Northern Ireland Running

On Friday 24th May 2013, NiRunning had the pleasure of covering the Runher Coastal Challenge for the first time.  Having spectated at the Runher 5k and 10k in Stormont Estate, Belfast last summer I had a fair idea of what to expect from the event.  However, I have to say that this particular evening of family orientated fun, racing and great company exceeded my already high expectations!  Considering an ‘early bird’ entry for one of the Runher events can cost as little as £10, it is an event well worth attending, if you’re a female of course… apparently, it’s a girl thing! 

As I was unfamiliar with the Seapark area of Holywood, I was pleasantly surprised by the road signs indicating potential parking areas on the approach to the popular recreational area.  After a nice walk along the coastline I arrived at the start area to find a colourful sea of smiling ladies participating in the energetic and lively warm-up.  On completion of this, it was down to business; although the Runher events are geared more towards participation than prizes, this event was by far the most competitive of the Runher races I have been to.  

A plethora of talented runners, including Breege Connolly (North Belfast Harriers), Julie Balmer (North Down AC), Jessica Craig (North Down AC), Cathy McCourt (North Belfast Harriers), Natalie Bowbanks (Unattached), Kerry Speers (North Down AC), Ruth Magill (Lagan Valley AC) and Sarah Baxter (Bath AC) were amongst the ladies I knew were due to race.  Whilst I mingled around the starting area, I spotted Judith Lonnen - nee Lowry (City of Lisburn AC) and my ex-Larne AC club mate Paula McAllister (Ballymena Runners) on the start line.

Once the well-organised race officials had grouped the ladies into their allocated starting blocks (based on estimated finish time), Dame Mary Peters sounded the starting horn and the athletes set off on their 10k ‘challenge’, which covered a tough but beautiful course.  

As the leading runners went through 5k, Breege Connolly had opened up a two minute gap on her rivals.  Julie Balmer was next through the half way point, with Kerry Speers, Jessica Craig, Judith Lonnen, Paula McAllister, Cathy McCourt, Helen Bateson (Unattached), Ruth Magill , Lyndsey Pronger (North Down AC), Penny Duncan-Lindsay (East Antrim Harriers) and Amanda Perry following.

In the second half of the race, the pack shuffled a little but that did not include the exceptional leader Breege, who was covering the uneven ground at a relentless pace.  At the atmospheric finish line, the crowds, most of whom had made their way quickly from the starting area to the sunny Crawfordsburn Country Park, were eagerly awaiting the impending arrival of the athletes.  Breege was the first runner into sight, but she still had a tough climb to negotiate.  However, the brilliant North Belfast Harriers lady covered this with ease and breezed into the finish straight, breaking the tape in 36:12 to win; an impressive time considering the course and the headwind.  

Julie Balmer, the first Northern Ireland lady to finish the Belfast City Marathon earlier this month, took 2nd place in 39:11.  Julie’s North Down AC team mate, Jessica Craig returned to competition with an excellent performance and was rewarded with a 3rd place finish after crossing the line in 39:50.  

Paula McAllister, a lady who enjoyed an extremely successful Junior running career before moving away from the serious side of the sport, returned in fine fashion to secure a 4th place in 40:05.  Helen Bateson completed the distance in 40:11 (5th place), before Judith Lonnen finished in 40:49 (6th place).

Cathy McCourt (41:34) continued her return from injury with a 7th place finish, while travel and sports writer Sarah Baxter, who was covering the race for Runners World, crossed the line in 42:15 (8th place).  Experienced Lagan Valley AC runner Ruth Magill was the next to finish in 42:25 (9th place), just ahead of East Antrim Harriers’ Penny Duncan-Lindsay (10th place – 42:41) who completed the top ten ladies.  Amanda Perry followed in 42:44 (11th place) and Lyndsey Pronger (North Down AC) clocked 44:14 (12th place).  Talented ladies Natalie Bowbanks (13th place) and Nikki Heywood (14th place) both crossed the line as the clock read 44:40, with Natalie having just edged out Nikki.

Ballymena Runners’ Joanne Hilditch (45:13) just pipped unattached athlete Niamh Kellett (45:15) to the post, with the ladies taking 15th place and 16th place respectively.  Jodi Smith (Unattached) followed in 45:22 (17th place) with Unattached athlete Carrie Stewart (18th place – 45:24) just two seconds behind.  Unattached runners Jenny McClenahan (19th place – 45:54) and Michele Hudson (20th place – 45:56) completed the top twenty finishers.

After the race, the ladies enjoyed a complimentary massage from Apex Clinic, the new sponsors of the upcoming Physio Room @ NiRunning.  The finish area had a real buzz around it; with music, family games, a childrens play area and a very tempting BBQ, which appeared to be appreciated by the proud finishers.   

Top 20 Ladies:  1st Breege Connolly (North Belfast Harriers) – 36:17, 2nd Julie Balmer (North Down AC) – 39:11, 3rd Jessica Craig (North Down AC) – 39:50, 4th Paula McAllister (Ballymena Runners) – 40:05, 5th Helen Bateson (Unattached) – 40:11, 6th Judith Lonnen (City of Lisburn AC) – 40:49, 7th Cathy McCourt (North Belfast Harriers) – 41:34, 8th Sarah Baxter (Bath AC) – 42:15, 9th Ruth Magill (Lagan Valley AC) – 42:25, 10th Penny Duncan Lindsay (East Antrim Harriers) – 42:41

11th Amanda Perry (North Belfast Harriers) – 42:44, 12th Lyndsey Pronger (North Down AC) – 44:14, 13th Natalie Bowbanks (Unattached) – 44:40, 14th Nikki Heywood (North Down AC) – 44:40, 15th Joanne Hilditch (Ballymena Runners) – 45:13, 16th Niamh Kellett (Unattached) – 45:15, 17th Jodie Smith (Unattached) – 45:22, 18th Carrie Stewart (Unattached) – 45:24, 19th Jenny McClenahan (Unattached) – 45:54. 20th Michele Hudson (Unattached) – 45:56

Full Results:  Belfast Telegraph Runher Coastal Challenge 2013 Results

A selection of race photographs have also been added to our ‘Photo Gallery’, these were taken at the starting area, half-way point and the finish area.  Well done to everyone involved, entries are now available for the next Runher event, which will take place at Stormont Estate on Sunday 6th October 2013.  Please visit www.runher.co.uk for details.

