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West of Scotland
Newsdesk
12 Jan 2021
New organiser to offer tree-mendous events in 2021
11 Jan 2021
Go ‘Roon the Toon’ in June
07 Jan 2021
‘Be Prepared’ for the Milngavie Trail Race
06 Jan 2021
Maggie’s challenges Glaswegians to run 50 miles this January
Race Listing for West of Scotland
Date | Event | Location | Results |
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14 Jul 2018 | Clyde Stride Ultra Marathon | Partick, Glasgow | |
02 Dec 2018 | Glasgow Front Runners Red Run | Glasgow Caledonian University, Glasgow | |
28 Apr 2019 | Culzean Challenge | Culzean Country Park, Culzean | |
18 May 2019 | Goatfell Hill Race | Ormidale Pavilion, Brodick, Arran | Results |
01 Jun 2019 | Helensburgh Games Race | Helensburgh Rugby Club, Helensburgh | |
07 Jun 2019 | Tiree Trail Running Camp | Tiree Fitness, Isle of Tiree | |
09 Jun 2019 | Bishopton 10K & 5K | Community Centre, Bishopton | |
16 Jun 2019 | Port Glasgow 10K | Coronation Park, Port Glasgow | Results |
14 Jul 2019 | Girvan AAC Half Marathon | Hamilton Park, Girvan | Results |
27 Jul 2019 | Dog Jog Glasgow | Bellahouston Park, Glasgow | |
07 Aug 2019 | Hessilhead 10K | Castle Semple Visitors Centre, Lochwinnoch | Results |
14 Aug 2019 | Dundonald 10K Road Race | Dundonald Activities Centre, Dundonald | Results |
01 Sep 2019 | Dunlop Community Fun Run | Village Hall, Dunlop | |
07 Sep 2019 | Glen Scotia Mull of Kintyre Marathon | Ferry Terminal, Campbeltown | Results |
08 Sep 2019 | Kilmacolm Half Marathon, 10K & 3K | Birkmyre Park Fitness Gym, Kilmacolm | Results |
14 Sep 2019 | Kyles 10 Miles | Kames Hall, Tighnabruaich | Results |
15 Sep 2019 | Cumbernauld 3K | Broadwood Stadium, Cumbernauld | Results |
15 Sep 2019 | Cumbernauld 1K | Broadwood Stadium, Cumbernauld | |
15 Sep 2019 | Cumbernauld 10K | Broadwood Stadium, Cumbernauld | Results |
21 Sep 2019 | Use Your Senses 5K | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
21 Sep 2019 | HamilTEN 10K | Castle Street, Hamilton | Results |
05 Oct 2019 | George Cummings Road Relay Race | Houston Village Hall, Houston | Results |
06 Oct 2019 | Bonnet Toun 10K | Stewarton Academy, Stewarton | |
27 Oct 2019 | Antonine Trail Race | Antonine Community Sports Hub, Croy | |
27 Oct 2019 | Moira's Run | Queens Park, Glasgow | |
27 Oct 2019 | Killieween Kilmarnock Halloween Running Festival | Ayrshire Athletics Arena, Kilmarnock | Results |
17 Nov 2019 | St Andrews Hospice Santa Dash & Reindeer Run | Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell | |
24 Nov 2019 | North Ayrshire Santa Dash | Town Centre, Saltcoats | |
24 Nov 2019 | Boobs & Balls 10K | Strathclyde Park, Motherwell | |
08 Dec 2019 | Glasgow Santa Dash | George Square, Glasgow | |
15 Dec 2019 | The Cyclists v The Harriers | Marress Sports Club, Irvine | Results |
26 Dec 2019 | Ayrodynamic Turkey Trot | Citadel Leisure Centre, Sth Harbour Street, Ayr | Results |
02 Jan 2020 | Lenzie New Year Jog | Union Church Halls, Lenzie | |
02 Jan 2020 | New Year's Shortbread 2 Mile Walk, Jog or Run | Balloch Country Park, Balloch | |
19 Jan 2020 | Nigel Barge Memorial 10K | Garscube Sports Centre, Glasgow | Results |
19 Jan 2020 | Roon The Country | Ayrshire Athletics Arena, Kilmarnock | |
25 Jan 2020 | Buchlyvie 10K | Station Road,, Buchlyvie | Results |
31 Jan 2020 | 3K on the Green January | McLellans Arch, Glasgow Green, Glasgow | Results |
02 Feb 2020 | Renfrewshire Road Race Championships | Battery Park, Greenock | |
02 Feb 2020 | South by Five Race 5 Bellahouston Park | Bellahouston Park, Glasgow | Results |
15 Feb 2020 | Glasgow University 5 Mile Road Race | Garscube Sports Complex, Glasgow | Results |
16 Feb 2020 | South by Five Race 6 Queen's Park | Queens Park, Glasgow | Results |
16 Feb 2020 | Kirkintilloch Olympians 12.5K Road Race | Waterside Miners Welfare Club, Kirkintilloch | Results |
16 Feb 2020 | Hillbilly 10K | Dalmellington Leisure Centre, Dalmellington | Results |
28 Feb 2020 | 3K on the Green February | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | Results |
01 Mar 2020 | Cambuslang Harriers Down by the River 10K & 3K | Cambuslang Rugby & Sports Club, Cambuslang | Results |
07 Mar 2020 | Jack Crawford Springburn Cup 10K | Leisuredrome, Bishopbriggs | Results |
15 Mar 2020 | Balloch to Clydebank Half Marathon | Pier Road, Balloch | Results |
15 Mar 2020 | Resolution Run 5K & 10K Glasgow | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
22 Mar 2020 | Crinan Puffer 8.5 | Crinan Canal, Ardrishaig | |
