Ollie makes a splash
CUPAR and District Swimming Club member Ollie Carter has been rewarded for the hard work he's put in in the pool over the past few months.
The 13-year-old from Dairsie has been invited to join the Fife Performance Swim Squad on a part time basis, swimming with the squad on a Wednesday evening, Friday evening and Saturday morning.
A first year pupil at Bell Baxter High School, Ollie has been swimming as part of the FPSS for the last few months and has impressed the lead coach, John Dougall.
He is also currently being assessed for paralympic classification and hopes to be certificated in the next few weeks.
Ollie favours distance events in swimming.
This latest invitation now brings Cupar's participation in the Fife Performance Swim Squad up to four part-time and one full-time member.
Cupar lead coach, Mark Laing, said: "Ollie's drive and determination are an inspiration to all his fellow swimmers at Cupar and his place at FPSS is well-deserved and well-earned.
"He is a powerful and committed swimmer."
Nina does herself proud in Ypres
VAULTING AMBITION: From left -Tara Foster, Sophie Curran, Fiona Cameron (coach) and Nina Revell.
Back from Belgium with a bulging haul of medals
BY SCOTT INGLIS
scott.inglis@jpress.co.uk
A FOURTH-year Bell Baxter High School pupil travelled to Ypres in Belgium to compete in the Lucien Mus Cup - an international gymnastics spectacular.
The competition attracted teams from Belgium, France, Holland, Germany, Scotland and England.
Local teen Nina Revell was part of a 12- strong team representing Auchterarder Gymnastics Club.
The senior team, made up of Nina, Maryth Hunter, Sophie Gurran and Tara Forster, returned victorious with the winning trophy.
They also won an impressive haul of individual medals. Nina won three bronze medals for beam, floor and vault.
Proud mum Kirsten, who is also on the board at the gymnastics club, said the youngster "thoroughly enjoyed" the competition.
She said: "They trained at the gym on Friday and spent time visiting the war memorials before hitting the local chocolate shops in Ypres."Although the purpose of the trip was to compete, the girls also enjoyed spending time in Ypres.
"Having competed in the same competition two years ago when her team finished second, it was great to come first this time.
"Nina's routines went well and she was happy with her performances.
"She had been working hard in the gym perfecting her skills prior to the competition and was very pleased to perform well.
"There was a great team spirit and all the girls supported one and other.
"All the coaches at the gym have worked hard to get the team ready for the competition and head coach Fiona Cameron was very proud of all the girls."
The senior team finished in first place, the Junior B team finished fourth and the Junior A team in ninth place overall.
Head coach Fiona Cameron said the competition had been a success in terms of results and that a fun weekend and good experience was had by all.
BY SCOTT INGLIS
scott.inglis@jpress.co.uk
A FOURTH-year Bell Baxter High School pupil travelled to Ypres in Belgium to compete in the Lucien Mus Cup - an international gymnastics spectacular.
The competition attracted teams from Belgium, France, Holland, Germany, Scotland and England.
Local teen Nina Revell was part of a 12- strong team representing Auchterarder Gymnastics Club.
The senior team, made up of Nina, Maryth Hunter, Sophie Gurran and Tara Forster, returned victorious with the winning trophy.
They also won an impressive haul of individual medals. Nina won three bronze medals for beam, floor and vault.
Proud mum Kirsten, who is also on the board at the gymnastics club, said the youngster "thoroughly enjoyed" the competition.
She said: "They trained at the gym on Friday and spent time visiting the war memorials before hitting the local chocolate shops in Ypres."Although the purpose of the trip was to compete, the girls also enjoyed spending time in Ypres.
"Having competed in the same competition two years ago when her team finished second, it was great to come first this time.
"Nina's routines went well and she was happy with her performances.
"She had been working hard in the gym perfecting her skills prior to the competition and was very pleased to perform well.
"There was a great team spirit and all the girls supported one and other.
"All the coaches at the gym have worked hard to get the team ready for the competition and head coach Fiona Cameron was very proud of all the girls."
The senior team finished in first place, the Junior B team finished fourth and the Junior A team in ninth place overall.
Head coach Fiona Cameron said the competition had been a success in terms of results and that a fun weekend and good experience was had by all.
Medal haul for swimmer Kirsty at national championships
CUPAR swimmer Kirsty Simpson stepped up a gear last week when she notched up six new personal best times and set a new Scottish record for her age group.
The 17-year-old, who started her competitive career with Cupar Swimming Club and now swims with Dundee City Aquatics, was competing at the five-day Scottish Gas National Age Group Championships at the Commonwealth Pool.
She picked up a gold medal in the 100m freestyle with a time of 57.83s and three silvers, in the 200m backstroke (2.20.01), 100m backstroke (1.04.09) - just being pipped at the touch by less than half a second by Olympic swimmer Hannah Miley - and 100 fly (1.02.96).
She also won bronze in the 200m IM (2.21.04), which saw her finish just behind another Olympian, this time Kerri-Anne Payne, and 200m freestyle (2.05.21).
All except the 200m backstroke were PBs, as was her time of 26.88 in the 50m freestyle.
Her time for the 100m backstroke was a new Scottish age group record.
Marathon of a 50th birthday for Eric
By Liz Rougvie
liz.rougvie@jpress.co.uk
Cupar stroke survivor storms the Bastille
A CUPAR stroke survivor has marked his 50th birthday by taking part in the Paris Marathon to raise funds for a charity close to his heart.
Eric Thomson, who is principal teacher of biology at Bell Baxter High School, finished the gruelling run in an impressive time of four hours and six minutes.
‘The course was very .challenging - more so than my previous marathon in Edinburgh,’ he said.
‘The statistics show this with thousands of runners failing to finish.’
With some 50,000 entrants, the Paris Marathon is one of the world's largest, ranking alongside New York and London, and this year over 100 nations were represented.
‘The start of the race was really quite hectic,’ said Eric.
He said it seemed as if the entire world had decided to be in Paris for the day of the event and, running across the square where the notorious prison of the Bastille once stood, through fireworks and firecrackers, created an electric atmosphere never to be forgotten.
Eric continued: ‘Paris is a very beautiful city and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, especially running along the Seine past the Eiffel Tower.
‘My wife Lesley and my two daughters, Julia and Katie, were cheering me on at La Bastille on two occasions which really helped.
‘The French people love their sport and were very vocal and supportive all along the course.
‘The Paris Marathon always ends in a state of euphoria, with the satisfaction of a difficult goal achieved.
‘I vaguely remember the last few miles of the course - and that is without the wine at 35km - and felt so relieved to see the finish line on the incredibly beautiful Avenue Foch, ending a fantastic journey around a truly remarkable city.’
Eric, who ran in aid of Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, suffered a stroke in 2006, which affected his speech and movement down his left side.
He has now fully recovered and along the way has raised over £7000 for the Scottish Stroke Association as well as CHSS.
liz.rougvie@jpress.co.uk
Cupar stroke survivor storms the Bastille
A CUPAR stroke survivor has marked his 50th birthday by taking part in the Paris Marathon to raise funds for a charity close to his heart.
Eric Thomson, who is principal teacher of biology at Bell Baxter High School, finished the gruelling run in an impressive time of four hours and six minutes.
‘The course was very .challenging - more so than my previous marathon in Edinburgh,’ he said.
‘The statistics show this with thousands of runners failing to finish.’
With some 50,000 entrants, the Paris Marathon is one of the world's largest, ranking alongside New York and London, and this year over 100 nations were represented.
‘The start of the race was really quite hectic,’ said Eric.
He said it seemed as if the entire world had decided to be in Paris for the day of the event and, running across the square where the notorious prison of the Bastille once stood, through fireworks and firecrackers, created an electric atmosphere never to be forgotten.
Eric continued: ‘Paris is a very beautiful city and I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, especially running along the Seine past the Eiffel Tower.
‘My wife Lesley and my two daughters, Julia and Katie, were cheering me on at La Bastille on two occasions which really helped.
‘The French people love their sport and were very vocal and supportive all along the course.
‘The Paris Marathon always ends in a state of euphoria, with the satisfaction of a difficult goal achieved.
‘I vaguely remember the last few miles of the course - and that is without the wine at 35km - and felt so relieved to see the finish line on the incredibly beautiful Avenue Foch, ending a fantastic journey around a truly remarkable city.’
Eric, who ran in aid of Chest Heart and Stroke Scotland, suffered a stroke in 2006, which affected his speech and movement down his left side.
He has now fully recovered and along the way has raised over £7000 for the Scottish Stroke Association as well as CHSS.
Last minute drama in Murrayfield Final
SHARED GLORY: Team captalns Oliver Ryan (Jedburgh) and Murdo Sinclair (Bell Baxter) wtth the shared plate.
Jedburgh Grammar School.........15
Bell Baxter High School..............15
A LAST gasp penalty from Bell Baxter ensured they shared the Brewin Dolphin under 16 plate with Jedburgh GS.
The flxture was played at Murrayfield, the home of Scottish rugby, and Callum Harris's effort with the last kick of the game was a fitting end to a pulsating clash and capped a fine comeback by the local school.
Harris's strike for offside from around 35 metres tied the scores at 15-all with the Fifers having recovered from a 5-15 deficit with around ten minutes of play remaining.
Their finale was engineered by livewire diminutive full-back Kieran Bremner who wove his way through the Jed defence for a stunning individual try, which Harris had converted.
Bremner had hinted from the early stages that, given space, he would seek to attack the Jed defence. Jed had a try by Robbie Yourston ruled out for a forward pass in the opening exchanges.
From Bremner's first flourish, Bell Baxter surged over for the first points of the night - a try by tight-head prop Marc Duncan.
Kieran Slingsby in the Jed back-row had to make a try-saving tackle on his own line as Bell Baxter continued to make the better Impression.
When Jed had stand-off Elüot Stewart yellow-carded for obstruction, it looked as if the Fifers could benefit.
Instead, with number eight Grant Paxton leading the forward effort, Jed started to gain the ascendancy.
Yourston notched a penalty and then scrum-half Gary Munro showed all the qualities expected of the number nine royal blue Jersey to snipe in for the Borderers' first try. Yourston converted to give Jed a 10-5 lead at the interval.
Into the second-half and Jed flanker John Feeney extended their lead with a try and when loose-head prop Gary Clarkson was held up over the line from another rumbustious break from man of the match Munro.
