2018

Posted on 02/07/2018 by Neil McCartan

COMBER 10K

Vying for top billing this week are two of East Down’s top runners though specialising in two very different genres of the sport. First to throw his hat in the ring was Gordy Graham when he placed 4^th overall in the Comber 10K Road Race on Friday night. Gordy has been training hard to set a new PB for the distance but unfortunately he picked up a tummy bug in the days leading up to the race. Nevertheless he did set a PB clocking 35.46 in the hot conditions. So all round a satisfactory outcome even if he had targeted a much faster time. As ever there will be other races to improve his time on.

SPELGA SKYLINE SPECTACULAR

Neil Andrews was the other EDAC man to challenge the headline writers when on Saturday he finished the Spelga Skyline mountain race in 2^nd place in 2.48.46 less than 2 and a half minutes behind the winner, Mourne Runners Timothy Johnston but over ten minutes ahead of the 3^rd placed Mark Stephens Lagan Valley Orienteers. This race was contested by the top mountain runners from across NI and considering the blistering conditions and the fact that the athletes covered a course which measured 12.4 miles in distance and included 1,400m of ascent, these are tremendous times

This particular event is a bit like the “Hill & Dale for busy men”, as it takes in 8 of the “Hills” featured in the aforementioned series, which takes 10 weeks to do otherwise. Of course Neil had already carried out his recce for this one as he ran most of the H & D Series as well! Not to be outdone Niall Gibney also gave it a first timer’s go and right well he did too placing 16^th overall in 3.27.08.

Like all fence sitters I’ll leave it to you to decide which deserves the ultimate accolade of Performance of the Week! Perhaps a Joint Award?

MORE FROM COMBER

Back to Comber again where it was noted that Paul Lloyd also set a new PB with 41.17 in 41^st place and Joanne Foster’s 42.53 resulted in her winning the F35 category and placing the 7th Female overall. Janine Murray returned to the roads after the most recent H&D Series and despite the heat and the much firmer underfoot conditions, she posted a highly creditable 56.58 and finished just outside the top half of the near 800 finishers.

LINDA CELEBRATES BIRTHDAY AT EAMS

After running yet another marathon, the aptly name EAMS Skool’s Out Marathon, on a circuit near Greenisland, on Saturday, Linda Cunningham was happy to spend a few hours on Sunday celebrating her birthday with a relaxing walk to the top of Slieve Donard. As you do!! And long may you continue to do so Linda.

Linda Cunningham at end of Saturday’s EAMS Skool’s Out marathon

SLIEVE GULLION 8 MILE CHALLENGE

Donal Smith was the sole EDAC runner at Slieve Gullion Forest Park 8 mile race in aid of the Newry and Dundalk Samaritans on Sunday. With an elevation of over 1500 feet and the intense heat to contend with it was never going to be easy or one for a PB so he was pleased to complete the distance in 1.17.

Donal Smith after the Slieve Gullion 8 mile race

BELFAST INTERNATIONAL TRACK & FIELD MEETING

East Down Juniors Ella Telford and Erin Moore took part in the Primary Girls 60m at the international meet at Mary Peters Track on Tuesday night and posted times of 10.15 and 10.93 respectively which placed them 9th and 14th respectively based on time splits of the overall entry. Jodi Foster went in the Primary 1000m and came 9th out of 15 in a time of 3.40.93. The international races which followed provided a great spectacle and a chance to see some high class athletes in action.

Local heroine Ciara Mageean ran in the international 800m and after leading for a lap and a half she was out run by 2 Irish girls Claire Mooney and Sarah Healey. Although the race was won by Mooney, it was Healey who produced the most talked about performance of the night as the 17-year-old’s 2:02.76 was not only a personal best time but a new Irish Under 18 and Under 20 record and is the fastest Under 18 time in Europe this year. The previous record was set by Mageean, who finished in 4^th place, but nevertheless showed her true class and character by posing for photos afterwards, in spite of her disappointment at her own performance.

EDAC juniors Emily Burns (left) and Ella Telford (right) meet Ciara Mageean – Commonwealth and Olympic athlete

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

2 July 2018

The Weekly News – 25/06/2018

Posted on 25/06/2018 by Neil McCartan

LISBURN HALF MARATHON and OTHER PLACES

With the winning time of 1.18 Rachel Mitchell was always going to be a difficult one to beat over the half marathon route though Niamh Kellett could make a podium place her aim for next year as her time of 1.28 and 5th overall was only 2 minutes behind Susan Smyth’s third place time and it should be possible to challenge that time in 12 months. Joanne Foster wasn’t too far behind and her time of 1.33 gave her 3^rd place in F35 category, in which Niamh was 2^nd .

