THE ULSTER SCHOOLS’ CROSS COUNTRY AT MALLUSK

The Ulster Schools’ Cross Country was held in Mallusk on Wednesday past. It had been postponed when there was an issue with council permissions and as the pre planned date ended up being a snowy day it seemed a blessing in disguise. However as the new date approached there were further rumours that the go ahead had still not been confirmed and right up to the day before there was still a doubt that Mallusk would be the venue and local politicians were called in to exert influence. So it was with a sense of relief that the athletes who had qualified from the District stages all converged on the City of Belfast Playing Fields. There was added excitement that the BBC cameramen were there to live stream the action on the BBC Sport Channel.

BRONZE FOR OLLIE

The racing got underway with the younger age groups and East Down had interest in the Minor Girls when Emily Burns (Colaiste Feirste) ran a good race coming 33rd out of a huge entry of 123. Then came the Minor Boys with 122 runners. Ollie Robinson running for Down High had won a silver medal at the Districts by going out hard and hanging on and it was obvious that he was going to try the same approach when he hit the first bend in front. It was a good move as many lost places in the chicane as they got jostled in the tight turn. He looked strong but many feared that he would regret his bravery as there was an eager posse on his tail. He held the lead through the small loop and then for the greater part of the large loop. In the end he was not able to withstand the challenge from behind and first one and then a second boy edged past. Ben Warnock went on to take Gold and Finn Diver the Silver but Ollie gritted his teeth and made sure he was still on the podium. A Bronze medal at Ulster level is a great achievement and by way of a bonus it also gains him a place in the All Ireland School’s Cross Country Championships next weekend.

LAUREN GRABS GOLD BUT ANNA MISSES OUT

Just as we were getting over the excitement of Ollie’s run, the Junior Girls were lining up. Again there was a mad charge for pole position, again there was a slight break away bunch and again there was courage shown when EDAC’s Lauren Madine (St Mary’s Downpatrick) went to the fore and Lucy Foster (Willowfield/Down High) went with her. They ran neck and neck for the entire race with the occasional switch in positions. Emer McCanny of Loreto Grammar, Omagh was also hanging on in third place.  Anna Gardiner another EDAC athlete (Assumption Grammar) had a much more difficult  ride as she had to battle from a rough start, falling foul of the aforementioned chicane and it took her most of the race to eventually manoeuvre into 4th. As they hit the last straight we were watching Lauren race Lucy to the line and Anna give every ounce as she tried for 3rd against Emer. Lauren made a break and held on for the win with Lucy just behind and Anna just ran out of ground to catch Emer (3rd) and so she had the bittersweet result of finishing in 4^th, widely regarded as the worst possible place to finish.  This was a tremendous demonstration of talent and determination by all 4 girls. To make the Top 10 in Ulster is fantastic as it is the Top 15 who qualify for the All Ireland’s but to miss a medal by such a narrow margin is hard for Anna to take. However, it is all part of life’s learning curve and she will have little time to lament this unfortunate happening before she has the chance to rectify things in next week’s All Ireland School’s Cross Country Championships at Santry.

Lauren Madine with her gold medal after the Minor Girls’ race

STARS FOR THE DAY

Both Ollie and Lauren were given their moment in the spotlight when they were interviewed by the BBC. They’re not sure which was most gruelling – the race or having a microphone shoved in their faces and having to answer questions afterwards! The pair also earned slots in the NI Team for the London Mini Marathon in April. This exciting 3 Mile event takes place in the Mall on the morning of the London Marathon and is hotly contested by schools and clubs throughout the UK. It is great to have 2 of our juniors involved.

Ollie Robinson fighting hard to get a bronze in the Minor Boys

FINAL FLING FOR EDIE

As the age groups go up, the numbers start to decline but it means that those who are there are the best in the sport with no back runners to fill the ranks. Mackenzie Murray (St Colmcille’s Crossgar) running as an Inter Boy did extremely well to come 20th out 110. He maintained a steady pace throughout the race. Edie Carroll (Down High) running as her last year in the Schools’ Cross Country was pleased to come 14th as it means that she too has qualified for a slot in the All Irelands next weekend in Santry. The best bit about the day in the cold was being able to come home and watch it all again on catch up TV. The coverage was a good insight into the world of Cross Country and got across how demanding the sport can be. Even if it doesn’t encourage others to take it up, it will ensure that due respect is paid to those who participate!