It was hard to see a way back for Bell Baxter until Bremner conjured the opening somehow and the thrilling finish ensued. Bell Baxter HS - Kieran Bremner; Callum Fox, Euan Muir, Callum Harris, Kieran Brouqh; Liam San Roman, Euan Harris; Ross Stockton, Murdo Sinclair captain, Marc Duncan, Stuart Dawson, Ryan Batehup, Cameron Eggelstone, Gavin Murray and Callum Stuart. Subs: Greg Armit, Steven Dalrymple, Jack Tuft, Ewan Jenks, Cameron Lonie, Jack Richardson and Matthew McDougall.
Bell Baxter High School..............15
A LAST gasp penalty from Bell Baxter ensured they shared the Brewin Dolphin under 16 plate with Jedburgh GS.
The flxture was played at Murrayfield, the home of Scottish rugby, and Callum Harris's effort with the last kick of the game was a fitting end to a pulsating clash and capped a fine comeback by the local school.
Harris's strike for offside from around 35 metres tied the scores at 15-all with the Fifers having recovered from a 5-15 deficit with around ten minutes of play remaining.
Their finale was engineered by livewire diminutive full-back Kieran Bremner who wove his way through the Jed defence for a stunning individual try, which Harris had converted.
Bremner had hinted from the early stages that, given space, he would seek to attack the Jed defence. Jed had a try by Robbie Yourston ruled out for a forward pass in the opening exchanges.
From Bremner's first flourish, Bell Baxter surged over for the first points of the night - a try by tight-head prop Marc Duncan.
Kieran Slingsby in the Jed back-row had to make a try-saving tackle on his own line as Bell Baxter continued to make the better Impression.
When Jed had stand-off Elüot Stewart yellow-carded for obstruction, it looked as if the Fifers could benefit.
Instead, with number eight Grant Paxton leading the forward effort, Jed started to gain the ascendancy.
Yourston notched a penalty and then scrum-half Gary Munro showed all the qualities expected of the number nine royal blue Jersey to snipe in for the Borderers' first try. Yourston converted to give Jed a 10-5 lead at the interval.
Into the second-half and Jed flanker John Feeney extended their lead with a try and when loose-head prop Gary Clarkson was held up over the line from another rumbustious break from man of the match Munro.
It was hard to see a way back for Bell Baxter until Bremner conjured the opening somehow and the thrilling finish ensued. Bell Baxter HS - Kieran Bremner; Callum Fox, Euan Muir, Callum Harris, Kieran Brouqh; Liam San Roman, Euan Harris; Ross Stockton, Murdo Sinclair captain, Marc Duncan, Stuart Dawson, Ryan Batehup, Cameron Eggelstone, Gavin Murray and Callum Stuart. Subs: Greg Armit, Steven Dalrymple, Jack Tuft, Ewan Jenks, Cameron Lonie, Jack Richardson and Matthew McDougall.
Bell Baxter pupil packs his boots for Wellington
A BELL BAXTER High School pupil has been called up for national Service as part of the U16 Scotland rugby team.
Calum Harris, an S4 pupil and member of Howe Rugby Club, has secured his position in the team who are travelling to Wellington, Berkshire, to play matches against England, Wales and France during the first week of the Easter holidays.
They played their first match against Newcastle Falcons last Sunday (24 March) at Murrayfield Stadium.
Calum, along with other Howe boys, took part in the Fif e and Tayside rugby programme last summer and from this was selected with another S4 pupil, Keiran Bremner, to be part of the U16 Scotland Development programme for coaches to have a closer look at and assess.
Calum, Keiran and Ollie Davidson (Howe/Glenalmond School) were then selected to play for the Caledonia team before the regional matches between Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Borders then took place at Murrayfield.
It was from these matches that Calum was invited to the Scotland trials where he, like 26 other boys in Scotland, was selected for the final U16 squad.
Howe have had further representation at a higher level of performance, with Callum Stuart, Lome Christie and Dennis Potter, all boys in S5 at Bell Baxter, recently playing for the U17 Caledonia team.
The boys played regional matches against Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Borders at Murrayfield.
From these matches, Dennis has landed a trial for the U17 Scotland squad, which will be visiting Spain for a two-week training Session in the summer.
All these boys are another success story for the Howe of Fif e rugby club youth rugby programme.
Calum Harris, an S4 pupil and member of Howe Rugby Club, has secured his position in the team who are travelling to Wellington, Berkshire, to play matches against England, Wales and France during the first week of the Easter holidays.
They played their first match against Newcastle Falcons last Sunday (24 March) at Murrayfield Stadium.
Calum, along with other Howe boys, took part in the Fif e and Tayside rugby programme last summer and from this was selected with another S4 pupil, Keiran Bremner, to be part of the U16 Scotland Development programme for coaches to have a closer look at and assess.
Calum, Keiran and Ollie Davidson (Howe/Glenalmond School) were then selected to play for the Caledonia team before the regional matches between Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Borders then took place at Murrayfield.
It was from these matches that Calum was invited to the Scotland trials where he, like 26 other boys in Scotland, was selected for the final U16 squad.
Howe have had further representation at a higher level of performance, with Callum Stuart, Lome Christie and Dennis Potter, all boys in S5 at Bell Baxter, recently playing for the U17 Caledonia team.
The boys played regional matches against Glasgow, Edinburgh and the Borders at Murrayfield.
From these matches, Dennis has landed a trial for the U17 Scotland squad, which will be visiting Spain for a two-week training Session in the summer.
All these boys are another success story for the Howe of Fif e rugby club youth rugby programme.
President Gina
Gina Logan was installed as President of the Scottish Swimming Association at its AGM last month. This is a well-deserved honour for someone who has given so much of herself as competitor, trainer and organiser over so many years. Bell Baxter FP Association sends its warmest congratulations and wishes Gina every success in her new appointment.
Here is how the Fife Herald reported the news:
A CUPAR swimming teacher has gone a long way since, as a child, her three elder brothers atempted to cast her adrift in the River Tay!
Well known for teaching at Cupar pool and Fife Institute, Gina has already received national recognition for her talents, being appointed depute general team manager for the Commonwealth Games in Melbourne (2006), Dehli (2010) and next year in Glasgow.
And, just last month (February 2013) she was named President of the Scottish Amateur Swimming Association!
Gina's involvement in the administration side of swimming began äs a result of her five children becoming accomplished swimmers at their local dub, Cupar & District, where even today they still hold club records.
At the same time Gina continued in her profession äs a teacher of Physical Education at Fife Institute - part of which was teaching all age groups to swim and working with Disability swimming and Gala Convenor for Fife Schools swimming for 10 years.
As always in sport administration there is a natural progression from Club to Region to District and Gina soon became Fife Swimming convenor and latterly convenor of Fife Region, and also secretary of East District.
She has also been instrumental in the.establishment of the Fife Performance squad - a long ambition to see Fife Performance swimmers have the opportunity to train in Fife.
Through her position as East District secretary she became a member of Council of Scottish Swimming, later vice-president and so to her position now as president of Scottish Swimming and member of the Board of Directors of Scottish Swimming.
Gina told the Herald there was only one drawback to being installed as president of Scottish Swimming on a Saturday; she had to get someone eise to take her classes at Cupar pool!
She teaches there most days and in spite of all her other tasks and duties in swimming she loves teaching all ages to be confident in the water and enjoy the benefits of being able to swim.
Former Howe stars join Scottish squad
Chris Fusaro (left) and Peter Horne in action at the Junior World Cup
Fusaro and Horne in new-look national pool
From the Fife Herald 18 January 2013
by DAVE SCOTT
heraldnews@fifetoday.co.uk
T WO former Howe of Fife players, Chris Fusaro and Pete Horne, have been Included in the 35-strong first Scotland squad.
Back row forward Chris and back Pete are among the 10 uncapped players named this week by interim head coach Scott Johnston.
The 25-Strong squad will convene in Glasgow on Sunday for a three-day training camp ahead of the RBS 6 Nations Championship.
The 23-year-olds, who both play for Glasgow Warriors, attended Bell Baxter High School in Cupar, playing for both the school and Howe.
They were part of the group of local youngsters who achieved a rare double, playing in the Bell Baxter team who won the Bell Lawrie Scottish Schools' Cup and then in the Howe of Fife squad who lifted the Scottish Youth League Cup.
They went on to play for Scotiand under-19s and under-20s as well äs Scotiand 7s.
In 2011, Chris signed a new contract with Glasgow Warriors that will keep him with the club until at least the end of May 2014.
He initially joined Warriors on a two-year deal in March 2010. He established himself as a key member of the Glasgow team in 2011/12, noted for his aggression and ball-winning ability.
He was voted Warriors' 2011/12-Player of the Year by the club's fans, having already been named Players' Player of the Season and the club's Player of the Season.
Pete made his debut for Glasgow Warriors as a replacement in the Magners League match against Ulster in March 2009.
He was awarded a full-time Scotland 7s contract last season in the lead up to the 2011/12 HSBC Sevens World Series after captaining Glasgow Warriors to victory in the Glasgow City Sevens.
Injury restricted his involvement in the abbreviated game but he has made seven tournament appearances for Scotland and has topped a Century of points through 17 tries and nine conversions.
He moved from Howe of Fife to West of Scotland for 2008/09 and has also played club rugby for Dundee HSFP and Melrose.
From the Fife Herald 18 January 2013
by DAVE SCOTT
heraldnews@fifetoday.co.uk
T WO former Howe of Fife players, Chris Fusaro and Pete Horne, have been Included in the 35-strong first Scotland squad.
Back row forward Chris and back Pete are among the 10 uncapped players named this week by interim head coach Scott Johnston.
The 25-Strong squad will convene in Glasgow on Sunday for a three-day training camp ahead of the RBS 6 Nations Championship.
The 23-year-olds, who both play for Glasgow Warriors, attended Bell Baxter High School in Cupar, playing for both the school and Howe.
They were part of the group of local youngsters who achieved a rare double, playing in the Bell Baxter team who won the Bell Lawrie Scottish Schools' Cup and then in the Howe of Fife squad who lifted the Scottish Youth League Cup.
They went on to play for Scotiand under-19s and under-20s as well äs Scotiand 7s.
In 2011, Chris signed a new contract with Glasgow Warriors that will keep him with the club until at least the end of May 2014.