27 Mar 2020 | 3K on the Green March | McLellans Arch, Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
27 Mar 2020 | Nite Lite Run Dark | Drumpellier Country Park, Coatbridge | |
28 Mar 2020 | Blue All Over Fun Run | Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow | |
15 Apr 2020 | Kaim Hill Race | Fairlie Primary School, Largs | |
17 Apr 2020 | GAA Miler Meet Night of 10Ks | Crownpoint Stadium, Glasgow | |
18 Apr 2020 | Solstice Trail Series April 5K, 10K & 15K | Mugdock Country Park, Milngavie | |
24 Apr 2020 | 3K on the Green April | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
25 Apr 2020 | Taynish Run Festival | Taynish NNR, Tayvallich, Argyll | |
26 Apr 2020 | Isle of Arran Ormidale 10K | Ormidale Pavilion, Brodick | |
02 May 2020 | Neilston Pad Race | Show Field, Neilston | |
04 May 2020 | Star Wars Race | Strathclyde Park, Motherwell | |
06 May 2020 | Troon Tortoises 10K & Fun Run | The Promenade, Troon | |
08 May 2020 | Kintyre Way 100 | Machrihanish, Argyll | |
09 May 2020 | Kintyre Way Ultra | Village Hall, Tayinloan | |
13 May 2020 | Antonine Trail Race 10K | Nethercroy Road, Croy | |
16 May 2020 | Solstice Trail Series May 5K, 10K & 15K | Mugdock Country Park, Milngavie | |
17 May 2020 | Monklands Half Marathon | Drumpellier Country Park, Coatbridge | |
17 May 2020 | Race for Life Glasgow 5K & 10K | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
17 May 2020 | Millport 10 Miler | Millport, Isle of Cumbrae | |
17 May 2020 | Monklands 1K, 400M & Toddler Dash | Drumpellier Country Park, Coatbridge | |
17 May 2020 | Drumpellier 5K | Drumpellier Country Park, Coatbridge | |
17 May 2020 | Rotary Club of Gryffe Valley 10K | West Church Halls, Houston | |
22 May 2020 | Dick Wedlock Fire Five Race | Queen's Park, Glasgow | |
25 May 2020 | Land O' Burns 10K | Seafield Pavillion, Ayr | |
29 May 2020 | 3K on the Green May | McLellans Arch, Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
30 May 2020 | West Highland Way CHALLENGE Race | Town Hall, Milngavie | |
30 May 2020 | MND Scotland Fun Run | Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell | |
03 Jun 2020 | Clydebank 10K | Seaforth Road, Clydebank | |
03 Jun 2020 | Red Moss Kips Race | Red Moss Car Park, Balerno | |
07 Jun 2020 | Carluke On The Run 10K Challenge | John Cumming Stadium, Carluke | |
07 Jun 2020 | Saugh Hill Race | Victory Park, Girvan | |
10 Jun 2020 | Race for Life Irvine 5K & 10K | Beach Park, Irvine | |
10 Jun 2020 | Kirkintilloch 10K | St Ninians High School, Kirkintilloch | |
11 Jun 2020 | Rouken Glen 10K | Rouken Glen Park, Glasgow | |
13 Jun 2020 | Barrhead Rainbow Run | Carlibar Park, Barrhead | |
13 Jun 2020 | Solstice Trail Series June 5K, 10K & 15K | Mugdock Park, Milngavie | |
19 Jun 2020 | Brian Goodwin 10K | QPRFC, Pollok Park, Glasgow | |
20 Jun 2020 | Ultra Trail Scotland 45K Arran Skyline | Ormidale Pavilion, Isle of Arran | |
24 Jun 2020 | SVHC 5K Championships | Sea Scouts Hall, Clydebank | |
26 Jun 2020 | Calderglen Harriers Trail Races | East Kilbride Sports Club, East Kilbride | |
26 Jun 2020 | 3K on the Green June | McLellans Arch, Glasgow | |
26 Jun 2020 | K2-4 Ultra Marathon | Dean Castle Country Park, Kilmarnock | |
28 Jun 2020 | Isle of Arran Half Marathon | Blackwaterfoot, Arran | |
01 Jul 2020 | Kilpatricks Hill Race | Sports Ground, Old Kilpatrick | |
04 Jul 2020 | Luss Highland Games Hill Race | Luss, Loch Lomond | |
15 Jul 2020 | Cairn Table Hill Run | Walkers Car Park, Muirkirk, East Ayrshire | |
18 Jul 2020 | Taynuilt Games Hill Race | The Games Field, Taynuilt, Argyll | |
25 Jul 2020 | John Lucas Memorial Ultra & Relay | The Strathaven Brewery, Strathaven | |
29 Jul 2020 | Kilmaurs Gala 5K Fun Run | Morton Park, Kilmaurs, Ayrshire | |
31 Jul 2020 | 3K On The Green July | McLellans Arch, Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
01 Aug 2020 | Dunoon Half Marathon & 10K | Dunoon Pier, Dunoon | |
15 Aug 2020 | Ruff Dugger | Craufurdland Estate, Fenwick | |
19 Aug 2020 | Jim Young Marymass 10K | Irvine Sports Club, Irvine | |
22 Aug 2020 | Bute Highland Games 10K Road Race | High Street, Rothesay | |
23 Aug 2020 | Paisley 10K | County Square, Paisley | |
28 Aug 2020 | 3K on the Green August | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
02 Sep 2020 | Ron's Runners Spring 5K | Irvine Water Sports Club, Irvine | |
05 Sep 2020 | Loch Lomond 10K, 5K & Fun Run | Moss O' Balloch, Balloch | |
06 Sep 2020 | Pretty Muddy Glasgow 5K & Kids 5K | Pollok Country Park, Glasgow | |
06 Sep 2020 | Gartmore 10K & Fun Run | Gartmore Primary School, Gartmore | |
