:: North Highland Harriers - Hoy Half Marathon

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RESULTS ARCHIVE

13/06/10 - Hoy Half Marathon

Contents:- Report - Results - Photos

Race Report

What a great day was had by all at this year's Hoy Half Marathon!

Here's what we got up to.....

8.30am - Everyone met at John O'Groats and put on bright yellow sou'westers and life jackets for our trip across to Hoy on the 'North Coast Marine Adventures' boat. The 45 minute crossing was really smooth and although there were no whales spotted, one or two puffins made an appearance?

10.30am - After being ferried by minibus from the harbour to the North Walls School to get ready, we were all bussed out to Rackwick for the start of the race.

11.00am - The race got underway at approximately 11.20am and we set off in perfect conditions - overcast with a slight breeze.

The course is described as 'pleasantly undulating' - in other words it's full of hills!! However, the first few miles are not uphill, so you get the chance to warm up before any serious incline starts; and for every one you go up, you come down......ish! ? The scenery is beautiful and as you make your way through the valleys you are presented with some great views of Scapa Flow and the other Orkney Islands. Watch out for Ore Brae towards the end - a horrible little hill which gets worse as you go round the corner....just when you thought it was safe!

The water stations were plentiful; about every 3 miles, with a choice of water or fruit squash, as was the encouragement and support from the marshals. Mobile medical cover for the race was provided by Raynet and they used radio communication as an aid to medical cover and to keep spectators at the school up- to -date with the leaders. Luckily none of our group needed their attention, but it felt reassuring to know it was there.

Approx. 1.30pm - Showers and a great choice of food; homemade soup, baking, sandwiches, hotdogs even ice cream cones! This was followed by the prize giving which was a really friendly affair.

Approx. 2.30pm - Off to the pub!! Everyone enjoyed a good old blether about the highs and the lows of the race over a pint or two at the local hotel.

4.30pm - Back on the boat and another smooth crossing back to Groats; basking in the sun this time?

A great day out with a warm welcome and great hospitality form our Orcadian neighbours.

Graeme Morgan and Allan Sutherland brought their bikes and spent the day cycling around the island, walking up to the 'Old Man' and encouraging all of us from time to time - they are both going to run next year!

Many thanks go to Pete Barker of the 'North Coast Marine Adventures' for letting us charter his boat. A big thanks also goes to Sandy Christie for organising everything and securing last minute entries. He has also arranged to have 12 places allocated to NHH for next year. It should prove to be an event not to miss, as it will be their 25th Half Marathon; put the date in your diaries now..... 12th June 2011?