He initially joined Warriors on a two-year deal in March 2010. He established himself as a key member of the Glasgow team in 2011/12, noted for his aggression and ball-winning ability.
He was voted Warriors' 2011/12-Player of the Year by the club's fans, having already been named Players' Player of the Season and the club's Player of the Season.
Pete made his debut for Glasgow Warriors as a replacement in the Magners League match against Ulster in March 2009.
He was awarded a full-time Scotland 7s contract last season in the lead up to the 2011/12 HSBC Sevens World Series after captaining Glasgow Warriors to victory in the Glasgow City Sevens.
Injury restricted his involvement in the abbreviated game but he has made seven tournament appearances for Scotland and has topped a Century of points through 17 tries and nine conversions.
He moved from Howe of Fife to West of Scotland for 2008/09 and has also played club rugby for Dundee HSFP and Melrose.
Former pupil returns to seek out future Scottish & Fife Olympiad Champions
Stuart Maxwell, Chief instructor of the Shukokai Karate Academy Scotland - and a former pupil of the then Bell Baxter Junior high School and Bell Baxter Senior High year 1966 to 1970, has along with Fife Council Sport Development returned to Bell Baxter to teach Karate and Self Defence classes to senior pupils on Friday afternoons 3-30pm to 5pm with a brand new after school class. This class is open to P6 & P7 primary school students and all 12 years to 18 years senior students. These classes may well be beneficial to teaching staff as well! We already have 7 senior girls from Bell Baxter attending. Some are members of SKAS and are already on the Karate International Circuit. The idea behind these classes is to give an opportunity to all pupils in the north east Fife area eventually to 'Attend Selection' to become part of the Fife Olympiad Team Fife for Turkey 2014 & Germany 2017 and to give all an equal opportunity to to compete at Scottish and British Karate Events in the calendar year. Remembering that our Academy is already very successful in a higher capacity with students able and disabled competing regularly at European and World Sanctioned events. Any present student of Karate is welcome to attend but must be a part of the Scottish Karate Governing Body. We are especially looking for young females to compete in 'Three In A Team' and Individual categories and, unlike other sports, there is no seclusion in our Academy.as every student is recognised on his/her merit's! The aforementioned is only a synopsis of what is Available in our Martial Arts Academy. Please go to http://www.shukokaikarateclassesinfife.co.uk/ or follow us on Facebook Shukokai Karate Academy Scotland
Stuart Maxwell KOI.WKF.EKF.BKF.SKGB
Take a look at our Karate sub-page for a series of slides showing just how enjoyable this sport can be.
Stuart Maxwell KOI.WKF.EKF.BKF.SKGB
Take a look at our Karate sub-page for a series of slides showing just how enjoyable this sport can be.
School runners on form
BELL Baxter High School pupils were amongst those taking part in the recent Scottish Disability Sport (SDS) East Cross Country Series at Peffermill Playing Fields, Edinburgh.
Local youngsters were in outstaitding form in the S1 Section in particular, with one athlete taking top spot
Dean Bruce from Bell Baxter led the field to race home in a time of 5:41, second place went to Stuart Taylor from Balwearie High School in 5:45 and third place went to Reece Dickson, also from Balwearie High School, who finished in 6:03.
The next scheduled event in the cross country programme will be the National Championships which are staged in March.
Local youngsters were in outstaitding form in the S1 Section in particular, with one athlete taking top spot
Dean Bruce from Bell Baxter led the field to race home in a time of 5:41, second place went to Stuart Taylor from Balwearie High School in 5:45 and third place went to Reece Dickson, also from Balwearie High School, who finished in 6:03.
The next scheduled event in the cross country programme will be the National Championships which are staged in March.
Alex the karate kid
A 14 year-old Strathmiglo lad is to take part in the JKS karate World Championships in Tokyo in July.
Alex McIntyre has been selected for the Scotland squad in the individual and team events.
A third year pupil at Bell Baxter High School, Alex has had a successful year, winning a third in the team kata at the JKS National Competition, third in paired kata at the British Karate Federation Championships and first in individual and team karate at the Blackburn Invitational Competition.
He has been chosen to represent Scotland at both kumite and kata at the JKS Ireland Open Competition in May.
Alex trains at the main JKS dojo in Dunfermline and at the JKS Perth dojo.
A fundraiser held in Strath Tavern for his Japan trip raised an impressive £520.
Bell Baxter U16s secure place in Murrayfield final
Bell Baxter U-16........................52
Wellington School U16............19
BELL Baxter Under-16s put on a display of high-tempo running rugby that was as exciting as it was effective to defeat the visitors.
The Cupar team opened the scoring when Kieran Brough barged over from short range. Calum 'Buc' Harris secured the extras. Wellington crossed over to reduce the leeway, but couldn't convert.
Liam San Roman touched down to restore Bell Baxter's advantage and the conversion extended it.
Euan Muir was next on the score sheet with a converted try and Harris rounded off the first half with a superb individual effort.
Harris slotted the conversion that followed San Roman's second period opener, then added seven points himself.
The final minutes of the game produced two more scores apiece in testament to the attacking mindset of both teams, Euan Muir and Keiran Bremner picking up the Bell Baxter points to make it 52-19.
This performance, like this game, was a long time coming but was well worth the wait.
If some of the handling skills looked a little awry at times, and match fitness looked a little suspect towards the end, this could be forgiven when one considers the paucity of preparation time afforded them by the weather.
Bell Baxter more than compensated for any ring-rustiness in the passion, commitment and sheer determination they brought to the fight.
Wellington were aggressive and positive throughout and contributed massively to the spectacle, but in the end the men from Ayr were soundly beaten.
Bell Baxter now face the prospect of challenging Jedburgh, the current holders of the Brewin Dolphin Plate, in the final at Murrayfield in what will be the biggest match the school has been involved in for some time.
It is to be hoped that äs many supporters äs possible from the töwn and the school make the trip to cheer the team on.
Wellington School U16............19
BELL Baxter Under-16s put on a display of high-tempo running rugby that was as exciting as it was effective to defeat the visitors.
The Cupar team opened the scoring when Kieran Brough barged over from short range. Calum 'Buc' Harris secured the extras. Wellington crossed over to reduce the leeway, but couldn't convert.
Liam San Roman touched down to restore Bell Baxter's advantage and the conversion extended it.
Euan Muir was next on the score sheet with a converted try and Harris rounded off the first half with a superb individual effort.
Harris slotted the conversion that followed San Roman's second period opener, then added seven points himself.
The final minutes of the game produced two more scores apiece in testament to the attacking mindset of both teams, Euan Muir and Keiran Bremner picking up the Bell Baxter points to make it 52-19.
This performance, like this game, was a long time coming but was well worth the wait.
If some of the handling skills looked a little awry at times, and match fitness looked a little suspect towards the end, this could be forgiven when one considers the paucity of preparation time afforded them by the weather.
Bell Baxter more than compensated for any ring-rustiness in the passion, commitment and sheer determination they brought to the fight.
Wellington were aggressive and positive throughout and contributed massively to the spectacle, but in the end the men from Ayr were soundly beaten.
Bell Baxter now face the prospect of challenging Jedburgh, the current holders of the Brewin Dolphin Plate, in the final at Murrayfield in what will be the biggest match the school has been involved in for some time.
It is to be hoped that äs many supporters äs possible from the töwn and the school make the trip to cheer the team on.
Swimming to medals at school championships
TOO POOL FOR SCHOOL The Fife Performance Squad swimmers who represented their schools at the national championshlps
TWO swimmers affiliated to North East Fife schools competed in the finals of the Scottish Schools Championships held in Dollan Baths, East Kilbride, on Saturday 26 January 2013.Beth Constance (13), of Madras and 15 year-old Thomas Farrell, of Bell Baxter, both swam the 100m and 200m backstroke in their finals, going on to take several seconds off their previous lifetime best swim times.
They were among a team of ten Fife swimmers who compete with the Fife Performance Swimming Squad (FPSS), who took part in the finals.
Sixteen year-old Jordan Lamb from Cardenden won gold medals in both the 100m and 200m backstroke finals, whilst competing in 17-19 years age group.
Thirteen-year-old Jack Harrison, Inverkeithing High School, also excelled in the backstroke event, becoming the Scottish Schools double champion.
The hat-trick was completed by 13 year-old Lauren Pirouet, from Queen Anne High School, Dunfermline. Lauren is considered one of the most outstanding freestyle swimmers in her age group nationally.
She proved this by clinching gold in both the 100m and 200m freestyle finals, to also become double Scottish Schools champion.
Success for the Fife swimmers was not to end there.
Greg Watson (17), Kirkcaldy, won the silver medal in the final of the 100m freestyle event. whilst Katie Jonstone, 16, Dunfermline, clinched bronze in the 200m backstroke final.
Other FPSS swimmers representing their respective schools were Andrew Campbell of Kirkcaldy High School, Greg Turner, Balwearie High School and Kyle Pate, Lochgelly High School.
John Dougall, head Coach of the FFPS, said: "I am sure that our swimmers' respective schools will be extremely proud of what their pupils have managed to achieve at this major championship event.
"It is the swimmers dedication to training week in week out that has led to them placing themselves on the podium time and time again."
They were among a team of ten Fife swimmers who compete with the Fife Performance Swimming Squad (FPSS), who took part in the finals.
Sixteen year-old Jordan Lamb from Cardenden won gold medals in both the 100m and 200m backstroke finals, whilst competing in 17-19 years age group.
Thirteen-year-old Jack Harrison, Inverkeithing High School, also excelled in the backstroke event, becoming the Scottish Schools double champion.
The hat-trick was completed by 13 year-old Lauren Pirouet, from Queen Anne High School, Dunfermline. Lauren is considered one of the most outstanding freestyle swimmers in her age group nationally.
She proved this by clinching gold in both the 100m and 200m freestyle finals, to also become double Scottish Schools champion.
Success for the Fife swimmers was not to end there.
Greg Watson (17), Kirkcaldy, won the silver medal in the final of the 100m freestyle event. whilst Katie Jonstone, 16, Dunfermline, clinched bronze in the 200m backstroke final.
Other FPSS swimmers representing their respective schools were Andrew Campbell of Kirkcaldy High School, Greg Turner, Balwearie High School and Kyle Pate, Lochgelly High School.
John Dougall, head Coach of the FFPS, said: "I am sure that our swimmers' respective schools will be extremely proud of what their pupils have managed to achieve at this major championship event.
