Helensburgh 10K

This is the race that kicked off our running career way back a few decades ago and our local one. We've seen many versions of the route over the years but in general terms the race starts at the far east side of the town and goes all the way to the far west side before returning to the start. The race is organised by Helensburgh AAC and what a wonderful job they do; not that we are biased in anyway. The marshal's and all the other volunteers are brilliant. Race numbers are sent out by mail so no need to register if you have your race number. Just turn up at least 15 minutes before the race starts for the safety brief and you are good to go.

The initial part of the race has lots of turns and a few bollards as you go through the small housing estate and you have a very small hill to contend with. Once at the top of the hill a short downhill takes you onto a straight for the next few KMs starting by running under the railway bridge for the West Highland line.

The route takes you onto East King Street for which is flat and lets you stretch out the legs before hitting an sharp short uphill at Lomond Street. A left turn takes you onto the lovely Argyle Street. The race date means you miss the apple blossom from the trees lining this street which is a bit of a shame. You are on this straight and flat section until the mark where you head up to Rhu road higher going past the local rugby and cricket club (The start line for the Trident X and the Highland games hill run).

A left hand turn takes you onto a bit of downhill the river Clyde past the mark and the water stop. From there you head left and up onto West King Street prior to the short climb up Colquhoun Street (short it maybe but feels like a mountain) and back to Argyle Street to retrace the start of the route for the last .

The race takes you past the start line to reach the finish just inside the school gates.

There are generally lots of places available for this race which wasn't always the case when it was the first race in the 4 race Polaroid series.

Good rail links from Glasgow and beyond. Get off at Craigendoran and the race start is just a 5 minute walk away.

There is a lot of parking at the school but this fills up quickly. On the other side of the main street there is lots of on street parking. Best not to park on the same side as the school as the race goes along these streets.

Outside the local school, Hermitage Academy.

Just inside the school gates

Given the size of the event this is a really nice, welcoming and relaxing finish area. There feels like lots of space to meet friends, get your medal and water. Well done Helensburgh AAC, a great 10K.