On Saturday 23rd February 2013, hundreds of athletes and spectators descended on Stormont Estate, Belfast for the annual Northern Ireland Civil Service Cross Country event.

On arrival, there was an obvious buzz in the air.  This could possibly be attributed to the beautiful crisp morning and the vast array of sports taking place around the Civil Service Sports Pavilion.  It is nice to see the government owned grounds, and the brilliant facilities being used by a variety of associations.

Due to the adverse weather conditions over the past few months, organisers were forced to alter the course, moving it onto trails instead the usual cross country route.  Despite this, the race will count as a cross country event for the purposes of the Athletics NI Cross Country League and the Northern Ireland Masters Athletic Association Cross Country League.

After having a good ‘natter’ with Norman Bissett (NIMAA), John Glover (Lagan Valley AC), David Seaton (ANI Chairman) and Joe Quinn (Mr East Down AC) I made my way towards the well attended and quite obviously competitive junior races.  In my opinion, these races always add a family atmosphere to an event, and also provide a good insight into the country’s junior running scene.

In the Primary School boys and girls 1,290m race; Cathal Brennan (3 Ways AC) and Aeda Stewart (Broadbridge PS) celebrated victory in the respective categories.  Cathal crossed the line in 4:27, while Aeda won her race in 4:37.

Next up were the U-13 boys and girls for their 2,580m race.  Willowfield Harriers’ future star Desire Bamisile claimed a comfortable victory in the boys event, clocking an impressive 7:26.  In the girls race, another of Northern Ireland’s top prospects; Emma Hutchinson (Ballymena & Antrim) ran 7:47 to win clearly.  In the U-15 3,870m event; North Belfast Harriers recorded their first victory of the day, after young Conor McQuillan led the boys home in 10:01.  Lois Hagen (Willowfield Harriers) won the girls was the first girl home in 11:13.

In the final junior race of the day, the U-17 boys and girls 3,870m race, Odhran Copeland (Beechmount Harriers) ran well to win, breaking the tape in 9:43.  In the girl’s equivalent, Sarah Lambert (St Peter’s AC) claimed a well-deserved victory in 12:07.

After the junior races had been completed, race officials; which including the familiar faces of Joe Quinn (East Down AC) and Margaret Mathieson (ANI and ‘parkrun’ volunteer) directed the senior and veteran athletes further up the famous Stormont drive-way to the senior/veteran start line, which had a stunning back drop, in the form of Parliament Buildings.

Both the men’s and ladies races set off together, with the men completing a four lap 8km course and the ladies completing a two lap 4.5km course.  As the horn sounded, the runners set off down the drive-way away from Parliament Buildings before taking a sharp left turn onto the newly layed trails.

The ladies race proved to be a close affair, with Patricia O’Hagan (St Peter’s AC), Claire Connor (North Belfast Harriers), Jessica Craig (North Down AC), Catherine Whoriskey (City of Derry AC), Gillian Wasson (Springwell Running Club), Alex Kirk (Springwell Running Club) and Stephanie Hambling (North Down AC) all in contention.

It appears that the leading ladies (mentioned above) covered the course so quickly that the marshalls did not have time to take down tape allowing them access to the final stretch, so at least the first six had the extra obstacle of a steeple-chase style jump barrier prior to entering the home straight along the Stormont drive-way. 

In the end, it was one of the cross country season’s star performers, Patricia O’Hagan (St Peter’s AC) who opened up an uncatchable lead, sealing victory in 15:39.  North Belfast Harriers’ Claire Connor (15:46) claimed a well-deserved 2nd place, while Catherine Whoriskey (15:59) took 3rd place ahead of North Down AC’s Jessica Craig (4th Place – 16:12).  Springwell Running Club duo, Gillian Wasson (16:16) and Alexandra Kirk (16:20), both of whom are running well at the moment, took 5th place and 6th place respectively.

Stephanie Hambling (North Down AC) followed in 16:34 (7th place), before Clones AC’s Helen Stockdale crossed the line in 16:40 (8th place).  Another of the Springwell Running Club ladies, Alison Ranking finished in 16:43 (9th place), just five seconds ahead of City of Derry AC’s Hannah Shields (16:48) who completed the top ten.  The good packing of the aforementioned Springwell Running Club ladies meant that they took the ladies team prize.

As the final female competitors were approaching the finish line, the first male athlete appeared; it was no surprise to see that it was North Belfast Harriers’ Alan O’Hara.  After leading from the off, and putting on an impressive display of front running, Alan ran to an excellent victory.  He crossed the line in 24:57, well clear of his closest competitors; Andrew Annett (Mourne Runners) and Gary Slevin (City of Derry AC) who were locked in an enthralling battle for the runners-up spot.

