Running Sisters Tayside Spring 5k Run
Race Report
Monikie Country Park looked a picture in the spring sunshine last Sunday (30th March) morning. The daffodils looked their best, the fishermen looked disinterested and the ducks looked bemused as the 80 entrants lined up for the Running Sisters Tayside annual 5k women’s open run. The anticipation and enthusiasm was shared by all prior to the race and not even the clocks going forward one hour the night before could detract from the mounting expectancy as the start time drew near at 11.00 am.
Kathryn Scott led the race from start to finish and completed the course in a blistering 20 minutes 31 seconds. Whilst many were competing to improve their form or to advance their race techniques; many others were running competitively for the first time and were more than happy just to take part or keep pace with friends and colleagues.
Two local clubs (the Ardler Running Ladies from Dundee and the Fitness Friocks from Friockheim) were both well represented by their members. Both clubs were easily recognisable from their club branding – white for Ardler and green for Friockheim, as they pounded twice around the island pond to collect their medals and ‘goody bag’ at the finish line from Jenny Wood Allen. Jenny who was still running marathons up to the age of 90, has been a well known figure in Scottish running circles for many decades and is lifetime president of the Running Sisters Tayside. She was a welcome and familiar face to competitors as they crossed the line to the applause of their many friends and supporters.
Following the race, committee members of the Running Sisters Tayside entertained entrants and their friends and families to tea and cakes prior to the prize giving. The only regrets for the day seemed to be that the race was over so quickly. Perhaps a 10k would offer more opportunity to further enjoy the scenic natural splendour of Monikie!