Local legendary sprinter David Rae was on top of the podium once more at the National Indoor Masters Championships last Sunday.

Whilst most spent Valentine’s day with spouses or partners, showing the dedication it takes to achieve success in a difficult but ultimately rewarding sport, David was at the Emirates Arena Glasgow with his ‘other love,’ running.

Competing in his pristine Teviotdale Harriers vest, 42-year-old Rae sped to victory in the V40 60m category. Winning the blue ribbon event of any Indoor Championships, David burst out the blocks first and held his lead to take gold in 7.65 seconds.

David was chased hard the length of the track by Mike Tarnawsky of Dundee Hawkhill Harriers 7.68 and Craig Clark of Victoria Park City of Glasgow Athletic Club 8.01 in third.

This victory was David’s 6th National Masters medal. His 7th soon followed when he took silver in the 200m.

“I was confident in the 60m,” said David. “I had the fastest personal best of the entrants.

“The 200m was different. I was racing the V40 European Indoor Champion, so it was always going to be hard to beat him.”

Indeed so it proved to be as Mike Coogan of Northern Vets took gold with a time of 23.28 seconds. Rae raced to second in 24.33 with Tarnawsky claiming third 25.03.

Showing frustration at his 200m David said: “I made a big mistake on the bend which cost me an indoor PB.

“My fitness levels and condition are nowhere near where they need to be, so 2 medals was a great result. So room for big improvements leading into the summer hopefully.”

David added: “I would recommend the vets championships to any club member old enough. Great camaraderie and atmosphere.”

Rae is a previous outdoor 200m and 400m National Champion at the Masters level and last year won 60m silver, 200m silver and 400m bronze. A runner of great distinction, it looks as though he has much, much more left in those rapid legs.

Report by Bruce Hughes