Andrew had been running well and was in second place for most of the race, but a patient Gary left his move until the final stages and passed Andrew within touching distance of the finish line.  A tired, but happy Gary Slevin recorded 25:38 (2nd place), while Andrew Annett finished in 25:39 (3rd place).

Up and coming Springwell Running Club star Neil Johnston was next home in 25:41(4th place), a mere one second ahead of Chris McPeake (City of Derry AC) who ran 25:42 (5th place).  Chris’ club mate Nick Cassidy followed in 25:47 (6th place), before North Belfast Harriers’ Andrew Considine recorded 25:55 (7th place).  Francis Marsh (8th place - 25:57) came in just under twenty six minutes, while North Belfast Harriers duo Eddie Cooke (9th place – 26:01) and Paul Blayney (10th place – 26:08) completed the top ten.  City of Derry AC won the male team prize.

Francis Marsh (North Down AC) and Gillian Wasson (Springwell Running Club) were the first civil servants in their respective categories, and both led the Northern Ireland Civil Service team to the ‘Sevices Team’ awards.

Primary School Race (1,290m) Winners:

Cathal Brennan (3 Ways AC) – 4:27 and Aeda Stewart (Broadbridge PS) – 4:37

U-13 Race (2,580m) Winners:

Desire Bamisile (Willowfield Harriers) – 7:26 and Emma Hutchinson (Ballymena & Antrim AC) – 7:47

U-15 Race (3,870m) Winners:

Conor McQuillan (North Belfast Harriers) – 10:01 and Lois Hagen (Willowfield Harriers) – 11:13

U-17 Race (3,870m) Winners:

Odhran Copeland (Beechmount Harriers) – 9:43 and Sarah Lambert (St Peter’s AC) – 12:07

Men’s Top 10 (8km):

1st Alan O’Hara (North Belfast Harriers) – 24:57, 2nd Gary Slevin (City of Derry AC) – 25:38, 3rd Andrew Annett (Mourne Runners) – 25:39, 4th Neil Johnston (Springwell Running Club) – 25:41, 5th Chris McPeake (City of Derry AC) – 25:42, 6th Nick Cassidy (City of Derry AC) – 25:47. 7th Andrew Considine (North Belfast Harriers) – 25:55, 8th Francis Marsh (North Down AC) – 25:57, 9th Eddie Cooke (North Belfast Harriers) – 26:01, 10th Paul Blayney (North Belfast Harriers) – 26:08

Ladies Top 10 (4.5km):

1st Patricia O’Hagan (St Peter’s AC) – 15:39, 2nd Claire Connor (North Belfast Harriers) – 15:46, 3rd Catherine Whoriskey (City of Derry AC) – 15:59, 4th Jessica Craig (North Down AC) – 16:14, 5th Gillian Wasson (Springwell Running Club) – 16:16, 6th Alexandra Kirk (Springwell Running Club) – 16:20, 7th Stephanie Hambling (North Down AC) – 16:34, 8th Helen Stockdale (Clones AC) – 16:40, 9th Alison Rankin (Springwell Running Club) – 16:43, 10th Hannah Shields (City of Derry AC) – 16:48

Full Results:  Stormont XC 2013 Results -  Race photographs available in our ‘Photo Gallery’ section.

On Saturday 26th January 2013, record numbers turned out for this years Northern Ireland & Ulster Junior and Masters Cross Country Championships in Lurgan Park, Lurgan.

The entry criteria means that any athlete who has won the NI Junior XC Championships, UAC Intermediate XC Championships, AAI Intermediate XC Championships as an individual or part of the winning team; or has been placed 1st or 2nd as an individual or part of a team in the NI Senior XC Championships, UAC Senior XC Championships or the AAI Senior XC Championships cannot participate in the ‘Intermediate’ Women’s or ‘Junior/Intermediate’ Men’s races.

The event, organised by Athletics Northern Ireland attracted well over five hundred competitors.  In cool conditions, athletes came up against a damp and heavy 2km looped course, which worsened as the racing programme progressed.

On arrival, I managed to catch part of the Male Masters (Vet 35+) 8km race, and it was the pre-race favourite, Dave Morwood (Annadale Striders) who impressed most.  Running strongly, he was a prominent figure at the front before breaking clear in the closing stages to claim a well-deserved victory in 28:18, making him the new NI & Ulster Masters XC Champion.  Letterkenny AC’s Ciaran Doherty (28:37) took 2nd place, while North Belfast Harriers’ Alan O’Hara (28:50) held off a strong challenge from Ballymena Runners Iain Taggart (4th place – 28:56) to finish in 3rd place. 

North Belfast Harriers duo Eamon White (29:17) and Neil Carty (29:22) finished in 5th place and 6th place respectively, before Annadale Striders’ Mark Wright clocked 29:41 (7th place).  Francis Marsh (North Down AC) completed the course in 30:00 exactly (8th place), just ahead of Paul Blayney (9th place - 30:07) who ensured that North Belfast Harriers were crowned NI & Ulster Masters XC Champions.  Finn Valley AC’s Kieran Carlin (30:12) completed the top ten Masters Men.

Next up were the Junior/Intermediate and Masters Women for their 4km race, despite being a commentator’s nightmare because of the fact that there were ‘three races in one’ it was an exciting event.  As the athletes set off, Denise Toner (Clones AC) moved to the front straight away, she was followed by Donna Evans (Monaghan Phoenix AC), with Omagh Harriers duo Sara Moore and Michelle Sturm just behind.  Rachel Gibson (North Down AC) and Emma Mitchell (Unattached) also started well.

As the race progressed, Michelle Sturm caught her club mate Sara Moore, while Elaine Burch (Lagan Valley AC) and Catriona Devine (Finn Valley AC) worked their way through the field and into the chasing pack.

