Run will be tribute to tragic Ali from start to finish

Stirling 10k partners with Canmore Trust to raise awareness and support for suicide prevention

- CHRIS MARZELLA

This year, Stirling’s annual 10k road race is partnering with a local suicide prevention charity to pay tribute to a beloved runner who once represented Scotland at the Commonwealth Games.

The Podfather Stirling 10k, along with its associated 2k and 3.5k fun runs, will collaborate with the Callander-based Canmore Trust - a charity that assists individuals grappling with suicidal thoughts and families who have suffered the loss of loved ones to suicide.

Stirling's Central Athletic Club (Central AC), which organises the race each year, has chosen to form this partnership in memory of Central AC athlete Ali Hay, whose tragic death in June last year deeply affected club members.

Ali's sudden passing sent shockwaves through the entire Scottish athletics community. During his career, Ali proudly wore the blue vest of Scotland, representing the nation in the 1500 metres at the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi, India.

He also had the honour of carrying the Commonwealth baton ahead of the games in Glasgow in 2014.

A long-standing member of Central AC, he also clinched gold at the National Cross Country (National XC) twice.