Hundreds are heading to Grangemouth for the national championships

More than 700 athletes will descend on Grangemouth this weekend in the pursuit of medals during what is the highlight of the Scottish track and field calendar – the FPSG Senior and U17 Championships.

The 127th edition of these Scottish Championships sees 405 entries for the Seniors events, with a host of GB and Scotland international athletes on the start-lists.

There are prize pots on offer at £2000 for athletes eligible for Scotland in the Seniors and likewise at £1000 in Para events – provided certain performance standards are met.

British discus international Nick Percy scooped that prize last year when winning gold and returns to defend his title, while Kirsty Law will be looking to finish top of the women’s podium again.

Other defending champions set to perform include Jax Thoirs, Neil Gourley, Kirsten McAslan, Chris Bennett, Jack Lawrie, Kelsey Stewart, Alisha Rees, Greg Millar and Alastair Hay.

The men’s long jump looks good with entries from a trio of U20 athletes who are GB internationals – Stephen Mackenzie, Alessandro Schenini and Calum Henderson, while the men’s 5000m features entries from Hay, Jamie Crowe, Kristian Jones, Ryan Thomson and James Donald.

Female athletes likely to contend for medals include Eloise Walker, Philippa Millage, Rachel Hunter, Anna Nelson, Sarah Warnock, Nikki Manson, Emma Nuttall, Zara Asante and Courtney MacGuire.

On the Para side, Jo Butterfield, Maria Lyle and Gavin Drysdale are expected in Grangemouth.