Edie has been a club stalwart for many years and we know that she will do well in whatever profession she eventually chooses, given her dedication to training and competing as a highly valued junior member of the Club. Everyone in East Down AC wishes her well as she moves on to higher education and beyond.  Good Luck and Best Wishes, Edie.

BACK TO BASICS

On Sunday the first in a series of what are called the Back to Basics 5 and 10K races advertised by the promoter Gaithouse Events, under the mantra “No bling, No buffs, No bull!” took place in Victoria Park in Belfast. The promoter adds “Bling not your thing? Let’s get Back to Basics then with only the essentials – professional chip timing and Athletics NI Certified distances. Truth is the entry cost of races are rising every year. Well here at Gaithouse we thought we’d put a stop to that with our Back to Basics Series.” Priced at £8 for Affiliated Runners (A) & £10 Unaffiliated Runners (U) for 5K, £9(A)  & £11 (U) for 10K, “What’s not to like?” Though there was a £2 surcharge for on the day entries!

Lauren and Sharon Madine in Victoria Park at the GaitHouse Events Back to Basics 5K

GOOD TURNOUT

The idea certainly seemed to have struck a chord with runners throughout NI as there was a good geographic spread of entries from clubs from Newry to Ballymena to Finn Valley, though most were from Belfast and the surrounding area. There were 80 runners in the 5K race and 44 in the 10K. East Down AC was represented by Lauren 19.01 and Sharon Madine 21.40 who placed 2^nd and 8^th Female respectively. Good results and overall good turn outs for what apparently were very well organised events.

SO WHAT ELSE IS IN STORE?

The organisers also claim that “At Gaithouse Events we love Road Runners too! We won’t let the rising challenges and cost of regulations put us off so stay tuned for some super races on the road coming next year. If bling is your thing, our road events won’t disappoint.” We wish them well in their efforts though it remains to be seen how well they can deliver on these apparently contradictory “bling” statements.

BARRIE SCORES AT RAVENSDALE DUATHLON

Barrie Atkinson clearly enjoyed the duathlon format of run-bike-run last week as he headed off again on Sunday for another one. This was hosted by Setanta Triathlon Club, Dundalk, and attended by a hardy bunch somewhat depleted by the threat of storm Jorge. Those that took part had a battle with the wind and freezing hands on the bike course were a real issue. They only warmed up marginally on the second run. Barrie was pleased to come 12th out of the 75 stalwarts and even more delighted to pocket his first winnings as he was first home in the 40-49 age group. Barrie will be pacing at Jimmy’s 10K and will be a great encourager to those wishing to break 40 minutes in the race.

Barrie Atkinson at the Setanta Duathlon in Ravensdale.

ON TO THE ROADS!!

Good Luck to all our juniors who proceed to the All Ireland’s but for the most that is a wrap on the Cross Country scene and we can look forward to Jimmy’s 10 for a run on the roads. 2 weeks to go to race day on Sunday March 15th at 10.30amd and with better weather on the horizon, it has been a busy weekend on the entry portal. There are still places available in the 10K but the Relay is filling up fast with only 15 slots left as we go to press. The online entry for both closes on Wednesday 11th March at noon unless the quota is reached before that. Remember only the first 800 of entrants will get one of the prized 2020 t-shirts so don’t miss out!

Bells Supervalu Crossgar owner Gabriel Bell (left) with some of the staff including Store Manager Darren Fitzpatrick (far right)

Paddy Gardiner of P.Gardiner Carpets hands over a cheque for Jimmy’s 10K to Joe Quinn.

Joe Quinn accepting a cheque from Darren Brown owner of Soaring Productions (provider of video productions and licensed drone work)

Catherina Kielty of Wrap & Roll filling the van with water for the Jimmy’s 10K race on March 15th

https://athleticsni.org/Fixtures/Jimmys-Ten-2020 or contact 07825 314079 for information.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

ARMAGH INTERNATIONAL ROAD RACES

The Armagh 5K International Road Race with accompanying 3K is a date eagerly awaited by both runners and spectators alike and this year with it celebrating its 30th anniversary, was no exception . Race day miraculously fell between the snow showers earlier in the week which postponed the Ulster Schools’ Cross Country and Storm Dennis which was forecast for the following weekend. Conditions on Thursday Night were milder than usual which was appreciated by all.

