Yells wins Dinghy Hill Race
A new record was set in the renowned Lochaber Yacht Club (LYC) Dinghy Hill Race on Tuesday night, May 29, as both sailors and runners put on a good show in the searing heat.
Twenty runners in total took on the Dinghy Hill Race course, one of the most unique in the athletics calendar, which crosses Loch Linnhe from the Yacht Club, ascends Meall an t Slammain (467 metres) before returning by the same route. It’s similar to Lochaber Atheltic Club’s Meall an t-Suidhe (Melantee) race except with a lot more sea.
Lochaber runner John Yells ran an excellent race to be the first runner back to the yacht club in a hugely impressive time of 28:27, beating Nick Sedgwick’s record by 10 seconds.
Sedgwick was not far off the pace again this year as he took third place, while Gregor Davidson finished in second place to complete an all-Lochaber podium.
Lisette Walters was first lady in 37:33, followed closely by Amanda Blackhall, who finished with a time of 37:46, which ensures she was the first runner home in the FV40 category. Susan Jane Ross won the FV50 category in a time of 44:13.
Brian Macdonald won the MV40 category with a time of 38:08, while Hugh Mackintosh took top spot in the MV50 category in a great time of 31:34, just missing out on a podium finish.
Twenty runners competed on a hot night, nearly all of whom were LAC members.
The sailing race back from the Stroncreggan shore was won by a crew of Vince and Andrew from LYC, in a Wayfarer dinghy. Their runners did a great job of paddling the boat in a dropping breeze. Four dinghies contested.
There was the usual swimming to cool off – not all of which was deliberate!
Race organiser Jon Gay, LYC, said: ‘Times were fast due to the dry ground. Luckily there was some breeze to cool the runners and to keep the worst of the midges off. Well done to all who took part on this hot and sunny evening.’
LYC would like to thank Conaglen Estate for access, Lochaber Embroidery And Printing (LEAP), Tesco and Nan Petrie for the prizes, all supporters, marshals and rescue boat crews. Thanks especially go to LYC’s Tim Sims and helpers who put on an excellent barbecue – also enjoyed by spectators.
Full results have been published on the Lochaber Athletic Club website lochaberac.co.uk.
The Lochaber Yacht Club website has information on sail training and events – everyone welcome, visit on Thursdays from 6pm. www.lochaber-yacht-club.co.uk
For further information contact Jon Gay 07588531399 or jongayarchitect@googlemail.com.