Lee Pen Race Report

The annual St Ronans Games hill race took place up Lee Pen on Saturday.

It is short race about 1 1/2 miles up and then an about turn and straight down - 350m ascent and then descent so pretty brutal in my book. I've taken part every year I've been in Innerleithen so this was my sixth go and it doesn't get any easier! It's fast and furious and no one seems to be able to run the whole way due to the steepness. It always takes me less than half the time to get down than it takes to get up (about 21 up and 10 down).

It is usually a small field and there were 15 runners this year with 4 Moorfoots taking the start. The race was won by Fergus Johnson of Gala Harriers, with Lucas Cheskin in 2nd, Andy Cox in 3rd, Keith Murray from Teviotdale 4th and me (Colin) 5th, with Eddie Balfour in 7th I think. Lucas was having his first race back after a lengthy lay off and led the pack out of the park at a good lick. As they emerged from the trees he was in touch with Fergus with Andy close behind but which time I was already struggling to stay anywhere close. By the time they turned at the summit the Fergus had gained a lead of about 25s on Lucas who in turn was about the same ahead of Andy all them passing me with still a fair bit to go. It seemed to pretty much stay that way on the descent although the wet conditions make it pretty treacherous and I managed to slip over. 
Once the results are out I will post a link.