2018

Posted on 15/10/2018 by Neil McCartan

EVEN CALLUM CANNOT DAMPEN SPIRITS

There were 276 runners in Saintfield 10K organised by Atlas Running in conjunction with Saintfield Striders and in aid of the Air Ambulance NI. The forecast was not good and the reality was not much better. Heavy showers and lying water, the tail end of Storm Callum, made this one for the brave hearted and EDAC had a few hardy souls turn out.

10K RUNNERS

In 115th place was Lawrence Cullen – 53 minutes exactly and a number of years since his original debut for the Club way back when he was a boy. He was followed by Donal Smith 53.26 who had a sibling tussle with his brother Patrick 53.08. Patrick is yet to join any club but Donal is doing his best to encourage him to follow the example of their sister Suzy who has newly joined up to EDAC. Suzy gave herself a stiff challenge by completing the Orangefield Parkrun on Saturday morning and then travelling to Saintfield where she ran the 5K in 31.41. Family bonding at its best! Well Done Suzy!

Patrick, Suzy and Donal Smyth – Family fun at Saintfield

THE GIRLS WERE THERE TOO!

Tracy McCaughey also completed the 10K in a time of 55.49 while Eimear Degan ran with Gareth Amos for good company and came in a joint 56.55. They said the hills were bad enough without the rain and yet in the photos they are smiling so it can’t have been all bad! Linda Cunningham also braved the elements for a soggy outing, just to prove that she also does short!

Tracy McCaughey, Gareth Amos, Lawrence Cullen and Eimear Degan after the Saintfield 10k

5K RUNNERS

The 5K distance attracted 127 runners and was won overall by Kyle Ross of Ballydrain Harriers in a nifty 17.58. The female winner Rachel Gibson of North Down AC was third overall in a time of 18.52. EDAC Junior Lauren Madine undeterred by the stiff competition ran a determined 21.45 to get 2nd female and Susie Cave (22.02) Lagan Valley completed the female podium.

Susie Cave (3rd) Rachel Gibson NDAC (1st) and Lauren Madine EDAC (2nd) in Saintfield 5K

PAUL MASTERED AT THE MASTERS TRIAL

Paul Burns was the only EDAC representative in the NI Master’s Cross Country Trials, held at Queen’s Playing Fields on Saturday morning, from which the representative teams for the British X/C Championships are chosen. With the top 6 finishers in each category guaranteed selection, Paul faced a stiff task as his Age Group 40 – 44 , is one of the toughest and most competitive. In the event he ran very well, completing the 8K course in 28.52, but it was only good enough for 11^th place in his category. However he is undeterred and will return again next year when he will be in the 45–49 bracket. My advice is to look (or wait) for a category with 6 or less in it to come along! I’ve been waiting for years and even now in the 70-74 category, my wait (and unfortunately because of the inactivity, my weight) goes on!

FLAHAVAN’S PRIMARY SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY SERIES

During the week the Flahavans XC for Primary Schools kicked off at the Henry Jones Playing Fields in the Castlereagh Hills. EDAC’s runners Jodi Foster was the clear winner of the Primary Girls with sister Kari close behind in 4th. Erin Moore came 10th in the Primary Girls and Ella Telford, 46^th of 114, also ran for her school Downpatrick’s Primary, though with only 2 runners, they were unable to record a team score. Jodi and Kari’s places, combined with their teammates in 21^st and 22^nd places put Spa Primary at the top of the league after race one with 48 points.

Alex Robinson ran very well to come 7th in the Primary Boys’ Race. A great start to the campaign.

Jodi Foster 698 taking the lead in the Primary Girls’ Race

Alex Robinson 759 battling it out in the Primary Boys’ Race at Flahavans xc.

NEXT WEEK

Everyone is looking forward eagerly to the opening round of the 2018/19 Cross Country League, which takes place on Saturday at the Billy Neill Playing Fields when Ballydrain Harriers stage their annual Comber Cup fixture. Races begin at 12.00noon, so see you all there!

AND DON”T FORGET – DATE FOR THE DIARY

The Annual Senior Awards and Social Night will take place Saturday 10th November at the Club Rooms and by now you should have received an email inviting you to attend. Guests accompanying members are also welcome. Do let us know if this is not the case to allow us to check our contact records. Please reply to the email or get in touch with Janine 07821 698695 by October 30th to confirm numbers and dietary requirements in order to inform the caterer. There will be a buffet supper, complimentary drink on arrival, music, awards and all for a tenner. What more could you want? It is carefully timed long enough after Dublin Marathon so that those who took part will be fit to celebrate and also that the stories told will encourage others to give it a go rather than put them off! It is also a good chance to egg each other on to sign up to some challenges for the season ahead.

