Over 100 runners expected at Insch meeting

Insch Trail Running Club chairman Graham Aitken expects at least 100 runners to take part in the inaugural BA cross country meeting his club is organising tomorrow with backing from JS Kintore RC.

The Aberdeenshire event, which features two races, a 4km at 11.30am and an 8km at 1.30pm, for athletes aged 17 and over, will be held on mixed terrain routes in the countryside near Lyne of Skene.

Aitken said: “My brother and I used to pass through the area and thought it would be a good venue for a cross country event.

“So we contacted the landowners and they were fully supportive of the idea so we decided to go ahead.

“We felt there was scope for a new cross country event in the north east and this weekend was a free date on the fixture list.

“We have come up with a couple of interesting routes. The 4km is probably better for people who maybe haven’t done much in the way of cross country or off-road running before.

“The 8km is a more challenging route. Around 70% is on grass but the rest is over woodland trails through the trees. It’s quite hilly and has a lot of twists and turns.

“There’s certainly a few lumps and bumps as well as some water and mud.

“Parts of the trail has been used a quad bike training track and there’s even an old tank in amongst the trees, so it will be interesting.

“We are hoping for a decent turnout as 130 people have already declared an interest although entries will be take on the day.

“I’d be surprised if we didn’t get at least 100 runners which would be fine.”