Saintfield Striders held their annual race day on Sunday past. It was a glorious day for it with bright sun, blue skies and little to no wind. The 10K with 265 runners headed off at 2pm sharp and was won by Gareth Lyons of North Belfast Harriers in 34.01. This was more than impressive given the hilly terrain covered by the runners. The first Female was Gemma McDonald from Ballycastle Runners in 38.41. East Down AC had no runners in this race but they had two ready for action in the 5K which started at 2.10pm.

Maureen Kelly and Alison Carroll knew how hilly the 10K was and had sensibly decided that 5K was ample. They also found out that it was an out and back course with 2.5km of steepish hills which by law of averages meant that there was some downhill to look forward to on the return journey. Maureen fairly flew up the hills and once turned romped home with her usual enthusiasm. Alison followed more sedately but reported that she had enjoyed it once the hills were out of the way. Maureen’s time of 24.36 placed her as 6th female (25th overall) with Alison coming 41st overall and pleased that her time of 29.03 was well below the 30 minute barrier. The 5K had 103 finishers in total with the winner – David Spalding of Ballydrain Harriers – clocking 15.57 and Ruth McCausland of Scrabo Striders taking the female podium in 21.22. Congratulations are due to the host club for putting on a slick and enjoyable event and thanks to those who marshalled or were involved in providing the phenomenal post race spread. One for the diary next year!