Hundreds of athletes enjoy 19th Dalbeattie Hardrock Challenge

Hundreds of athletes enjoyed the 19th Dalbeattie Hardrock Challenge over the weekend.

Gareth Montgomerie came out on top in Sunday’s duathlon through Dalbeattie Forest, with Kath Pidgon first woman.

And kids also had a great time tackling the junior challenge on Saturday.

Co-founder, Stuart Macintosh, said: “We’re pleased with the way things went.

“Numbers weren’t as big as they have been in years past but I think every event is the same.

“There were very few call-offs, which was quite good.

“We managed to get away injury free both days, with just a few minor scrapes, which was amazing considering the conditions.

“The weather wasn’t bad – it was a bit wet for the wee ones on Saturday, which made it tricky, quite a few of them slid off, but nothing major, and it was pretty good on Sunday.

“We’re pleased with the way things went.”

Gareth Montgomerie was first home in the solo competition, nearly five minutes ahead of runner-up Graeme Warren.

He was also first V40 male and first local competitor with Ally Wight – who finished third – the first Dalbeattie athlete home.

The vet 50 men’s prize went to Rik Allsop with Ian Bell first V60.

At the other end of the age scale was Oliver Hutchings, who was first male under 21.

The prize for first woman went to Kath Pidgon.

Taking the prize for the first mixed team were Jade Lau and Michael Pluckrose. The first men’s team were William Nash and Lewis Martin, with Allie Wilson and Kerstin Kinnaird the first women’s team.