JUNIOR RACES

The Junior Races were a thrilling warm up act within the route the seniors would run later. The first races were per birth year with a 400m dash along one side of the Mall. The final 6 races combined 2 birth years running over a distance of 1400m. Alex Robinson ran in the 6th race of the evening in 2008/2009 race. He was young in this category but fared well coming 37th out of a field of nearly 150 runners. Ollie Robinson had a great race in the 2006/2007 group taking 10th slot out of 60 entrants with an impressive sprint from 400m out. All in all 1075 children under 13 took part!

MEN’S 5K

The headline act is of course the Men’s 5K and with strict entry criteria based on previous bests, for many it is one to watch rather than race. EDAC had no runners involved although Neil McCartan with the aid of a car got a great view of the action as videographer for the night. The result stats speak for themselves – 21 runners broke 14 minutes, 140 broke 15 minutes and the slowest time overall was 16.49 with only 10 runners failing to break 16 minutes. The winner Adam Clarke from the aptly named Team Real Runners ran 13.42. Local interest was provided by Ryan Forsyth of Newcastle AC who was 16th in 13.57.

WOMEN’S 5K

EDAC spectators had 3 runners to cheer on in the Ladies’ 3K. Sinead Sweeney having got a last minute call was representing Northern Ireland as part of a team which was placed 4th. She ran a pleasing 10.03 which put her 56th in the category and they ended up not far apart at the finish line having swapped the high calibre field. Catherine O’Connor despite running a solid 10.14 was disappointed with her performance as she had hoped to improve on last year’s time. Katie Neary who is coming back after a bout of illness was content with 11.39 which put her 111th. Well done to the ladies as this is a daunting event to enter and there were some bad falls in the mass start so it a relief to report that all our runners survived intact to take part in the Senior Cross Country this weekend in Coleraine. There could not be a greater contrast than the pancake flat sprint pace of Armagh versus the mud and marsh of cross country so it will be interesting to see how they fare.

MEN’S OPEN 3K

The final race of the evening was the Open Men’s 3K event. Neil Curran was in this race as was Mackenzie Murray running in the Junior B lead throughout the race. Mackenzie was delighted with his race and felt that he was able to control his pace well. The super fast start can be disconcerting and it is hard to judge yourself by those around you. He finished as the 9th Junior B boy in a time of 9.41. A promising run all round. Neil Curran was home in 9.46 which was a 15 second PB for him at this distance. Despite improving on his time, he was non committal about his performance, feeling that a lack of speed work had left his legs wanting. Runners can be hard on themselves and should remember that performances that they think lack sparkle, may be times that others may only dream of achieving.

UNDAUNTED BY DENNIS

A call had gone out to our members to take part in a recce of the course for the rapidly approaching Jimmy’s 10. It was decided to open this up to all comers and it was a popular move. With representatives from Tels Fitness, Murlough AC, Crossgar Harriers and Down Triathlon Club and some solo runners joining our own crowd, there was a jolly band of nearly 50 runners hitting the streets. Storm Dennis was a bit of a concern but having consulted the weather charts it was decided to proceed with caution. In actual fact although there was a taxing head wind at some points, it was dry until after all returned so Denis was not able to put off these hardcore folk. They soon warmed up with hot drinks and snacks and the general feeling was that it was a good job, well done. All reported that they were looking forward to the real event with even more anticipation having had the tester.

WOULD DENNIS BE THE LAST ONE STANDING?

As usual on this weekend every year, the Last One Standing take place in Castleward. Admittedly the organisers don’t usually have to consider the elements to any great extent as it is an endurance test of the individual against whatever arises, but the warnings about the arrival of Storm Dennis meant that extra caution had to be exercised this year. With most of the course on grass or muddy forest tracks and with much of it also under the usually benign shelter of the many trees, then consideration of the likely effects of the much heralded Storm Dennis had to be a priority. However, cometh the hour cometh the Man (or Men and Women) who were undaunted by the prospect of storm force rain and wind in their attempts to attain the coveted title of Last One Standing 2020.