As the runners descended from the wooded section of the course towards the finish, it was Clones AC’s Denise Toner who came into view first.  She quickly made her way towards the finishing straight and crossed the line in 16:47 to seal an impressive victory.   Monaghan Phoenix AC’s Donna Evans (16:51) took 2nd place, with Omagh Harriers’ Michelle Sturm (16:54) in 3rd place.  Sara Moore (17:04) was next home in 4th place before a train of athletes finished; including Finn Valley AC’s Catriona Devine (5th place – 17:17), Lagan Valley AC’s Elaine Burch (6th place – 17:22), North Down AC’s Rachel Gibson (7th place – 17:26), Finn Valley AC’s Angela Speight (8th place – 17:30), Inishowen AC’s Evelyn McGinley (9th place - 17:31) and Springwell Running Club’s Gillian Wasson (10th place – 17:32) made up the top ten finishers.

In-turn, Denise Toner was crowned winner of the Intermediate Women’s race, with Omagh Harriers duo Michelle Sturm (16:54) and Sara Moore (17:04) taking 2nd and 3rd place respectively.  Springwell Running Club won the Intermediate team race.

Donna Evans’ (Monaghan Phoenix AC) won the Masters Ladies category in 16:51, while Catriona Devine (Finn Valley AC) took 2nd place in 17:17.  Inishowen AC’s Evelyn McGinley claimed the final podium place when she crossed the line in 17:31.  In the Masters Women team standings, Finn Valley AC celebrated victory.

In the competitive IAAF Junior Women’s Race, last years winner Sara Moore (Omagh Harriers) retained her title.  The Northern Ireland International ran a gutsy race, staying close to the front throughout and finishing in 17:04.  Lagan Valley AC’s Elaine Burch (17:22) finished in 2nd place, with Springwell Running Club’s Alex Kirk (17:57) in 3rd place.

In the Male Masters Vet65+ Category, ran within the Women’s 4km race, North Down AC’s Brian Smith (19:14) and David Seaton (19:29) claimed 1st place and 2nd place respectively, with Dromore AC’s Willie Weir (20:05) in 3rd place.

As the rain began to fall, and the course became even more slippy, the Junior/Intermediate Men set off on their five lap 10km race.  Brendan Teer (East Down AC) made his intentions clear from the off, surging to the front of the field. 

He was pursued by Ryan McDermott (Annadale Striders), Scott Rankin (Foyle Valley AC), Keith Shiels (Foyle Valley AC), Gerard Gallagher (Finn Valley AC), Conan McCaughey (Enniskillen Running Club), James Speight (Finn Valley AC) and Adam Boyd (North Belfast Harriers).

In truth, that was probably the most the front runners saw of Brendan, as he continued to push the pace relentlessly.  Behind him, Annadale Striders’ Ryan McDermott was forced to withdraw due to injury.  At this point some of the chasing pack were beginning to tire, this allowed Adam Boyd to work his way through to join Gerard Gallagher at the front of it. 

Foyle Valley AC’s Puis McIntyre also ran a tactically good race, like Adam; he didn’t push excessively hard at the start and progressively worked his way through the heavy legged runners.  As Brendan Teer continued his exciting display of front running, Adam (Boyd) and Gerard (Gallagher) began to break clear of the now wavering chasing group.  Younsters, Conan McCaughey, James Speight and Ryan Holt were holding on well while Pius McIntyre had now overtaken his club mates Scott Rankin and Keith Shiels.

As the chilled spectators watched for the runners appearing from highest section of the park, it was indeed the impressive Brendan Teer who came into view first, finishing well clear of his opponents in 36:17, thus he was crowned as NI & Ulster Junior XC Champion. 

Meanwhile, behind the East Down AC athlete the race for second place was hotting up.  Adam Boyd and Gerard Gallagher were battling amongst themselves for the silver medal.  As they approached the finish, it was Adam who put in a late surge to edge clear and take 2nd place in 36:58.  Finn Valley AC’s Gerard Gallagher (37:02) settled for an excellent 3rd place. 

James Speight (Finn Valley AC) just pipped Conan McCaughey (Enniskillen Running Club) to the line, to claim 4th place; although both were given the same time of 37:25.  With Conan McCaughey in 5th place, all eyes were on another young runner, Willowfield Harriers’ Ryan Holt (37:42) as he secured a well-deserved 6th place.

Foyle Valley AC duo Pius McIntyre (37:45) and Keith Shiels (37:49) finished in 7th and 8th place respectively, before Dromore AC’s Andrew Hicks (37:52) beat City of Derry AC’s Nick Cassidy (10th place - 37:53) to 9th place by a mere one second.

Nick was the first of the City of Derry AC team to finish, and despite Foyle Valley AC and Finn Valley AC having numerous finishers in high places it was City of Derry AC who claimed an excellent victory in the Junior/Intermediate team competition.  Although the whole team deserve credit for their performance on the day, the counting team members were; Nick Cassidy (10th place – 37:53), James Brown (12th place – 38:20), Brendan Murphy (14th place – 38:31), Chris McPeake (18th place – 39:17), Connor Doherty (31st place – 40:15) and Gary Slevin (35th place – 40:36).

The record entry and amount of support around the course suggests that Cross Country running is regaining the popularity it enjoyed through earlier years.  This must partially be credited to the Athletics NI XC League and also the exciting courses on offer throughout the province.  In years gone by, Lurgan Park was often used for major Cross Country events such as this, so it was fantastic to see competitive racing return to the scenic park.