12 Sep 2020 | River Ayr Way Challenge | Glenbuck Loch, East Ayrshire | |
13 Sep 2020 | Around Cumbrae10 Mile Road Race | Garrison House,, Millport, Isle of Cumbrae | |
03 Oct 2020 | Bank of Scotland Junior & Mini Great Scottish Run | George Square, Glasgow | |
04 Oct 2020 | Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run | George Square, Glasgow | |
24 Oct 2020 | Original Mountain Marathon | The Mountains, Argyll & Bute | |
31 Oct 2020 | Run & Become Tinto Hill Race | Thankerton Camp Farm, Thankerton | |
01 Nov 2020 | Run The Blades 10K- The Night One | Whitelee Windfarm, Eaglesham | |
08 Nov 2020 | Glasgow MoRun 10K, 5K & 1.5K | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
08 Nov 2020 | South by Five Race 1 King's Park | Kings Park, Glasgow | |
14 Nov 2020 | Chatelherault 6-Hour Ultra | Chatelherault Country Park, Hamilton | |
15 Nov 2020 | Jimmy Irvine Bella 10K | Bellahouston Park, Glasgow | |
22 Nov 2020 | Strathclyde Loch Marathon & Half | Water Sports Centre, Strathclyde Park | |
22 Nov 2020 | South by Five Race 2 Linn Park | Linn Park, Glasgow | |
05 Dec 2020 | West District XC Championships | TBC, TBC | |
06 Dec 2020 | South by Five Race 3 Rouken Glen Park | Rouken Glen Park, Glasgow | Results |
20 Dec 2020 | South by Five Race 4 Pollok Park | Pollok Park, Glasgow | Results |
01 Jan 2021 | The Lyle Mile Challenge | Lyle Road, Greenock | |
02 Jan 2021 | Beith Harriers New Year Road Races | Ladeside Pavilion, Kilbirnie | |
06 Feb 2021 | National Masters XC Championships | TBC, TBC | |
27 Mar 2021 | Strathaven Striders 105 Track Marathons | John Wright Sports Centre, East Kilbride | |
04 Apr 2021 | Tom Scott Road Races 10M & Round the Loch 6K | Strathclyde Country Park, Motherwell | |
10 Apr 2021 | Rat Race Ultra Tour Of Arran | Brodick, Isle of Arran | |
24 Apr 2021 | Highland Fling Race | Milngavie to Tyndrum, Milngavie | |
24 Apr 2021 | Ayr GO Festival Half Marathon & 10K | Citadel Leisure Centre, Ayr | |
24 Apr 2021 | Cobbler Hill Race | Ardgarten Hotel, Arrocher | |
25 Apr 2021 | Glasgow Epic Trail 10K | Mossneuk Farm, Neilston | |
06 May 2021 | Babcock Helensburgh 10K | Hermitage Academy, Helensburgh | |
09 May 2021 | Pollok 15 | Pollok Park, Glasgow | |
09 May 2021 | Strathaven Striders Run with the Wind Half Marathon | Kirkland Park, Strathaven | |
13 May 2021 | Babcock Dumbarton 10K | Dumbarton Academy, Dumbarton | |
23 May 2021 | Babcock Shettleston 10K | Glasgow Green, Glasgow | |
29 May 2021 | Kirkmichael Gala 10K & Fun Run | Playing Field, Kirkmichael, Ayrshire | |
30 May 2021 | Mull of Kintyre Half Marathon & 10K | Esplanade, Campbeltown, Argyll | |
06 Jun 2021 | Roon the Toon 10K | Ayrshire Athletics Arena, Kilmarnock | |
06 Jun 2021 | Milngavie Trail Race & Junior Race | Scout HQ, Milngavie | |
19 Jun 2021 | West Highland Way Race | Milngavie Railway Station, Milngavie | |
19 Jun 2021 | Ultra Trail Scotland Arran 26K | Ormidale Pavilion, Isle of Arran | |
16 Jul 2021 | Run the Blades 10K | Whitelee Windfarm, Eaglesham | |
17 Jul 2021 | Run The Blades 50K | Whitelee Windfarm, Eaglesham | |
18 Jul 2021 | Run The Blades Half Marathon | Whitelee Windfarm, Eaglesham | |
24 Jul 2021 | Isle of Mull Half Marathon, 10K & Junior Races | Craignure, Isle of Mull | |
07 Aug 2021 | Ardbeg Islay Half Marathon | Bowmore, Islay | |
29 Aug 2021 | Men's 10K Glasgow | Riverside Transport Museum, Glasgow | |
08 Sep 2021 | Rock n Roll Dublin Half Marathon | Fitzwilliam Square East, Dublin | |
18 Sep 2021 | Arrochar 10K | Arrochar, Argyll | |
10 Oct 2021 | Neil McCover Memorial Half Marathon | Woodhead Park, Kirkintilloch |
About the area

In this In Your Area, we explore Glasgow and the areas to the north of the city. The obvious place to start is Glasgow with its long history of producing top class running clubs such as Maryhill Harriers, Springburn Harriers, and Shettleston Harriers. We also profile Bellahouston Roadrunners, one of the city's top clubs. Beyond the city boundaries there is an abundance of trail routes and a burgeoning running scene where clubs such as Kirkintilloch Olympians and Campbeltown Running Club are important parts of their local communities. Major events include the Bank of Scotland Great Scottish Run in Glasgow (pictured above), which now has a new October date alongside a new river-based route. The Men's Health Forum Scotland 10K in Bellahouston Park has developed into a major date on the calendar while the iconic BUPA Women's 10K continues to lead the way as the biggest female race in the UK.