I personally have to take my hat off to every one who set out on the journey, which no one knows how long it will take or how far it will be, depending as it does on the persistence and bloody mindedness of those participating. The format is basically that every runner has to be on the start line at 12 noon on Saturday and they then have to complete the course of 4.2 miles within the hour and be on the start line again at 1.00pm and so on for every hour thereafter. Anyone who fails to finish within the hour or who fails to be on the start line when the next hour begins is automatically excluded from further participation. So then it develops into a poker game of who will keep going the longest as hour after hour the field gradually reduces until only one person begins what will be the final lap, which he/she has to complete to be declared the Last One Standing.

THE WINNER

So in theory, anyone can win, though there are, like in every branch of sport those who will attract greater support as favourites because of their previous experience at this type of physical activity. Among those would be the likes of previous winner, Peter Cromie from Omagh and Cork man Eoin Keith who has won many long distance events both in Ireland and abroad, including setting records over 24 hours endurance races, where the emphasis is on how far one can travel in the allotted time, unlike this one, where it’s a case of how long can one keep going for, knowing that all one hour will yield will be 4.2 miles! But they have the stickability factor which is so important in this type of event. And so it came to pass that after completing 41 laps and 172.2 miles that the winner was Peter Cromie, following Eoin’s retirement at the end of lap 40. What a battle this proved.

In the absence of any results it is not possible to comment further on how any “locals” fared but hopefully I’ll have more information next week.

JIMMY’S TEN on 15 MARCH 2020

If you haven’t yet signed up to Jimmy’s 10 2020 then you should put it on your to do list asap as it is only 4 weeks until Race Day.

Some of the people who turned up to try out the route for Jimmy’s 10K to be held on Sunday March 15th

Some of the people who turned up to try out the route for Jimmy’s 10K to be held on Sunday March 15th

Entries online at https://athleticsni.org/Fixtures/Jimmys-Ten-2020 or email info@eastdownac.co.uk for further information. You will miss out on a great day if you delay!

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

17 February 2020

FLAHAVAN’S PRIMARY SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY SERIES

The Flahavan’s Primary School Cross Country Final was held midweek in Mallusk Playing Fields. Not so long ago we were citing this as the coldest spot in the universe, but on Wednesday past the conditions were unseasonably warm and some went so far as to say tropical , though that seems a little exaggerated! The runners taking part were those who had qualified as a result of their performances in the heats so the field was top quality and the stakes were high. 200 in each race meant that the start was akin to a stampede and it was a struggle to stay on your feet let alone get a clean break. Alex Robinson was the sole EDAC athlete to have qualified and was there to represent his school St Mary’s Newcastle. He came 97th in the Primary Boys. Putting it in perspective, 50 runners went through the line in the space of 10 secs so it is a worthy result. Well done, Alex.

NI & ULSTER INTERMEDIATE & MASTERS CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

Last year the chosen venue for this prestigious event, Barnett’s Demesne, a last minute choice as no where else was available, brought widespread criticism and complaints from runners and spectators alike. Apart from the fact that the hosts decided that several hundred runners cutting up their grassy areas was something they could live without and refused to let their “facilities” be used again for cross country races, ANI could not have sold the venue again to its members such was the underfoot conditions which prevailed as well as the confined nature of the area allocated for the course. So it was to Gosford Forest Park on the outskirts of Markethill, a late winner of the prize for hosting the 2020 event, that the runners had to make their way on Saturday afternoon.

And what an inspired choice it turned out to be. This proved to be the best possible course imaginable, with plenty of room for cars, spectators, dogs, deer and runners. The course, expertly marked out by the hard working members of ANI’s Cross Country and Road Running Committee, took full advantage of the open ground to fashion a route that had everything, a long testing uphill stretch, plenty of downhill to compensate and enough twists and turns to satisfy even hardened followers of an Agatha Christie novel! Not only that but possibly the most striking feature of all was that the entire course was easily in full view of spectators without the need to move an inch! Perfection!, especially for old geezers like me who have bother getting out of the car never mind walking around a muddy field or estate in search of the ideal viewing spot. There was plenty of grass to make the underfoot conditions largely mud free and open to fast times. And the runners did their best to oblige on this latter score as well.

INTERMEDIATE WOMEN’S RACE (3 laps)

The Intermediate Women’s race was the first of the 4 race card,  and despite, or perhaps because of, last year’s winning effort by the EDAC squad, the club didn’t have a single runner in this race. The rules are that any runner who either wins or is a member of a winning team in the race cannot run in it ever again. So effectively all of last year’s winning team were ruled out and the club have not yet pulled together a team worthy of competing again. But wait until 2021!!

