It was a similar story in the Senior Men's race where the absence of Alasdair Dunlop enabled Roderick Gillies to comfortably win the race from Gavin Earons with Tony Robson in third place.

RESULTS (Points show the position after two races)