Nominations for awards can be emailed to membership@eastdownac.co.uk or left in an envelope with any Committee Member. (Male/Female/Most Improved Male/Female and Club person based on the last 12 months). Nominations should be forwarded by November 2nd.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

15 October 2018

The Weekly News – 17/09/2018

Posted on 17/09/2018 by Neil McCartan

2019 DEEP RIVER ROCK BELFAST CITY MARATHON on a SUNDAY!!

Great news this week with the announcement at the launch of the 2019 Deep River Rock Belfast City Marathon, that not only would there be a new, faster, flatter route but that for the first time the Marathon would take place on SUNDAY 5^th May 2019 in a long awaited break with tradition.

David Seaton Chairman of Belfast City Marathon Organising Committee made the announcement at Wednesday’s launch at the Glasshouse, Stormont Cottages, that the Belfast City Council, the churches and the traders in Belfast City centre had come together with the PSNI, Translink and the emergency services to agree with the Committee that the BCM like all the other big city marathons would move to Sunday. This, he added, would make life easier for shoppers and traders on the Bank Holiday Monday and also benefit the runners who would have the Monday free to relax and recover.

Officials and Sponsors representatives at Stormont launch of Brlfast City Marathon

Officials and Sponsors representatives at Stormont launch of Belfast City Marathon

WHAT WAS I DOING THERE?

Well as a low key member of the aforementioned Marathon Committee I’d been invited to several similar events in the past and not been able to attend but when I received the invitation to the 2019 launch the significance of the occasion was too much to resist. So I went along just to see who was going to be there and as well as Radio and TV personalities , Jackie Fullerton and Noel Thompson I had the privilege of meeting Commonwealth Gold Medallist and World Gymnastics Champion Rhys McClenaghan, who is coincidentally the Ambassador for AMH (See below). And a very pleasant and committed young man he is too, and also Shirley McCay a Silver Medallist in the Ireland Women’s Hockey Team which finished as runners- up in the recent World Championship in London.

Joe Quinn and Noel Thompson at BCM 2019 launch

CHARITIES

This year’s official charities are Belfast Arthroplasty Research Trust (BART); Cancer Focus NI; Stroke Association; Air Ambulance NI and Action Mental Health (AMH) so if you feel like helping raise money for one or more of these excellent charities, then take your pick. Though if you know about East Down AC you’ll probably know that the last mentioned is our much valued landlord and we’d appreciate if you chose AMH as your charity to support.

.BE PART OF HISTORY

So now it’s up to you – the RUNNERS. Especially those of you who complained over the years that it should always have been on Sunday and who wouldn’t run it until it was moved etc. etc. It has taken a long time and a lot of hard work on the part of Committee members and City Council officials to reach this milestone so now it’s up to you. Get out there and tell your friends, neighbours and indeed anyone you come across to train and get ready for this historic event, made even more attractive by having a completely new route, starting on Prince of Wales Avenue in the grounds of Stormont Estate with Parliament Buildings as a magnificent backdrop, and finishing in Ormeau Park.

FLAT and FAST??

The new route takes in all quarters of the city and is flatter and faster than ever before – so it’s right up there with the best of the other ones and suitable for PBs galore!. Though on a personal note I have to say that I always enjoyed the long haul up the Antrim Rd, it was a good place to make up some ground on the flat earth specialists. It always made me feel that all those hours running up hills around Downpatrick had not been in vain! Though I won’t miss the boring and featureless, not to mention, spectatorless run along the lough shore from Gideon’s Green and the soul-destroying Duncrue St/Link area which thankfully have been axed. However I reckon it’s only as fast as your legs can get you round it and as your “home” marathon it’s the one to go for. I did my PB there, many moons ago.

RUN FORREST RUN??

You would actually think I was going to run the race itself but unfortunately it is with a heavy heart that I have to admit it will not be possible. I would love to be able to take part in the race itself as I have completed all the earlier versions of the route and with it being on the Sunday too I will certainly be on the verge of tears at just having to watch. But then again I will be involved in assisting at some point on the course so I’ll still get my kicks wherever.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

To cater for all fitness levels, the event will include a Marathon/Wheelchair Race, Team Relay, 8 Mile Walk and Fun Run. An early entry rate will apply until 31^st October 2018

ENTRY DETAILS

Entries are NOW OPEN at www.belfastcitymarathon.com via the brand new MyTicket App. Details of the 2019 Marathon route can be found there also.