The 'Dear Green Place' has more public parks than any other city in Europe and is therefore an ideaplace to go running. One event which has taken full advantage of this is the Southside Six. The event was created by six friends who, tired of running through long stretches of suburban roads, were looking to establish a race that included some of the city's most scenic parks.
Outwith Glasgow, the Babcock 10K series first run in 1987 has three races in Helensburgh, Dumbarton and Shettleston. The Mull of Kintyre half marathon and 10K was voted the UK's number 1 by Runner's World and offers runners spectacular views of the south of the Kintyre Peninsula.
With running no longer the sole preserve of competitive types, there are plenty of opportunities for those who just want to enjoy the activity and its health benefits without signing up for races. parkrun, the free weekly 5k timed runs, is a great way to enjoy regular exercise in a relaxed but structured format. Current city venues are Pollok Park and Tollcross Park and there are hopes for a third at Victoria Park.
The jogscotland network also continues to develop, offering a friendly environment for people to ease their way into running. We speak to Fiona Irwin from the Campbeltown group and discover that for her, running isn't just a past time, it's a way of life!
There is a plethora of top retailers in Glasgow with Run4It in Bothwell Street, Achilles Heeon Great Western Road (featured in this edition's Retailer's Top Picks), two Greaves Sports stores on Gordon Street and Sauchiehall Street, Sweatshop on Netherton Road.
So, that has surely whetted your appetite. Read on to find out why when it comes to running, west is best!
Running clubs In the West of Scotland (North)
Bellahouston Roadrunners
Bellahouston Roadrunners was one of a handful of clubs who led a revolution in Scotland in the noughties with an inclusive and fun approach to club running. But where is the club today?
When did it all begin? We started life in 2000, a new club for a new millennium. BRR was founded by Jimmy Irvine, after whom we’ve named our November10k. It’s a fast flat race that sells out quickly – 650 runners of all abilities took part last year. Jimmy even blows the airhorn to start the race!
You were soon one of the biggest clubs in the country? Within a few years we boasted around 200 members, and ever since we have enjoyed lots of success at big and small events around Scotland. The purple vests are easy to spot!
So you focus on road running? Most of our training is road based, two evenings per week - Mondays and Wednesdays. Sessions are planned and led by our qualified coaches, and include everything from long steady runs to hill circuits, fartlek, trairuns and track nights. We’re very lucky to be based at Bellahouston Ski club; we have the club house as a meeting point and fantastic car-free Bellahouston and Pollok Country parks on our door step.
And where does all this training lead? Ours is an enthusiastic approach to racing, with individuals and teams taking part all over Scotland, from 5ks to ultras. We’ve had great team performances at the Scottish National Road Relay Championships, the Great Scottish Run, the Scottish Marathon Championships, and both female and male Bellas are regularly on podiums at races around the country. However we also have a very encouraging and supportive attitude to anyone new to racing. The club championship, our own handicap racing challenge, encourages members to enter races of varying distances across the season.
So Bella is just for road runners? Not true! We have a very active hill running membership, (we won bronze at the Devil’s Burden’s this year), plus we host the Ben Venue Challenge. One of our members, Matt Williamson, was part of the gold medal winning UK team at the World Trai Running championships in Wales this year, Grant MacDonald holds the course record for the ‘Glenmore 24’, and Romy Beard was first lady at the Corrieyairick Challenge in July 2013.
Famous deeds? This year Bella runner Bruce Carse came first in the Jeju Island 10K in South Korea, and purple vests can be seen running races of all types around the globe: from the Transalp and Salomon 4trails multi-day events, and from New Zealand to the Great WalMarathon in China. Peter Gallanagh, even completed the Marathon des Sables.
Sounds serious! Not all the time; we have an exciting sociacalendar. This year alone we’ve had a summer sports festival (snappily titled ‘B in the Park’), a visit to a brewery where we brewed (and drank!) Bella Beer, plus there’s an upcoming club visit to the new Chris Hoy Velodrome – Bellas on bikes! Plus we have a healthy approach to regular calorie replacement in curry houses across the city.
Famous members? Broadcaster Bryan Burnett, host of BBC Radio Scotland’s Get it On, is a founder member, Richard Leyton, who brought ‘parkrun’ to Glasgow and world record holder (fastest father/son marathon) Russell Whittington.
Tell us about your club races? The 5k/10k double header on Sunday 1 September and the Jimmy Irvine 10K on Saturday 9 November both follow fast, flat courses, ideal for both novice racers and seasoned PB hunters. With the Bella Gazebo pumping out great tunes, live race commentary, home baking and fresh coffee, we put a lot of effort into both the organisation and the atmosphere - www.entrycentral.com/bella10k5k
Final Words? We think we have a great approach to running at Bella. We have a lively, energetic membership that trains hard and aims high, but is warm and welcoming to new members. If you are looking for a fun and friendly place to improve, come and join us!
Clubs in the West of Scotland (North)
Argyll & Bute
East Dunbartonshire
West Dunbartonshire
Glasgow
- Bellahouston Harriers
- Bellahouston Road Runners
- Garscube Harriers
- Glasgow Caledonian University AC
- Glasgow FrontRunners
- Glasgow University Hares & Hounds
- Kelvin Runners
- Maryhill Harriers
- Red Star AC
- Ronhill Cambuslang Harriers
- Shettleston Harriers
- Strathclyde University Harriers
- Victoria Park City of Glasgow AC
- Westerlands Cross Country Club
If you would like your club to be added to this page, get in touch with us!