"It is the swimmers dedication to training week in week out that has led to them placing themselves on the podium time and time again."
Kirsty continues to make a splash
RISING swimming star Kirsty Simpson was on winning form again just before Christmas when she competed in the end-of-year Scottish National Short Course meet at Edinburgh's Royal Commonwealth Pool.
A member of Dundee City Aquatics, Bell Baxter pupil Kirsty (16), who is a prospect for the Glasgow 2014 Commonweatlh Games, was in great form, picking up three medals in her favoured backstroke events. The best performance was her 200m backstroke, where she was. stroke for stroke with eventual winner Charlotte McKenzie and only losing out on the touch, both touching in 2:10. This swim put Kirsty up into the top 100 swims in the world last year in short course.
In the 50m backstroke, Kirsty's time broke the Scottish age group record and put her at second fastest Scottish female of all time, seventh fastest in the UK last year and 75th in the world.
Her 100m time ranks her 4th in the UK for her age and her 200m finish pushed her to second in the UK for her age, and 55th fastest in the world last year.
Meanwhile, the Cupar teenager's 100m free performance saw her take the top position in Scotland for her age.
The Simpson family were also celebrating younger sister Fiona's success. Also a member of Dundee City Aquatics, Fiona (14), was competing in her first nationals championships and while she did not finish among the medal winners, she improved on her personal best times.
Kirsty, who is currently on a three-week intensive training camp in Australia, is always looking for sponsorship from local companies and organisations to help with her training costs, which are around £10,000 a year in order to achieve her goal of Commonwealth and Olympic glory.
A member of Dundee City Aquatics, Bell Baxter pupil Kirsty (16), who is a prospect for the Glasgow 2014 Commonweatlh Games, was in great form, picking up three medals in her favoured backstroke events. The best performance was her 200m backstroke, where she was. stroke for stroke with eventual winner Charlotte McKenzie and only losing out on the touch, both touching in 2:10. This swim put Kirsty up into the top 100 swims in the world last year in short course.
In the 50m backstroke, Kirsty's time broke the Scottish age group record and put her at second fastest Scottish female of all time, seventh fastest in the UK last year and 75th in the world.
Her 100m time ranks her 4th in the UK for her age and her 200m finish pushed her to second in the UK for her age, and 55th fastest in the world last year.
Meanwhile, the Cupar teenager's 100m free performance saw her take the top position in Scotland for her age.
The Simpson family were also celebrating younger sister Fiona's success. Also a member of Dundee City Aquatics, Fiona (14), was competing in her first nationals championships and while she did not finish among the medal winners, she improved on her personal best times.
Kirsty, who is currently on a three-week intensive training camp in Australia, is always looking for sponsorship from local companies and organisations to help with her training costs, which are around £10,000 a year in order to achieve her goal of Commonwealth and Olympic glory.
Cupar trio making a splash with Fife swimming squad
THE hard work put in over the last year has certainly paid dividends for three young Cupar swimmers.
All three have been invited to join the Fife Performance Swim Squad on a part-time basis, swimming with the squad on a Wednesday evening, Friday evening and Saturday morning.
The three swimmers - Lewis Baillie, Alexandrea Smith Mackay and Abby Hay, pictured - have been training with the lead coach of Cupar, Russ Green, in an intense technique group for the last 12 months and have been part of the FPSS on a Wednesday night for the last few months.
Twelve year old Lewis, a first year pupil at Bell Baxter High School, won all his races at the Cupar Swimming Club Championships and is looking forward to the challenge of the extra work. Alexandrea is a second year pupil at BeH Baxter High School and is also a talented musician. She finds time to study violin to Grade 4 and piano to Grade 2 standard. Abby Hay is a year eight pupil at St Leonards, St Andrews, and represents her school at hockey, athletics and riding as well as swimming. Outwith school, her main interest is tetrathlon - cross country riding, shooting, running and swimming.
Both girls shared the spoils at the Club Championships in the summer and are looking forward to the club's winter distance championships in the next couple of weeks.
Bell Baxter edge out Waid
Bell Baxter U16 XV...................43
Wald Academy U16 XV............31
PLAYED under floodlights at Duffus this Regional Final of The Brewin Dolphin Plate served up excitement and drama by the bucket load as these two teams fought tooth and nail for the bragging rights that come with the champion's title.
Early exchanges went Howe's way but stoic defending on the Waid line saw their initial attacks repulsed and, in a precursor to the ebb and flow which was to be a feature of this tie, Waid swept down-field and established themselves in the Bell Baxter 22. Bell Baxter now faced a series of testing defensive set-pieces where the disparity in size between the two packs gave Waid clear dominance at scrum-time and signalled a hard day at the office for Mssrs Matthew MacDougall, Murdo Sinclair and Ryan Bateup. The Waid forwards were to beat Bell Baxter to the hit and drive throughout the match sending the home pack backwards at almost every encounter, but the Cupar Captain's appeals for clarification on what constituted early engagement were to be waved away.
Somehow the Bell Baxter line was held and when Waid were a little tardy in supporting their ball carrier at a ruck, the possession was pinched and fed to Fantastic Mr Fox on his own 5. He duly hit the afterburners and somehow, in a jaw-dropping piece of individual running that remains hard to explain, scorched a pitch length to score and send the noisy home support wild.
Waid seemed a little stunned by this turnaround, and the hosts found that there was room to be exploited in the wide open spaces. Possession, fought for at such high cost by the-embattled Bell Baxter pack, was now shipped quickly out and Waid found themselves scrambling desperately to cope with the ebullient running of the home backs who cut a swathe through their opposite numbers and kept the Scoreboard ticking over.
Firstly Keiran Bremner, lightning fast and elusive, and then the speedy, abrasive Euan Muir (for two!) cut their way in-goal. Two conversions from Calum "Buc" Harris, against a short distance tap-and-go run in from Waid, saw half time arrive with the hosts 24-5 in front. Waid, realising where their strength lay, determined to keep things tight in the second half and got a very effective pick-and-go game going. They made great progress and duly bullied their way into the scoring zone, the conversion meaning 24-12.
A fascinating tactical battle now ensued as, reading their opponents intentions, Bell Baxter risked committing only a few brave souls to the rucks, there merely to encourage Waid's full attendance in the hope of creating extra space and support for their own counterattacks once possession came their way. This was high stake rugby, requiring patience and self-belief, and made for difficult viewing at times.
The second half was a real ding-dong affair as the two teams slugged it out in a classic contest akin to that between the strength of a fighter and the guile of a counter-punching boxer. Bell Baxter's bold plan to roll with the punches and hit back hard proved successful, as Kieran Brough, Keiran Bremner and "Buc" Harris (playing out of position on a welcome return from injury) made it seven tries on the night to secure the victory and the title by 43 points to 31.
What a match Waid made of it! They were worthy finalists, their forwards in particular playing with real gusto, and it's great to see the Anstruther men back on the rugby map in Fife.
Bell Baxter now move forward into the national competition where, it is to be hoped, the same selfless determination on display here will see them progress and win further plaudits for rugby in The Kingdom.
Wald Academy U16 XV............31
PLAYED under floodlights at Duffus this Regional Final of The Brewin Dolphin Plate served up excitement and drama by the bucket load as these two teams fought tooth and nail for the bragging rights that come with the champion's title.
Early exchanges went Howe's way but stoic defending on the Waid line saw their initial attacks repulsed and, in a precursor to the ebb and flow which was to be a feature of this tie, Waid swept down-field and established themselves in the Bell Baxter 22. Bell Baxter now faced a series of testing defensive set-pieces where the disparity in size between the two packs gave Waid clear dominance at scrum-time and signalled a hard day at the office for Mssrs Matthew MacDougall, Murdo Sinclair and Ryan Bateup. The Waid forwards were to beat Bell Baxter to the hit and drive throughout the match sending the home pack backwards at almost every encounter, but the Cupar Captain's appeals for clarification on what constituted early engagement were to be waved away.
Somehow the Bell Baxter line was held and when Waid were a little tardy in supporting their ball carrier at a ruck, the possession was pinched and fed to Fantastic Mr Fox on his own 5. He duly hit the afterburners and somehow, in a jaw-dropping piece of individual running that remains hard to explain, scorched a pitch length to score and send the noisy home support wild.
Waid seemed a little stunned by this turnaround, and the hosts found that there was room to be exploited in the wide open spaces. Possession, fought for at such high cost by the-embattled Bell Baxter pack, was now shipped quickly out and Waid found themselves scrambling desperately to cope with the ebullient running of the home backs who cut a swathe through their opposite numbers and kept the Scoreboard ticking over.
Firstly Keiran Bremner, lightning fast and elusive, and then the speedy, abrasive Euan Muir (for two!) cut their way in-goal. Two conversions from Calum "Buc" Harris, against a short distance tap-and-go run in from Waid, saw half time arrive with the hosts 24-5 in front. Waid, realising where their strength lay, determined to keep things tight in the second half and got a very effective pick-and-go game going. They made great progress and duly bullied their way into the scoring zone, the conversion meaning 24-12.
A fascinating tactical battle now ensued as, reading their opponents intentions, Bell Baxter risked committing only a few brave souls to the rucks, there merely to encourage Waid's full attendance in the hope of creating extra space and support for their own counterattacks once possession came their way. This was high stake rugby, requiring patience and self-belief, and made for difficult viewing at times.
The second half was a real ding-dong affair as the two teams slugged it out in a classic contest akin to that between the strength of a fighter and the guile of a counter-punching boxer. Bell Baxter's bold plan to roll with the punches and hit back hard proved successful, as Kieran Brough, Keiran Bremner and "Buc" Harris (playing out of position on a welcome return from injury) made it seven tries on the night to secure the victory and the title by 43 points to 31.
What a match Waid made of it! They were worthy finalists, their forwards in particular playing with real gusto, and it's great to see the Anstruther men back on the rugby map in Fife.
Bell Baxter now move forward into the national competition where, it is to be hoped, the same selfless determination on display here will see them progress and win further plaudits for rugby in The Kingdom.
Stefan sets his sights on Commonwealth Games
SWIMMER Stefan Hoggan from Auchtermuchty just failed by the skin of his teeth to gain selection for the GB Team for the Paralympic Games in London.
Team selection times were extremely tough and the young Carnegie Swimming Club member did everything he could to catch the eye, but on this occasion it was not to be.