ENTRY FEES

MARATHON (UNREGISTERED RUNNERS)

Early Rate (ends 31st Oct) ………………………………………………£40

Middle Rate (ends 28th Feb) ……………………………………………£55

Final Rate (ends 12th Apr) ………………………………………………£65

MARATHON (REGISTERED RUNNERS)

Early Rate (ends 31st Oct) ………………………………………………£38

Middle Rate (ends 28th Feb) …………………………………………..£53

Final Rate (ends 12th Apr) ……………………………………………..£63

TEAM RELAY

(Teams of 5 in either All Male, All Female, or Mixed Categories)

Early Rate (ends 31st Oct) ………………………………………….£100

Middle Rate (ends 28th Feb) ……………………………………….£120

Final Rate (ends 12th Apr) ………………………………………….£140

RELAY LEGS

Leg A. Stormont Castle to Ormeau Park- — 6.9 miles

Leg B. Ormeau Park to Boucher Road — — 3.9 miles.

Leg C. Boucher Road to Falls Road ———- 4.5 miles.

Leg D. Falls Road to Duncairn Gardens —- 5.2 miles.

Leg E. Duncairn Gardens to Ormeau Park — 5.7 miles.

So why not get a team together if you’re not up to marathon distance yet and let them pick which leg they want to do? It couldn’t be easier. And get your entries in early to save some money – you can always donate the extra £s to you chosen charity?

TEN MILE RACE IN MAGHERAFELT “worth going back to”

Carmel Tumelty was the only EDAC runner who participated on home soil over the weekend when she travelled to Magherafelt for the Tafelta AC 10 mile race and was happy to record 1.36.38 as it was her first competitive outing following a break from running/training. It was made all the sweeter when she was awarded the prize for finishing 2^nd in the Female Over 45 category. The race was organised by Tafelta AC and it was their 1st race since they formed in 2016 starting and finishing at Meadowbank Sports Arena. The course itself was a tale of 2 halves – the 1st was relatively flattish with a few bumps in the road and the 2nd was full of climbs with sharp down hills but all in all it was a great event. Carmel and husband Francis were fulsome in their praise for the organisation of the race and the post race refreshments and also that the £800 pot of prize money which extended to 1st & 2nd in all Masters age groups was great for those runners who wouldn’t normally get close to winning a prize. Francis finished 9th overall in 1.02.26 which was good enough to take 2^nd place prize in the M45 category. Their final word on the event? It’s definitely a race we would go back to. So there’s one for the future for all those looking for a race somewhere different.

BERLIN MARATHON

Chris Smith travelled a little further than Carmel, to Berlin to be precise, where his presence frightened Kenyan Eliud Kipchoge to run the 26.2 miles faster than anyone else has ever done before, clocking 2.01.39. He still looked full of running at the finish line. Not to be outdone Chris too set a new PB, crossing the line in 3.29.01, which knocked over 4 minutes off his time in Dublin last October. So well done to him.

And while it’s still fresh in your mind, Chris, why not stick in your entry for Belfast 2019 now and go for an even faster PB? Or to everyone else reading this why not buy your husband/wife/partner/son/daughter/mother/father or even your worst enemy an entry now?? And save yourself some money if you do it now? Now there’s novel Christmas present idea!!

Chris Smith after the Berlin Marathon on Sunday 16 September 2019

Joe Quinn

17 September 2019

PS – My fellow scribe Alison Carroll has been sunning herself in Nice since last Thursday but she assures me she has not been idle all the time as she had to support husband Paul who was competing in an Ironman triathlon and who in spite of recent injuries which affected his training completed the event, which culminated with a Half Marathon run, in 5 .02.41. This placed him 120^th overall out of 2278 and 14^th out of 334 in his O/45 Age Group, which by any standards is a superb effort but given the heat which is a significant feature in the South of France at this time of year, it’s much better than that. Well done Paul & Alison as No.1 supporter.

The Weekly News – 03/09/2018

Posted on 03/09/2018 by Neil McCartan

FINAL FIRMUS FAB FIVE

At the last meet of the Firmus Fab Five Series hosted by Lagan Valley AC at Mary Peter’s Track on Thursday past there were some impressive performances from our Junior Squad.

