“If I am getting married any time soon I am going to check what dates the ATR or ATRX are on. The weather is always amazing,” quipped one runner before the race start.

The 2018 edition of the race took place on a slightly changed course but with a familiar blue sky and a crisp nip in the air to make it perfect for running on. It was gonna be fast.

Pre-race the heroes that are JAPES ran a wee 10 minute up and back test out of the new Joelette on the course. If you don’t know much about JAPES go to www.japes.scot and help out if you can. We expect to give this great cause a generous cheque in a few weeks. Watch this space.

As for the race, straight from the off Brian Sharp was being tracked by Adam Park, with Martin Gray keeping in touch all the way. The top 3 remained just that all the way until the last two miles when Adam took a wrong turn and was gazumped by Connell Drummond for 3rd with Brian winning in a formidable time of 1:26:18 from Martin who ended up sneaking in under 1:30 too. A quality podium.

Meanwhile, in the ladies race, Rachel Normand and Lynne Allen had another epic battle and whilst Lynne took the honours in May’s ATRX, Rachel edged her out here to win in fine style and to take 7th overall in 1:36 flat. Lynne came in 1:39:07 with Mary McCutcheon taking 3rd place, and also under 1:40.

Athole Smith was our first MV50 in a fine time of 1:39:42. Sheila Lewis took the FV50 prize in 1:46:55 after Mary (also a FV50) took the podium spot in the open race.

Thee generosity of sponsors Tunnocks, Jordanhill Garden Supplies, CO-OP and Active Root make these events all the sweeter, in some case literally. Please remember that when you are shopping next.

Big thanks to all who helped fill Paul’s van for Kilsyth food bank and finally, to our volunteers, you are without doubt the engine room on which the race runs. From me, the runners and the team, THANKS A MILLION!

FULL RESULTS HERE (UPDATED): 2018 Results, ATR, v1.0

Please email any amends/queries to antoninetrailraces@gmail.com