Running Services in the West of Scotland (North)
Glasgow is very well served by a strong network of professionals catering for runners who are suffering from injury, have biomechanical problems or simply want to maintain maximum fitness. Services can include physiotherapy, sports massage, podiatry, nutrition and personal training. Greaves Polyclinic in Gordon Street and Achilles Heel Injury Clinic on Great Western Road are two excellent facilities that provide a range of rehabilitation services.
About Achilles Heel | The clinic is owned by three ladies Christine, Katie and Emma, each really enthusiastic about sport, exercise and health. This enthusiasm, knowledge and passion is what powers the clinic. All three ladies continually strive to create a centre of excellence in Glasgow where people can get expert advice from experienced qualified practitioners in professional and friendly surroundings. |
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Address | 521 Great Western Road, Glasgow, G12 8HN |
Tel. | 0141 357 3888 |
Contact the team here | |
Services |
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SERVICES FOR RUNNERS IN THE WEST OF SCOTLAND (NORTH)
If you offer a serivce to runners in the West of Scotland (North), and would like to be included on this page, please contact us.
Sports Massage
- Buchanan Clinic, 603 Helen Street, Glasgow, G51 3AR 0141 440 1999
Physiotherapy
- First Class Physiotherapy, Suite 2.11 Standard Buildings, 94 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 6QB 0141 2372 721
- Glasgow City Physiotherapy, 10-12 Bothwell Street, Glasgow, G2 6LU 07774554161
- Sports Injury Scotland, 57 Bothwell Street, Glasgow, G2 6TS 0141 221 4300
Podiatry
Please contact us and we will include details of your service
Personal Training
- Colin Thomas - Performance Running Specialist, 72 Clincart Road, Glasgow, G42 9DU 07974201938
Please contact us and we will include details of your service
Nutrition Advice
Please contact us and we will include details of your service
Running groups in the West of Scotland (North)
Group Focus on jogscotland Campbeltown
After ditching the sedentary life of an office worker to become a fitness coordinator, Fiona Irwin has embraced running and found the experience rewarding for both herself and her community. One of three leaders to establish jogscotland Campbeltown, she told runabc.co.uk/scotland how it all came about: "I worked in an office for years and hated it. It just wasn’t for me. After leaving my job to have a baby I then got a part-time job at Tesco and took up running. I was approached by a nurse who ran an athletics group and thought I’d be a good person to lead a jogscotland one. I’d only done a 5k, a 10k, and a half marathon at this stage so wasn’t exactly the most experienced runner, but decided to give it a go. The locacouncipaid for me and two others to get our qualifications in Lochgilphead and since then the group’s gone from strength to strength."
For a relatively small area, Campbeltown has developed a reputation for being something of a running hub, with Campbeltown Running Club being formed in 2010 to accommodate the growing interest in the activity.
"The demand for running in the area became so big that the jogscotland group just wasn’t enough so that’s why the club was started. jogscotland is mainly for beginners and intermediates so once people get past that stage they tend to move on to the club. We have really strong ties so there’s no rivalry between us. I like to think of jogscotland as helping runners spread their wings. Once they do so, they’re free to go off flying on their own. Of course, if runners want to go back to the group for support they’re welcome to do so. In fact, there are a few people who are members of both the club and the group. We average about 20-30 runners a night so there’s definitely a very healthy interest in running here."
As well as having a large number of members, the group is also quite diverse in terms of age. Fiona explains: "We have runners as young as 16 coming along, and at the other end we’ve had runners in their 80s. The oldest member we had was a man called Ian Teasdale who was 85 years old. He’d had two hip replacements but you’d never know it from seeing him running. I felt pretty ridiculous telling him off for taking a wrong turn or something. If I can run half as well as his age, I’ll be a happy woman!"
As well as Mr Teasdale, Fiona highlights some other standout members from over the years. "Margaret Ann was inspirational,she ran with us while receiving cancer treatment. At the Great Scottish Run one year we managed to get Bryan Burnett (who was starting the race) to give her a shoutout. She’s since made a full recovery and is still out and about running in Campbeltown."
Not content with being a jogleader and fitness coordinator, Fiona is also involved in several running events. "I’m the junior event coordinator for Mull of Kintyre half marathon and 10K. And I hosted the Perfect Sports Relief Big Mile last year. That was an amazing day. It was sold out with over 100 people taking part.
"Our members take part in lots of races. The Crinnan Puffer 8.5 is a popular one. It’s very flat so has great PB potential and the 8.5-mile distance is an interesting alternative for those who have only ever done 10ks. We’ve taken a relay team to do the Kintyre Way Relay a few times and the new Tarbert 10K also captured the interest of our members."
So why has running been such a success in the area? Fiona has some ideas: "It’s a beautiful part of the world so I think running provides a great way of people seeing it. It also helps bring the community together and lets people keep in contact with each other."
After informing me that she has to get back to work in the leisure centre, Fiona casually remarks that the group’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed.