BOYS AND MEN

Kieran Trainor (U11 boys) ran1200m in 4’37” on his first time competing on the track. A super effort. The only other male junior, Oliver Robinson, did a double. The U13 boys 100m in 15.15” and a strong run in the 1500m saw Oliver finish in 5’40”. A promising start to his career as a Year 8 athlete. The sole senior of the night was Davy Foster in 1500m running a fast 4’50”. Maybe Davy will stick to these faster shorter distances to try and keep up with his daughters!

GIRLS GALORE

Two of the aforementioned Foster girls competed in the U11 girls 1200m. In a very competitive race Jodi hit the finish line in 4’17” then not far behind was the always smiling Kari in an impressive time of 4’43”. They both also tried the Long Jump.

In the U13 girls 100m EDAC had 3 runners.. Heat 1 saw Kara Trainor finish well in second place in 15.01, then in heat 3 we saw Lauren Madine win in a new PB time of 14.16 and Anna Gardiner come home in 15.67 with Lauren taking the overall win and gold medal for the distance. Kara’s time placed her 6^th overall. It was pleasing to see them follow the lead of the younger girls by trying a field event as well, in this case the discus. Commendable enthusiasm!

Anna Gardiner (3rd) Lauren Madine (1st) and Katie McCleery (2nd) U13 1500m at Mary Peter’s Track

EAST DOWN’S FAB FIVE FEMALES

The U13 girls 1500m saw a large field of 14 athletes of which 5 were EDAC runners and which also included the top class City of Lisburn athlete Katie McCleery who is ranked in the top 10 in the UK for her age category over this distance. McCleery made her intentions clear from the start as she immediately hit the front. Lauren decided to track her run and see how she went and was closely followed by Anna Gardiner, Lucy Foster, Kara Trainor and Emily Burns. All five EDAC athletes looked strong over the 3 & 3/4 laps. On the last bend McCleery tried to hold on but Lauren moved up another gear and cruised past to take first place with 100m to run and crossed the line in a superb time of 4’57” which is a PB by 18 seconds and puts Lauren 8th in the UK for her age for 2018. That is an outstanding performance.

Anna Gardiner was the next EDAC athlete to finish (5’05) which is also a significant PB. The PBs were coming thick and fast as Lucy Foster came home in 5’17” which was 12 seconds better than her previous best. The ever improving duo of Kara Trainor and Emily Burns battled it out to the end and almost needed a photo finish to separate them – their times 5.41.34 and 5.41.90. This race was really exciting to watch with brilliant efforts from all the girls. By filling 1^st 3^rd 4^th 7^th and 8^th places in the field of 14, there is surely cause for celebration at the depth of talent within the EDAC ranks.

ICING ON THE CAKE

Last girl to race was U15 rising star Kirsti Foster in the 1500m. The girls were mixed with a very strong U15 boys field and Kirsti did not take the race lightly despite carrying a slight niggle from hockey. She dominated the girls’ field and beat some of the boys too in her race to finish a strong 5’12 to provide a fitting finale to the night and to the track season.

A STAR STUDDED LAGANSIDE 10K

Paula Radcliffe was obviously the star of the show but EDAC had a few sparkling performances themselves. Paul Lloyd led the troops home and despite narrowly missing out on the elusive sub 40 he felt that he had given his all in the fast paced race. His time of 40.08 is tantalisingly close and his consistency has to be commended. Phillip Vint, another man who rarely misses a weekend race, came next in 41.10 with Liam Keenan not far behind in 41.36. Gavin Hynds in 41.45 had plenty to celebrate as this was a PB and proves that marathon training doesn’t always slow you down and must be great morale booster for him.

Gavin Hynds taking it in his stride

DEIRDRE vs. PAULA?

Deirdre Weatherall finished in 42.08 and was slightly disappointed with that. She was however cheered up by the fact that Paula Radcliffe had decided to run in the pack and was seen in chat with various folk en route. This gave Deirdre the chance to have a sprint finish to the line with the Women’s Marathon World Record Holder! Paula also has European and World Championship medals too numerous to mention as well the accolade of four times Olympian. Many would defer to such greatness but Deirdre is well known for her fresh faced enthusiasm and took no time to decide that having a result sheet with her name one place ahead of Paula’s was an opportunity unlikely to be repeated. After reading on Wikipedia that Deirdre is described as the foremost tragic heroine in Irish legend and probably its best-known figure in modern times she could probably argue that Paula should have been in awe of her rather than the other way round! This is the spirit that is key to Deirdre’s rise in the ranks and long may it continue! See table below showing Deirdre’s and Paula’s finishing positions on Sunday.

