Claire achieves a podium finish

Jun 25 2009 by Andrew McGilvray, Hamilton Advertiser

A HAMILTON woman set a personal best when she became the third female to cross the line in Sunday’s Diet Coke East Kilbride half marathon.

Claire McArthur finished the course in 1 hour, 27 minutes and 1 second, and achieved a ‘podium’ finish for the first time.

The 31-year-old, from Allanshaw Gardens, said: “I have run the race many times so I know the course well, but this is my fastest time and the first time I have been placed, so I am thrilled.

“There is always a lot of cheering as you go round and the atmosphere is brilliant.”

Over 1600 runners took part in the 10th Diet Coke East Kilbride half marathon and 10k event, raising much-needed cash for the Children’s Hospice Association Scotland (CHAS).

Among the runners was Debbie Traynor, CHAS’ West of Scotland fundraising manager, who said: “Support for this year’s 10k and half marathon has been fantastic, with over 50 runners for CHAS alone.”

During the race, supporters of all ages took part in a number of fun events, which included welly-throwing, sack racing and face painting.

Alan Halliday, regional director of Coca-Cola Enterprises (CCE) in Scotland, said: “We were delighted with the number of entries this year and it was great to see so many local people turn out to give their support.

“Congratulations go to all those who completed the half marathon and 10k courses.”

The event is a partnership between CCE, South Lanarkshire Leisure, South Lanarkshire Council, East Kilbride Athletic Club and local athletes.

CHAS is a Scottish charity established to provide hospice services in Scotland for children and young adults with life-limiting conditions.

The charity offers professional care, practical help and emotional support to the whole family, usually from the day they are referred until the death of their child and beyond.