Mallory Park near Leicester is used to hosting motor car racing over its undulating loop, but Saturday 3rd May saw finely tuned athletes in place of finely tuned motors. The Anglo Celtic Plate (ACP) is run over 100k, and competed between teams of runners from Scotland, England, Wales, N. Ireland and Rep of Ireland.
Falkirk Vics very own Danielle (Danni) Callaghan was selected to run, in her first outing in the Scotland Vest, and her first outing over the 100k distance. She was in a team of 3 women and ran a very strong race. Pacing well over a very testing 3 mile course, with a challenging hill each lap and described by a four time ACP veteran as the toughest course the event has been held at, Danni showed the grit and determination needed for such a gruelling event. Working steadily she found a second wind after about 75k and continued to move well until she had finished. She was 2nd counter (of 3) for her team, and Scotland Women won the Silver medal. The event was also used for the SAL 100k championship and Danni won Scottish Bronze.
As well as the SAL management team Danni was supported on the day by coach Grant Matheson and training partners Dougie Hill and Fiona Matheson.
I’m sure the whole club will take pride in knowing that the fine tradition of Falkirk Vics is alive and well, and has now extended internationally to the 100k distance.
Words by coach Grant Mathieson
Falkirk Victoria Harriers 