POS	Number	First Name	Last Name	M/F	Chip Time
160	844	Deirdre	Weatherall	F	00:42:09
161	1075	Louis	Fleming	M	00:42:16
162	688	Adam	Harvey	M	00:42:10
163	763	Daniel	Maxwell	M	00:42:19
164	1	Paula	Radcliffe	F	00:42:35

Deidre Weatherall hiding the pain well!

Liam Smyth – veteran in terms of longevity in these events clocked up a very respectable 44.42. Behind him another historic event was unfolding. Gavin McConvey came in to the finish line in 53.51 declaring that the last time he saw a sub 54 minute 10K was in 2004. Not bad going Gavin! Keep it up. Roisin Gaffney another reliable EDAC runner finished in 54.09 and for once found, despite her love of the sun, that the heat was oppressive and was glad to be done.

Liam Smyth deep in concentration

Gavin McConvey on lap 2 going strong

Who’s that with Roisin Gaffney at Laganside 10K on Sunday?

Gavin Hynds, Roisin Gaffney, Paula Radcliffe, Deidre Weatherall and Phillip Vint before the Laganside 10k

DONAL DOES THE DOUBLE

Donal Smith meanwhile had headed to Kildare on Saturday to take part in an a 5K run on Saturday evening in aid of the Injured Jockeys’ Fund – but having discovered that there was a 10K race nearby he decided in true horse lovers’ form to hedge his bets and do both. He did say afterwards that it was a lot for one day and he may need a few rest days but knowing Donal that won’t last for long.

Donal Smith at the Curragh Race Course – 5k in aid of Injured Jockeys’ Fund

No one from the Club made their way to Derry on Sunday morning for the Waterside Half Marathon which this year was also the NI and Ulster Half Marathon Championships.

WHAT’S AHEAD??

TUESDAY NIGHT IS MILL HILL MILE NIGHT

This will probably come too late for regular readers of the weekly papers but Tuesday is the night for the annual trek to Castlewellan for the lung busting, for some, Mill Hill Mile Challenge. This is a race that is, or should be, on everybody’s bucket list so if you’re going don’t forget you must register online beforehand. A donation to the charity on the night is all that is required.

KILLYLEAGH HALF MARATHON

Back on the fixture list again courtesy of the Daye brothers Atlas Running is the KIllyleagh Half Marathon with the option of a 10K for those who are less ambitious. Registration is in Killyleagh Football Club on the Comber Rd on Friday evening from 5.30 onwards with the races scheduled to start at 7.00 pm. The event is to raise money for Action Cancer. I don’t know what the route will be but it will definitely be scenic taking in country roads with views of Strangford Lough and Killyleagh Castle.

ENTRY FEES are as follows 10K:_ affiliated £14,Unaffiliated £16, Medal for all finishers.

HALF MARATHON :- affiliated £23, Unaffiliated £25, Medal and buff for all finishers. With Trophies 1st 2nd 3rd male and female in both races.Refreshments afterwards for all. For further information contact www.atlasrunning.co.uk or for online entries contact www.sientries.co.uk

RUN IN THE PARK
If you’re not runnning in Killyleagh on Friday or even if you are, report to Ward Park Bangor at 12.00 noon on Saturday 8 September for the beginning of the 24 hour Run in the Park, to either take part in, (for a while anyway) or to help with the marshaling etc. or just to support the runners. The event is a fundraiser for the Air Ambulance Northern Ireland Service and especially if you cannot get along to support perhaps you would consider making a donation at https://mydonate.bt.com/fundraisers/runinthepark2018

Thank you.

Joe Quinn, Alison Caroll, Peter Morgan

3 September 2018

The Weekly News – 21/05/2018

Posted on 21/05/2018 by Neil McCartan

KNOCKEVIN SPECIAL SCHOOL 5 and 10K

I have often been accused of finding particularly hilly routes in and around Downpatrick but I have to concede the honour of the Hilliest Route Finder to the Daye brothers, who on setting out new courses for the Knockevin 5 and 10K races on Saturday managed to include the Bishops Brae B*** Buster in both. Not that participants complained mind you – they didn’t have the energy for that after running up the hill, but well done to everyone concerned for doing it!!

I was impressed too with the number of Female runners, given the other attractions on offer on the day, in particular a little advertised Royal wedding.

