The Weekly News – 28/10/19

Posted on 28/10/2019 by Alison Carroll

NI & ULSTER EVEN AGE GROUP CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Following on from Comber where the mud was the prevailing memory, the Juniors travelled to Greenmount Campus in Antrim for the Evens Age Group XC to find a totally different scene. On a day that was bright and dry, the runners were treated to both better weather and kinder conditions. That is not to say the racing was not tough as this being an NI & Ulster Championship event meant that all comers were here to test themselves and hopefully get a slot for the All Ireland’s on 23rd November either as an individual (coming top 12) or as a team (coming in the top 4 teams) or as part of County selection (coming in the top 10 of a county who qualify). So there was lots to play for and EDAC juniors as always were determined to be in the mix and gave it their best shot with the following results.

Boys U10 Jarleth Kearney 23rd, William Taylor 53rd (54 runners)

William Taylor, Jarlath Kearney and Caragh Moore (U10s)

Girls U10 Caragh Moore 36th (38 runners)

Boys U12 Alex Robinson 55th, Aaron Lennon 59th, Matthew Taylor 86th (94 runners)

Aaron Lennon, Alex Robinson and Matthew Taylor (U12)

Girls U12 Erin Moore 55th (100 runners)

Erin Moore in the U12 race

Boys U14 Oliver Robinson 39th (75 runners)

Girls U 14 Anna Gardiner 2nd, Emily 31st, Kara Trainor 34th, Anna Kearney 70th (74 runners)

Boys U16 MacKenzie Murray 24th (64 runners)

Girls U16 Lauren Madine 3rd (65 runners)

MEDALS AND QUALIFICATIONS

Big congratulations to Anna and Lauren on getting a prestigious Ulster Championship medal as well as qualifying as an individual for the All Ireland’s.

Lauren Madine with Bronze medal in U16

Anna Gardiner with Silver medal in U14

The club was also delighted to find that the U14 Girls of Anna Gardiner, Emily Burns, Kara Trainor and Anna Kearney go forward as 4th qualifying team. There was more good news when all the sums were done as Alex Robinson, Aaron Lennon, Matthew Taylor, Ollie Robinson and Mackenzie Murray will also get to race at the All Ireland’s by being part of a qualifying County Down Team in their respective age groups. It was a good day out for the Club and thanks go to coaches and parents for the smooth handling of the necessary logistics. Well done all!

Lauren Madine, Anna Kearney, Anna Gardiner , Kara Trainor, Emily Burns and Mackenzie Murray

DUBLIN MARATHON

It dawned bright and very sunny on Sunday morning as we prepared for the journey to Dublin for the 40^th running of the Dublin City Marathon, now a world class event, in terms of numbers and rapidly approaching those levels in terms of the quality of the elite fields it now attracts. It is however sad to report that the overall winner, Moroccan Othmane El Gourmi has just returned to competition following a 2 year ban imposed in 2016 for irregularities in his biological passport. His inclusion in the field raises questions about the integrity of the event, not least because he set a new race record time of 2.08 which will mean that his name and the ban will be mentioned every time the time is discussed.

SPECTATING AND ALL THAT

We were of course well rested courtesy of the time changes which gave us an extra hour in bed, though the “hunches” displayed by a couple of cyclists we met near Newry at around 8.00am was certainly evidence that there was a cool edge to the temperature. Ideal running weather as it turned out with calm conditions throughout, a bright sun but just the nip of frost to keep everyone on their toes. We made it to our usual vantage point, just as the thousands of runners began to appear, some 8 – 10 minutes after the leading clusters of elite runners had passed. It is really exciting watching hundreds of runners approaching at speed as they all pursue their own dreams, whether in terms of their finishing time or just to stay ahead of an old foe or, more likely, later in the day, just to finish. It also becomes quite scary as a veritable wall of runners the full width of the street descends the fairly steep hill in front of you and then have to be directed to bottleneck into half that width in order to keep to the course, avoid tripping on the traffic island, running into the bollard or, most importantly, Me, standing right in the middle of the road waving frantically for the runners to keep left.

And you think you’ve got problems out there running!? Afterwards we headed for Ballsbridge and the 25 mile mark, and we succeeded in getting parked within 50 metres of the route, complete with folding chair, expertly carried and erected by my extremely helpful and attentive companion for the day the lovely Brian Hamilton.

HARD WORK ALL DONE

After many weeks of preparation with weekly long runs and then anxieties over niggles, coughs and other potential hazards the date finally arrived when the marathoners could put all their hard work into practice. A marathon is a test of endurance both mentally and physically and all our club members passed the “test” with flying colours as they all made it “home”. There were those who achieved PBs and those who suffered mishaps which meant that they had to revert to plan B. There were those who were first timers and those who have done so many marathons that they are almost blasé. The times tell one story but the personal experience of each on the day can make the numbers almost irrelevant. All the runners were bowled over by the atmosphere and the delights of running in such a mass of participants. The weather was nigh perfect and the course was scenic. One for the bucket list by all accounts.

DEE AND DEIRDRE FIRST HOME FOR EDAC

The first EDAC male home was Dee Murray who had to lay off for a while in training with niggles but with a strong base fitness was able to get in good enough shape for a more than decent 3.02 on the day. Much as he would have liked a sub 3 hour time as per his PB he found himself totally drained from mile 21 and was grateful to finish in more or less one piece. On the female side, Deirdre Weatherall was tipped for big things as her approach to training and competition is exceptionally committed and determined. It was fantastic to see her achieve her goal and more with a superb time of 3.20. She executed the plan with precision and never really had a bad moment enjoying the run from the moment the gun went and nerves were no longer an issue. She insists that she is leaving marathons aside for now but London 2021 will surely be on the cards.

Janine and Dee Murray celebrate their achievements

Deirdre Weatherall with her number one supporter mum Mary Duffy

FROM THE BIG APPLE TO DUBLIN

2nd EDAC male Gareth Kelly ran a confident and highly commendable 3.16. Tony O’Connor is new to the club but ran 3.27 which was slightly unexpected as he was only taking up the challenge as a way to raise much needed funds for PIPS and discovered that he was actually fitter than he thought! As mentioned last week, Cheryl Denvir too often doubts her abilities but should take confidence from this latest event. She has to be clever in her training as night duties cut into her spare time so she was “over the moon” to run 3.32. Gavin Hynds who is the much appreciated training buddy of Deirdre ran 3.36 and was happy enough with that result. He was more pleased with the fact that his sister Helen Carbin who had travelled from New York to take part managed to cross the finish line in great spirits. Poor Helen had come over for this race last year but injury defeated her and she wasn’t even able to run one mile let alone 26.2. What a difference a year makes. Well done to the Hynds family!