"We’ve actually won a few awards for our work in the community. It’s quite humbling. Something like running seems like such a small thing but it can make a big, big difference to people’s lives."
jogscotland Glasgow Running Network & Men's Health Forum groups in the West of Scotland (North)
Argyll and Bute
- Bute Joggers
- Campbeltown
- Inveraray
- Isle of Islay
- Isle of Jura
- Mid Argyll
- Oban Atlantis Leisure
- Ormsary
- Tarbert
East Dunbartonshire
- Active Mums (Lenzie)
- Allander Leisure Centre
- Cani-Sports Scotland
- Leisuredome (Bishopbriggs)
West Dunbartonshire
- Alexandria
- Alexandria (Community Educ. Centre)
- Clydebank (National Australia Group)
- Clydebank (walk to jog)
- Clydebank College
- Clydebank
- Dumbarton (walk to jog)
- Dumbarton
City of Glasgow
- achilles heel (Coached Group)
- achilles heel (Nike+ Run Club)
- Ashgill Recreation Centre
- Barlanark Community Health Shop
- Camp Fitness
- Captain Archie’s Hound Runners
- Dark Knights
- DB12Run
- Deaf Running Group
- East End Healthy Living Centre
- Easterhouse
- Festival Court Stragglers
- ForwardFitness
- Glasgow Frontrunners
- Glasgow Run 4 It
- Glasgow (Argyle Street)
- Glasgow (Stow College)
- Glasgow (Yorkhill Hospital)
- Glasgow South Running Group meetup.com
- Govan
- Green for Go
- Health and Fitness in Finniestion
- Hogganfield Loch
- Huggy Bears
- Jeely Piece Club
- Kaizen Active Runners
- Kingsway Court Health & Wellbeing Centre
- Lynne Danksin - Workplace Group
- Maryhill Harriers
- Mount Vernon
- Nike+ Run Club (Buchanan Street)
- Northern Sole Mates (Hogganfield)
- Northern Sole Mates (Petershill)
- Northern Sole Mates (Possilpark)
- Northern Sole Mates (Springburn)
- Northern Sole Mates (Stobhill)
- Partick
- Pollok
- Pollokshields BME Women’s Group
- Sauchiehall Street
- The Western Running Club
- Up and Running Glasgow
- Western Infirmary
Glasgow Running Network
- Glasgow Running Network (Bellahouston)
- Glasgow Running Network (Castlemilk)
- Glasgow Running Network (Emirates Arena)
- Glasgow Running Network (Garrowhill)
- Glasgow Running Network (Gorbals)
- Glasgow Running Network (Holyrood)
- Glasgow Running Network (Kelvin Hall)
- Glasgow Running Network (Scotstoun)
- Glasgow Running Network (Springburn)
- Glasgow Running Network (Tollcross)
- Glasgow Running Network (Whitehill)
Leisure Facilities in the West of Scotland (North)
Nethercraigs Leisure Centre
- Where Nethercraigs Leisure Centre, 355 Corkerhill Road, Glasgow G52 1RR
- When Mon, Wed & Thurs: 09:00-21:00, Tues & Frid: 14:00-21:00, Sat & Sun: 09:00 - 17:00
- Contact 0141 287 3436
Opened by Sir Alex Ferguson in 2005, the Nethercraigs Sports Complex is Glasgow Club’s 18th centre, just a few yards from Corkerhill Railway Station near Bellahouston Park and Cardonald College.
The £3.4 million complex has a 400m athletics track as well as grass and synthetic football pitches and a fitness suite with state-of-the-art gym equipment and a purpose-built dance studio. There are also areas for various athletics activities including shot put and high jump. The track is available to members of the public and running groups.
List of Facilities in West of Scotland (North)
Argyll & Bute
East Dunbartonshire
- Kirkintilloch Leisure Centre
- The Leisuredrome
- Allander Leisure Centre
West Dunbartonshire
Glasgow
Have we missed something? Let us know here
Running Routes (West of Scotland - North)
Looking for somewhere different to run in your locale? Have a look at our running routes below, each detailed with information about the terrain.
Easier Runs
Medium Difficulty Runs
Difficult Runs
Got a route that you think we should feature? Tell us about it here
West of Scotland South
The west of Scotland has long been a hotbed of running talent, with well-established clubs such as Kilbarchan AAC, Ronhill Cambuslang Harriers and Ayr Seaforth producing a string of stars over the years. But far from being the exclusive domain of elite runners, the area is home to an inclusive running scene with the likes of Troon Tortoises and Strathaven Striders providing a welcoming environment for runners of all abilities.
We spoke to Hazel MacFarlane, president of Troon Tortoises, about the club's award-winning focus on inclusiveness and how it's leading the way in guide running for blind people. Hazel also discussed the 'graduation' process from jogger to runner.
Helping many runners in this progression is jogscotland, which has a growing network of groups across the region. Nigel Pacey (jogscotland Biggar) tells us about his group.
Following the success of Strathclyde parkrun, 2013 saw the launch of an event in Eglinton Park in Ayrshire - allowing runners to take part in the free weekly 5k every Saturday.
For the more serious runner there are over 30 tracks in the Renfrewshire, Lanarkshire and Ayrshire area. And if you're wanting a bit of competition, popular races in the area include Ayrodynamic Turkey Trot, Kilmalcolm Half Marathon/10K, Tom Scott 10 Mile Race, Paisley Vision 10K and Troon Tortoises 10K ' the largest midweek race of its kind in Scotland.
So whether you're an aspiring star of the track and field or simply enjoy going for a jog, there's something for everyone in the running empire that is the southwest!
Running clubs In the West of Scotland (South)
At A Glance Troon Tortoises
Who are Troon Tortoises? We’re a Troon based running club formed in 1976 who don’t take ourselves too seriously. We’re not an elitist club, we’re very inclusive! We were nominated for the Provost Sloan Trophy, club of the year for inclusion in sport last year. I’m completely blind so one of the big things the club does is give help to those with no experience in guide running.
Where and when do you meet? Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm at Marr College.
How many members? There are around 50. We have all ages but there’s a big group of older runners who have produced some great results. George McGregor, for example, was first in the over-65 category at the Great Scottish Run Half Marathon last year. We work in conjunction with Monkton Milers, assisting them with people getting started jogging. Many of those joggers go on to develop the confidence to move on to running competently and end up joining our club.