The Moore family with Caragh front left and Erin front right with Roisin Gaffney centre middle at Knockevin

Shane and Cormac O’Hare, Roisin Gaffney and Patricia Carson, Martina Moore with Caragh and Erin

CALLUM, ERIN and CARAGH STAR IN 5Ks

The 5K Run was won by Ballydrain’s Kyle Ross with last year’s winner Newcastle’s Ronan McVeigh 2^nd even though he ran almost 1 minute quicker than 2017, with Civil Service’s Mervyn Chambers in 3^rd place. Callum Kent was 4^th having won the Mourne Stimulus 5K for the second year in a row on Wednesday night. Matthew Taylor finished 1 place and 2 seconds ahead of Cormac O’Hare in 10^th and 11^th positions. Shane O’Hare did well to finish in 57^th place out of 84 runners while Gill and Gareth Kimpton showed perfect understanding of how to maintain marital bliss by taking 52^nd and 53^rd places respectively.

A special word of congratulations to Caragh Moore who took a nasty tumble on the start line but undeterred carried on to run the entire distance, finishing with her mother in 43.52 – a very courageous effort when the easy option would have been to pull out. Big sister Erin meantime was racing away at the front of the field and was rewarded with a superb 2^nd place in the Female category, just 16 seconds behind Murlough AC’s in form Leah Calvert, and 20 seconds ahead of Alice Scott unattached, who was in third Female to finish. Well done to all for their displays of talent.

Erin Moore with her prize for 2nd female in 5K at Knockevin

10K WINNERS and OTHERS

The 10K was won by Niall Porter (unattached but well worth a place in any Club team) in 36.09, with Newcastle’s long distance specialist Patrick Higgins in 2^nd. Third place was Flying Horse Flyers’ Barry Kelly, showing he is still able to run excellent times and well capable of putting this relatively new local club on the map. The Women’s race was won by Marie Troeng, 8^th place overall who finished just ahead of East Down’s Gareth Reilly, 9^th making his first appearance in the Club colours, with Saintfield Striders Mairead Faughey in 2^nd and Ballygalget’s ever supportive Letitia Fitzsimmons taking a well deserved 3^rd place. Newcomers John and Nuala Taylor finished in 23^rd and 27^th places respectively and have been advised to see the comments made in preceding paragraph about Gill and Gareth!!

Paddy McDonald looked strong and was happy with 16^th place, as was Roisin Gaffney, well inside the 60 minutes in 36^th place out of 70 finishers.

BALLYBEEN 5K

Catherine O’Connor made an impressive appearance in Tuesday night’s Ballybeen 5K when she picked up the Female winners prize, clocking 18.15 for 9^th place overall, while Dee Murray 18.37 in 17^th must have been looking anxiously over his shoulder for son Mackenzie 20.45 in 38^th at the finish line!

Mackenzie Murray – Ballybeen 5K

Catherine O’Connor – 1st Female in Ballybeen 5K

LES JONES 10K

Dee was out again in the Les Jones 10K on Friday night, without having the paternal worry of Tuesday on his mind, and is 38.49 gave him 17^th place overall, while Mark O’Connor’s 43.41 left him one place behind Joanne Foster’s 84^th position, which was good enough to get her 3^rd place in the F/Over 35 category. Well done Joanne.

Mark O’Connor and Dee Murray at the finish of Les Jones 10k at Mary Peters Track

Joanne Foster during the Les Jones 10K on the towpath at the River Lagan on Friday night

HILL & DALE – ROCKY

As we have come to expect Neil Andrews was the first East Down runner to cross the finish line in Thursday night’s H & D race, the famous Rocky. In a field of 259 finishers he was 18^th overall, followed by Gavin Hynds 51^st and Deirdre Weatherall 85^th but 3^rd in the Female Open category, Jonny Kelly 91^st , Paddy McDonald 168^th , John Manley 196^th as far as my memory goes or can be relied on this was a first ever H & D for John? So well done John though with Lisa finishing in 209^th (good enough to take 4^th place in her age category) my advice to you, already given to John and Nuala earlier, is to also read paragraph 2 of this report and apply acccordingly!!

Cheryl Denvir 227^th Janine Murray 238^th and Oonagh Breteche 239th were the other East Down runners to finish and complete the perfect ten.

