HILL and DALE No. 9
Last week it was the exploits of the Ultra Quartet, the fearsome foursome from East Down who tackled the Ultra Marathon Mourne Way challenge which caught the attention of the headline writers – this week the Quartet had morphed into a trio as they tackled Hen and Cock in round 9 of the Hill and Dale series. It probably wasn’t long enough for Simon McGrattan to bother with but by way of encore Michael Cultra claimed a highly respectable 34th position in the almost 200 runner field, while Linda Cunningham and Oonagh Brétéché were winning their respective age group categories on the night. Brian Hamilton was third in his category and with Freddie Strickland winning again the competition in this Over 65 contest will go right to the wire. Other good performances in a below normal turnout for the East Down club were from Wendy Findlay, now gaining the upper hand over John in the husband /wife battle? Mickey Cunningham, and Paddy McDonald.
There are only 2 races to go in this fascinating and highly enjoyable series and many are looking to the Meels and Drinnahilly to complete their 6 from 11 in order to claim their free holiday – or is it something else this year?
ANNA TAKES SILVER
Three weeks ago one of east Down’s most promising juniors, Anna Gardiner made the long trip to Lifford to compete in the NI and Ulster Children’s Games – and came home with a Silver medal for the Under 10 Girls 500 metres, only just pipped on the line, missing Gold by a mere half a second. Well done to her and to her Dad Paddy who made the trip with her.
LOUGHINISLAND 5.05
Next Wednesday is Loughinisland’s Annual and very popular unique distance race which incredibly is 9 years old! Even more unbelievable is the fact that the entry fee has remained unchanged for all that time. At only £6 for Registered athletes and £7 for unregistered runners it represents the best value anywhere. The Fun Run too is only £2 for Under16s and £5 for adults and with all you can eat to finish with it promises to be a worthwhile night all round.
RUN FOR PAUL
A new fixture has been hastily added to the local calendar of events, a mouthwatering 10K Trail Race and 5K Fun Run/Walk in the breathtaking setting of Delamont Country Park, just outside Killyleagh. The event is being organised and promoted jointly by East Down AC, Ballydrain Harriers and NI Civil Service AC to raise funds for Paul Brannigan, Up & Runners, a stalwart of the Mourne Way series, who urgently needs to undergo expensive laser treatment in London for a form of lung cancer, not treatable by conventional means, and not currently available on the NHS. A conservative figure of the cost is £10,000. The races will begin at 10.00am on Sunday 28 June with refreshments afterwards. Entries taken on the day from 8.30am or for pre-registration contact mags.mathieson@yahoo.co.uk . Information also available from East Down AC website.
This is a huge appeal therefore to all runners to come and support this cause – just think you can help save someone’s life! – and also savour the delights of what Delamont has to offer. The Miniature Railway will be in operation so why not bring the kids and make a day of it. You won’t be disappointed.
Joe Quinn
15 June 2015