The most impressive runner in the Intermediate Ladies race from a local viewpoint was Mari Troeng from Newcastle AC, who gradually worked her way through he front runners to claim an excellent 3^rd place at the finish line. She was closely followed by her clubmate Joanne Mills in 8^th place but unfortunately they didn’t have enough runners to register a team score. The Team event was won by Finn Valley.

MASTERS MEN RACE  (5 laps)

East Down didn’t have a team in the women’s race, and unfortunately due to a late injury cry off by Gordy Graham, they only had 3 runners in the Male Master’s so they were unable to register a Team score in this event either. However, the trio who turned out did themselves and the Club proud with stirring performances all round. Neil Curran was first EDAC man to cross the line, working his way through the high quality field to take a splendid 20^th place, followed by the equally hard working Martin Willcox who claimed 39^th place with Dee Murray pacing things excellently to take 68^th place of the 107 finishers.  The race was dominated once again by the powerful Mark McKinstry North Belfast, who gave notice of his current fitness and his chances of retaining his Jimmy’s Ten crown on 15 March. He simply hit the front from the start and proceeded to grind the opposition into the ground, increasing his lead lap by lap to finish 19 seconds ahead of Eoin Mullan Omagh Harriers with Patrick Brennan Finn Valley 18 seconds further back in 3^rd.   Another eyecatching performance came from the evergreen Paul Carroll, who led his resurgent Annadale team home, taking overall 9^th place. Finn Valley again won the team prize with Newcastle packing very well to claim 2^nd spot.

MASTER’S WOMEN (3 laps)

Only one EDAC runner in this race in the person of the find of the season, Sharon Madine, and again she did herself and her Club proud with a strong running display, to take a lot of top runner’s scalps and finish in 39^th position, well inside the top half of the field of 83 finishers.

Sharon Madine after her race in Ladies Masters

INTERMEDIATE MEN (5 laps)

Although EDAC had an excellent 3^rd place finisher in this category last year the club was unrepresented this time as last year’s hero, Aaron McGrady, decided not to travel home for the renewal. He is hopefully keeping his powder dry ahead of next month’s Senior c/ships in Coleraine. Interest centred on Newcastle AC’s Patrick McNiff’s attempt to go one better than last year, in the absence of last year’s winner Zak Hanna, and his club’s to retain the Team trophy. In the event he made a pretty good job of it, as leading from start to finish he never looked in any trouble and came home 15 seconds clear of Annadale’s Eskander Turki with Russell White Dromore a further 9 seconds back in 3^rd place. Inspired by his pillar to post run Patrick’s teammates all pulled together well to take an excellent 3^rd place in the Team competition.

Martin Willcox, Dee Murray and Neil Curran ably supported by Joe Quinn

SOUTH OF ENGLAND CROSS COUNTRY C/SHIPS 15K

In England it was the South of England XC Championships and Aaron McGrady ran well to come 91st out of a huge field of 1172 runners.  Hannah Somani had 690 female runners to contend with and she also performed admirably finishing in 120th position. On this occasion they were representing their London club of Victoria Park Harriers &Tower Hamlets AC but both expressed disappointment at their respective performances. Two weeks ago Aaron achieved his target for the Winter by taking 14^th place in a Met League X/C race and no doubt his trip to Oman the week before that and his training schedule in between left him feeling legless for the 15K race on Saturday. That’s one heck of a distance for a cross country race! Anyway both the NI & Ulster Senior Championships and Jimmy’s 10K feature for them in the next few weeks so they will get a chance to recover and be on their best form then.

CATHERINE PB IN RAHENY 5 MILES

Catherine O’Connor headed to Raheny for the popular and well regarded 5 Mile race which attracts the speed merchants and fun runners alike. The Men’s race was won by Hiko Tonosa of Dundrum South Dublin AC in 22.40, just one second ahead of 2nd placed Hugh Armstrong (Ballina AC) and this gives an indication of the level of the competition. Catherine kept her cool and finished in 16th place in the Female ranks which is a superb result especially noting some of the respected names ahead of her on the time sheet. Her time of 29.17 is a distance PB and gives her a boost going forward to the Armagh 3K in a matter of weeks. Super running from a committed athlete. From Fionnuala McCormack as the first Female home in 25.55 to the 1955th Female (yes there were almost 2000 Females and 4000 runners in total!) there was a time difference of over 70 minutes but they all had the thrill of being part of this massive event.

