Published: Wednesday, 24th December, 2008 1:45pm

Strong field for Carnegie Harriers' 18th Festive Forest Race

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ANDREW WRIGHT clocked an impressive 40 minutes eight seconds to claim his first forest title at the 18th running of Carnegie Harriers" Festive Forest Run on Saturday.

The race attracted 43 club members contesting the tough seven-mile event through Blairadam Forest, near Kelty.

Wright was made to work hard for his victory with defending champion Tommy Lawrence putting in a strong run, finishing second overall in 40:22.

Veteran international Ian Stewart produced another outstanding run to place third in 41:25. Andy Durham, in his first ever Forest Race, placed an excellent fourth in 42:26 while David Simpson finished fifth in 43:30. Peter Humphreys was the leading M40 placing sixth overall in 43:57 and Ian Johnston won the M50 award placing ninth overall in 46:01. Ken Daniels was the leading M60, clocking 1:05.42 in 36th position.

Scottish 100k champion Gail Murdoch was the winner of the ladies" race in 54:42 (28th overall) and completes a superb season where she has set personal bests at all distances. Helena Sim placed second lady in 57:46 and Susan Cederstrom finished third lady in 59:14.

There were some excellent other performances in the race including new members Matt Meade (12th in 48:24), Alan Manson (22nd in 53:23) and David Greig (27th in 54:29) who all ran well in their first Forest Race.