Hill and Dale Race 6: Rocky

There are two Rocky Mountains in the Mournes, but it was the one in the vicinity of Leitrim Lodge which provided the usual small group of Orangegrove masochists with their weekly Thursday evening Hill and Dale dose of pain.

The route began at the carpark close to Shanky’s River and took the runner on an ascent of Rocky Mountain, followed by Tornamrock Mountain, Altataggart Mountain and Pierces Castle before a very fast descent to the finish. The Orangegrove contingent gave a good account of itself.

Thomas Leitch was in his usual sparkling form and made light of the challenge in 38.21 (29th/215). Robin Montgomery was next on 40.54, Brian Todd (51.06), Michael O’Donoghue (54.03), Sharon Dickenson (54.33), Lisa Fleming (56.21), Sarah Steer (57.00), Jill Holland (62.20).

There were some casualties during the course of the campaign. Michael O’Donoghue came off the mountain looking as though he had been strafed by heavy machine gun fire, bloodied and tousled. A posse of Orangegrove women rushed to his aid to lavish love and concern and to tend to his wounds. Nurse Holland was less impressed when Robin Montgomery and Brian Todd presented their groin strains and they were quickly told what they could do with them.

This week’s round of Hill and Dale was won by Seamus Lynch (Newcastle A.C.) in the almost unbelievable time of 30.41 (a new record). Shalene McMurray (Newcastle A.C.) was first lady on 38.55. Maybe a few more Orangegrovers should give Hill and Dale a go. It tends to be less competitive than road racing and there is a genuine fraternity on the fell and in the mountains. It is also a good test of ones courage and co-ordination. On a personal note this was my favourite round to date because there was more of an opportunity to let loose and run the winding tracks and trails in many places.