Neil Andrews, Janine Murray, Gavin Hynds, Deidre Weatherall, Cheryl Denvir, Paddy McDonald and Lisa Milligan – Rocky Mountain

NEXT WEEKEND

Next week there are no fewer than 11 running events taking place across NI so if you can’t find something to suit you then you’re probably a swimmer! Anyway from the Runher Coastal Challenge, which I believe is a Women only event?? including a half marathon, on Friday night, to the Newry Half Marathon on Sunday, there are races at a whole variety of distances, including the Ballyclare May Fair 5 and 10K on Saturday morning at 10.00am and the Carrickmannon Church 5 and 10K on Saturday afternoon at 2.00pm. Registration up t0 1.30pm In fact why not do two or more depending on the start times, your level of fitness and the condition of your car (or helicopter).

I’m waiting on the results of an injection on Monday before I make up my mind as to what I’m doing – or until I’m told what I’m allowed to do. (See earlier references to marital bliss!!)

MARIE BYRNE, RIP

On behalf of the Management Committee, Coaches and Members of East Down Athletics Club I wish to extend sincere condolences to the Byrne family, Roger, Elaine, Louisa and James and to Billy Logue, his wife and their wider extended family, on the passing last week of a much loved and cherished wife, mother, mother in law and grandmother. The thoughts and prayers of all of us are with you at this very sad time.

Joe Quinn

20 May 2018

The Weekly News – 14/05/2018

Posted on 14/05/2018 by Alison Carroll

KEEPING ON TRACK

The juniors have been active on the track in various events in the last week or so

Districts

EDAC athletes have turned out for their respective schools at District level. Well done to all who ran or jumped in an attempt to qualify for the Ulsters and especially to Edie Carroll who was 3rd in the Inter 1500m, Kirsti Foster was 2nd in the Junior 800m and Lauren Madine and Anna Gardiner who were 1 and 2 in the Mini Girls’ 800m. These performances will see them through to the next level at Antrim on 19/20 May.

MEDAL SUCCESS

Oliver and Alex Robinson were the only two to travel to Bangor for the Minis Competition on Wednesday 9th May but were rewarded by some great racing. Oliver having stumbled at the start of his 600m managed to get to his feet and catch the pack but just missed out on a medal. He came 2nd in the long jump & 3rd in the 80m by way of consolation. Alex was also third in the 600m.

Lara Proctor-Amos and sister Keira were at the Mary Peters Track on Saturday for the RAF 100 ATC Squadron Athletics meet and managed to qualify for the next event by coming 3rd and 2nd in their respective 1500m events.

WORTH THE WAIT

And just in case anyone thinks that track is only for Juniors, Neil McCartan travelled to Manchester for a 5000m race and pulled out a PB of 15.13. His return to racing is welcomed by the Club and certainly gives the younger members something to aspire to. Well done, Neil!

BACK ON THE ROAD

The 3 Lakes Challenge on Saturday past took part in glorious conditions – Perhaps slightly warm for the runners but heavenly for anyone enjoying the view across the Lake and the hospitality of the Lakeside Inn. The 15k route winds around 3 lakes as promised and incorporates a rolling terrain that explains the word “challenge” in the title. A shorter 7k route is available but is not an easy option either! In an overall field of 86 15k competitors EDAC had the troops out in force and it was great to see. Some were testing their time against last year, some were using it as training miles and others were using it as “recovery” from the marathon only 6 days before! The winner was Brendan Guiney from Beechmount Harriers who completed the 15k in an impressive 53.48. Martin Willcox never takes it easy and he fairly blasted round to come in 2nd in a time of 56.58! The first female Karen Wilton (Jog Lisburn) was in fact third place overall. Paul Lloyd 8th place in an hour and 4 minutes, found to his amazement that his legs worked well enough despite his efforts on Monday.

Nuala and John Taylor – relax after the 15k

Deidre Weatherall celebrated the anniversary of her joining the EDAC ranks by coming 11th overall and picked up a trophy as 3rd female. Proves we were right to snap her up! Mark O’Connor had broken free of a veritable posse of EDAC men and came in 1 hour and 8 minutes glad to have the hills behind him. The afore mentioned chain gang then flooded in like synchronised swimmers with one lone Ballydrain runner spoiling their symmetry – Stephen McCartan, Raymond Milligan, James Magennis and Phillip Vint in a flash of red and yellow. Having set out to do a paced run to break 72 minutes they smashed that in 71.38. John and Nuala Taylor also recent additions to the Club demonstrated that they will prove useful in the season ahead as neither seemed unduly fatigued by the arduous route. Roisin Gaffney came in smiling as is the norm and looked like she could have kept on going rightly. She was justifiably pleased with her time of 86.10. Gavin McConvey, another relaxed runner, who views the enjoyment aspect as important as the outcome, looked happy with his performance as he loped in with a nonchalant wave. That just left the female contingent who like their male counterparts had opted for a squad outing – Joanne Carson, Helen Vint and Cathy Burke all recorded the same time (1.29.59) a remarkable display of pacing to squeeze in before the clock broke the 90 minute barrier.

