Fitting tribute to memory of West Highland Way Race stalwart John
A new bridge has been installed on a section of the West Highland Way south of Crianlarich in memory of a Scotland and UK ultra-runner.
John Kynaston had been a committee member of the West Highland Way Race, one of the world’s longest established ultra-marathons.
John died aged 61 last year and his family, friends and the ultra-running community organised a crowdfunder to raise £20,000 for the replacement bridge, just north of Beinglas Farm in Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.
The original bridge had been washed away in a severe storm in 2019.
The project is supported by John’s wife Katrina, and his four daughters Jo, Emma, Laura and Hollie.
West Highland Way Race director Ian Beattie MBE said: “John was a truly inspirational man, friend and athlete and the whole ultra-running community misses him dearly.
“He loved the Way and the Race, and we believe this bridge provides a fitting tribute to him”.
Director of place at the national park authority, Stuart Mearns added:“it is fantastic to see this replacement bridge completed and dedicated to someone who gained so much pleasure from outdoor activity in our beautiful landscape.
“We were pleased to be able to support the project”.
John, originally from Liverpool, died of a heart attack in January 2021.
He had been a member of Kilbarchan Amateur Athletic Club (AAC), a renowned ultra runner, podcaster, and blogger.
By 2020, he had run 52 ultras, including six editions of the WHW Race.
The WHW Race first took place in 1985 on the 95-mile trail.
14-MONTH BRIDGE CLOSURE ANGER