HomeRoss-Shire Runners Rally Round, Rescue Relay Coasters GB
Added on 08 June 2010
Coasters GB is a forumite band of runners (the collective name for a group of Runner's World Forum contributors) of all ages and abilities who, inspired by Eddie Izzard running 43 marathons in 52 days, are hell bent on running Barry The Baton on a helter-skelter relay run around the coast of mainland Britain. Setting off on 9th May, from Blackpool, Barry headed north, reaching the Kilchoan Hotel, Ardnamurchan on 6th June. Unfortunately that's where he hit his first stumbling block, no locals to carry him the 32 miles north to Glenuig. Up to the mark stepped 3 of Ross-shire's finest athletes, Alison Cameron, Struan Auld and Tom Mathieson,who decided to travel across country to rescue Barry and ensconce him safely in his next resting place. Collecting Barry from the safe custody of the hotelier, Cliff, Alison took point and set off on the first leg, straight into an uphill run. Changing over at the top of her 3 mile climb, Struan surged forward for another hilly run, before handing over to Tom for his stint. This pattern continued for 32 miles, in glorious weather, which at 20c, was maybe a tad too hot for running, but was fully compensated for by the stunning scenery. With 5½ hours of toil under there belts (or more appropriately shorts) the trio handed Barry over to the safe custody of the Glenuig Inn, where he was given pride of place in the lounge to await his next lift in this epic relay, while his companions enjoyed a well-earned and refreshing pot of tea.
Barry is due to reach Ross-shire around about the 28th June and will be travelling from Invergordon to Findon Mains, via Dingwall on the 29th June. To join him in his journey, keep up to date with his travels or for the chance to enter a “Spot The Bary” competition, visit www.coastersgb.co.uk.