Michael Kelly, Joe Quinn, Roisin Gaffney and Karen McFall

Interspersed throughout were the 70+ 7K runners and again EDAC had numbers aplenty. The winners were never in any doubt. Thomas Carson and Amy Bulman both Willowfield came in 1 and 2 overall 25.32 and 26.16 respectively. Callum Kent took 2nd Male with Mackensie Murray making up the male podium. Tom McClean opted for the shorter event as apparently he needed to reserve some energy for some serious gardening! Linda Cunningham on the other hand kept no such reserve and showed that marathon training has not hampered her ability to turn on a bit of speed bringing her in well shy of 40 minutes and just ahead of Katrina Hynds who was not impressed with the hills but relied on her usual gutsy approach got her through. Gareth and Gill Kimpton ran together as did Eithne McGrattan and Bernice McCann, both duos reporting an enjoyable experience. The final trio of EDAC runners had a different mission other than a time target. Joe Quinn accompanied by his daughter Karen and niece Oonagh Breteche set off to complete the 7k circuit as part of his remit as an ambassador for the Parkinson’s Trust. As Joe is waiting for an injection to relieve knee pain it was a brave decision to toe the line but not one that surprised friends or family as Joe often plays down how much it takes for him to participate as often as he does. The Parkinson’s Trust Charity is close to home for Joe and despite the fact that he is suffering considerably on a daily basis he is determined to promote awareness of the condition, highlight the need for research and raise funds for the same and also at the same time continue his personal battle to stay mobile and active. He is nothing short of inspirational in his relentless enthusiasm and many of us would do well to take a leaf from his book when we too readily find an excuse to put off exercise or a task that we could well complete. This charity was in addition to the Down’s Syndrome Association another worthy cause supported by this event.

EDAC members enjoying the lake side setting after the race

OFF TO THE HILLS AGAIN

Some of those who had taken part then hotfooted it to Newcastle to bask in the afternoon sun on the Mournes which provided a stunning playground for the next entertainment. The Slieve Donard Race is a simple concept. Run to the top of the highest peak in Northern Ireland and without stopping to admire the view, turn and hurtle down the 850 m that you have just ascended. The technical aspect of the terrain is demanding both on the up and the down and as well as skill you need a good dose of bravery to trust yourself and let go on the descent. Again EDAC were well represented and many who did not race chose to spectate so it was a good day out. Niall Gibney mentioned previously in this report for his love of the hills lived up to this by coming in first of the EDAC entrants in 35th of over 200 starters. Gavin Hynds who declared that the difference between his mood on this occasion compared to his Monday marathon was chalk and cheese was seen in full flight only a few minutes behind, his feeling of exhilaration evident in his smile. Jonny Kelly took a little more caution but still cut in to the first 100 finishers by placing 99th and then Paddy McDonald another Hill and Dale regular followed on his heels 45 seconds later. There were only two EDAC females brave enough to take this on – Lisa Milligan in fine fettle led Cheryl Denvir on this occasion. A great run from her indeed. John Manley came in with Cheryl in 2 hours and 7 minutes both to be congratulated on pushing their comfort zone. Once back on the promenade there was an element of disbelief looking back at the mountain in the distance. Did that actually happen? Well yes it did and there are superb photos to prove it. Northern Irish mountain running at its finest.

Slieve Donard Race – John Manley, Lisa Milligan, Cheryl Denvir, Paddy McDonald, Conor Rice, Gavin Hynds, Jonny Kelly and Niall Gibney ready for the off

And that completes two weeks in the life of EDAC – it is great to see the range of events undertaken by our club by members both young and not so young. So what is on offer next? The Les Jones Memorial 10k takes place on Friday. Online entry has closed but contact info@athleticsni.org as there may be entries available on the night. This Saturday 19th May sees another Atlas Running event – Knockevin 10K and 5K Start 12 Noon. Registration 10.30 onwards. Enquiries atlas@atlasrunning.co.uk

New Club Kit

PS EDAC KIT NIGHT – Tuesday 22 May 6-8pm Teamwear Ireland will be at the Clubrooms with samples and sizes to facilitate orders. Cash payable on the night – a bundle is available as a special offer.