During the trials in London and Sheffield, Stefan recorded the best swims of his life, including a personal best in his number one event, 100m butterfly, of 1:04.65.
The experience of competing in the new Olympic pool and in each of the trial events alongside Britain's leading mainstream and disabled swimmers was the highlight of his swimming career to date.
Stefan is coached by John Szaranek at the Carnegie Club and since his move from Glenrothes Swimming Club, 100 metres butterfly has become his number one event and 100 metres freestyle now takes second place.
In Para-sport swimming at the Commonwealth Games in 2014 there will be 100m freestyle for Stefan's class on the programme and this has added an extra focus for Stefan.
The qualifying time of 1:00.89 has already been achieved by the young Fife swimmer who has a personal best of 1:00.59. but breaking the minute barrier is clearly in his plans.
Stefan is already Scotland's leading swimmer over this distance in this class.
The Paralympic Games in Rio in 2016 and Glasgow 2014 are clearly achievable targets for the Disability Sport Fife Futures Squad member.
Stefan has been selected for Scottish Swimming's Senior Silver Squad and he recently received news that British Swimming has invited him to a sprint camp at Bath University in January 2013.
This is his first involvement in a British Swimming selection and is just reward for years of commitment to his sport.
Stefan is an arm amputee whose introduction to swimming at the Fife Sports Institute was at an early age.
Throughout his career in disability swimming he has been hugely successful as a junior and senior disability swimmer for Scottish Disability Sport and Scottish Swimming.
Great Britain selection has so far eluded the young Fife swimmer, but his support team are confident it is only a matter of time.
Performance competitive swimming is very demanding and costly and Stefan has worked hard at trying to access funding to ensure his future in high performance sport.
Recently he organised two successful fund-raising events on behalf of Disability Sport Fife and raised £500.
Stefan has been supported in the past by Scottish Disability Sport, the Bill Pullar Trust, the Fife Disabled Sports Trust and of course his family.
Stefan is currently working with Disability Sport Fife on a number of fund-raising initiatives to ensure stability to his programme during 2013 which will include a swim training camp in Fuerteventura with the Carnegie Club.
Fife has a history of producing high performance swimmers who achieve in Paralympic sport and surely it is only a matter of time before Stefan is added to the list.
Team selection times were extremely tough and the young Carnegie Swimming Club member did everything he could to catch the eye, but on this occasion it was not to be.
During the trials in London and Sheffield, Stefan recorded the best swims of his life, including a personal best in his number one event, 100m butterfly, of 1:04.65.
The experience of competing in the new Olympic pool and in each of the trial events alongside Britain's leading mainstream and disabled swimmers was the highlight of his swimming career to date.
Stefan is coached by John Szaranek at the Carnegie Club and since his move from Glenrothes Swimming Club, 100 metres butterfly has become his number one event and 100 metres freestyle now takes second place.
In Para-sport swimming at the Commonwealth Games in 2014 there will be 100m freestyle for Stefan's class on the programme and this has added an extra focus for Stefan.
The qualifying time of 1:00.89 has already been achieved by the young Fife swimmer who has a personal best of 1:00.59. but breaking the minute barrier is clearly in his plans.
Stefan is already Scotland's leading swimmer over this distance in this class.
The Paralympic Games in Rio in 2016 and Glasgow 2014 are clearly achievable targets for the Disability Sport Fife Futures Squad member.
Stefan has been selected for Scottish Swimming's Senior Silver Squad and he recently received news that British Swimming has invited him to a sprint camp at Bath University in January 2013.
This is his first involvement in a British Swimming selection and is just reward for years of commitment to his sport.
Stefan is an arm amputee whose introduction to swimming at the Fife Sports Institute was at an early age.
Throughout his career in disability swimming he has been hugely successful as a junior and senior disability swimmer for Scottish Disability Sport and Scottish Swimming.
Great Britain selection has so far eluded the young Fife swimmer, but his support team are confident it is only a matter of time.
Performance competitive swimming is very demanding and costly and Stefan has worked hard at trying to access funding to ensure his future in high performance sport.
Recently he organised two successful fund-raising events on behalf of Disability Sport Fife and raised £500.
Stefan has been supported in the past by Scottish Disability Sport, the Bill Pullar Trust, the Fife Disabled Sports Trust and of course his family.
Stefan is currently working with Disability Sport Fife on a number of fund-raising initiatives to ensure stability to his programme during 2013 which will include a swim training camp in Fuerteventura with the Carnegie Club.
Fife has a history of producing high performance swimmers who achieve in Paralympic sport and surely it is only a matter of time before Stefan is added to the list.
Local paralympians join anniversary Hall of Fame
Some of those who made it into the Hall of Fame.
Roll of honour marks 50 years of Scottish Disability Sport....
By LIZ ROUGVIE
Iiz.rougvie@filetoday.co.uk
A NUMBER of Paralympians from north east Fife have been included In a new hall of fame established to mark the 50th anniversary of Scottish Disability Sport.
The roll of honour comprises 20 inaugural members, including four local sportsmen and women.
The names were announced at a special ceremony held to celebrate the anniversary and ifs hoped that the new hall of fame will inspire new generations of Scottish disabled sports men and women by creating an easily accessible record of the achievements of past champions.
The initial 20 inductees were selected by a panel of four SDS experts in disability sport, led by president Richard Brickley MBE.
They include:- Jim Muirhead, formerly of Newport, who is Scotland's most successful visually-impaired Paralympian, winning five gold, five silver and three bronze medals between 1976 and 1984. Having lost his sight at the age of 17, Jim spent some time at the Royal Blind School in Ceres before training to become a physiotherapist.
Sprinter Caroline Baird MBE, formerly of Cupar, who was three times Paralympian between 1992 and 2000, winning five medals, including four gold in the T36 class. She also won World Championship gold in 1994 and 1998. Caroline, a former pupil of Bell Baxter High School, still serves as a member of the Disability Sport.
St Andrews-born swimmer Jim Anderson OBE, who was six-time Paralympian between 1992 and 2012. He has won a staggering 57 medals at Paralympic, World and European level and is the only disabled sports person to be voted Scottish Sports Personality of the year following his success in Athens.
The late Frank Duffy, of Falkland, who was wheelchair curling skip at the Torino Winter Paralympic Games, leading the GB rink to the silver medal. He also led Scotland to successive World Championship titles in 2004 and 2005.
The full list of athletes and their achievements can be found on the SDS website, www.scottishdisabilitysport.com.
By LIZ ROUGVIE
Iiz.rougvie@filetoday.co.uk
A NUMBER of Paralympians from north east Fife have been included In a new hall of fame established to mark the 50th anniversary of Scottish Disability Sport.
The roll of honour comprises 20 inaugural members, including four local sportsmen and women.
The names were announced at a special ceremony held to celebrate the anniversary and ifs hoped that the new hall of fame will inspire new generations of Scottish disabled sports men and women by creating an easily accessible record of the achievements of past champions.
The initial 20 inductees were selected by a panel of four SDS experts in disability sport, led by president Richard Brickley MBE.
They include:- Jim Muirhead, formerly of Newport, who is Scotland's most successful visually-impaired Paralympian, winning five gold, five silver and three bronze medals between 1976 and 1984. Having lost his sight at the age of 17, Jim spent some time at the Royal Blind School in Ceres before training to become a physiotherapist.
Sprinter Caroline Baird MBE, formerly of Cupar, who was three times Paralympian between 1992 and 2000, winning five medals, including four gold in the T36 class. She also won World Championship gold in 1994 and 1998. Caroline, a former pupil of Bell Baxter High School, still serves as a member of the Disability Sport.
St Andrews-born swimmer Jim Anderson OBE, who was six-time Paralympian between 1992 and 2012. He has won a staggering 57 medals at Paralympic, World and European level and is the only disabled sports person to be voted Scottish Sports Personality of the year following his success in Athens.
The late Frank Duffy, of Falkland, who was wheelchair curling skip at the Torino Winter Paralympic Games, leading the GB rink to the silver medal. He also led Scotland to successive World Championship titles in 2004 and 2005.
The full list of athletes and their achievements can be found on the SDS website, www.scottishdisabilitysport.com.
Bairn Brooklyn
UP-AND-COMING footballer Brooklyn Mair Is celebrating his fourth year with the Falklrk youth academy. Brooklyn (12), from Auchter-muchty, started back with the Bairns a few weeks ago after the summer break.
The Bell Baxter High School pupil has since played in friendlies against Rangers, Alloa, and a team from America.
Olympic experience for Cupar's Gina
SPECTACULAR LOCATION: Glna watched Olympic beach volleyball at Horse Guard's Parade.
AS an avid spectator of sports - yes all sports! - I was determined to see as much of the 2012 Olympic Games as possible - either on TV or at the actual events.
I was fortunate to receive two hockey tickets in my first application for tickets and then was one of the lucky winners in a Scottish Swimming ballot for swimming tickets.
And then in June I thought I would try the official website and yes, there they were gymnastics, volleyball, beach-volleyball and weightlifting tickets all still available!
After the excitement of the Olympic torch coming through Cupar, I was ready for action.
Arriving in London's Marylebone station on day one I was somewhat apprehensive but it was a straightforward journey to the Olympic park by underground. The permanently happy volunteers encouraged everyone on their way, wherever they happened to be going.
And so to Olympic park - it was fantastic - a word I would use more often as the week progressed. The flow of people was faultless - easier in fact than walking along Princes Street. Security checks were speedily carried out at all venues by friendly, chatty squaddies, easily putting all airport security checks to shame.
In my excitement I arrived at the Aquatics Centre too early and had to wait in a queue - but again nobody was grumbling. I quickly recognised t-shirts supporting Hannah Miley, and discovered the wearers were her grandparents - friendly conversation followed and before we knew what was happening we were being ushered into our seats. I was very fortunate on day one at the swimming to see all six Scottish swimmers in their heats progress to semi finals and finals. This was of particular interest to me as I have known all these swimmers since they were in various Scottish national squads of which I was team manager. The atmosphere was electric and although I have been to hundreds of swimming events, this was special. The arena was designed to resemble a wave and this made it spectacular for viewing both the swimming and diving events. How could this exciting expedition of mine get better? Next I went by underground to the O2 arena, where I could not believe the spectacle in front of me as the gymnastics arena came into view. Never having seen gymnastics at this level, I was astounded by the brilliance and discipline of these athletes. After a two hour session, I was thrilled to see the GB men qualify for the team final.