Results Summary:

Masters Men (Vet35+):  1st Dave Morwood (Annadale Striders) – 28:18, 2nd Ciaran Doherty (Letterkenny AC) – 28:37, 3rd Alan O’Hara (North Belfast Harriers) – 28:50

Team Winners:  North Belfast Harriers

Masters Women:  1st Donna Evans (Monaghan Phoenix AC) – 16:51, 2nd Catriona Devine (Finn Valley AC) – 17:17, 3rd Evelyn McGinley (Inishowen AC) – 17:31.

Team Winners:  Finn Valley AC

Intermediate Women:  1st Denise Toner (Clones AC) – 16:47, 2nd Michelle Sturm (Omagh Harriers) – 16:54, 3rd Sara Moore (Omagh Harriers) – 17:04

Team Winners:  Springwell Running Club

Junior Women:  1st Sara Moore (Omagh Harriers) – 17:04, 2nd Elaine Burch (Lagan Valley AC) – 17:22, 3rd Alex Kirk (Springwell Running Club) – 17:57

Junior/Intermediate Men:  1st Brendan Teer (East Down AC) – 36:17, 2nd Adam Boyd (North Belfast Harriers) – 36:58, 3rd Gerard Gallagher (Finn Valley AC) – 37:02

Team Winners:  City of Derry AC

Full Results:  NI & Ulster Junior and Masters Championships 2013

Race Photographs are located with our ‘Photo Gallery’.  We would like to apologise in advance for the lack of quality in some of the photographs, this was due to camera problems (in the wet conditions).

On Saturday 17th November 2012, nearly 1000 runners gathered for what is traditionally viewed as the final race of the road racing season, the Podium 4 Sport Seeley Cup 10km Road Race, incorporating the Northern Ireland 10km Championships.

Covered in winter sunshine, Ormeau Park was buzzing as the runners ventured towards the start line on the Embankment.  After a short delay the runners set off on the 6.21 mile course, covering the roads and paths in and around the park.  Spectators scurried towards the inner sections of the park to catch a glimpse of the provinces talent as they made their way around the two and a half lap course.

In the opening lap, Annadale Striders trio; Paul Pollock, Paddy Hamilton and Owen Carelton featured prominently, as did Foyle Valley AC’s Scott Rankin.  Meanwhile, Kerry Harty (Newcastle AC) led the ladies through 3km, with Julie Turley (Dromore AC) and Gladys Ganiel O’Neill (North Belfast Harriers) just behind.

Unfortunately, Julie was forced to withdraw a short time later with a painful stitch.  This left Gladys (17:17) in second place behind Kerry (16:56) going through half way, with North Belfast Harriers’ Claire Connor (18:41) in third place, just ahead of Finn Valley AC’s Angela Speight (18:46), North Down AC’s Jessica Craig (18:50), Armagh City AC’s Danielle Fegan (18:55) and unattached athlete Claire Coffey (19:01).

In the men’s race, Paul Pollock (15:28), Paddy Hamilton (15:28) and Owen Carleton (15:29) were just ahead of Foyle Valley AC’s Scott Rankin going through 5km.  A group containing Alan O’Hara (North Belfast Harriers), Brendan Teer (East Down AC) and Eamon White (North Belfast Harriers) went through half way in just over 16 minutes, while Ballymena & Antrim AC’s Jarlath Falls (16:13), North Belfast Harriers new boy Adam Boyd (16:13), Finn Valley AC’s James Speight (16:20) and Annadale Striders’ Keith Purdy (16:23) followed.

As the expectant crowds gathered their belongings and moved towards the finish line, discussing whether the 30 minute barrier would be broken, despite the strong breeze on the Embankment, it was Annadale Striders Paul Pollock who veered off the main pathway and towards the finish.   He celebrated as he crossed the line in 30:40 to take 1st place, and with it the honour of being Northern Ireland 10km Champion, adding to his already bulging trophy cabinet which includes the National Half Marathon and National Marathon titles!

Club mate Paddy Hamilton (2nd place - 30:49) finished a mere nine seconds behind, with the outstanding Scott Rankin (31:38) taking 3rd place after producing the performance of his life.  Owen Carelton (31:43) took 4th place, while Alan O’Hara ran 32:10 to secure 5th place.  Club mate, Eamon White (32:12) finished in 6th place, while Brendan Teer clocked 32:17 to take 7th place.  Jarlath Falls ran 32:44 (8th place), ahead of Adam Boyd (32:51) and Keith Purdy (33:04) who finished in 9th and 10th place respectively.

In the ladies race, exceptional athlete Kerry Harty, just home from altitude training in Font-Romeu ran strongly through the second half, increasing her lead and taking the ladies 10km title in a personal best time of 34:23.  Gladys Ganiel O’Neill took 2nd place in 34:58, while her club mate Claire Connor (37:50) produced an excellent performance to finish in 3rd place.  Finn Valley’s Angela Speight (38:08) took 4th place, while North Down AC’s current cross country star Jessica Craig (38:20) finished in 5th place.

Armagh AC’s Danielle Fegan secured 6th place after running 38:41, while unattached athlete Ciara Coffey (38:59) completed an impressive season with a 7th place finish.  North Down AC’s Julie Balmer (39:22) returned to racing after her sub 3 hour Dublin Marathon  finish to take 8th place, while her North Down AC club mate, and another lady who is featuring well in recent cross country races, Rachel Gibson crossed the line in 39:26 (9th place).  Dromore AC’s Geraldine Branagh completed the top ten ladies after running 39:30 (10th place).