Deirdre Weatherall and Cheryl Denvir at the finish

Gavin Hynds EDAC and his sister Helen Carbin who came home from New York to take part

KEVIN LEARNS LESSON FROM BELFAST

The happy duo of Dermot Cahill and Phillip Vint ran a slick and synchronised 3.36, though Phillip suffered from his recurring calf injury from mile 16 onwards and had to walk bits from mile 18 onwards. Patricia Galloway, always looked comfortable and clearly enjoyed herself, finishing in an impressive 3.43. These three make it look almost easy even when it’s not! Kevin Kelly who suffered badly in Belfast Marathon put that ghost to bed with a time of 3.55 which was a 40 minute improvement from May and a 6 minute cut from his previous PB set in Dublin 2018. He paced it well and when the dreaded cramp struck at mile 22, he managed to work through it with enough in the bag to secure a sub 4 with a good margin.

Kevin Kelly, Clare Carson and Patricia Galloway in Dublin

FIRST TIMERS

In just behind Kevin Kelly was Nuala Taylor, one of the debutantes at this distance. She had been plagued with achilles problems but was adamant that she was going to at least start the race. She did extremely well to stay on target, making her first attempt a sub 4 hour marathon in 3.56 and always looked happy. The other 2 first timers – Nuala’s husband John Taylor and Ladies’ Captain Janine Murray had mixed fortunes with various niggles and tummy issues but despite this they both made the finish line. No DNFs in this camp! John’s time of 4.16 is not to be sniffed at despite some initial disappointment on his part and Janine’s 4.40 may have been slower than she had trained for but despite being a first timer she has watched enough marathons to know that anything can happen on the day. The support along the way seems to have been a source of inspiration with Janine reporting “goosebumps in the final mile”. John could well be seen having another go at this despite Nuala saying that for her the box is ticked. Janine has also said that once is enough. Watch this space however as all 3 could be seen on an entry list in a future marathon if the addiction has kicked in.

John and Nuala Taylor – first time marathoners

CLARE AND PAT MAKE THE PERFECT NEIGHBOURS

Clare Carson was another sub 4 hours (3.59). This was by no means a PB, but considering the nausea that kicked in during the latter miles she was gratified to get under the barrier. She had the good fortune to fall into the company of the indomitable Pat Shields of Murlough AC, our nearest neighbouring club. Pat is a long time ally of EDAC and a kindly soul. Just the sort of person you need when you are suffering and she and Clare formed an allegiance and jollied each other from mile 23 to the end. Good neighbours make good friends.

Pat Shields (Murlough AC) and Clare Carson EDAC both glad to have found a friend for the last miles

LONELINESS OF THE LONG DISTANCE RUNNER

Joanne Carson had to plough a lonely furrow when many of her usual marathon chums elected not to go to Dublin but she was well supported in training by the gang and she paid tribute to them for getting her through the schedule by running the long runs with her in the lead up. She did them and herself proud with a 4.24 finish and thoroughly enjoyed the run itself. Gavin McConvey has declared that 2 marathons is plenty but if that is true he ends his marathon career with a PB as he took over 14 minutes off his first attempt with a time of 4.52.

TRACEY TAKES THE HONOURS THIS TIME

Declan Teague is a multi marathoner but on this occasion it was his wife Tracey who took centre stage. She was running to fundraise on behalf of the Alzheimers’ Society. Declan having started the marathon with a niggle decided that supporting Tracey would be much more worthwhile so he pulled up in Phoenix Park to await the arrival of Tracey who started in a later wave. They then ran together from mile 6! She deserves great credit both for running her first marathon in 4.52 and for the sum of £1600 which has been collected by her as a result. She also deserves credit for staying with Declan for the final 16 miles and afterwards. Amazing what folk can do when they put their mind to it.

Tracey Teague running in support of Alzheimer’s Society

WHAT’S NEXT

Now that the marathon is out of the way local runners can relax and perhaps concentrate on something shorter with an aim to injecting some speed. The Co Down 5K on Sunday 17th November could well be the answer. There is also the upcoming Seeley Cup on November 30th. One that sells out so get your entry in!

Joe Quinn, Alison Carroll & Marguerite Robinson (with the juniors)

29 October 2019

The Weekly News – 10/12/2018

Posted on 10/12/2018 by Neil McCartan

MIGHTY PERFORMANCE BY MCGRADY AT MIGHTY OAKS

After missing out on competing in the Seeley Cup race last weekend due to flying problems, East Down’s Aaron McGrady was really champing at the bit as he waited at the start of the Mighty Oaks Cross Country league fixture in Cookstown on Saturday. And he literally took off from the gun to quickly assert his class, using his pent up frustration from last Saturday to jet propel him around the demanding and very muddy course, until he made a safe landing across the finish line, his time of 23.29 left him well clear of his nearest challengers, Neil Weir Willowfield 24.25 and Vincent McKenna Acorns in 24.26.

Dee Murray and Aaron McGrady pre XC

AARON’S PROFILE

Some of you are probably wondering who is Aaron McGrady anyway. Well he was a talented junior with EDAC and won triple jump tiles in the Young Athletes League before he went to university and settled in London after finding employment there.

He was very much into cycling before re-discovering his passion for running and he re-joined East Down AC again 2 years ago. He is also a member of Victoria Park & Tower Hamlets AC which won the South of England Athletic Association Fell Running Championships on the Isle of Wight in September, with Aaron winning the individual title. These championships comprise 3 aces in 2 days, with the first 2 races on Saturday and the third and longest, on Sunday.

Aaron McGrady on the ups and downs of the South Eastern AA Fell Running Championships on the Isle of Wight, where he won the overall title.

TOUGH GOING IN THE ISLE of WIGHT

The races are not by any means easy individually, or collectively, the first being 3.8 K but with an ascent of 235 metres, the second 12K with an ascent of 443 metres and the third, on the following day, 21K with a 487m ascent. Aaron was 1^st and 2^nd respectively in the first two of the races and he calculated that he could win overall if he finished in 4^th place in the third race on Sunday morning. His eventual 3^rd place left him overall winner and as he said afterwards “It was a beautiful setting and some very hard racing, good mental preparation for the XC season coming up.” How prophetic that was!

AMSTERDAM HALF MARATHON

To further emphasise his versatility he ran the Amsterdam Half marathon on 21 October and came home in 9^th place posting a superb 1.12.09 which would have placed him 4^th in the recent Belfast Half and 6^th in the Waterside Half in Derry, so he is a top quality runner over all terrains.

