A NEW Cumnock grandad has come up trumps in a marathon.

Retired lecturer Alistair Kerr, 72, made the trip north last month to take part in the Fort William Marathon Trail Race – and he topped the journey off by winning his class in the 26-mile race.

Marathon man Alistair He has taken part in 400 competitive events in running, triathlon and indoor rowing in the past 32 years.

He took part in the race on July 31 and he crossed the finishing line first in the over-65 category, beating over 380 other challengers..

Speaking to the Chronicle he said: “I faced the challenge of a 26.2-miles trail race which skirted the lower tracks near Ben Nevis through Anoch Mor, Spean Bridge Commando Memorial, the Caledonian canal and back.

“This was the toughest marathon I have ever done with muddy ground, rocks, steep hills and rain. But it was the most satisfying as I won the over-65 years age group category in a time of four hours and 45 minutes.

“As a retired nurse lecturer I have retained a strong interest in the importance of keeping active. Ironically, though I run, I believe the best way to do it is simply to walk regularly at a steady pace for for overall fitness and enjoyment in the later years.

Alistair added: “I’ve been running all my life.

“I’m 72 and the last time I did the Fort William race was 12 years ago.

“It’s by far and away the hardest marathon that I’ve ever done – and I’ve done over 400.

“The last six miles was uphill so it was hard going.”

Alistair is now looking for his next challenge but has no plans at present and he insists he will still continue to still go on his weekly run.