Hill runners were get set, go

INTREPID runners took to the Galloway Hills for the annual Bruce’s Crown and Heart of Granite hill races last weekend.

Starting and finishing at Caldon’s old campsite on Saturday, Bruce’s Crown saw teams navigate their way round a 46-mile circuit of the Galloway hills taking in the southern peaks, Rhinnes of Kells, Range of the Awful Hand and then visiting Bruce’s Stone before running to the finish.

This year’s race featured seven team across mixed categories, including solo, pairs, triples and fours.

First across the line was team Tussocks Galore made up of Nicky Spinks and Emma Stuart with a time of 11 hours 21 minutes, smashing previous records. In second place was the Bogdashians with a time of 12 hours.

Galloway Mountain Rescue Team was called to assist an unwell runner during the race. Team members deployed by vehicle to reach the runner, who was treated on scene by a medic before being safely transported back to the start point.

Meanwhile the Heart of Granite saw 32 runners take on the challenge. The 20-mile solo race took participants through Lamachan, Curleywee, Axe Head, Craiglee, and the Old Grey Man of Merrick.

Harry Pulham, was first across the line with an impressive time of 3 hours 28 minutes.