JUNIORS AT COOKSTOWN

Lauren Madine was the only female from the Club juniors to take part in and duly won the U14 Girls race at the Cookstown venue and ever dependable Mackenzie Murray was the only Boy from the Club in the Under 16 Boys race, and while he found the going very tough he’s learning by the week and I am confident that he’ll develop into a top class runner.

Lauren Madine (centre) getting medal for winning the U14 Girls at Mighty Oaks AC

LADIES GET FIRST POINTS ON THE BOARD

East Down’s Ladies were much better represented than the men as they fielded a team of 6 and were more than pleased to place 5^th overall and to register their first place points of the current League campaign. The team scorers were Catherine O’Connor 10^th, Niamh Kellett 12^th, Deirdre Weatherall 20th and Clare Carson 54^th giving a total of 96 points. As if to emphasise the importance of overtaking everyone possible, right to the very end, that total was matched by Acorns AC, but because their 4^th scorer had finished higher than the East Down 4^th placed runner, Acorns get the better team position. In truth, the 3^rd placed team had only 6 points less than either Acorns or EDAC so with a few extra places it could so easily have been 3^rd place. But the EDAC squad are delighted with their achievement anyway. The other two participation point scorers were Janine Murray and Ella Carroll.

Clare Carson, Catherine O’Connor, Niamh Kellett, Deirdre Weatherall, Janine Murray, Ella Carroll before they hit the hills and muck at Mighty Oaks XC, Cookstown

TOUGH GOING IN LANZAROTE TOO!

Rising star Gordy Graham headed for the sun in Lanzarote to make his latest marathon effort and with typical cussedness the weather promptly stuck two fingers up at him by providing a very strong headwind on the out and back course, the sting in the tail being that it was in the homeward half. Nevertheless he should be happy with his time of 2.58.30.

PAUL CONTINUES HIS GREAT RUN OF FORM

Paul Lloyd, hard on the heels of his PB in last week’s Seeley Cup 10K, didn’t rest on his laurels, taking on the fairly unique Half Marathon around the motor racing circuit at Kirkistown. In a relatively small field of just 9 runners he ran very well to take second place in 1.31.54.

Paul Lloyd wearing his Run Kirkistown medal – 2nd in the Half Marathon

JINGLE ALL THE WAY for the CHILDREN’S HOSPICE

On Sunday Callum Kent and Roisin Gaffney showed the true Christmas spirit by heading to Stormont to take part in the Jingle All the Way 5K organised by the NI Hospice Care Team to raise money for the Children’s Hospice. Callum finished 9^th of 359 runners in 20.49 and Roisin was a little further back, in 81^st place in 27.49.

An excellent cause, so well done for giving it your support.

Roisin Gaffney and Callum Kent at Stormont – Hospice Santa 5K

FLAHAVAN’S PRIMARY SCHOOLS CROSS COUNTRY.

On Tuesday past several of East Down’s juniors representing their schools in the Flahavan’s Porridge Primary School Cross Country League meeting in Donard Park Newcastle, managed to qualify for the NI Finals as individuals, based on their placings in the 2 preliminary rounds.

Jodi 1^st and 2^nd and Kari Foster 4^th and 4^th from Spa Primary School and Erin Moore

from St Patrick’s Primary School Saul, with two 10^th place finishes qualified as the top 3

of the 5 individuals outside the qualifying teams. Unfortunately Alex Robinson was not

so fortunate for the boys, as after a slow start, he could not find his way far enough

through the traffic in a field of over 125 runners to take a qualifying position.

NEXT WEEK

Next weekend will see the EDAC Juniors on the road again as they travel to participate in the All Ireland Uneven Age Group Cross Country Championships at Navan Racecourse.

The Seniors have an equally difficult and lengthy journey to participate in the North West Cross Country in Gransha Park, Derry but at least they only have to run 6K when they get there. To paraphrase an old First World War marching song “It’s a long trip to run in Derry”. And it’s unique too in that everyone runs together, men, women, older men and women and junior men and women. It is literally an entire human race!

Joe Quinn

10 December 2018

The Weekly News – 19/11/2018

Posted on 19/11/2018 by Neil McCartan

JOG MOIRA CROSS COUNTRY

On what was described as a lovely Sunday afternoon and with perfect running conditions it was good to see the return to the fixture list of the Moira Cross Country though the course was described as twisty & lumpy with an uphill finish. Competitors found it to be a well organised event as we have come to expect from any event under the Atlas Running banner.
And what a day out it proved to be for the Foster family.

All the junior races were combined Boys and Girls contests over a 1K lap, and after a tough battle the winner was Jodi Foster with sisters Kari 4th and Lily not far behind. Little brother Jay ran with his Dad alongside him and he wasn’t last!!!!
In the U13 race, Lucy won the Girls title with just two boys ahead over the 2K distance. In the Under 15 race over a 3K distance Kirsti won overall.
In senior race Mum Joanne ran well finishing 4th and Dad Davy had a super race and managed to finish 8th.

Co. DOWN 5K CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sunday morning once again provided ideal running conditions the 2^nd running of the Co. Down 5K Championships on a flat, fast circuit of the roads around the car park and the inner lane of Lr Market St, in the count town,which had been officially measured by ANI officials since last year, resulting in the Start being moved to opposite the library entrance with the Finish now located alongside the Grove, in all 7 and a half laps later. Prior to the first 5K race for those who had earmarked over 30 minutes for their likely finish time there were 2 races for school children and unfortunately I have been unable to find any published results for these so am unable to make any comments on these races.

30+ CONTESTANTS

The event comprises 3 separate races, race 1 is for those who estimate their finishing time to be over 30 minutes, Race 2 is for those who reckon they can run it between 20 and 30 minutes and Race 3, is for the elite athletes who think they can run it in under 20 minutes.

EDAC did not have any runners in Race 1, which was won by Sara Murray from Emma Gordon and Mark McNally in 26.49, 26.50 and 26.56 respectively and 12 runners had crossed the line before the first over 30 minute runner emerged in the shape of Dympna Morrison, Tels Fitness, so the leading dozen should really have been running in Race 2, as they undoubtedly will have to next year!

RACE 2 ESTIMATED TIME BETWEEN 20 – 30 MINUTES

East Down had 8 runners in this category and clearly the estimated times of all the entrants were much more accurate than the Race 1 competitors had been, with only 5 of the 76 runners finishing inside 20 minutes, and everyone else coming home inside 30 minutes, the last being 29.58, an excellent piece of predicted timing by Phillip Keown. The race winner was Barry Kelly 18.55 Flying Horse flyers, repeating last year’s victory in only a slightly slower time, proving that there is plenty of life there yet, from Nigel Grier 19.11 Dromore AC and Alan Jordan 19.38, Saintfield Striders. The most accurate estimate at the sharp end of the field was Newcastle’s Gerard McAuley 6^th place whose time of 20.00 minutes was a new PB for him and left him safe for next year! Adam Morgan continues to impress and he certainly did not look out of his depth as he clocked 22.05.

