West Highland Way 2008

On Midsummer’s day four runners from Strathearn Harriers were involved in one of the world’s toughest endurance races. The West Highland Way Race, organized by Harriers own Dario Melaragni, allows athletes 35 hours to complete the 95 mile distance from Milngavie to Forth William following the course of the well trodden West Highland Way long distance path.

It's difficult to imagine a more complex and logistically difficult event to organize than a linear 95 mile race that lasts 35 hours with finishers ranging from 17-35 hours. As Race Director, Dario gets no sleep for at least 2 nights and has to deal with any number of questions, problems and complaints not to mention just making sure everyone is accounted for, safe and well. As a result of his efforts, it is a great race and becoming more and more popular by the year.

This year conditions were ideal: cool and clear and very dry underfoot. 127 ultradistance runners set off from Milngavie at 1am on Saturday morning and by noon on Sunday 97 had made it to the finish in Fort William.

The winner was Jens Lukas from Germany who finished in a time of 17 hours 6 minutes.

The 3 Harriers who were racing experienced mixed fortunes on the day:

In his first attempt at the race, Duncan King finished in a courageous 32 hours 30 minutes braving a burst bladder (fortunately his water carrier rather than his body part), strong winds and torrential rain in the 2nd night.

Phil Mestecky, who had previously completed the race in 2005 in a little over 27½ hours surpassed all expectations including his own to finish in an excellent time of 19 hours and 14 minutes and in a highly creditable 7th place.

Ian Beattie running in his 10th West Highland Way unfortunately felt unwell after 27 miles and was forced to retire from the race.

Phil also picked up the “slimmer of the year” award from the organizers for the runner who lost the most weight on the day. From start to finish Phil shed an astonishing 13lbs in weight, evidence of the toll the race can take on the human body.