JIMMY’S TEN ON THE HORIZON

Speaking of inclusive events, we hope that our own event Jimmy’s 10K and Relay coming up shortly (Sunday March 15th at 10.30am) will have the same atmosphere where all runners get a feeling of satisfaction whether it be achieving a PB, completing a distance for the first time or the fun of running with friends and family. All are welcome and if you are thinking about it, be sure to enter before Friday as the Early Bird rate ends at midnight on January 31st. Entry can be made online at https://athleticsni.org/Fixtures/Jimmys-Ten-2020.There will be pacers to keep you on track, water stop, chip timing and a great post race spread. First 800 entries get a technical t-shirt. There is a bus to take relay runners to the changeover point. A great day out is guaranteed!

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

27 January 2020

FIRST OF THE YEAR FOR PHILLIP & HELEN

On a bitterly cold Saturday morning Phillip and Helen Vint were at the start line for the latest in the East of Ireland Marathon series, at Staplestown, in North Kildare, which also provide Half Marathon and 10K alternatives, mostly for partners, like Helen who feel it’s nice to be there to support your other half but who feel that running a marathon with them is pushing things a bit too far, 13.1 miles too far to be exact! The temperature was -3 C when they began running and a sultry +2 C when they finished and underfoot conditions were slippery by virtue of the frozen ice around the route. So well done to both on completing what they describe as “steady runs for their firsts” of 2020, Phillip in 3.34.55 and 5th place and Helen in 2.03.43 and 3rd place respectively.

BORN2RUN RUN FOREST RUN No. 6

Saturday saw a big turnout, 207 in fact, for the 6th of the Born 2 Run Run Forest Run Series. This week the venue was Gosford Country Park which will also host the NI & Ulster Intermediate and Masters Cross Country Championships next weekend.

The only distance on offer this week was 5K and he route headed out in a loop around the start and continued towards the outer boundaries of the forest. The first 2K was quite level and took everyone into the scenic forest for 1K where there were a few small inclines but overall it was a flat, fast course with a good run in the last 1K down to the finish line.

JIMMY‘S FIRST FIRST FOR EDAC

No-one made better use of the terrain than East Down’s Jimmy Sloan who fairly flew round the course in a superb 14.54, which was almost 2 minutes ahead of the second placed Thomas Carson 16.44 with 3^rd place filled by Barry McAuley 17.32. I believe this is Jimmy’s first win in Club colours and it certainly won’t be his last, given his present form and continuing improvement, which in spite of hearing later that the distance was allegedly 200 metres short, nevertheless represents a great effort and time. Well Done Jimmy.

Jimmy Sloan – clear winner at the Born2run 5K in Gosford Country Park

LADIES DO EVEN BETTER?

As they have done throughout the Series the battle for the Ladies prizes came down to a sprint finish between the 2 EDAC Club mates Lauren Madine and Anna Gardiner who finished in 17.43 and 17.44 respectively, which was only 11/12 seconds behind the 3^rd placed male runner. Lauren’s Mum Sharon continues to impress and has become one of the most consistent and reliable runners in the Club, finishing 5^th Lady on Saturday in 20.41. So Well Done to all 3 of you.

McGRADY’S FINANCIAL SERVICES JUNIOR X/C ROUND 4, DELAMONT

What better way to spend a Sunday than in Delamont Country Park? The EDAC Juniors obviously agreed as there was a good turnout of them to take part in the McGrady Financial Services Cross Country Series, Round 4, at the weekend. In fact there was double the number that took part in the previous race in Dromore which unfortunately clashed with the All Ireland’s so some had good reason for missing out. It was great to see so many in action and equally pleasing to note how many of the junior runners were willing to help in the set up and take down of the course. EDAC were the hosts on this occasion so it was all hands on deck to put on the full race program and thanks are due to the parents and coaches for giving up their time to make it happen. The fact that the sun shone, took the sting out of the cold and there was no wind either so it was perfect for running. The Club had representatives in most of the races and many of them made it into the top 3 of their age group. The conditions meant that it was not overly muddy but the undulating terrain was challenging and meant that everyone got a good run out regardless if they were at the top end of their particular race or fighting against themselves to persevere to the finish.