Adam Morgan sprinting to the line

Cormac O’Hare battled manfully too and probably took considerable pride in posting 24 minutes against the 26.18 recorded by his Dad Shane. Well done to them – Isn’t it great to be part of a sport where parents and their children can compete against each other on equal terms?

LAUREN ENDS AWARDS WEEK IN STYLE

The first female to finish in overall 7^th place was East Down’s Lauren Madine 20.28, from Edwina Ternan 20.56, Saintfield Striders, in second and Lauren’s clubmate Anna Gardiner in third on 21.04. Lauren had cause for double celebration as on Friday night she was presented with the Ulster Athletic Council Juvenile Star Award 2018 for County Down in the Under 12 – 15 Age Category at a function in the Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan.

Lauren Madine at the Ulster Athletics Award Night – U13-U15 Ulster Star 2018

The places and times of all the East Down runners are as listed in the table below.

Position	Number	1^st Name	Surname	M/F		Time
7	868	Lauren	Madine	F	1st female	00:20:28
10	900	Callum	Kent	M	1st Jun	00:20:46
14	954	Anna	Gardiner	F	3rd Female	00:21:04
25	979	Morgan	Adam	M		00:22:05
38	950	Cormac	O’Hare	M		00:24:00
39	879	Catherine	Gilchrist	F		00:24:02
54	338	Seamus	Savage	M		00:25:27
62	949	Shane	O’Hare	M		00:26:48

Catherine Gilchrist and Seamus Savage

MACKENZIE ON TOP OF HIS GAME

Only Mackenzie Murray took on the challenge of the Elite 5K and how well he performed. This was a very competitive race, run at a very fast pace, the sort of situation where an inexperienced runner could easily get carried away early on, get sucked into a suicidal pace and end up struggling for survival in the last few laps.

But not Mackenzie. He ran a very well judged race, displaying a maturity beyond his years and certainly belying his inexperience, to come home in a superb 19.00 minutes, 45 seconds inside his previous best for the distance. I’ll bet there won’t be a prouder wearer anywhere of the unique medal (in the shape of the number 5) presented to every finisher on the day.

Mackenzie Murray shows off his medal

ELITE MEN

The race as won in fine style by John Black, North Belfast Harriers, in 15.21 from Eoin Hughes Acorns AC in 15.24 with Steven McAlary City of Derry Spartans in 15.34 in third place. The winner was always in the leading group but only asserted himself on the penultimate lap to win fairly comfortably in the end. In fact the top 6 runners all finished under 16 minutes though last year the top 2 broke 15 minutes, but only 4 were under 16 minutes, over what has come to be recognised as a “short” course.

Position	Number	1^st Name	Surname	M/F	Time
1	874	John	Black	M	00:15:21
2	973	Hughes	Eoin	M	00:15:24
3	860	Steven	McAlary	M	00:15:34

ELITE WOMEN

The winning Female was Kelly Neely 17.28, City of Lisburn from North Down’s Rachel Gibson, 17.34, with Sarah Grant North Down 17.42 just edging out QUB’s Sinead Sweeney who was given the same time.

27	947	Kelly	Neely	F	City of Lisburn AC	00:17:28
28	971	Gibson	Rachel	F	North Down AC	00:17:34
29	866	David	Leavy	M	City of Lisburn AC	00:17:40
30	882	Tommy	Hughes	M	Termoneeny R C	00:17:42
31	336	Sarah	Grant	F	North Down AC	00:17:42
32	991	Sweeney	Sinead	F	QUB AC	00:17:42

“EXPRESS” STILL IN WORKING ORDER

Sandwiched between these two pairs of female finishers was the Marrakesh Express, former Belfast and Dublin Marathon winner (and of course the Marrakesh Marathon too) and Olympian, Tommy Hughes, now running with Termoneeny Running Club and looking as sprightly as ever at age 54. He too was credited with a time of 17.42.

This was a very well organised event which, with the official certification of the distance, looks destined to become a “must do” fixture for the top runners to aspire to in the future.

NEXT WEEK END

The action switches back to the turf next week end when the Malcolm Cup meeting is the top fixture. The action takes place in Sixmilewater Park in Ballyclare, where if present weather holds, the going will be firm and fast underfoot. East Down expect to field strong teams in both the Men’s and Women’s races. Action begins at 1.00pm with the Under 11 Boys and Girls half mile race and with races for Under 13s, Under 15s and Under 17 age groups there is something for everyone.

See you all there.

Joe Quinn, Alison Carroll

19 November 2018

The Weekly News – 05/11/2018

Posted on 05/11/2018 by Neil McCartan

TOM A LONE STAR AT CROSS COUNTRY AT BALLYCLARE

As it is no longer a Cross Country League Fixture, the McConnell Shield event at Ballyclare has become a much less important meeting, and attendance has fallen dramatically over the past 2 years. Runners pick and choose their races with much more thought about the next team performance nowadays and for the most part are glad to have a “free” Saturday when they can relax and chill out. On Saturday only one EDAC runner, the evergreen Tom Dowey turned out at Ballyclare and gave evidence of his well being by taking 6^th place in the Over 60 Masters category. Unfortunately until I have obtained a new left knee I will be unable to accompany him on this so far, very impressive season or indeed any other campaign. But keep on going Tom you’re doing a great job, I’ll join you when I can!

LAUREN IMPRESSES AT MINNOWBURN

On Saturday morning it was Lauren Madine who took the honours when she finished second female and a very creditable 3^rd overall in 19.47 in the Born2Run Minnowburn 5K, which was won by top North Down runner Rachel Gibson.

Lauren Madine at Minnowburn Born2Run 5K

SUNDAY IN DROMORE

It is hard to believe that another McGrady Financial Services Junior XC has come along again so quickly but the theory is to get the bulk of the 5 race series over before the colder weather appears and so it was that the Juniors took to the playing fields in Dromore in bright autumnal sunshine for Race number 3 hosted by Dromore AC in their usual efficient fashion. The racing stuck to schedule and although there are no real hills in this course there are plenty of twists and turns so full concentration is required. This is one for the tacticians rather than the mud lovers. 30 of our Juniors took part and represented EDAC to the best of their ability. Every competitor gets a point for his or her club so we are delighted that so many made the effort to attend.

