Mince Pie Run 2008

Fifteen folk were out this morning for what proved to be a very enjoyable Mince Pie Run on the Ochils.

Despite Jeremiah-like predictions from some quarters, the weather was breezy but dry and mild, with some pleasant blue sky and sunshine.

There seemed to be some minor navigational difficulties in finding the start point at Glensherup car park, but the group was assembled and ready to run by 10.15. The forest track took us steadily uphill and then out onto the open hillside with good views towards the Firth of Forth and the Lomonds of Fife.

At the top of Innerdownie hill we met the full force of the wind and standing upright did become a bit tricky. Fortunately there was a fine stone wall on hand to provide shelter.

From Innerdownie we dropped down a grassy track into the head of Glenquey for mince pies and coffee. Then on along to Glendevon from where a group of keen ones - Karen, Al, Will, Colin, Ben and James - took the high road back over the hill while the rest of us completed the circuit along the riverbank.

Approximate stats: 10.8k for the circuit with 470m ascent, a bit longer and a bit more climb for those who went back over the hill.