Day two was a rest day - but still time to view the games on TV and see Lizzie Armistead win GB's first medal - silver in the women's road race and Becky Adlington win bronze in the pool. It was disappointing to read the press headlines that "Bradley Wiggins and Hannah Miley had lost gold medals" - no one loses a medal, someone else just happens to be better on the day.
Day three and back to work, with my son, - at Earl's Court arena - again a pain free journey in and through London. Women's volleyball was first on the programme and this is a sport that knows how to get the crowd going - before we knew it we were supporting the Chinese girls, the court sweepers and indeed anybody the announcer asked us to cheer for.
Day four was another visit to the pool, to see the great Michael Phelps in the 400m and the men's 4 x 200m relay - I have seen Michael Phelps swim before but I have never seen him as relaxed as he was in London - perhaps due to the fact that this was his final games. In winning his 19th medal he became the most decorated Olympian in history.Day five - Horse Guard's Parade and beach volleyball - is it an Olympic sport? I don't know, but it was fun, noisy and it was exhausting.
Day six and it was back to the pool - no medals for GB but some outstanding swims from Phelps and Lochtie.
The excitement was everywhere, who was winning what? What was happening next? Where would GB's next medal come from?
Afternoon and it was another sport on the Smurf Turf - the blue and pink hockey pitch - to see the eventual winners, Netherlands.
And so our Olympic adventure was over - but not quite, we were able to sit on the river bank and watch the big screen, and see Sir Chris Hoy winning his fifth gold medal in the team sprint, and by the time we returned to our base in Banbury, GB were fifth in the medal table.
We decided it was time to head home to spend the next week glued to the TV - remembering "we were there".
I was fortunate to receive two hockey tickets in my first application for tickets and then was one of the lucky winners in a Scottish Swimming ballot for swimming tickets.
And then in June I thought I would try the official website and yes, there they were gymnastics, volleyball, beach-volleyball and weightlifting tickets all still available!
After the excitement of the Olympic torch coming through Cupar, I was ready for action.
Arriving in London's Marylebone station on day one I was somewhat apprehensive but it was a straightforward journey to the Olympic park by underground. The permanently happy volunteers encouraged everyone on their way, wherever they happened to be going.
And so to Olympic park - it was fantastic - a word I would use more often as the week progressed. The flow of people was faultless - easier in fact than walking along Princes Street. Security checks were speedily carried out at all venues by friendly, chatty squaddies, easily putting all airport security checks to shame.
In my excitement I arrived at the Aquatics Centre too early and had to wait in a queue - but again nobody was grumbling. I quickly recognised t-shirts supporting Hannah Miley, and discovered the wearers were her grandparents - friendly conversation followed and before we knew what was happening we were being ushered into our seats. I was very fortunate on day one at the swimming to see all six Scottish swimmers in their heats progress to semi finals and finals. This was of particular interest to me as I have known all these swimmers since they were in various Scottish national squads of which I was team manager. The atmosphere was electric and although I have been to hundreds of swimming events, this was special. The arena was designed to resemble a wave and this made it spectacular for viewing both the swimming and diving events. How could this exciting expedition of mine get better? Next I went by underground to the O2 arena, where I could not believe the spectacle in front of me as the gymnastics arena came into view. Never having seen gymnastics at this level, I was astounded by the brilliance and discipline of these athletes. After a two hour session, I was thrilled to see the GB men qualify for the team final.
Day two was a rest day - but still time to view the games on TV and see Lizzie Armistead win GB's first medal - silver in the women's road race and Becky Adlington win bronze in the pool. It was disappointing to read the press headlines that "Bradley Wiggins and Hannah Miley had lost gold medals" - no one loses a medal, someone else just happens to be better on the day.
Day three and back to work, with my son, - at Earl's Court arena - again a pain free journey in and through London. Women's volleyball was first on the programme and this is a sport that knows how to get the crowd going - before we knew it we were supporting the Chinese girls, the court sweepers and indeed anybody the announcer asked us to cheer for.
Day four was another visit to the pool, to see the great Michael Phelps in the 400m and the men's 4 x 200m relay - I have seen Michael Phelps swim before but I have never seen him as relaxed as he was in London - perhaps due to the fact that this was his final games. In winning his 19th medal he became the most decorated Olympian in history.Day five - Horse Guard's Parade and beach volleyball - is it an Olympic sport? I don't know, but it was fun, noisy and it was exhausting.
Day six and it was back to the pool - no medals for GB but some outstanding swims from Phelps and Lochtie.
The excitement was everywhere, who was winning what? What was happening next? Where would GB's next medal come from?
Afternoon and it was another sport on the Smurf Turf - the blue and pink hockey pitch - to see the eventual winners, Netherlands.
And so our Olympic adventure was over - but not quite, we were able to sit on the river bank and watch the big screen, and see Sir Chris Hoy winning his fifth gold medal in the team sprint, and by the time we returned to our base in Banbury, GB were fifth in the medal table.
We decided it was time to head home to spend the next week glued to the TV - remembering "we were there".
Kirsty sets swim record
CUPAR swimmer Kirsty Simpson has been in action recently, clocking some impressive times at championships up and down the country.
Kirsty (16) competed in the Scottish Gas National Open Championships at the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh, where she set a new Scottish age group record for the 50m backstroke.
Her time of 30.15s earned her a silver medal in the event, to add to the silver she picked up in the 100m backstroke.
HIGHLIGHT
Bell Baxter High School pupil Kirsty also achieved high placings in the 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle.
She finished as top junior over 50m.
In the British Gas ASA National Youth Championships in Sheffield, Kirsty competed in a number of events, the highlight being a seventh-place finish in the 100m backstroke.
Kirsty would like to thank local business Kettle Produce, which has awarded her £125 towards training costs.
Kirsty (16) competed in the Scottish Gas National Open Championships at the Royal Commonwealth Pool in Edinburgh, where she set a new Scottish age group record for the 50m backstroke.
Her time of 30.15s earned her a silver medal in the event, to add to the silver she picked up in the 100m backstroke.
HIGHLIGHT
Bell Baxter High School pupil Kirsty also achieved high placings in the 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle.
She finished as top junior over 50m.
In the British Gas ASA National Youth Championships in Sheffield, Kirsty competed in a number of events, the highlight being a seventh-place finish in the 100m backstroke.
Kirsty would like to thank local business Kettle Produce, which has awarded her £125 towards training costs.
Jonjay joins Raith academy
A BUDDING young footballer has taken the next step on the road to becoming a professional.
Jonjay Reid (12), of Lady-bank, has been snapped up by the Raith Rovers Youth Academy at under-13 level.
The midfielder, who will be attending Bell Baxter High School after the summer holidays, has previously played for Ladybank Panthers, the Celtic Training Academy in Bathgate, and Fairmuir Boys Club in Dundee.
He joined Raith Rovers after a trial and has already started training with the Kirkcaldy club.
Mike on his mettle for ironman event
by LIZ ROUGVIE
liz.rougvie@fifetoday.co.uk
AN INTREPID former Cupar man who has already run five major world marathons is to take on his toughest challenge yet in aid of a charity to which he owes a debt of gratitude.
Mike Houston (33) is to compete in what is widely regarded as the country's most gruelling one-day endurance test - the Ironman.
Despite being a relative novice in swimming and cycling, he's taking on the 140.6 mile triathlon event in Bolton on July 22 and will have to swim 2.4 miles in a lake and cycle for 112 miles over hilly terrain before running a marathon.
To add to the pressure, he has to do it all in 17 hours!
COLLAPSED
Mike, a former pupil of Bell Baxter High School, is raising money by way of saying a big 'thank you' to St John Ambulance, who came to his rescue during his first marathon attempt in London in 2009, when he collapsed with heat exhaustion after 17 miles in unusually high temperatures.
He was unconscious for 15 minutes and had to be given oxygen before being taken to hospital. ;
However, the experience didn't put him off marathon running and he went on to complete the Berlin, Chicago, New York and Boston events, raising money for CHAS in Kinross.
Mike, an accomplished golfer, told the Fife Herald "I was the under-eight Cupar and District swimming club champion - but that was in 1987, when I was seven! I gave it up after that and took up golf!
"Last October, I could not swim a 100m front crawl without gasping for air, and the swim in the Ironman event is the equivalent of 152 lengths in a 25m pool. Nothing like a challenge!"
RESCUE
Mike has been putting in up to 17 hours' training every week, sometimes getting up at 4am to train before work so that he can be home in time for his four-month-old baby daughter Lucy's bathtime.
If s a demanding schedule that he says wouldn't be possible without the support of his wife Samantha.
Mike added: "I have decided to raise funds for St John Ambulance as they came to my rescue three years ago and I think my thank you to them is long overdue."
Anyone who would like to support Mike can do so at www.justgiving/mike-houstonismad. All donations will go straight to the charity as he will be paying all his own expenses.
liz.rougvie@fifetoday.co.uk
AN INTREPID former Cupar man who has already run five major world marathons is to take on his toughest challenge yet in aid of a charity to which he owes a debt of gratitude.
Mike Houston (33) is to compete in what is widely regarded as the country's most gruelling one-day endurance test - the Ironman.
Despite being a relative novice in swimming and cycling, he's taking on the 140.6 mile triathlon event in Bolton on July 22 and will have to swim 2.4 miles in a lake and cycle for 112 miles over hilly terrain before running a marathon.
To add to the pressure, he has to do it all in 17 hours!
COLLAPSED
Mike, a former pupil of Bell Baxter High School, is raising money by way of saying a big 'thank you' to St John Ambulance, who came to his rescue during his first marathon attempt in London in 2009, when he collapsed with heat exhaustion after 17 miles in unusually high temperatures.
He was unconscious for 15 minutes and had to be given oxygen before being taken to hospital. ;
However, the experience didn't put him off marathon running and he went on to complete the Berlin, Chicago, New York and Boston events, raising money for CHAS in Kinross.
Mike, an accomplished golfer, told the Fife Herald "I was the under-eight Cupar and District swimming club champion - but that was in 1987, when I was seven! I gave it up after that and took up golf!
"Last October, I could not swim a 100m front crawl without gasping for air, and the swim in the Ironman event is the equivalent of 152 lengths in a 25m pool. Nothing like a challenge!"