EDAC in the front line – P6 Boys and Girls. Eventual winners Kari Foster (80) and Alex Robinson (87)

Darragh McCrickard of Newcastle is a whiz with the figures so it makes it easy to see who did what. At a glance we can see that of our 30 athletes, 18 have managed to attend 3 out of 3 so far and are well on their way to collecting their reward for completing the series, 13 athletes made podium at Dromore – Lily Foster (P4 and under), Aoibheann McVeigh (P5), Alexander Robinson and Kieran Trainor (P6) Kari Foster and Erin Moore (P6) Matthew Taylor (P7) Jodi Foster (P7), Emily Burns (Yr8), Lauren Madine, Lucy Foster and Kara Trainor (Yr9) Mackenzie Murray (Yr 10) with special congratulations to Alex, Kari, Jodi and Lauren for coming first in their respective age groups.

Jodi Foster leads the way – P7 Girls

Lauren Madine (76) Lucy Foster (82) and Kara Trainor make the front pack in the Year 8 race

Kieran Trainor racing in to take 2nd place

As well as the ones at the front of the pack we had plenty who put in sterling performances and raced all the way to the line. Alice Taylor in one of the biggest races of the day (14 girls in the P4 and under) was not in the lead pack but caught the eye as she finished in a bunch of 4 with 2 seconds covering all 4 crossing the line. Others to impress were Anna Kearney, Ellen Tumelty, Seana Murray, Thomas Brown and Orla Gibney with a sprint finish! It was fantastic to watch.

Alice Taylor( P4 and under)

Anna Kearney EDAC(90) battles it out with Amy McCartan (35 Dromore AC)

NEWCOMERS WELCOMED

We had some first timers too – Rose and Sam Kelly gave it a go and hopefully enjoyed the experience. Aaron Mullan also a late recruit was obviously not put off by his outing in Kilbroney as he came back for a second go. This series is all about encouraging juniors to have a go and it is not too late as there are still 2 events left. Our EDAC hosted race takes place in Delamont on January 20th so plenty of time to prepare.

WHAT’S NEXT?

The only action on the home front next weekend is the Run to Remember 5K on Saturday organised by Atlas Running, in Ballynahinch starting at 2.00pm from the British Legion Hall. The N.I. and Ulster Uneven Age Groups Cross Country Championships take place on Sunday in faraway Scotstown Co. Monaghan.

On a different tack East Down AC will hold its annual Senior Awards and Social Evening in the Clubrooms on Saturday 10 November meeting at 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Hope to see all you senior members there.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

5 November 2018

The Weekly News – 22/10/2018

Posted on 22/10/2018 by Neil McCartan

RULE CHANGES for START of NEW CROSS COUNTRY LEAGUE SEASON

Further changes to the Cross Country rules this year mean that clubs only have to find 12 runners to score maximum attendance points, down from last year’s 16. This is aimed at the smaller clubs who were struggling to field 16 runners over the 8 rounds of the League to enable them to send a more realistic number to gain full attendance points in order to retain an interest in the League throughout the season. There are points in addition to the award of place points depending on the finishing places of the first 4 runners, all the way down to 8^th place. The other rules are unchanged and Clubs are reminded that they must field a minimum of 4 runners in order to receive any attendance points, nor will they be eligible to be included in the calculations for place points unless they have at least 4 finishers.

COMBER CUP TIME AGAIN

After deciding that I would go to Comber for the opening round of the Cross Country League again this year, as opposed to heading in the opposite direction to observe the Gr8 Dundrum Challenge which was again scheduled for another full house, I was surprised to find that my reasoning last year was because I was actually RUNNING at Comber!

That is but a pipe dream now as I have joined the ranks of the masses looking for a new knee. I’m asked often if it’s because of the thousands of miles of running I have asked my joints to bear over my forty year “career”. And of course I say not at all, sure my right knee has taken just as much punishment as the left one and it’s perfectly all right!! My own view is that the wear and tear is related to running in that too much praying, seeking favours from on High for running oriented activities, caused the excessive use of the joint!

JUNIORS IMPRESS

Conditions were pleasant with autumnal, almost warm, sunshine and surprisingly firm ground which barely necessitated spikes. Anna Gardiner pulled off a good win in the U13 Girls event and Lauren Madine also made the podium coming 2nd in the U15 age group. Adam Morgan lined up in the U17 event and ran strongly over the longer distance.

Anna Gardiner picking up first prize in U13 Girls at Comber XC

Lauren Madine 2nd in U15 Girls Comber XC

EDAC Juniors relax after the afternoon’s racing at the McGrady Financial Junior XC Series

LADIES LEARN FROM TOM

The East Down Ladies turned out a team of 4 runners led by Catherine O’ Connor who, in spite of struggling through 2 of the 3 lap race with a pace restricting stitch, held on tenaciously to 6^th place, fending off the in – form Gerrie Short from Beechmount in a sprint to the line. Catherine Gilchrist and Janine Murray both ran very well, drawing on the experiences gained in last year’s cross country and the Hill & Dale series.

6	104	Catherine O’Connor	FO	00:21:56
54	162	Tom Dowey	M60	00:27:52
59	108	Catherine Gilchrist	F40	00:28:05
67	106	Janine Murray	FO	00:28:38
113	109	Eimear Degan	FO	00:32:08

Eimear Degan had heard so much about the XC that she thought she would like to try it for herself. After the race she was still in two minds, both of them against, as to whether it really was her cup of tea but she has been “persuaded” to try, at least, another one!

Catherine Gilchrist, Janine Murray, Catherine O’Connor, Eimear Degan at Comber XC

And the evergreen Tom Dowey improved his 69^th place last year to 54^th in a field of 152 finishers and in the process, giving an excellent example to Catherine and Janine of how to pace a race.

HOW THE MEN FARED

27	259	Paul Burns	M40	00:27:20
108	330	Paul Lloyd	M40	00:32:13
124	262	James Smyth	U20	00:33:40
170	334	Donal Smith	M45	00:40:44

Ably led by Paul Burns in the absence of several of East Down’s big hitters, mostly because of their attention being on Dublin Marathon business next Sunday, East Down’s men fielded the requisite 4 runners to register a team score, though they were 10^th placed team, just outside the top 8 point scoring places. Apart from Paul B, who maintained an excellent pace throughout to take 27^th place, the team comprised of Donal Smith, Paul Lloyd and James Smyth is still eligible to be called novices at cross country level.

Donal Smith, Paul Burns, James Smyth and Paul Lloyd at Comber XC

FAST LEARNERS or NO PAIN NO GAIN??

