Teenager Hayleigh Reid Triumphs at River Ness 5K in Inverness

Thirteen-year-old Hayleigh Reid from New Deer in Aberdeenshire achieved a significant milestone in her running career by winning the women’s title at the River Ness 5K in Inverness on March 10, 2024. Reid finished the race with a time of 19 minutes and 6 seconds, securing victory with a commanding lead of 22 seconds over second-place finisher Kyla Grant, who completed the course in 19:28. Jessica Davidson rounded out the podium in third place, clocking in at 19:38.

Reid expressed her delight with the win, describing it as one of her best performances to date. “I thought that it was really good and the course was not too bad,” she remarked. “I have won some competitions previously and I would rank this as one of the top ones.” Her success at this event highlights her growing prowess in competitive running.

Notable Performances in Other Races

In the men’s race, Lachlan Thomas, an Invergordon teenager representing Ross County Athletics Club, also celebrated his first victory at the River Ness 5K. The event showcased a range of athletic talent across various categories, including the Loch Ness Marathon, where Alex Milne set a new men’s record, winning the title for the first time. In the women’s marathon, Melissah Gibson achieved the remarkable feat of winning for the third consecutive year.

The River Ness 10K also saw impressive performances, with Sean Chalmers from Maryburgh securing the men’s title and Muir of Ord’s Caitlyn Heggie winning the women’s race for the second time.

The participation numbers for this year’s events were notably high, with 33 percent of entries coming from local schools and clubs. Additionally, over half of all participants—51 percent—were aged under 18, showcasing the event’s appeal among younger athletes. The event also included the popular Wee Nessie, where 300 under-fives participated, highlighting a commitment to encouraging young runners.

The River Ness 5K and associated events not only celebrate athletic achievement but also foster community involvement, making it a key highlight in the local sporting calendar.