The course was laid out.
The race marshals were organised.
Those carrying out the registration were on the ready.
The goody bags and t-shirts were prepared for the entrants.
There was even a queue for those requiring tickets for the ceilidh.

The planes carrying runners had landed.
Most important, the ferry had arrived on time.
Runners were making their way across the island to An Talla.

The cafe organised by Chocolates and Charms was well stocked.
The manager and volunteer staff were ready and willing to serve.
What a mouth watering selection was prepared.

Food Fit To Run For

Even the weather was organised.
Thinking of the runners, not too hot and not too cold.
And just to make it an authentic race a good Tiree breeze.

With the registration complete it was time for the race briefing.
This included an outline of the course and safety matters.
“Keep to the left when running on the island’s roads”
“Race numbers to be clearly pinned on and visible.”
“ Encourage one another as you run.”
“Watch out for cows and sheep.”
“Spot a seal.”

It was as the saying goes, ‘Good for Go.’
First off were the kid’s races on Balinoe Beach.
Then as 2:00pm approached everyone made their way on to the beach.

There was the stirring sound of the pipes and drums.
Then came the traditional countdown from 10.
Finally it was the all important ‘Go!’

Off down the beach they ran.
From Soroby to Balemartine, Manal and Hynish.
Then at the Hynish Pier turn round and head back to Balinoe.

At the Balinoe junction there was a distinction.
Those running the 10K took the right hand fork.
Those running the half-marathon took the left hand fork.
The two routes would not meet up again until Island House.

The half-marathon took the runners on to Heylipol Church.
From there they headed for the township of Sandaig.
Then it was on to Kilkenneth and Moss.
And back to Heylipol.

From Island House the combined route was to Crossapol Farm.
There was a sharp turn then it was back down to the beach.
Then it was only the home straight and finish line.
There a medal was waiting.

In spite of the Tiree breeze the course record was almost broken.
There was some impressive running that took your breath away.
It was tough! It was painful! But there were no accidents.
And it was an afternoon full of encouragement.

The cafe was extremely busy.
Perhaps the weather encouraged carb consumption.
After running in such event you need to fuel up for the ceilidh.

The much appreciated band at the ceilidh was Rock and Reel from the Mainland.
There was no need to cajole tired limbs and feet on to the dance floor.
Right from the start of the evening there was a readiness to dance.
It was ‘Good for Go’.

Midway through the evening was the fun packed medal ceremony.
As well as the podium positions there were spot prizes.
Appreciation and laughter rang out.

Thanks to Tiree Fitness and Chocolates and Charms.
Thanks to the many Marshalls and Volunteers.
Thanks Will and Becky.
Thanks Tiree.

This is ‘Life on Tiree’.
Where there is running, supporting and encouraging.
They mentioned watch out for cows and sheep.
The race organiser forgot to mention bulls.

A larger selection of photographs is available on line.
Look for yourself and enjoy the memory.
Hopefully it will not be too painful.
2018 Photograph Album Available here