Donal had learnt from his experiences at the Relays that a quick start can lead to misery so he paced this one from the get go. Not sure if he would say he avoided the suffering part as a result but it did mean he finished strongly. As a fast learner he will come to realise that the suffering is part of the enjoyment of cross country running and that being able to speak, inside ten minutes afterwards, is a bonus! By all accounts though, he is eager for the next one to give it another go. James Smyth is on the comeback from his months of studies and did well to get through the challenging course. Paul Lloyd ran his usual competent race and did well to finish just outside the top 100 in what was a high class field, headed by this year’s Jimmy’s Ten winner Mark McKinstry.

NIALL STARS in MOURNE SKYLINE RACE

In all of the efforts by East Down’s runners at the weekend top of the heap must be Niall Gibney’s efforts in the 2018 Mourne Skyline Mountain Trail Race on Saturday. In a field of 248 starters and 228 finishers he placed a superb 68^th in 5 hours 35 minutes. This race involves climbing to the top of all the high peaks in the Mourne range twice and covers a distance of 35K with a total climb of 3730 metres. Considering that Niall only took up mountain running a year ago this performance is a tremendous achievement.

GR8 RACE in DUNDRUM

Again although this is one of my favourite races I missed it for the second year in a row. Why? Well I wasn’t in shape to run it this year and I was already on my way to Dundonald for the Comber Cup cross country fixture when I remembered it. Not, to be honest, that it would have made a difference to my choice of venue. The Gr8 Dundrum Challenge is, for me at least, a participation event, not really one to spectate at, so I opted for Comber!

Anyway East Down was well represented in Dundrum by Phillip Vint 58.35 and Gareth Kelly 58.50, having a last blow out before their assault on Dublin next Sunday, with debutant Eamon Kelly 66.20, George Kerr 69.07 supported by wife Noreen 88.20, great to see them on the road again, Gabhan Mac ConMidhe 72.32 and Carmel Tumelty 76.04 making up the squad.

Gareth Kelly (423) slipstreams Phillip Vint (954) on the boardwalk during the Gr8 Run at Dundrum

McGRADY’S FINANCIAL SERVICES JUNIOR CROSS COUNTRY SERIES Round 2

At almost the same time as the above, the second race of the McGrady Series, hosted by Burren AC, was held in the hard to beat surroundings of the Forest park at Kilbroney. The turnout from EDAC was down in number as some were racing at the Comber Cup XC and others were locked into other Saturday sports commitments but those that were there, did the club proud. 11 EDAC athletes were in the top 3 of their age group and the following took first place – Lily Foster (P4 and under), Alexander Robinson (P6), Kari Foster (P6), Jodi Foster (P7), Anna Kearney (yr8), Lucy Foster (yr9), Mackenzie Murray (yr10), Kirsti Foster (yr10). And watch out all you Foster girls, I’ve heard that brother Jay is on the run now too and he’s looking out for you!!

It is worth mentioning again that every athlete gets a point for the club so all who turned out are deserving of praise and hopefully they enjoyed the great conditions and the excitement of running in the packs. Next round is in Dromore on Sunday 4th November and it would be fantastic to see a big entry from the club.

Thomas Brown, Jack Carson and Aoife Burke at Kilbroney Forest Park for the McGrady xc

DUBLIN MARATHON RUNNERS.

Good Luck to all EDAC members and indeed to all runners from the NM&DDC area who will be taking on the streets of Dublin on Sunday morning as part of the City Marathon. May you have a dry, calm, cool and fast run – in preparation for the Flatter and Faster new Belfast City Marathon on SUNDAY 5 May 2019.

Don’t forget all you thrifty running folk out there, it’s cheaper to enter Belfast before the end of October. So why not get your entry in now and run Dublin with an easy mind?

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

22 October 2018

The Weekly News – 08/10/18

Posted on 08/10/2018 by Alison Carroll

GOLDEN PERFORMANCES AT ROAD RELAYS RESULTS IN BRONZE MEDALS FOR EDAC LADIES

Saturday was a beautiful day, weather wise for everyone and certainly performance wise for the Senior Ladies Team from East Down AC (EDAC) as they turned in a 4 star display of top quality running in the NI and Ulster Road Relay Championships, superbly organised and hosted by Orangegrove AC in Victoria Park, Belfast. Having finished outside the medals in 4^th place last year, this year’s trio of Catherine O’Connor, Deirdre Weatherall and Caroline McNabb were determined to reach the podium this time. And reach it they did in impressive style foiled only by an unbeatable trio from Queen’s University AC, comprising Rebecca Henderson, Sinead Sweeney and Emma Mitchell, whose individual times of 11.27, 11.23 and the amazing 10.30 by Emma, were the top 3 best times recorded on the day and enabled them to smash the existing record of 34.30 by 1 minute and 11 seconds and North Down A whose first and 3^rd leg runners ran the 3^rd and 4th fastest legs of the day, 11.33 and 11.35 respectively. So the competition was top drawer and was matched commendably by Catherine’s first leg 11.36 which saw her hand over to Deirdre Weatherall in third place.

Senior Women 1 QUB AC 2 North Down AC 3 East Down AC – Catherine O’Connor, Caroline McNabb and Deidre Weatherall

DEIRDRE KEEPS HER BONE

Anyone who knows Deirdre knows that she is a fighter of considerable ability and one who won’t easily let her bone go with the dog if she can help it. So it was with great pride that the assembled supporters from EDAC saw her cross the finish mat at the end of her 2 miles in an unbelievable 12.49, which not only held onto 3^rd place but gave the anchor leg runner Caroline McNabb an unassailable advantage over the 4^th place team. So Caroline, knowing she could not overtake either of the two teams ahead of her, simply ran quickly enough to retain that advantage. The overall team total was 36.48, which represents an average of 6.08 minutes per mile over the 6 miles. So Well Done all you ladies, this was a truly inspiring run by every one of you – so the only way to top that performance is to go one (or perhaps even 2) better next year!.

EDAC Senior Women’s Teams

EDAC MASTERS TAKE PART IN THE SENIOR

EDAC ladies had 2 other teams in the Senior race, the EDAC B Team, Janine Murray, Joanne Foster, Edie Carroll 41.27 placing 12^th and the C Team, Alison Carroll, Ella Carroll, Cheryl Denvir 46.36 in 26^th out of the 30 teams which finished. Both teams had to take part in the “Open” Senior race as at least one member in each team was too young to qualify as a Master, i.e. Under 35. But I’ll leave you to work out who they were! So all in all a very special day – really a Ladies Day to remember!

Earlier in the day the Master Ladies race had an EDAC Ladies team comprising Clare Carson, Roisin Gaffney and Marguerite Robinson placed a commendable 40^th out of 59 teams completing with splits of 14.28, 16.35 and 16.23 respectively giving a team total of 47.24. This was a very good performance by all three women as they are primarily long distance runners, and in Clare’s case she is in the middle of training for the Dublin marathon, a mere 3 weeks away. Take a Bow Ladies.

