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World record holder in the 800m David Rudisha pleasantly surprised participants of the annual Allan Scally Memorial Road Relay Race as he took a break from attending the World Indoor Athletics Championships in Glasgow on Saturday, March 1st.

The middle-distance running legend engaged in the prize-giving ceremony and exchanged training tips with winners following the highly anticipated 4 x 5km relay race organized by the prominent city athletics group, Shettleston Harriers.

David Rudisha’s presence

Rudisha’s presence at the event, in his role as an international ambassador for the World Athletics Indoor Championships, added a special touch to the occasion, coinciding with the ongoing World Championships in the city.

During the event, David had the honour of presenting prizes to the winning men’s and women’s teams, with Stirling University Athletics Club clinching victory in the men’s race and Glasgow University Athletics Club emerging victorious in the women’s category.

With a total of 1,000 runners (250 teams of 4) participating in this year’s event, the road relay took place in and around Glasgow Green, just a stone’s throw away from where the World Championships were being held.

Rudisha‘s visit exemplified World Athletics’ commitment to promoting local engagement and enthusiasm during major sporting events like the World Athletics Indoor Championships.

Expressing his excitement about interacting with the local community in Glasgow, the two-time Olympic gold medalist shared, “I am thrilled to be a part of this prestigious local race and to chat with the passionate athletics community here in Glasgow. It’s a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the spirit of the sport and showcase the excitement around the World Athletics Indoor Championships Glasgow 24.”

The 53rd Allan Scally Memorial Road Race, a beloved event in Scottish road racing, honored the memory of the esteemed coach and team manager Allan Scally. This traditional 4 x 5km relay event attracted top athletes and enthusiastic spectators alike, with the Allan Scally Trophy awarded to the winning team, standing as one of Scottish road racing’s most prestigious honors.

David Rudisha’s visit

Elaine Mackay, President of Shettleston Harriers and current Club Coach, expressed her delight at David’s visit, stating, “Having David join us for the Allan Scally Road Relay Race is a real treat. His presence will undoubtedly inspire our runners and add an extra layer of excitement to this already eagerly anticipated event.

Furthermore, the event was a true family affair, with Elaine being the granddaughter of the late Allan Scally, and her husband John Mackay serving as today’s race director. Allan’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren were also in attendance, collectively representing 97 years of service to the club and the local community.