Famous past members? Among the founders was Ian Whittle, the father of Brian. Other successful athletes who started their careers with the Tortoises were Hazel Melvin who at one stage was top ranked high jumper in her age group in Britain, Marsella Robertson who was a Commonwealth Games finalist in the 1500m and Vicki MacPherson who came second in the World Student Cross Country Championships and first in the Scottish Cross Country Championships.
Associated with other clubs? Yes, there’s a lot of cross-pollination with other clubs. There’s the Troon Coastal Rowing Club which some of our members have ended up getting involved in and their members have come to our running club. The local triathlon club is also one we’re involved with; one of the triathlon members passed away and we organised a memorial race for him in February.
Social aspect? There’s a really strong social element to the club. We always have a Christmas night out. A group of 12 of us went up in a mini-bus for the Great Scottish Run this year then afterwards went for a meal and drinks. We’ll also do things like go for targeted runs but with the emphasis on socialising. We have a slightly quirky sense of humour but we’re a fun bunch!
Club events? We organise the Troon Tortoise 10K which is the biggest midweek 10k in Scotland. 7 May is the 2014 date. There’s always a big demand for it. We opened entries in January this year and places sold out by February.
Which races do club members take part in? Too many to mention! We’re always keen to support local races but our members also go running all over the world. Ayr Turkey Trot on Boxing Day is popular as is the Harriers vs Cyclists which is an obstacle race with runners and cyclists competing against each other. Virgin London Marathon is a big one for us too. Personally I’m a fan of ultras. One of my favourite races is the D33 near Aberdeen. I just love the camaraderie of ultra running. Everyone helps each other along and it’s a very relaxed environment.
Any notable current members? Yes there are lots. Ann Noble is one of my guide runners and she’s been brilliant. She does a lot of ultras and was first lady for her age group at the Niagara Falls Marathon. There’s Mark Caldwell who was second in The Spire, a race in Spain. He led throughout but was pipped at the post!
What about women runners? We have had an issue in the past with women joining the club but not taking part in any events - that’s changing though. We had six runners at the Great Scottish Run Half Marathon this year and for members Yvonne Feggans and Clare Bain, it was their first half marathon!
Anything else? I’d like to give a special mention our club secretary John McKinlay who recently completed his 70th marathon in his 70th year. He is critically ill right now so everyone at the club is thinking of him and wishing him the best.
For more information visit the club website
Clubs
Inverclyde
Renfrewshire
East Renfrewshire
East Ayrshire
North Ayrshire
South Ayrshire
South Lanarkshire
- Calderglen Harriers
- clyderunners
- East Kilbride AC
- Hamilton Harriers
- Larkhall YMCA Harriers
- Law & District AAC
- Ronhill Cambuslang Harriers
- Strathaven Striders
- Whitemoss AAC
North Lanarkshire
Running Services in the West of Scotland (South)
Physiotherapy
- Optimal Physio, Newton Mearns, Glasgow
- Ace Physiotherapy, Motherwell
- Ace Physiotherapy, East Kilbride
- David Steele Physiotherapy, Motherwell
Please contact us and we will include details of your service
Nutrition Advice
Please contact us and we will include details of your service
Personal Training
Please contact us and we will include details of your service
Podiatry
Please contact us and we will include details of your service
Sports Massage
Running groups in the West of Scotland (South)
Group Focus On jogscotland Biggar
Given his surname, it’s fitting that Nigel Pacey has become so involved in running. The jogleader spoke to us about his jogscotland Biggar group in South Lanarkshire and how a trip up a mountain piqued his interest in the sport.
“The group started about four years ago. I was already running regularly and decided to try and get a group together so I could go running with other people. Biggar isn’t a huge place but there’s a decent running scene here. A few people showed an interest and it just evolved from there. We’re a relatively small group but we welcome new members.”
Originally from Northampton, Nigel’s love of running began in his adopted home country. “I ran a race up a Munro about 25 years ago and finished at the back. I really enjoyed it but vowed I’d never finish last in a race again, that’s when I began to take the sport more seriously.”
Though the group is inclusive, the level of running at the group is quite high, as Nigel admits: “I’d say our members all run at a reasonable level. Everyone can comfortably run a 10K so I suppose compared to some other jogscotland groups we’re a bit more serious.”
So should novice runners look elsewhere if they’re wanting to join a group? “No I wouldn’t say that. We’re very welcoming so long as people are willing to do some work on their own. We meet up once a week but the rest of the week we expect our members to run on their own. If you want to go from running hardly ever to doing 10ks you need to put in the hours. If you’re willing to do that, we’re happy to have you run with us.”
Another feature that strikes you about the group is its association with Biggar Rugby Club. When you think of runners, bulky fly-halfs don’t immediately spring to mind…
“My rugby days ended when I left school. I have a runner’s body not a rugby player’s. The link is that I’m a committee member at the club so we use the club’s training ground as our base and make use of their facilities. I do coach rugby at junior level, but you won’t see me in the middle of a scrum any time soon.”
Given this link, you may be forgiven for thinking it’s a male-orientated group but Nigel is quick to dismiss this suggestion. “We’re quite mixed. We have some very strong female runners. In fact two members who have improved the most are Babs Muir and Jo McSween. They said they’d never run up a hill when they started but now they’re comfortably running 10k and heading out on trail runs. It’s great to watch people progress like that.”
Nigel realises that rising early at the weekend to go running isn’t everyone’s idea of fun. “We go out on Sundays at 9.15am, which may put some people off. We don’t really have a set route. So sometimes it’ll be flat, sometimes it’ll be hilly. We’ve become more adventurous recently and have started doing more trails and off-road routes.”