EDAC Master’s Womens Team

EDAC MEN

There were significant contributions to the Mens’ Races too where Men’s Captain Dee Murray shuffled his pack expertly to make all the teams competitive, at the same time rueing the absence for one reason or another of top runners Brendan Teer, Aaron McGrady and James O’Hare. But injuries cannot be ruled out at any time so well done those who stepped in to fill the gaps, including the evergreen Dee, who appropriately ran the D leg himself, in the Senior team. Neil McCartan set the bar very high with a blistering first leg run, literally running himself into the ground as he fell across the line in 9.42, in joint 5^th place with this year’s Jimmy’s Ten winner Mark McKinstry, and the leading trio only seconds ahead. Neil recovered from what he described afterwards as a mistake in not eating sufficiently beforehand and is raring to go in the coming weeks. He is already looking forward to next year and a chance to make amends.

GORDY, MATTHEW and DEE

Second leg runner for EDAC was Gordy Graham, who had already clocked 75 miles in training this week as he also sets his sights on Dublin, and he too ran his socks off and maintained EDAC’s position in the top 6 as he handed over to the baby of the team Matthew McGrattan who is a track specialist and one of the young guns who will form the backbone of the club in years to come. He too hammered out 2 splendid laps, clocking 12.10, before handing over to Club captain Dee Murray, who didn’t disappoint either as he sailed round the 2 miles in 11.52 to post a total of 44.32 and claim 12^th place. Eight miles in 44.32 is 5.34 per mile or “some running” as we say here. So well done Lads, I’m proud of you.

MENS MASTERS

The men also mounted a strong challenge in the Master’s race where Martin Willcox 11.18 made an early statement of intent to all comers and handed over to Paul Burns who made up several places to set the fastest time of this quartet and gave James Savage, great to see him back again, a chance to consolidate his position. Again lack of race fitness could be used as an excuse for not putting in the effort required, but James ran with much of his old speed to hand over to Davy Foster, having clocked 11.48 for the 2 laps. Davy didn’t disappoint either as he chased all the way to bring the A team home in 45.38, recording 11.20 for his leg, and taking a super 7^th place overall.

The B team, Paul Lloyd, Mark McDowell, Gareth Reilly and Gavin Hynds also applied itself well to the task and after laps of 12.07, 12.11, 12.58 and 12.46 respectively their total of 50.30 resulted in 30^th place and as deserving of the accolades as any of the aforementioned winners. EDAC were not finished yet as they managed to produce a Team C made up of Stephen Heasley, Tom McClean, Donal Smith and 65 year old Tom Dowey. The 4 men ran well taking 12.28, 14.12, 15.02 and 15.35 respectively for a total of 57.16 and 53^rd place out of the 61 teams that finished.

EDAC Men’s Masters Team

JUNIORS IN WINNING ACTION TOO

Earlier the Juniors had been involved in Primary and Age Group races with the following results :-Primary Girls Jodi Foster 2^nd with good performances from Kelsey Murray, Erin Moore, Caragh Moore and Kari Foster. It was a hectic pace and a packed course so they did well to stay upright and arrive home safely.

Jodi Foster 2nd in Primary Girls

u15 Girls Podium| Kirsti Foster (EDAC) Gold, Tara McDonagh (NDAC) Silver, Lauren Madine (EDAC) Bronze

Alex Robinson ran a strong race so was a little annoyed to be pipped on the line for 3^rd place taken by surprise in the last few metres in the Primary school Boys race although big brother Ollie had possibly even more cause for annoyance having finished in the Under 13 Boys race minus one shoe!

Alex Robinson (Primary)

Lucy Foster won the Under 13 Girls race which was a huge achievement as she had a clear lead from the start and looked smooth as she came in ahead of the other 25 girls in her age group. A fantastic entry and a great win!. Older sister Kirsti won the Under 15 race also with a good gap from 2nd. EDAC clubmate Lauren Madine took third place. Mackenzie Murray ran in the U15 boys and was plumb in the middle of the pack at the finish. Lauren then took on a second weekend challenge on Sunday when she was first Female finisher in the Charity 5K at Cultra.

Jodi Foster 2nd in Primary Girls

Primary Girls Kelsey Murray Erin Moore Caragh Moore Kari Foster Jodi Foster

DECLAN IN HUNGARY

Declan Teague continued his travels around Europe, pre Brexit, with a visit to the Hungarian capital Budapest to take part in their annual Marathon, his 54^th in total and although he had sustained an injury to his hamstring during the Belfast Half Marathon 2 weeks ago he managed to get round the course in 4 hours and 4 minutes. He was not overly impressed with the time but from an eve of race prediction that he would have to walk most or all of it, he is surely more than happy to have finished albeit as he put it “on one leg and 10 ibuprofen later”. He was mightily impressed with what he described as “ a superb event, which would make a great club trip, providing as it does a 5K (which his wife Tracey did) and 10K option on the Saturday, as well as the Full Marathon, a 2 or 4 person Marathon Relay and a 30K distance on the Sunday along a flat route mostly along the Danube”. So that’s probably where a lot of us will be heading next year, but only if it doesn’t interfere with the Road Relays!!

Declan Teague after Budapest Marathon

VINTS IN LUSK

Helen and Phillip Vint enjoyed the unseasonably good weather on Saturday too as they warmed up for watching the Rugby match on Sunday afternoon by taking part in the Lusk Festival of running which includes a full marathon, a Half marathon and a 30K which is about 20 miles. Coincidentally both Helen and Phillip finished in exactly the same time, 3hrs and 29 minutes, Phillip having ran 26.2 miles and Helen the shorter 20 miles and were doubly delighted.

AND FINALLY

Gareth Amos and his 3 daughters plus Eimear Degan attended the Bangor Warrior event on Sunday, the purpose of which seems to be to get down and dirty, if appearances are anything to go by! By all accounts they enjoyed the experience.

Warrior Assault Race in Bangor – Mia Proctor- Amos, Eimear Degan, Matthew Brown, Gareth Amos and Keira Proctor-Amos

WELL DONE EVERYONE!

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

8 October 2018

The Weekly News – 01/10/2018

Posted on 01/10/2018 by Neil McCartan

ONLY 3 IN ACTION?

In a competition to ascertain what the lowest turnout from East Down runners over a weekend in recent years then, last weekend’s total of 3 at 2 separate events, must really be the winner. However most can probably be excused as it was the final weekend of “getting in a 20 miler” in preparation for the Dublin City marathon on the last Sunday of this month. (See apologetic humble pie being eaten before end of this report!)