A FULL REPORT ON JUNIOR CROSS COUNTRY NEXT WEEK

A full report will be made to include performances of all the clubs but in the meantime, congratulations to those of our juniors who made podium; First in their age groups were Aaron Lennon (Year 8), Oliver Robinson (Year 9), Emily Burns (year 9), Lauren Madine (Year 10) and Mackenzie Murray (Year 11and over). Second places were Finn Gibney (P7), Anna Gardiner (Year 10). Meanwhile Jarlath Kearney (P5), Caragh Moore (P5), Rory Morris (P6), Alex Robinson (P7), and Kara Trainor (Year 10) were all in third place. All our athletes irrespective of placings gave of their best and most importantly seemed to have fun.

Hannah Lennon helping at the McGrady Financial Services Junior XC in Delamont

HIGHLIGHTS OF A GREAT DAY’S RACING

On a personal level I feel that 2 items stood out for me as an interested bystander. Firstly it was great to see that newcomers, our neighbours from Murlough AC, are starting to make their presence felt and will no doubt go on to compete strongly for team awards in the years ahead. And secondly the Year 8 Boys event, which was the  race of the day, with Robbie Nicholl from Dromore AC throwing down the gauntlet to all comers by opening up a considerable lead on the first lap and having it picked up by East Down’s Aaron Lennon who worked tremendously hard to close the gap as the finish line beckoned. Moving onto the shoulder of the now toiling Dromore lad, just as they turned into the home uphill straight, Aaron was not to be denied and he sprinted alongside and then pulled away from Robbie to win what was a tremendous duel in the sun and was a real heart warmer for everyone watching. Well done to both lads, This is a battle which could run and run and I’m already looking forward to the next instalment!!

Jarlath Kearney running himself into 3rd (P5)

William Taylor (287) fighting for his spot in the P5 Boys

Finn Gibney finishing strongly to take 2nd in the P7 Boys

Emily Burns looking strong on in the Year 9 mixed race

Aaron Lennon looking fresh after his win in the Year 8 Category

Ollie Robinson out in front in the Year 9 Boys

Anna Gardiner on the heels of Lauren Madine in the Year 10 mixed race.

Mackenzie Murray (267) moving quickly to the front of the Year 11 and above race.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

20 January 2020

APOLOGIES FOR LAST WEEK’S OMISSIONS

I must right away say that I was wrong to allege last week that most of our Club runners had succumbed to the excesses of the season and were in a state of hibernation. It turns out that there was quite an East Down turnout in Castlewellan for the New Year’s Day Parkrun, at least a dozen in fact, so my sincere apologies to anyone who felt that their efforts were being overlooked.

CROSS COUNTRY FIXTURE AT MALLUSK

The Mathieson Cup and Shield in honour of our good friend Mags Mathieson aka volunteer extraordinaire was held on Sunday at the City of Belfast Playing Fields at Mallusk. Two years ago the snow that lay turned the event into something of an Artic expedition and last year was bitter with grey clouds and showers, so the bright blue skies on race day were a welcome sight to those arriving to sign up. The fact that there was an icy wind took the edge of that slightly and if the pictures appear to almost hint of Spring, do not be deceived – it was a day for layers and plenty of them. Despite this EDAC had a good showing of Juniors who seemed undeterred by the low temperatures.

PRIMARY SCHOOL & UNDER 12 BOYS  RACES

The race schedule started off with a mixed, crowded 800m Primary school race. EDAC had Alexander Robinson, Kelsey Murray, William and Alice Taylor all running. This was Alice’s first taste of cross country outside of the McGrady Series and she did extremely well at the tender age of 6. Hopefully the stampede hasn’t put her off future runs. Alex came 8th boy which was impressive. He had to work hard and also stay calm in the jostling. William finished in 60^th among the boys and Kelsey 17^th and Alice 39^th also made it to the finish line unscathed and still smiling to make it a very successful start to the day.

Kelsey Murray – Primary race

Matthew Taylor took on the Under 12 Boys race, over a 1K course, and finished in 23^rd place.

The Taylor Family who all took part in the day’s racing.

