Well it had to happen some time, after dodging the worst of the winter weather for the previous five years, the Feel The Burns Hill Race finally succumbed to the snowy conditions, fortunately only to the point of being shortened to about 7.5 miles but still fitting in about 600m of climbing. Undeterred nearly 200 hardy souls not to mention the many marshall’s took to the hills above Selkirk on Sunday and the general consensus afterwards was that the correct decision was made with another splendid event being staged in the testing conditions.

After a slippery start up the track from the Corbie Linn car park the runners turned sharply uphill towards Peat Law and the scene was set for the next 5 miles or so with a narrow track being carved out of the deep snow as we ploughed our way onwards. The climb up to the 3 Brethren featured a new first as we passed a couple of skiers making their way upwards no doubt before making a speedier descent than we managed on the detour downhill finding it difficult to distinguish the path amongst the all-white scene. The snow arrived as we rejoined the usual route at the foot of the dreaded Foulshiels climb and would accompany us for the rest of the race gradually strengthening so the field increasingly resembled snowmen as they arrived at the finish.

Among the Harriers taking part, Ian Williams was first home in 23rd place while John Tullie had his customary battle for this race this time with Kenny Short who controversially got the judge’s decision on the line, judge for yourself. John did have the consolation of comfortably taking the V60 prize to add to son Douglas’ overall victory while Frank Birch trotted round with his usual smile to take the V70 prize. Other Harrier’s taking part were Keith Murray, Duncan and Paul Lockie, Derek Scott and Pamela Paxton while Derek McHugh ran round as the sweeper, apologies if I’ve missed anyone.

More photos on Selkirk Fundrunners Facebook page while full results can be found on SHR website.