A long and testing working week marks the end of March, where every single episode stretched my capability. James Hogg is back in Glasgow and I head for his home at 167 Berkeley Street, bringing the suitable attire for a long run.
The weather gods are favourable, with spring sunshine warming the cobbles and the skies glow a deep blue. The Hogg household is welcoming and I am shepherded to a room to change into my Queens Park uniform, blue guernsey, red cap and white knickerbockers for the run.
I enter the large sitting room, where James has readied himself, “This is a fine family home.”
“Yes, this is a home from home. I miss Gairloch immensely, however, I have friends around me, which bring comfort within this enormous city.”, explains James.
Secretly I have scoured Glasgow’s map determining a route for today’s race.
“I have created a four-mile race heading west on Dumbarton Road to the West of Scotland Cricket Ground, then North until Glasgow’s Observatory and the Botanical Gardens, before returning via Great Western Road and across West End Park to finish. Almost like running around your ‘short loch’”
“Ah you have done your research,”, James laughs, “I have invited my neighbour, Moses to join us. He is an excellent rower and runner.”
“Ah, competition. I like that.”
The Hampden Collection 