It was thrills and spills all the way at the junior and senior Dalbeattie Hardrock Challenge at the weekend as pouring rain made for tricky conditions.

With many reluctant to take part in large-scale events because of the pandemic, the 17th running of the gruelling event drew a smaller field than normal.

But that did not stop competitors and spectators from coming away from Dalbeattie with happy memories of another hugely enjoyable weekend.

The punishing duathlon sees individuals and teams battle it out over the marathon distance of 26 miles of trails and bike routes through Dalbeattie Forest.

Event co-founder, Stuart Macintosh, was delighted with the enthusiastic response from all involved – despite the deluge – to an event which has become renowned for its friendly atmosphere and hospitality.

“They were the worst conditions we have ever had,” Mr Macintosh told the News.

“On Saturday for the Junior Hardrock Challenge the rain was more or less constant. But the event was practically injury and incident free, which was surprising considering the weather.

“All in all we were delighted with the turnout.

“Despite the effects of Covid still being present and the weather, it turned out to be a brilliant weekend.“

Mr Macintosh said several competitors had made the trip from northern England from towns including Macclesfield and Halifax.

“Two female teachers from Ulverston in Cumbria came up too and were bowled over by the event,” he said.

“We ended up with 105 juniors and 155 seniors compared with the usual 175 and 240.

“So we were below what we would normally expect but it was still quite a spectacle and a great atmosphere.

“Everybody was talking about the great community spirit of the event.”

The presentations took place in the beer garden at the King’s Arms in Dalbeattie.

Overall male solo winner was Doug Hall from Dunscore, with Castle Douglas man David Houston second, Lockerbie’s Matthew Sullivan third and Ally Wight from Dalbeattie fourth.

Dalbeattie’s Rebecca Bryson stormed home in the women’s event to win from Chelsea Shoesmith from Macclesfield and Creetown’s Charlotte McDowall in third.

In the pairs, Stirling woman Catriona Buchanan took the honours along with Nicole Walters, who owns Sports Solutions in Castle Douglas.

Second was Ulverston duo Rebecca Cook and Emma Armstrong with the Castle Douglas pairing of Susan Muir and Kate Little in third.

Dalbeattie’s Bradley Cowan and Adam Park from Thornhill won the open pairs, scoring a first in both the running and bike sections.

Locals Graham McLellan and Graeme Henderson were second with Hardrock Hoodlums Kevin McQueen and Neil Little third.