Highlandrun isasuccess

The Rotary Club of Aberfeldy and District’s sixth annual Highland Perthshire marathon and halfmarathon have been hailed a success.

A field of 400 athletes took part in the races on the day, with a further 70 participating in a popular Cycle Sportive.

On arrival back in Aberfeldy, participants were able to relax and take advantage of the swimming facilities available at Breadalbane Campus.

Rich Myers won the men’s marathon in 2:52:06 while Rachel Newstead took home the ladies’prize in 3:03:32. In the half-marathon, Lewis Rodgers (1:11:33) and Catriona Buchan (1:23:02) claimed the top spots.

To round off the weekend the athletes and their families were treated to an evening ceilidh at Aberfeldy Town Hall.

Event director, Peter Donaldson, said:‘’It was a fantastic event held in perfect conditions, and showcasing Highland Perthshire at its very best.

“Participant numbers were well up on last year and we have had fantastic positive feedback commenting on the organisation, the beautiful route, the tremendous job done by our volunteer marshals and above all the real spirit of enjoyment by all on the day.’’

Peter added:“We had over 80 volunteers helping us on the day, and I would like to say a big thank you to them for helping to make the day such a huge success.’’

Rotary Club president, John Steele, said:‘’Rotary takes a lot of pleasure from organising this annual event which raises monies for charities and local good causes - and hugely supports the individual athletes in their fund raising activity for their own chosen charities.

“The event has grown from an initial idea discussed just a few short years ago, to what we consider to be one of the most successful initiatives undertaken by Aberfeldy Rotary.

“It’s true to say that as a small club we could not have physically achieved such a level of success had it not been for the huge support of our sponsors, the many voluntary groups who support us, local businesses and individuals within our local community.”