The past week has been exceptionally busy for club runners. Our biggest turnout was in Larne for the 10 mile race. We had mountain runners in the Mourne Marauder, safari runners at Belfast Zoo Half Marathoners in Omagh and Marathoners in Roscommon. And to top it all we donated £1456 to the Cancer Fund for Children.
Larne 10 Mile by Peter Fleming
The 2023 Larne 10-mile road race was a stunning event that brought together runners from local running clubs to compete on one of the most picturesque coastal roads in the world. The course, which stretches along the rugged East Antrim coastline, provided breathtaking views of the sea, the surrounding hills and even over to Scotland. Everyone was treated to the scenic beauty of the area which helped already high spirits throughout the race.
The enthusiasm of the runners was palpable, as the 500+ field lined up on the start line just above the local leisure centre. The starting line was alive with anticipation as runners from near and far chatted, stretched, and got ready to race. The cheering and clapping spectators along the course particularly at Ballygally added to the excitement. A most welcome show of support for the runners as they approached the halfway turn-point at Dave 'Boy' McCauley's half-way house.
The organization of the event by Larne AC was exemplary. The race was well-planned, with clear instructions and guidance provided.
Ballymena Runners were out in full force, with each club member putting in a strong performance. Tackling the flat and fast course with determination, pushing themselves to their limits and achieving remarkable results. Those included 3 in the top 10 - James Hamilton, Stephen Gage and Neil Douglas. In addition there were scores of PBs, season bests and the achievement for many of making a return to racing after injury.
In the end, the Larme 10-mile road race proved to be another super event from Larne AC.
It was a testament to the power of running to bring people together, pushing beyond their limits, and to create a sense of community and camaraderie that lasts long after the race is over.
Runners who took part in the Larne 10 mile.
British Championship 2023: The Mourne Marauder by Richard Cowan / Mark Alexander
This year’s Northern Ireland Mountain Running Association British Championship was held on Saturday (25th March 2023)
This year's championship race visited Slieve Donard Summit, Chimney Rock Mountain Summit and Slieve Commedagh Summit before returning to base in Donard Park. The race covered approximately 16 km and 1200 metres of climbing.
The race was run in memory of the airmen who lost their lives in WW2 plane crashes around the race route.
(1) On the lower slopes of Slieve Donard. A Wellington Bomber. (6 killed)
(2) On the summit of Chimney Rock Mountain. A (B-26) Marauder. (5 killed)
(3) On Slieve Commedagh, near the castles. De Havilland Mosquito. (2 killed)
(4) On Slieve Commedagh 150 feet from the summit. A Wellington Bomber (3 killed).
An opportunity for runners on the course to spare a thought for the airmen who lost their lives some 80 years ago in the run up to the D. Day landings.
Ballynena fielded four runners. Jack McKenna, Duncan Millar, Tim Lowry and James McLornan.
Ballymena Runners were also responsible for marshalling checkpoint 2 - the summit of Slieve Donard!
Well done all!
Runners enjoying the Mourne Marauder.
Kells Half Marathon raises over £1,400 for Cancer Fund For Children.
The Kells and Connor Community jointly with Ballymena Runners AC are proud to support the Cancer Fund for Children. We were delighted to present the charity with a cheque for £1,456.60 . The money was raised at the Kells Half Marathon.
Mark Surgenor Race Organiser with Sarah Clements Cancer Fund for Children and John McGerty Race Director
Belfast Zoo 5k by Chris Young and Francis McGuigan
The Belfast Zoo 5k, held by Monkstown Spartans, was a challenging and unique race that took place on a hilly course through the zoo's beautiful grounds. On race day, the weather was perfect with clear skies and a cool breeze, setting the stage for some fast times at the top of the field.
The race kicked off at 9 am sharp, and the runners quickly found themselves battling the first hill just a few hundred metres into the race. This was the norm on the 2 lap course and the runners were glad of a technical downhill after reaching the summit.
As the runners made their way through the zoo, they were treated to some breathtaking views of the animals, including a family of giraffes that seemed to be cheering them on.
Not to be mistaken for an escaped primate, Chris Young was the first Ballymena Runner across the line. After a long hiatus off running, he apparently can still run, crossing the line in a time of 27.42
Behind him, Peter Faith and Francis McGuigan both putting in a strong performance. crossing the finish line together, clocking in at 32.27, followed by Yvonne representing the ladies in 51.31 - all solid times on such a hilly course.
Overall, the race was a huge success, with many runners praising the unique setting and challenging course. The organisers did an excellent job of putting on a well-organised event, and the runners can't wait to come back next year and tackle the Belfast Zoo 5k once again.
Peter, Chris and Francis - day trip to the Zoo.
PB at Omagh Half Marathon
7 BRAC club members made the journey to Omagh to celebrate their 25th year of the event.
Any race is always a good opportunity to catch up with friends from other clubs. The clocks going forward didn’t seem to impact too many of our club friends as there were several strong performances, notable congratulations to Mark McCaul who smashed his previous PB with a time of 1:30:17. Huge congratulations, outstanding achievement in his home town. Others went out for a “training run” but yet clocked a sub 1:45!!! Good news all round.
Many of us were very pleased with our fantastic medals and lovely long sleeved top. Thanks to all the organisers. There was a great buzz around the start / finishing area. Great setup, well done all.
BRAC runners at Omagh Half
Scott completes Roscommon Marathon
Well done to Scott Fleming who ran a great Marathon in Rosscommon.
Scott at the Ros Run