RESCUE
Mike has been putting in up to 17 hours' training every week, sometimes getting up at 4am to train before work so that he can be home in time for his four-month-old baby daughter Lucy's bathtime.
If s a demanding schedule that he says wouldn't be possible without the support of his wife Samantha.
Mike added: "I have decided to raise funds for St John Ambulance as they came to my rescue three years ago and I think my thank you to them is long overdue."
Anyone who would like to support Mike can do so at www.justgiving/mike-houstonismad. All donations will go straight to the charity as he will be paying all his own expenses.
Cricket Club sponsors
FALKLAND Cricket Club's shirt sponsors for the 2012 season are BSW Building Systems Ltd. of Kirkcaldy.
BSW's director, David Watson, said: 'Falkland is a progressive club with whom we are delighted to have our name and brand associated.
. "Given that it is a small village club, to get four teams out every weekend is a great achievement.
"Their work and commitment towards their juniors is to be applauded and for that reason we are delighted to support them this year and hopefully for years to come."
Pictured are some of the playing members in their new BSW sponsored kit alongside David Watson and David Stark (BSW).
SUPPORT
Falkland 1st XI will wear the kit whilst competing in the Cricket Scotland East League Division One.
Also pictured is John Pearson (BBHS FP) of Blue Crags who have continued their support of Falkland CC by sponsoring the club's coloured kit which the 1st XI will wear during Scottish Cup fixtures.
The club wishes to thank BSW and Blue Crags for their continued support.
Falkland's senior net practices are on a Tuesday and Wednesday evening at 6pm and junior practice is on a Friday evening at 6pm.
New players of all abilities always welcome.
BSW's director, David Watson, said: 'Falkland is a progressive club with whom we are delighted to have our name and brand associated.
. "Given that it is a small village club, to get four teams out every weekend is a great achievement.
"Their work and commitment towards their juniors is to be applauded and for that reason we are delighted to support them this year and hopefully for years to come."
Pictured are some of the playing members in their new BSW sponsored kit alongside David Watson and David Stark (BSW).
SUPPORT
Falkland 1st XI will wear the kit whilst competing in the Cricket Scotland East League Division One.
Also pictured is John Pearson (BBHS FP) of Blue Crags who have continued their support of Falkland CC by sponsoring the club's coloured kit which the 1st XI will wear during Scottish Cup fixtures.
The club wishes to thank BSW and Blue Crags for their continued support.
Falkland's senior net practices are on a Tuesday and Wednesday evening at 6pm and junior practice is on a Friday evening at 6pm.
New players of all abilities always welcome.
Stefan set to smash swimming record
by LIZ ROUGVIE
iiz.rougvie@fifetoday.co.uk
AUCHTERMUCHTY swimmer Stefan Hoggan Is aiming to banish the disappointment of not making the cut for London 2012 by smashing the British 100m butterfly record.
Hoggan's hopes of performing the butterfly leg of the team medley at the Paralympics were dashed three weeks ago when selectors informed him he was surplus to requirements.
But the 19-year-old, who has shaved almost three seconds off his PB for the discipline since the start of the season, is targeting the National Youth Championships in July as the stage to show the British team what they're missing.
His personal best of 1min 4.65secs is just two tenths of a second off the record and the Carnegie Swimming Club ace believes he can knock of the necessary splits in Sheffield.
"This season has gone really well," said Hoggan, who was born with his lower right arm missing.
"I went down to the Paralympic trials in London and swam amazingly. I did massive PBs in the heats and then smashed them again in the finals.
"I came top in my S9 physical disability class and in the top three overall, but I don't know where I finished exactly as the scoring is very complicated.
"But unfortunately I found out just a couple of weeks ago that I was not successful in making the medley team.
"However if I get the British record, which is 1 min 4.46secs, I will be over the moon but it still won't cover up missing out on the Paralympics."
Before arriving at Carnegie, Hoggan, who benefits from being on the Bank of Scotland Local Heroes programme, was based at the Glenrothes Swimming Club.
But the switch has brought a far more rigorous training routine and Hoggan is revelling in the extra hours under the tutelage of John Szeranek.
"Since 1 moved to Carnegie I've upped my training by nine hours a week," he added.
"I was doing eight hours a week but I decided I needed to make some serious changes.
"One of the things I've done with Carnegie is fly to Feurteventura for an intensive training camp and I think that set me up for the season."
• Bank of Scotland National School Sport Week took place from June 11-15 and is Scotland's biggest school sport event, with nearly 2000 schools and half a million pupils taking part, staging their own Games. Find out more at www.school-sp6rtweekscotland.org
iiz.rougvie@fifetoday.co.uk
AUCHTERMUCHTY swimmer Stefan Hoggan Is aiming to banish the disappointment of not making the cut for London 2012 by smashing the British 100m butterfly record.
Hoggan's hopes of performing the butterfly leg of the team medley at the Paralympics were dashed three weeks ago when selectors informed him he was surplus to requirements.
But the 19-year-old, who has shaved almost three seconds off his PB for the discipline since the start of the season, is targeting the National Youth Championships in July as the stage to show the British team what they're missing.
His personal best of 1min 4.65secs is just two tenths of a second off the record and the Carnegie Swimming Club ace believes he can knock of the necessary splits in Sheffield.
"This season has gone really well," said Hoggan, who was born with his lower right arm missing.
"I went down to the Paralympic trials in London and swam amazingly. I did massive PBs in the heats and then smashed them again in the finals.
"I came top in my S9 physical disability class and in the top three overall, but I don't know where I finished exactly as the scoring is very complicated.
"But unfortunately I found out just a couple of weeks ago that I was not successful in making the medley team.
"However if I get the British record, which is 1 min 4.46secs, I will be over the moon but it still won't cover up missing out on the Paralympics."
Before arriving at Carnegie, Hoggan, who benefits from being on the Bank of Scotland Local Heroes programme, was based at the Glenrothes Swimming Club.
But the switch has brought a far more rigorous training routine and Hoggan is revelling in the extra hours under the tutelage of John Szeranek.
"Since 1 moved to Carnegie I've upped my training by nine hours a week," he added.
"I was doing eight hours a week but I decided I needed to make some serious changes.
"One of the things I've done with Carnegie is fly to Feurteventura for an intensive training camp and I think that set me up for the season."
• Bank of Scotland National School Sport Week took place from June 11-15 and is Scotland's biggest school sport event, with nearly 2000 schools and half a million pupils taking part, staging their own Games. Find out more at www.school-sp6rtweekscotland.org
Black belts in Taekwondo
CUPAR Taekwon-do Club has two new blackbelts.
Castlehlll Primary School pupil Scott McCandless (11) became the group's youngest blackbelt, while Bell Baxter pupil Adam Cook (14) also made the grade with flying colours.
Pictured left are Scott and Adam with teachers Allan, Shirley and Laura Cunningham.
CUPAR Taekwon-do Club has two new blackbelts.
Castlehlll Primary School pupil Scott McCandless (11) became the group's youngest blackbelt, while Bell Baxter pupil Adam Cook (14) also made the grade with flying colours.
Pictured left are Scott and Adam with teachers Allan, Shirley and Laura Cunningham.
Howe of Fife are Club of Season
Club secretary Alistalr Paton (left) and vice-president Bill robertson with the RBS Club of the season award
by STUART GILLESPIE
stuart.gillespie@fifetoday.co.uk
HOWE of File have capped ofl one of the best seasons In thetr history by being named RBS Club of the Season at the prestigious Scottish Rugby Club Awards.
The gong was a reward for Howe's successes on and off the pitch over Ihe past year, including Ihe club's links with Bell Baxter High School, commitment to youth rugby and high number of coaches at all levels.
Club president David Harley said winning the top award In Scottish clup rugby was a 'tremendous achievement" for the Premier 3 champions.
TREMENDOUS
He told the Fife Herald 'We're all proud as punch and delighted to have won the award.
'It's a tremendous achievement and tribute to al the efiort put in at the club, from the minis right the way up to the first XV.
'Everyone involved with the club deserves huge credit for what will be a very hard season to lop.'
The awards ceremony and dinner was held in (he President''s Suite at Murrayfletd on Friday. May 25. and was hosted bv former Scotland captains Andy NicoI and Ian McLauchIan.
COVETED
Howe were shortlisted for Club of the Season after picking up the monthly version of the award in April.
The Cupar-based side beat off competition from seven other clubs — Dunbar, Gala. Helensburgh. Hllllfoots, Melrose. Preston Lodge and Stirling County — to win the coveted trophy.
With Mr Harley away with the playing squad on a tour to Flanders, the award was accepted by vtce-president Bill Robertson and secretary Alistair Paton.
Mr Robertson said: 'Winning the top club award while in the third division is a phenomenal achievement and should be celebrated by all those involved tn the club at every level.
Next season Howe will line up in the new Championship East following the restructure of Scottish rugby that denied the Duffus Park side a promotion.
Mr Harley said: 'Obviously the main goal under the new system is to try to win the Championship East and effectively join the top 20 teams in the country — but that will be no mean task.'
stuart.gillespie@fifetoday.co.uk
HOWE of File have capped ofl one of the best seasons In thetr history by being named RBS Club of the Season at the prestigious Scottish Rugby Club Awards.
The gong was a reward for Howe's successes on and off the pitch over Ihe past year, including Ihe club's links with Bell Baxter High School, commitment to youth rugby and high number of coaches at all levels.
Club president David Harley said winning the top award In Scottish clup rugby was a 'tremendous achievement" for the Premier 3 champions.
TREMENDOUS
He told the Fife Herald 'We're all proud as punch and delighted to have won the award.
'It's a tremendous achievement and tribute to al the efiort put in at the club, from the minis right the way up to the first XV.
'Everyone involved with the club deserves huge credit for what will be a very hard season to lop.'
The awards ceremony and dinner was held in (he President''s Suite at Murrayfletd on Friday. May 25. and was hosted bv former Scotland captains Andy NicoI and Ian McLauchIan.
COVETED
Howe were shortlisted for Club of the Season after picking up the monthly version of the award in April.
The Cupar-based side beat off competition from seven other clubs — Dunbar, Gala. Helensburgh. Hllllfoots, Melrose. Preston Lodge and Stirling County — to win the coveted trophy.
With Mr Harley away with the playing squad on a tour to Flanders, the award was accepted by vtce-president Bill Robertson and secretary Alistair Paton.
