Buchlyvie 10k: A Gritty, Pain-Fueled Return to Roots – 10 Years Later!
Ten years ago, I laced up for the Buchlyvie 10k and crossed the finish line strong (check out my old race report: peterjgordon.com/buchlyvie-10k-2016). A decade on, I’ve been deep in the wild world of ultras, conquering endless trails, chasing 100-milers, and embracing Scotland’s raw long-distance adventures.
But with my massive West Highland Way challenge looming at the end of May, I needed something to keep me motovated, and a hit of proper racing! Spotting last year’s event, I jumped at the Buchlyvie 10k, a beloved Stirlingshire classic that’s been thrilling runners since 2006. This out-and-back trail mixes quiet roads and forestry paths with epic views of Ben Lomond looming like a giant. Nerves hit me harder than any ultra, heart racing as I packed the car with my incredible wife and our nonverbal autistic son, Roddy.
We rolled into historic Buchlyvie around 11:30am, a village with roots stretching back to the 1600s, granted burgh status in 1672, once a vital stop on the old military road. The ancient Fairy Knowe broch nearby whispers tales from over 2,000 years ago! At registration, I overheard a lucky first-timer grabbing bib #1, and learned someone was celebrating their 200th 10k, the spirit here is pure magic!
We ducked into the quirky Coffee Kiln café and pottery shop for steaming pea soup and gluten-free bread for Roddy, cozy perfection. Back at the pack hall, Roddy had more lunch while we geared up. Down at the start, we bumped into David from Run Rhaw, the welcoming, inclusive running group from Alexandria. We chatted about the difference between 10km and ultra with 10km hurting abit more. I spoke to my wife earlier about joining their Monday night sessions, definitely on my list once my legs recover!
A few quick drills, the gun fired, and we were off! I slotted near the back, loving the steady pace everyone took. The first half-mile flew by on Station Road, then onto the old railway track, smooth and wild!
But around 500m in… bam! My left calf twinged sharply. Cramp? Strain? I tried walking it out, no easing urgh. The last few weeks of inner knee niggles might be connected. But I was determined not to DNF, I slowed to a manageable pace, gritting my teeth through the pain. Thought to myself this was supposed to be a fun tune-up, now it was a battle!
The pain tried to steal the joy, but the course fought back: rolling countryside, distant hills, and that majestic Ben Lomond view. Marshals cheered like mad at every marker,I chuckled to myself with the enthusim, and a guy on a bike blasted Rocky tunes from a boombox, instant motivation!
The out leg felt endless with the niggle, but hitting the 5km turnaround and grabbing water? I was shocked, still moving decently! Back we went, every marker taunting me, but the marshals’ roars kept me pushing. Seeing David and the Run Rhaw crew storming past, strong and fierce, fired me up even more.
Finally, tarmac! The last hill loomed, calf screaming, but the finish line appeared like a beacon. There were my wife and Roddy, his excited face made every step worth it! I crossed in chip time 01:05:18 (gun time 01:05:31), finishing in position 208 out of the field. Not my fastest, but a tough, gritty effort on a challenging day, especially with the calf issue!
What an event! Super well-organised, chip-timed, with anniversary vibes and birthday cake for all. My wife and son enjoyed tea and gluten-free treats, so thoughtful and professional.
I can’t wait for next year’s 21st edition on 30th January 2027! And kill my disapointing time, I’ll join those Run Rhaw sessions and smash the John Muir Way ultra and West Highland Way Challenge Race and beyond.
Buchlyvie 10k, you are more than a race. You’re an adventure, a community, and proof that we keep pushing no matter what.
See you next year, faster, stronger, and ready to race!
Peter
Carer, runner, and forever chasing the next trail!