JIMMY’S TEN WINNERS FILL 3 of TOP 6 PLACES in BANGOR

The 2 events in question were the Bangor Classic 10K, which this year incorporated the Ulster and NI 10K Road Racing Championships, and the Ford 5K in Newcastle. The former event had over 1000 entries and almost 1000 finishers and had probably the best front end in terms of quality runners, of any race in recent times, in which the top three broke 31 minutes and the top 10 all broke 33 minutes. The Derry based Kenyan Gideon Kipsang, 2015 winner of Jimmy’s Ten, who last weekend won the Belfast City Half Marathon only just got up on the line to beat Kevin Seaward, who was a superb 4^th in the recent Commonwealth Games Marathon, both being credited with the same time 30.21. Close behind came Declan Reed 30.56 in third place ahead of Mark McKinstry 31.14 who won Jimmy’s Ten this year, followed by Scott Rankin in 31.56 and Ben Branagh 32.00, who won Jimmy’s Ten in 2017.

PAUL IN THE 40s

The sole East Down representative in the race was Paul Lloyd, who came agonisingly close to breaking the 40 minute barrier for the first time, clocking 40.06, a mere second per mile deficit! But come it will Paul, possibly some time when you’re least expecting it. The secret of success is to relax and try not to think about it. Don’t go out every week with the aim of breaking through and don’t be too hard on yourself – there are those who dream of the times you are clocking now! Perhaps the Saintfield 10K on 13^th October could be the one? This race organised by Atlas Running on behalf of Saintfield Striders was a big success last year and promises to be even bigger and better this year. Entry details can be found at https://www.atlasrunning.co.uk Failing that the Seeley Cup in Ormeau Park on 1^st December is a flat fast course which may tick the PB box.

Paul Lloyd Paul Lloyd at Bangor, not looking too disappointed at missing out on a sub 40 time.

FORD 5K COMES HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Paul Burns and Callum Kent were the lone raiders from East Down to try out the new route which was widely publicised as much flatter and faster than last year.

Here’s what Paul had to say afterwards-

“I thought the race itself was really good – it was a flat, fast course through the centre of Newcastle finishing with a lap of the Gaelic pitch, well supported and well marshalled. The organisers provided great refreshments afterwards with hot food and sandwiches, tea & coffee, etc. and also some very impressive looking trophies. It deserved better support but I understand that it’s hard to compete against free Parkruns all over the country on the same day. But it’s definitely a race I would recommend and do again.” Paul’s time of 17.35 and 6^th place overall was a PB, made all the more satisfying as he was still feeling the effects of last Sunday’s Belfast City Half Marathon and a tough hill session during training on Thursday night.

Callum Kent 81 and Paul Burns at the Ford 5K on Saturday.

CALLUM ALSO ON THE PB TRAIL and CROSS COUNTRY TOO!

Another super run saw Callum Kent not only land the trophy for 1^st Juvenile to finish but also set a new PB of 20.05 into the bargain. Well done to him and he tells me he is looking forward to the upcoming cross country season which will give him the opportunity to build up some considerable strength in his legs to improve his road and track running speed next year. Good luck to him in that.

EVEN MORE RUNNING THAN I THOUGHT

I have also heard since I began writing this that some other Club members did in fact run at the weekend, several taking part in Parkruns in preparation for next Saturday’s Relay races in Victoria Park and elsewhere. So my apologies to anyone who was offended by my opening remarks, if you’re still reading this. Neil McCartan set a new Parkrun PB of 15.26, though not a 5K PB, in that very venue on Saturday, an indication of his form at the moment. So watch out all comers on Saturday, EDAC are on the move.

RACE TO TRAIN?

Clare Carson ran the 3/4 marathon in Ballybofey, Donegal on Sunday. She is going well in her lead up to Dublin and her tack of getting in the long miles by entering events seems to be working as she completed in 2 hours 50 minutes. She has found that racing breaks up the tedium and has produced some good performances on the way. I have to say that Clare’s philosophy exactly matches mine in this respect. If you’re training for a marathon, racing a slightly shorter distance than your target e.g. a half marathon or even 10K, faster than your planned time is an ideal way to keep the boredom away and to fine tune your fitness.

EDIE IN SEARCH OF MORE VARIETY?

And of course there are things other than running to do at weekends to keep your fitness at a high level, like taking part in triathlons for instance! Edie Carroll added a couple more disciplines to her training recently in order to prepare for her first triathlon. The event was the “Tri-gether Ladies Only Triathlon” hosted by 247 Triathlon Club in Letterkenny. It was a huge success with 100 females of all ages turning out to race on the day. There were 2 distances of pool swim – 400m or 750m with the same bike (20K) and run (5K) courses for both classes. Edie having only recently come to swimming opted for the shorter swim and having conquered that challenge in under 9 minutes, she cycled the fastest bike split of the day and had a decent “off the bike run” giving her second place overall. It was a well organised event with a very encouraging organising team and worth considering for anyone wanting to cross train for their running season. Well Done Edie.

Edie Carroll strides out on her way to 2nd place overall in the triathlon I Letterkenny on Sunday.

EARLIER IN THE WEEK

Mackenzie Murray running for St Colmcille’s High School, Crossgar secured 2nd place in the Junior Boys age group at NMDDC Schools’ XC which was held at Kilbroney Forest Park mid-week. He ran a tactical race sitting in 3rd for a long way then he and the boy who had been in second went for a late surge and passed the previous leader. It was an exciting race and one which will give Mackenzie the incentive to race to the line every time. Well done! I have been unable to find any published results of this event on the NM&DDC site or elsewhere, so if you’re annoyed about not getting a deserved mention here then why not report what you’ve done each week directly to me? My email address is jaykwin69@gmail.com and my telephone number is 07398514122.

East Down’s Mackenzie Murray smiles after winning the Silver medal for his school St Colmcille’s Secondary in Crossgar

INDUCTION NIGHT

On Monday Night past EDAC held an Induction Night for our current Junior members. We looked back at the achievements that have been made by various teams and individuals throughout the last 12 months and commended good attendance and consistent efforts at training sessions. The young athletes were shown a training plan going into the XC season and all received an EDAC buff to wear in the colder weather ahead. It was fantastic to see so many young people committing themselves to the sport and keen to represent the club. It was also heartening to see parents prepared to add their names to the rota to help the process run smoothly. It takes a lot of manpower to organise a junior section but the atmosphere on Monday Night was a just reward. Here’s to the future!

Some of East Down’s Junior members pictured at the Club’s Induction night on 24 September.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

1 October 2018