Mr Robertson said: 'Winning the top club award while in the third division is a phenomenal achievement and should be celebrated by all those involved tn the club at every level.
Next season Howe will line up in the new Championship East following the restructure of Scottish rugby that denied the Duffus Park side a promotion.
Mr Harley said: 'Obviously the main goal under the new system is to try to win the Championship East and effectively join the top 20 teams in the country — but that will be no mean task.'
Eric's running total hits £6000
Eric crosses the finishing Iine
by LIZ ROUGVIE
liz.rougvie@fifetoday.co.uk
STROKE survivor Eric Thomson has raised another four-figure sum by taking part in his second Edinburgh Marathon - and has beaten his personal best time into the bargain.
Eric (49), who is principal teacher of biology at Bell Baxter High School in Cupar, braved the sweltering heat at the weekend (27 May 12) to finish the 26.2 mile route in just three hours and 47 minutes, slicing 13 minutes off last year's time.
He raised over £1000 for the Scottish Stroke Association bringing his total to more than £6000 over the past three years.
Eric said: 'By midday the temperatures had soared to 26 degrees - however the people of Edinburgh helped by spraying runners with water from their garden hoses as they passed.
ENCOURAGE
'Even the children played their part by soaking everyone with their water pistols.
"The spectators were outstanding - they really did encourage you to keep going.'
It was in 2005 that Eric suffered a life-changing stroke which affected his speech and the movement on his right-hand side. But thanks to intensive physiotherapy, a supportive family and sheer determination, he took part in his first Edinburgh half-marathon three years later. Since then, he has competed in a number of endurance races to raise funds for the charity so close to his heart.
INCREDIBLE
He commented: 'I would like to thank everyone at the Scottish Stroke Association who have helped me over the years, especially Scottish Stroke fund manager Karen Hodgins and her hardworking team.
'Also a huge thank you to everyone who has sponsored me over the last three incredible years.
'Next year I will be celebrating my 50th birthday and I have already successfully secured a place in the Virgin London Marathon ballot so hopefully I will hear if I have a place by October.
'However, I am hoping to run a marathon somewhere more exotic than London or Edinburgh in 2013.
Watch this space!'
liz.rougvie@fifetoday.co.uk
STROKE survivor Eric Thomson has raised another four-figure sum by taking part in his second Edinburgh Marathon - and has beaten his personal best time into the bargain.
Eric (49), who is principal teacher of biology at Bell Baxter High School in Cupar, braved the sweltering heat at the weekend (27 May 12) to finish the 26.2 mile route in just three hours and 47 minutes, slicing 13 minutes off last year's time.
He raised over £1000 for the Scottish Stroke Association bringing his total to more than £6000 over the past three years.
Eric said: 'By midday the temperatures had soared to 26 degrees - however the people of Edinburgh helped by spraying runners with water from their garden hoses as they passed.
ENCOURAGE
'Even the children played their part by soaking everyone with their water pistols.
"The spectators were outstanding - they really did encourage you to keep going.'
It was in 2005 that Eric suffered a life-changing stroke which affected his speech and the movement on his right-hand side. But thanks to intensive physiotherapy, a supportive family and sheer determination, he took part in his first Edinburgh half-marathon three years later. Since then, he has competed in a number of endurance races to raise funds for the charity so close to his heart.
INCREDIBLE
He commented: 'I would like to thank everyone at the Scottish Stroke Association who have helped me over the years, especially Scottish Stroke fund manager Karen Hodgins and her hardworking team.
'Also a huge thank you to everyone who has sponsored me over the last three incredible years.
'Next year I will be celebrating my 50th birthday and I have already successfully secured a place in the Virgin London Marathon ballot so hopefully I will hear if I have a place by October.
'However, I am hoping to run a marathon somewhere more exotic than London or Edinburgh in 2013.
Watch this space!'
Bronze for Thomas
Thomas Cameron, a first year pupil at Bell Baxter High School, came third in the British Elite Gymnastics Championships held in Leicester on Saturday 5 May 2012.
Thomas, the current all round Scottish under-14 Champion, is currently training hard for the British Championships at the end of June.
Nicola is new club captain
At their recent club championships, Cupar & District Swimming Club appointed a new captain, Nicola Howit, and vice-captain, Megan Cleary. Nicola (15) has been a member of the club for seven years and is now in the deveiopment squad.
As well as training every week and competing regularly in galas] Nicoia helps wiih younger squads in the club.
A third vear pupil at Bell Baxter High School in Cupar, she also enjoys hockey, rugby, horseriding, athletics and running and has represented the school in several sports, including swimming.
Vice-captain Megan Cleary has also been a member oi the ciub for more than seven years, but it was only three years ago that she was promoted to the development squad.
Everv week she helps the land training coach, Eric Young, with developing the fitness of the younger swimmers. This will count towards her volunteer work for her Duke of Edinburgh Award.
lf she has any free time when swimming sessions are on, Megan, also helps coach on poolside having taken the poolside helpers course about two years ago organised by Gina Logan.
She is currentlv a student in Year 10 at st Leonards in St Andrews and her other sporting interests include lacrosse and hockey.
Both girls are seen as great role models for the younger swimmers and have contributed a great deal to the club in time and service.
As well as training every week and competing regularly in galas] Nicoia helps wiih younger squads in the club.
A third vear pupil at Bell Baxter High School in Cupar, she also enjoys hockey, rugby, horseriding, athletics and running and has represented the school in several sports, including swimming.
Vice-captain Megan Cleary has also been a member oi the ciub for more than seven years, but it was only three years ago that she was promoted to the development squad.
Everv week she helps the land training coach, Eric Young, with developing the fitness of the younger swimmers. This will count towards her volunteer work for her Duke of Edinburgh Award.
lf she has any free time when swimming sessions are on, Megan, also helps coach on poolside having taken the poolside helpers course about two years ago organised by Gina Logan.
She is currentlv a student in Year 10 at st Leonards in St Andrews and her other sporting interests include lacrosse and hockey.
Both girls are seen as great role models for the younger swimmers and have contributed a great deal to the club in time and service.
Fusaro named Warriors' top man
CUPAR rugby player Chris Fusaro has been named Glasgow Warriors' Player of the Season.
The flanker beat off strong competition from the shortlisted Ryan Grant, Stuart Hogg and Tom Ryder to get the nod from head coach Sean Lineen and his assistants, Gary Mercer and Shade Munro at a gala dinner held at the Marriott Hotel in Glasgow last Friday.
The 22-year-old has been in outstanding form all year, establishing himself as a pivotal figure in the Warriors starting XV and earning praise from all quarters for his relentlessly combative and intelligent approach to back-row play.
Fusaro has forged a significant role in 19 of the team's 21 RaboDirect PRO12 matches to date.
He also played in all six of the club's Heineken Cup pool matches earlier in the campaign, and delighted fans and teammates alike by signing a new contract that will keep him at the Warriors until at least the end of May 2014.
The flanker beat off strong competition from the shortlisted Ryan Grant, Stuart Hogg and Tom Ryder to get the nod from head coach Sean Lineen and his assistants, Gary Mercer and Shade Munro at a gala dinner held at the Marriott Hotel in Glasgow last Friday.
The 22-year-old has been in outstanding form all year, establishing himself as a pivotal figure in the Warriors starting XV and earning praise from all quarters for his relentlessly combative and intelligent approach to back-row play.
Fusaro has forged a significant role in 19 of the team's 21 RaboDirect PRO12 matches to date.
He also played in all six of the club's Heineken Cup pool matches earlier in the campaign, and delighted fans and teammates alike by signing a new contract that will keep him at the Warriors until at least the end of May 2014.
Record breaking swim by Stefan
THE Scottish senior championships for swimmers with a physical or sensory impairment were held at Grangemouth Sports Complex and attracted entries from teams from Fife, Lothian, Tayside, Forth Valley and the West of Scotland.
Stefan Hoggan from Auchtermuchty and Carnegie Swimming Club was the only swimmer at the championships to break a national record when he improved his existing record in the 50m butterfly to 29.50 secs. Stefan is on the verge of clinching his place in the GB team for the London 2012 Paralympics.
Disability Sport Fife had a strong team entered in defence of the national team trophy at the Grangemouth championships.
Arran Ritchie from Kinglassie and Ryan Martin from Glenrothes made a welcome return to the Fife team and competitive swimming after several years absence.
The Fife team won the overall trophy for the fourth year in succession with a total of 77 points, 19 points ahead of West of Scotland in the runners-up spot.
However, West of Scotland had the satisfaction of winning the open relay by less than a second, despite a valiant final leg by Stefan Hoggan. Fife won the restricted relay.
Swimmers competing for the Fife team were as follows:
Stefan Hoggan (Auchtermuchty), Arran Ritchie (Kinglassie), Craig Smith (Glenrothes), Fraser Wilson (Cupar), Ryan Martin (Glenrothes), Darrell Drury (Rosyth), Pauline McConnachie (Glenrothes), Michelle Hill (Strathmiglo), and Katie Muir (Freuchie).
Stefan Hoggan from Auchtermuchty and Carnegie Swimming Club was the only swimmer at the championships to break a national record when he improved his existing record in the 50m butterfly to 29.50 secs. Stefan is on the verge of clinching his place in the GB team for the London 2012 Paralympics.
Disability Sport Fife had a strong team entered in defence of the national team trophy at the Grangemouth championships.
Arran Ritchie from Kinglassie and Ryan Martin from Glenrothes made a welcome return to the Fife team and competitive swimming after several years absence.
The Fife team won the overall trophy for the fourth year in succession with a total of 77 points, 19 points ahead of West of Scotland in the runners-up spot.
However, West of Scotland had the satisfaction of winning the open relay by less than a second, despite a valiant final leg by Stefan Hoggan. Fife won the restricted relay.
Swimmers competing for the Fife team were as follows:
Stefan Hoggan (Auchtermuchty), Arran Ritchie (Kinglassie), Craig Smith (Glenrothes), Fraser Wilson (Cupar), Ryan Martin (Glenrothes), Darrell Drury (Rosyth), Pauline McConnachie (Glenrothes), Michelle Hill (Strathmiglo), and Katie Muir (Freuchie).
Cupar badminton coaches Jim Traill and Brian Sadler have been presented with mementoes at Bell Baxter High School. Jim and Brian are retiring after 18 years of coaching with Cupar Badminton Club.