After a nervous wait, Annadale Striders were awarded the Seeley Cup for the twenty seventh time, after seeing off a strong challenge from North Belfast Harriers.  North Belfast Harriers did have cause to celebrate though, as their ladies were awarded the female team prize.

Participants received a much appreciated bottle of water on finishing, this coupled with the decent technical t-shirt provided in the race pack would be no more than expected for the reasonable entry fee.

Top 10 Men:  1st Paul Pollock (Annadale Striders) – 30:40, 2nd Paddy Hamilton (Annadale Striders) – 30:49, 3rd Scott Rankin (Foyle Valley AC) – 31:38, 4th Owen Carelton (Annadale Striders) – 31:43, 5th Alan O’Hara (North Belfast Harriers) – 32:10, 6th Eamon White (North Belfast Harriers) – 32:12, Brendan Teer (East Down AC) – 32:17, Jarlath Falls (Ballymena & Antrim AC) – 32:44, Adam Boyd (North Belfast Harriers) – 32:51, Keith Purdy (Annadale Striders) – 33:04

Top 10 Ladies:  1st Kerry Harty (Newcastle AC) – 34:28, 2nd Gladys Ganiel O’Neill (North Belfast Harriers) – 34:58, 3rd Claire Connor (North Belfast Harriers) – 37:50, 4th Angela Speight (Finn Valley) – 38:08, 5th Jessica Craig (North Down AC), 6th Danielle Fegan (Armagh AC) – 38:41, 7th Ciara Coffey (Unattached) – 38:59, 8th Julie Balmer (North Down AC) – 39:22, 9th Rachel Gibson (North Down AC) – 39:26, 10th Geraldine Branagh (Dromore AC) – 39:30

Full Results:  Podium 4 Sport Seeley Cup 10km Road Race Results 2012.  Please see our ‘Gallery’ and Gareth Heron photography for race photographs.

On Saturday 29th September 2012, despite blustery conditions, nearly one thousand runners descended on Bangor Leisure Centre for the ‘Aurora’ Bangor 10k, sponsored by North Down Council and organised in conjunction with North Down AC.

Thankfully, neither the predicted road works nor the queues of traffic east of Belfast affected participants travelling from the County Antrim direction.  On entering the registration hall, nearly ninety minutes before the race there was an obvious buzz, complimented by a friendly and welcoming registration team. 

Groups of charity runners discussed suitable paces, while the more experienced runners were more interested in race tactics and possible finish times.  All in all, things were set for an exciting race.

As the crowds gathered in Castle Park for the start of the race, top quality late entrants were indentified.  Amongst these were former Irish half Marathon Champion, Joe Mc Alister (St Malachy’s AC) and current, recently crowned Irish Half Marathon Champion Paul Pollock (Annadale Striders). 

They were joined by Brendan Teer (East Down AC), Stephen Rooney (St Malachy’s AC) and  North Belfast Harriers’ duo Alan O’Hara and Gareth Grew.  While in the ladies race, North Belfast Harriers’ Claire Connor and Gladys Ganiel O’Neill joined pre-entered local ladies Jessica Craig, Julie Balmer and Rachel Gibson (all North Down AC)

Race director and North Down AC legend, David Seaton spoke enthusiastically about the race ahead and of his happiness that so many participants had been attracted to the race. 

As the horn sounded, pre-race favourites Joe McAlister and Paul Pollock showed their intent, immediately surging clear of the field, followed by what seemed to be an endless stream of runners.  As the athletes made their way downhill, through the town centre and out onto the Groomsport Road alongside Bangor Bay, supporters walked quickly towards the finish area in the stunning Ward Park.

By the time front runners  had reached half way, close to Groomsport village Paul Pollock (15:02) had broken clear of Joe McAlister (15:07), albeit by just a few seconds,  while talented North Belfast Harriers’ Alan O’Hara (16:04) and North Down AC’s Michael Dyer (16:04) led the chasing pack.  Brendan Teer (East Down AC) and Stephen Rooney (St Malachy’s AC) followed in 16:12 and 16:16 respectively.

Gladys Ganiel O’Neill (17:41) led North Down AC’s Jessica Craig (18:35) and Julie Balmer (18:58) into the final 5k, with all three looking comfortable.  Recent Portglenone 5k winner Claire Connor (North Belfast Harriers) followed, going through halfway in 19:31, just ahead of North Down AC’s Rachel Gibson (19:37).   

As crowds of spectators scurried into Ward Park, trying to find the perfect spot to watch the finale, positions were changing out on the course.  Paul Pollock had increased his lead over Joe McAlister, while Brendan Teer had closed the gap and caught the chasing group of Alan O’Hara and Michael Dyer.

Michael had tired a little and dropped off Brendan and Alan, who both now knew they would have to battle it out for the final podium place.

Meanwhile, back in the park, Paul Pollock was the first to receive a warm welcome from the awaiting crowds as he finished strongly, claiming a well-deserved 1st place in 30:19, an impressive time considering the blustery conditions.  Joe McAlister (31:39) took 2nd place with Brendan Teer (33:02) just edging Alan O’Hara (33:07) to 3rd place, after overtaking him as the pair entered the park.

Track star Michael Dyer (North Down AC) led the host club home in 5th place, clocking 33:27 while Joe Frazer (St Malachy’s AC) crossed the line in 33:35 (6th place).  Liam Veeney (East Down AC) followed in 33:42 (7th place) meaning that a finisher from either St Malachy’s AC or East Down AC would secure the men’s team prize.  Joe Mc Alister and Joe Frazer smiled as club mate Stephen Rooney (34:02) entered the park and took 8th place, thus cementing the team prize for the St Malachy’s AC men.