This adventurous spirit was evident when the group travelled down to the Lake District for the Coniston Trail Race 15K earlier this year. They also take part in events closer to home. “We like to do the local Biggar 10K each year which is part of the gala celebrations. About 40 runners take part each year. It’s not the most competitive race but there’s a great community spirit. “Last year, we organised an event for the Sport Relief Mile. It was a great success, raising just under £5000 and we’ve been asked to do it again this year.”
Reflecting on the value of running, Nigel highlights an often overlooked benefit - relaxation. “For me running has added a great deal to my life. Some folk may say it’s tough work but I find it relaxing. If you’ve had a stressful morning it’s great to go for a run to help you forget your problems and unwind.”
For anyone interested in joining jogscotland Biggar, email Nigel at nigel.pacey@awg.com
jogscotland groups in the West of Scotland (South)
Inverclyde
- Greenock (The Esplanade)
- Greenock Sports Centre
- Greenock (South Street)
- Inverkip (Marina Car Park)
Renfrewshire
- Jogging Buddies (Elderslie, Erskine, Linwood, Paisley)
- Elderslie
- Erskine
- Gleniffer High School
- Houston
- Linwood
- Lochwinnoch
- Paisley Buggy Buddies (Barshaw Park and Braehead)
- Paisley Reid Kerr College (various days)
- Paisley (Lagoon Centre)
- Penilee Mums on the Run (Penilee Community Centre)
- Ralston
- Renfrew Leisure Centre
East Renfrewshire
- Barrhead Sports Centre
- Canicross
- Captain Archie’s Hound Runners
- Giffnock, Greens Health and Fitness
- Joggy Doggies
- Neilston Leisure Centre
- Rouken Glen Park
- Whitelee Windfarm, Canicross
East Ayrshire
- Craufurdland Fishery Muddy Run
- Cumnock (Broomfield Running Track)
- Dunlop After School Jog Scotties (Dunlop PS)
- Dunlop (Village Hall)
- Fenwick Church Hall Car Park
- Killie Striders, Kilmarnock
- Kilmarnock, Howard Park (various days)
- Mums on the Run
- Ochiltree
- Stewarton (Standalane Centre)
- Sunrise Joggers
- Sunset Joggers (various days)
North Ayrshire
- Eglinton Country Park
- Kilwinning
- Knee High
- Radio City Kilbirnie
- Ron’s Runners
- Run Arran (advanced and intermediate)
- Run West Kilbride
- Saltcoats (St Matthew’s Academy Ath. Track)
South Ayrshire
- Alloway
- Ayr, Cromwell Road
- Ayr, Callaghans Exercise and Therapy Studio
- Ayr, Rozelle Park
- Ayr, South Beach Road
- Claudhoppers
- Monkton Milers
- Prestwick (Whinfield Place)
- Prestwick (Caelaverock Road)
South Lanarkshire
- Biggar
- Blantyre
- Cambuslang
- Carluke
- Chatelherault Country Park Canicross
- DB12Run
- East Kilbridge Fit4Less
- East Kilbride Village
- Greenhills, East Kilbride
- Hamilton (Palace Sports Ground)
- Hamilton Parents Group (Palace Sports Ground)
- Hamilton (Bell College)
- Stonehouse (Stonehouse running track)
- Lanark (Lanark Lifestyles)
- Rutherglen (Overtoun Park)
- Rutherglen (Dukes Road)
- St Brides, Cambuslang
- Strathclyde Park
- Strathclyde Park/Chatelherault Park Canicross
- Uddingston Parents Group (Uddingston Grammar)
North Lanarkshire
- Airdrie (Airdrie Leisure Centre)
- Arran Active Buggies
- Arran War Memorial Hospital
- Bellshill Penguins (Livingwell Gym)
- Calderbank
- Chryston (Iain Nicolson Centre)
- Cumbernauld (Broadwood Leisure Centre)
- Cumbernauld (Cumbernauld High School)
- Ravenscraig (Regional Sports Facility)
- Strathclyde Park (Beginner-Intermediate)
- Strathclyde Park (Intermediate-Development)
- Strathclyde Park (Bothwellhaugh Football Park)
- Wishaw
Independent Groups
- Good2run - Prolife Fitness Centre, Paisley
For more details of jogscotland groups visit their website
Leisure Facilities in the West of Scotland (North)
Nethercraigs Leisure Centre
- Where Nethercraigs Leisure Centre, 355 Corkerhill Road, Glasgow G52 1RR
- When Mon, Wed & Thurs: 09:00-21:00, Tues & Frid: 14:00-21:00, Sat & Sun: 09:00 - 17:00
- Contact 0141 287 3436
Opened by Sir Alex Ferguson in 2005, the Nethercraigs Sports Complex is Glasgow Club’s 18th centre, just a few yards from Corkerhill Railway Station near Bellahouston Park and Cardonald College.
The £3.4 million complex has a 400m athletics track as well as grass and synthetic football pitches and a fitness suite with state-of-the-art gym equipment and a purpose-built dance studio. There are also areas for various athletics activities including shot put and high jump. The track is available to members of the public and running groups.
Leisure Facilities in the West of Scotland (South)
Ayrshire Athletics Arena
- Where: Queen’s Drive, Kilmarnock, Ayrshire KA1 3XF
- When: Open 7 days, various times
- Contact: 01563 555227 Email Website
A hub of sporting activity, Ayrshire Athletics Arena caters for athletics, rugby, football judo, gymnastics and cricket. The arena boasts a UK Athletics Class A outdoor athletics facility with Mondo surface eight-lane track and a six-lane 63m indoor training area with a strength and conditioning area.
Local group Kilmarnock Harriers train at the centre and it is open to sports clubs, schools and community groups.