Beer & Bubbles 5k
On a Sunny Wednesday evening, saw the running of the M.B. McGrady & Co Beer and Bubbles 5k run and walk, this popular local running event takes in the hills and trails of Finnebrogue Woods with the finish line next to the picturesque lake where every finisher can enjoy a beer, glass of prosecco or a soft drink in these beautiful surroundings. This event is in aid of PiP Sucide Prevention Charity, which is a great cause.
EDAC had eight athletes on the start line, and from the off James Wright headed to the front where he did battle with the winner of the race Fintan Murray, James pushed hard but came in second spot in a time of 21 min 27 sec. Second East Down vest to cross the line and first lady home was Sharon Madine who knows the event well and will be pleased with a time of 23 min 51 sec. One placed behind and after his PB at Crossgar last week was Eamon Kelly with a solid 23 min 53 sec. In 20th position was Patrick Smith with a great time off 27 min 22 sec. Second lady home was Clare Forester in 27 min 39 sec with Maureen Kelly not too far behind in 28 min 14 sec, Wayne Giles was next in 33rd spot crossing the line in 30 min 12 sec. Susie Smith enjoys this race and the surroundings and will be happy with a time of 36 min 58 sec.
Ards Half Marathon
On Friday evening was the Ards Half Marathon which is organized by Scrabo Striders. The Ards Half Marathon has established itself as a firm fixture in the NI road racing calendar since the first race in 2008. Starting and finishing at Ards leisure center the route covers Newtownards town center then out into the countryside past Scrabo tower then back into town. This half has a reputation for being one of the toughest half marathons in the province.
East Down AC had three brave runners in this event. Dee Murray who is no stranger to this tough race had a strong run against a strong field finishing in 32rd position with a solid 1 hr 27 min 35 secs coming first in his age category. After Sharon Madines warm up on Wednesday night at Beer & Bubbles she placed in 162rd out of 439 athletes, with a great time of 1 hr 47 min 06 sec and getting a second place in her age group category. Leanne Spick was the last EDAC vest to cross the line and will be happy to get round without the cramp monster getting her like last week at the Lisburn Half Marathon, in a great time of 1 hr 52 min 35 sec. Amazing running to all involved.