Run Banchory Half Marathon

With a marathon in 4 weeks time I entered this half to get a handle on where my training is at. My current marathon training is different to what I’ve done previously, not following my favoured Hanson plan, as much due to time constraints as anything else, not able to commit to running 6 days a week. With work being different this session, alongside part-time study, I’m having to do the best I can with the time available. I’ve also had a lot of time off running over summer, albeit I’ve been galavanting across Bavaria and up some Scottish hills.

Banchory Running Festival

My day started with a drive out to Banchory. Knowing the car park in the centre would be rammed, I left sufficient time to park and was fortunate to get a space outside the medical centre, these not being required on Sundays.

Heading to registration, I saw friendly faces in the form of Kirsty, Bryan and Jamie. Special shout out to Jamie who having helped at registration them went on to finish 3rd overall in the half marathon.

Number collected, my mission was then to relax and stay out of the sun until the start. I went back to the car to apply a generous helping of suncream, then found a bench in the shade where I sipped water and read my book for half an hour or so.

A couple of toilet trips later, I meandered over to the starting field, meeting other friends, Rosey who was doing the 10k, others also in the half, and a few Metro vests in other races.

We lined up at the start, the run briefing was given, and we were off, round the field and out onto the closed road across the bridge and the River Dee. We then began the gentle climb up the road towards Scolty, taking a right and continuing on the low road rather than heading up to the woodland car park itself. The road section lasted around 6 km if I recall correctly.

It was sunny and hot so when I reached the first water station I stopped and walked to drink from the generous cup. This became my default at each subsequent water station, figuring getting water on board in the heat was definitely a priority over seconds lost.

Once onto the trails there was some familiarity with our Sunday Scolty runs, although not being the exact route and bits being in reverse I couldn’t have found my way independently and was very glad of the plentiful marshals and cones blocking off any paths where we could go astray.

The climbing started, a big pull up for the first climb. We met friendly marshals at each junction, all giving great encouragement, alongside the first aiders and Cotag crews. I kept my effort just at the right level to ensure I didn’t need to call upon either!

We ran a loop down to the river and I expected a big climb to get back up. Thankfully it didn’t come, we popped up by the marshals without any effort.

Thereafter the effort did start though with a long climb lasting the best part of 4 miles. I threw in occasional walk breaks here as it just felt so hard and I questioned whether I was moving any faster running. The fact that those ahead of me were walking only encouraged this thinking. Short walks also allowed me to bring my heart rate down.

We turned at a water station at the top of an incline. Another runner here had stopped to drink and enjoy a breather, so I made the decision also to stop and chat briefly to him and the marshals, again allowing me to get a decent drink of water.

Leaving here I enjoyed a brief run downhill before the climbing started again. Each time I thought I’d reached the high point it would go up again. From the water station I was pretty much on my own until the finish; I did at a couple of points catch up with the runner ahead, checking in as I passed to see that they were okay if they were walking. The consensus of the day seemed to be that the combination of heat and hills was taking a toll on us all.

Finally I reached a point that I recognised, the top of the hill that we run up most weekends.

This heralded a small celebration as I knew I’d now be able to enjoy some decent downhill running. The legs just about agreed and moved a little faster than they’d been willing to for the few miles prior.

Coming off the hill and back towards the Scolty car park I slowed again as this is a slight incline. Here I saw a familiar face (Tina) and while she offered encouragement I think I only grumbled about how tough it was in return! Sorry!

Back to the woodland car park, down the dirt road and onto the road back to Banchory, the end was finally in sight. I was passed here by a guy and tried (and failed) to keep up. We were directed down the shortcut – big steps – and advised to proceed with caution. I ran down a few, then opted for the grass verge.

Popping out onto the pavement at the bottom, it was a short run over the bridge at the River Dee again to reach the end. The road marshals were amazing and did a great job of halting cars to allow safe crossing. I was very grateful to not have to stop or dodge traffic.

Into the finish field, I heard friends cheering me on – thank you – and my name being announced on the loudspeaker as 2nd in my age category! My medal was presented by parkrun friend, Bryan, who received a sweaty hug in return. It was then on to see Kirsty who’d recommended the run and to catch up with other friends and hear their tales.

Overall a tough day out and a levelling experience. With a marathon in 4 weeks I guess it’s no bad thing to have a tough run today and to get a bit more understanding of where I’m at.

In itself, a really well organised event and one that I wouldn’t rule out doing again. At least if there is a next time I’ll know what’s in store for me!

Some great runs today from my Metro mates and other friends in various races. Great work!