Alex Robinson in the Primary Race

UNDER 14 BOYS & GIRLS

Oliver Robinson, Lauren Madine, Anna Gardiner and Emily Burns ran in the U14 2K mixed race. Ollie bravely led the race from the front for over a lap before being overtaken by the eventual winner. He managed to hold onto second place and was chuffed to receive a plaque as a result. Due a clerical error, Lauren Madine ended up running in the wrong age category so although she came 1st girl, she sportingly handed the trophy to team mate Anna who crossed the line on her heels. It was disappointing for Lauren but she took it with good grace and felt that the good run out meant that the morning was not a waste. Well done to you Lauren!

Emily was 12^th and like all her clubmates is to be commended on the way they tackled the tricky course.

Ollie Robinson, Anna Gardiner, Lauren Madine and Emily Burns

UNDER 17 BOY

McKenzie Murray ran in the U17 race which was a full 4K. He had a strong committed run and placed 4^th – unlucky not to get on the podium as he was only 1 second behind the third placed athlete.

Mackenzie Murray after the U17 race

EAST DOWN LADIES

There were only two brave ladies representing our club – both of them mothers of aforementioned Juniors keen to show their offspring that they could match their efforts. Sharon Madine and Nuala Taylor set off in tandem and stayed that way for the first 2 laps of 3. This was a new experience for Nuala but Sharon who seems to have caught the XC bug this season was able to convince her that they would manage rightly. The pack was led out by 2 runners who changed positions several times before Karen Wilton from Jog Lisburn made the break to win in 23.50 just 2 seconds ahead of Amy Bulman from Willowfield. Further back in the thick of things, the EDAC ladies had worked their way up through the field with their steady approach. Sharon then edged away in the last kilometre to finish in 43rd position in 28.16. It should be noted that the number of Female competitors overall was actually greater than that of the Men which is quite unusual. 215 Ladies spread out over the long loop was quite an impressive sight and when Nuala came in in 52nd place 29.01, the 2 EDAC runners were delighted to see how many were in their wake. To be in the top quarter is a great result. Well done indeed!

Sharon Madine and Nuala Taylor after XC at Mallusk

MEN’S SENIOR RACE

The Men’s race went off at a frantic pace with Mark McKinstry forging his familiar path to the front and staying there. He went on to take the win in 26.41. We look forward to see him defend his title in Jimmy’s 10 in March as on his current form he seems unstoppable. East Down’s Gordy Graham managed to get hold of a bunch a little further back and use the momentum to keep a strong pace. He came 13th out of the 206 men in a time of 28.51. Just under a minute later Neil Curran finished in 22nd place.He wasn’t altogether happy with his run as he felt that his legs weren’t giving him the speed that he had trained for. Dee Murray is always keen to use cross country as a good training session and was content with his efforts, coming in 77th in 33.21. John Taylor, who made the final showing for the Taylor family on the day, thought that 4 laps was a big ask but he completed in 41.26 and was still able to pose for a family photo at the end which made it all worthwhile! To see all 5 of them out making good use of the day was an inspiring sight. Last but not least of the EDAC troop was Donal Smith 42.46. He was using the race as a way of clocking a few miles on his build up to his debut marathon in Belfast this May. As good a way as any and a bit of camaraderie appeared to ease his pain.

John Taylor with Donal Smith at the finish line

Neil Curran, Dee Murray and Gordy Graham glad to have completed their 4 laps

WELL DONE & THANKS

The race organisers managed to keep the race schedule on time and the warm food post race was most welcome. Thanks to all involved especially the marshals who had a long stand out round the course. It wasn’t clear if they were clapping simply to keep warm but their support was appreciated!

Joe Quinn, Alison Carroll & Marguerite Robinson

13 January 2020

GOOD START TO NEW YEAR FOR EDAC

At the 5th race in the Born2run series at Tollymore Forest Park the sun was shining and the mood was good. The 5k race left the car park area and headed down towards the main Tollymore entrance then turned up to the right taking the runners down gravel forest trails for most of the first 2k. As to be expected in a forest park there were then a few uphills followed by flatter parts and then one more incline coming up to the last 4K. After that it was straight towards the finish line on good ground allowing for fast finishes. Lauren Madine maintained her winning streak in this series, with a spirited run, holding on to first place in 21.03 with Anna Gardiner 2nd female, a mere second behind. Lily Rimmer of Dromore completed the ladies’ podium in 21.22. Sharon Madine demonstrated that she hasn’t been slacking over the holiday either, coming 4th Female in a very respectable 22.45. Another good day out for the EDAC trio.

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