Popular North Down AC member Francis Marsh finished in 9th place, running 34:07.  Francis was closely followed by young St Malachy’s AC star Ben Branagh, who completed the top ten when he crossed the line in 34:15.

In the ladies race, the second half played out exactly as the first half had, with Gladys holding onto top spot, crossing the line in 36:49, a tired but happy Jessica Craig (38:39) continued her recent good form, taking 2nd place, while birthday girl Julie Balmer secured an excellent 3rd place in 39:36.

Claire Connor (North Belfast Harriers) ran strongly, holding onto 4th place, completing the course in 40:20.  Impressive Rachael Gibson (North Down AC) secured the female team prize for the ever consistent North Down ladies as she crossed the line in 40:49 (5th place).  Denise Logue followed closely behind, taking 6th place in 40:55.

Gerrie Short (7th place – 42:19), Fiona Johnston (8th place – 43:12) from Up & Runners, Gillian Douglas (9th place – 44:16) and Kate Mc Avoy (10th place – 44:35) completed the ladies top ten.

As the sun shown, hundreds of happy charity runners filtered through the finish to loud cheers of support from hundreds of spectators, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.  As we mingled with tired but motivated finishers several things were constantly mentioned, the extremely reasonable entry fee (Online entry was £11), the fantastic marshalling on the course and the precision in which the race was organised.

A huge array of generous prizes were awarded to race winners, podium finishers, as well as category winners and runners up from Vet35 to Vet70 at the Bangor Leisure Centre by North Down council representatives. 

On finishing, David Seaton (North Down AC) paid tribute to all the runners who participated, making the event an outstanding success and extended genuine words of thanks to North Down Council who’s sponsorship makes the event possible. 

For those, like us wondering where the ‘Aurora’ in the race title originates:  Here goes…  The ‘Bangor Aurora Aquatic and Leisure Complex’ is the official name of the new £38m leisure facility currently in construction at the site of the Valentines Playing Fields.  Construction is due for completion in February 2013.

Top 3 Men: 1st Paul Pollock (Annadale Striders) – 30:19, 2nd Joe McAlister (St Malachy’s AC) –31:39, 3rd Brendan Teer (East Down AC) – 33:02

Top 3 Ladies: 1st Gladys Ganiel O’Neill (North Belfast Harriers) – 36:49, 2nd Jessica Craig (North Down AC) –38:39, 3rd Julie Balmer (North Down AC) – 39:36.

Male Team Winners:  St Malachy’s AC – Joe Mc Alister (31:39), John Frazer (33:35) and Stephen Rooney (34:02)

Female Team Winners:  North Down AC – Jessica Craig (38:40), Julie Balmer (39:37) and Rachel Gibson (40:49)

Race Results:  Bangor 10k 2012 Results

Please visit our 'Photo Gallery' to view pictures taken at the 'Aurora' Bangor 10k 2012.

On Sunday 2nd September, hundreds of enthusiastic runners descended on a lively and somewhat atmospheric Ormeau Park, Belfast for the ‘Up & Running’ Laganside 10k, one of the most popular events on the race calendar.  

With the sun shining and nothing more than a token breeze it looked like the perfect day for personal bests. With music, stalls and a fun run before the main event it emphasised the important family value aspect of running in Northern Ireland, where many of our events can now be enjoyed as a family outing.

As the final fun runners completed an enjoyable event and the road restrictions were being put into place for the start of the ‘main race’, runners crowded the start area.  With many discussing the upcoming race, expectations varied from those wanting personal bests after building their training towards the event, some just out for an enjoyable run and the sense of the achievement that follows while others were admirably out to raise money for charity.

Before the runners set off on the fast, flat course, a minutes silence was held in honour of Northern Ireland distance running legend Moira O’Neill who sadly passed away on Wednesday 29th August after a long battle with cancer.

As the horn sounded, close to 700 participants exited Ormeau Park and swarmed the Embankment, turning right in the direction of the Short Strand, onto Queens Bridge, Oxford Street, through Maysfield onto the Lagan towpath and over Ormeau Bridge before completing a shorter second lap, where they went over the Albert Bridge to Maysfield and onto the towpath back towards the Embankment and the finish in Ormeau Park (Ozone Centre Car Park).

In what appeared to be a tactical race, with the first 5k being run at a relatively conservative pace.  A group led by Annadale Striders’ Keith Purdy, including club mate Paul Carroll, Adam Boyd (Unattached), Francis March (North Down AC) and Daryl Blair (North Belfast Harriers) went through half way close to 16:37, approximately 200-300 metres ahead of the chasing pack which included North Belfast Harriers trio Conor Curran, Martin Rea and Andrew Considine with Andrew Hicks (Dromore AC) also in the mix.

Julie Turley (Dromore AC) led the ladies race at the half way point, with a 5k split of 18:05 she was approximately thirty seconds ahead of London 2012 Irish Olympian Aileen Morrison (City of Derry), who in-turn was also thirty seconds ahead of triathlete Judith Lowry (City of Lisburn AC) who had North Down’s leading lady Jessica Craig hot on her heals.

As the race progressed into the later stages it was Keith Purdy who took advantage of the cracks in the lead group as he gradually ran clear of club mate Paul Carroll, opening a gap wide enough to allow him time to counteract any late surge. 

Meanwhile in the ladies race, Jessica Craig’s disciplined run was reaping rewards as she passed Judith Lowry who was understandably beginning to feel the effects of her early pace.  Judith now had a battle on to keep fourth place with North Down’s Julie Balmer closing fast.

