Tigers crew gets pipped for the joggers’ title
So, last Wednesday was one of the biggest nights of the year for the Tigers.
The annual Kilmaurs 5K fun run and road race. You see, within this race there is the Jogscotland Challenge, which is a competition between all of the local jogging groups to make the race a bit more interesting for the non- elite runners.
We won the event a couple of years ago but lost out to Ron’s Runners last year.
So, me being super competitive, the Tigers were told in no uncertain terms that nothing less than first place was acceptable.
Alas, it was not to be, as we were squeezed into second place by Gavin Hogarth’s Killie Striders but I was so proud of the efforts of all of my runners on the night ( though I’m not going to lie, my heart sank a little as the results were read out).
From PBs being smashed to beginners completing in their first 5K with a smile on their face, it was a timely reminder of what it’s really all about.
Everyone working together, encouraging each other, and having a great time doing our wonderful sport.
The organisers of the Kilmaurs 5K bill it as the best event in Ayrshire which is a bit of a sweeping statement – but one I’d be inclined to agree with.
From humble beginnings this event has grown immensely in size and stature over the past few years.
Now accurately measured and with chip- timing, that the course record was smashed this year by Luke Traynor in an amazing 14.40 shows that the organisers can attract the top athletes in the country.
However, they have stayed true to their roots by waiving the Scottish Athletics surcharge which is often imposed on non- club runners in events such as this.
And while the competition for individual and team prizes is fierce at the front, including a prize for first jogging group is an excellent way to motivate us mere mortals to try to get one over on the other local groups.
So, I would like to say a huge thanks to David Mitchell and his team of helpers for putting on another excellent event, the Tigers had a fab night. Also, a grudging well done to Killie Striders.
I’ve told the Tigers they can have an easy session this week but then the hard work starts again.
After all, we HAVE to win that title back next year.
Jog on.