At the finish, the crowds had gathered just inside Ormeau Park, patiently waiting for the runners to appear.  Having been close to the front for the duration of the race, Annadale Striders’ Keith Purdy turned into the final straight with enough time to enjoy the well-deserved applause as he crossed the line in 1st place, with a winning time of 32:54.  Paul Carroll (33:11) followed a few seconds later in 2nd place with ever consistent Adam Boyd (33:24) in 3rd, just ahead of North Down AC’s Francis Marsh (33:27).  North Belfast Harriers Daryl Blair (5th place – 33:39) checked over his shoulder on the run in but was clear of club mate Conor Curran (33:50) who claimed 6th place.  Martin Rea took 7th in 34:23 and secured the male team prize for North Belfast Harriers.  Another North Belfast Harrier, Andrew Considine (8th – 34:27) was next into sight with Dromore AC’s Andrew Hicks (34:38) and Larne AC’s James Brown (35:04) finishing in 9th and 10th respectively.

Julie Turley led the ladies race from the outset and deservedly entered the final straight still in the lead, crossing the line in 36:02, taking 1st place.  Aileen Morrison (37:41), in what could possibly have been her first outing since the Olympics finished in 2nd place while Jessica Craig claimed 3rd place in 38:02.  Club mate Julie Balmer (38:34) had caught Judith Lowry (4th place - 39:22) and beat the City of Lisburn lady to 3rd place.  Dromore AC’s Geraldine Branagh was 6th in 40:10, while Caira Coffey (41:05) took 7th place.  With the ladies team prize still up for grabs the North Down team must have sighed with the relief at the sight of Ali Robinson (8th place – 41:26) cross the line, thus securing the team prize.  Rachel Gibson (Unattached) had a strong race, taking 9th place in 41:36 with Larne AC’s Geraldine Quigley (43:04) completing the top ten.

After crossing the finish line competitors were greeted by smiley, helpful marshalls before being given a goody bag containing well-deserved refreshments.  The sense of achievement around the finish area was clear to see with many runners discussing the ‘ins and outs’ of their race while relaxing in the sunshine to watch the presentation of generous prizes by race director Matt Shields and athletics guru Dave Mc Kibben from the Newsletter.

Top 3 Men:  1st Keith Purdy (Annadale Striders) – 32:54, 2nd Paul Carroll (Annadale Striders) – 33:11, 3rd Adam Boyd (Unattached) – 33:24

Top 3 Ladies:  1st Julie Turley (Dromore AC) – 36:01, 2nd Aileen Morrison (City of Derry) – 37:41, 3rd Jessica Craig (North Down AC) – 38:02

Male Team Winners: North Belfast Harriers – Daryl Blair (33:39), Conor Curran (33:50) and Martin Rea (34:23)

Ladies Team Winners:  North Down AC – Jessica Craig (38:02), Julie Balmer (38:34) and Ali Robinson (41:29)

Full Results:  http://www.championchipireland.com/results/index.php

Please visit our ‘Photo Gallery’ for race day pictures!  You can also review the event yourself in our ‘Forum’.

In a month when the UK has been truly gripped by Olympic fever, the Kennedy Kane Mc Arthur Festival of Running could not have taken place at a better time.  On Saturday 21st July hundreds of runners descended on the small historic village of Dervock, County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

The Dervock 10km and Half Marathon races are a popular annual event but this year was a little special, there was an additional race; the Marathon. The inclusion of the 26.2 mile race was to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of Dervock born athlete Kennedy Kane Mc Arthur winning the gold medal in the Olympic Marathon in Stockholm, Sweden in 1912; ironically the anniversary takes place in the same year the Olympics are held in Great Britain.

As Kennedy Kane Mc Arthur emigrated to South Africa at the age of 20, he ran the Marathon in the colours of his adopted nation. The significance of Mc Arthur’s achievement should not be under estimated, this was emphasised by the number of South African visitors who made the long journey to take part in the festival.

In itself, the festival was quite possibly as well organised as any Olympic event with a typical Northern Irish friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The village was decorated in colourful bunting with the local football pitch being converted into a finishing area, incorporating ample activities for children and many stalls, serving food, drinks and commemorative accessories.

Another iconic Northern Ireland Olympic Gold Medallist, Dame Mary Peter’s got proceedings under way, starting each of the races.

As the competitors set off, a tough undulating course lay ahead. In the warm humid conditions the regular, well stocked water stations were appreciated and the stunning scenery which included plenty of shaded areas brought a welcome relief from the sunshine.

It was the 10k competitors who entered the finishing straight first, with Matthew Mc Cooke (Ballymena Runners) crossing the line in 35:50 to secure victory. Julie Murphy (Lagan Valley) took the 1st female prize in 42:43.

In the Half Marathon, the first runner home was Alan Mc Cullough (North Belfast Harriers), brother of the famous Northern Ireland boxer Wayne Mc Cullough. Alan, a very popular and successful runner in Northern Ireland crossed the line in 1:11:58 with Julie Balmer (North Down) winning the female race in 1:24:18.

With an extra financial bonus for anyone breaking Kennedy Kane Mc Arthur’s Olympic Marathon winning time of 2:36:55 the crowds were eagerly awaiting the Marathon runners, who completed two laps of the Half Marathon course. It was Geoff Smyth (Unattached) who entered the finishing area first, breaking the tape in 2:57:14. Not close to Mc Arthur’s time but a very respectable time considering the course and the conditions. Karen Alexander (Sperrin Harriers) took “gold” in the female race, crossing the line in 3:15:45.

All competitors received a special commemorative medal on finishing, as well as a unique technical T-Shirt in the South African colours with Kennedy Kane Mc Arthurs number; 613 printed on the front