East Down Monday Training Night – some of the group showing off their new club kit.

10K ALTERNATIVE

In the 10K race which coincides with the half marathon the ever dependable
Martin Willcox made it into top 20 with 36.48, a highly commendable effort which also proved good enough for 2nd place in the M45 category.

Roisin Gaffney 54.29 was 4th in the field of 35 in her age category (F55) with Tracey McCaughey 55.47 figuring well in the F50 category. Gavin McConvey is rapidly becoming one of the Club’s most prolific competitors and he is maintaining a consistent sub 60 minute sequence, his latest effort seeing him across the line in 57.22.

Roisin Gaffney (10k) and Niamh Kellett and Joanne Foster (both completed the Half marathon)

Two other members who made welcome returns to the racing scene were sisters Eimear Degan and Cathy Flinn who had a lovely night out together, finishing in 61 minutes while Gill and Gareth Kimpton were inseparable on 1.13.

Eimear Degan, Gavin Mcconvey and Cathy Flinn after the Lisburn 10k

TWIN PEAKS FULL AND HALF MARATHONS

In South Armagh on Saturday in the Twin Peaks Half Marathon hosted by Colm Fearon, the runners started at Slieve Gullion and finished 2 peaks later having climbed and descended both Gullion and Camlough with combined ascent equivalent to more than Slieve Donard. The fantastic scenery is reward in itself but the organisers seem to have put together a great event even supplying a piper to call you over the mountain. The fact that it is supporting two very worthy charities is significant – Special Olympics Ireland and Run For Autism HAND (Helping Autism in Newry and District)

Marguerite Robinson and Clare Carson completed it side by side in 2 hours 56 which put them better than mid pack out of 120 participants. They are loud in praise of the organisers and the event and recommend it for the diary for next season. There was also a full marathon event which required an out and back of the same course and it goes without saying that Linda Cunningham had this one nailed. It is getting hard to find any distance event where her name does not appear in the results! Well done the ladies of EDAC.

NEIL FINDS FORM AT RIGHT TIME

Neil McCartan, East Down Track athlete coached by Mark Kirk, continued his season at Loughborough British Milers Meet on Saturday. He ran a PB of 3.53.64 which was good enough for 4th place. This performance should give him confidence going into the Belfast International Meet at Mary Peter’s track on Tuesday 26th where he will run in the 3000m.

H&D FINALE ON FRIDAY NIGHT

As is the tradition the final round of the Thursday night commitment for the past ten weeks changes to Friday night which is one way of checking that everyone who has taken part hasn’t totally lost their marbles and can follow the organisers’ instructions. So after the weeks of mountain goat activity, the honours were handed out to those who had endured everything that the mountains could throw at them.

East Down’s runners featured in several categories though only two, Paddy McDonald 23^rd in the M45 category and 138^th Overall and Janine Murray, completed the full series a feat accomplished by only 21 others.

Neil Andrews was 24^th Male overall and Deirdre Weatherall was 7^th Female overall and 5^th in the Female Open with Janine Murray 46^th and 11^th in the same categories respectively. Lisa Milligan excelled in her first season, placing 3^rd in the F45 category and 28^th overall.

Gavin Hynds was 7^th in the M40 category with another first timer Niall Gibney, one to watch out for next season, in 8^th while overall placing 46^th and 57^th overall respectively..

John Manley, another newcomer to experience the joys of H&D for the first time placed 163^rd overall and 23^rd in the M50 category.

Cheryl Denvir and Oonagh Breteche were 10^th and 12^th respectively in the F40 age group and 38^th and 48^th in the Overall placings. Thank goodness it’s over for another year as this particular scribe is weary trawling through reams of results every week. It is quite honestly easier to run the races – well not really at present, as my knee refuses to let me go anywhere. But, see next year!!

GERALDINE KEENAN – RIP

Just 2 weeks ago East Down AC members were shocked and saddened to learn of the death of Geraldine, sister in law of esteemed Club and Committee member Liam Keenan, a very short time after hearing of her illness and barely 2 years since the death of her husband Kevin. This is a particularly cruel blow to the family and particularly to their only child George who is still grieving for his father. To him and to Liam and Patricia who devoted all their time in the weeks leading up to her demise tending to Geraldine’s needs, and to the entire family circle, the Club extends its sincere condolences and assures them of their thoughts and prayers at this time.

PAT WATTERSON – RIP (An appreciation)

Downpatrick and I lost a very good friend last weekend with the passing of Patrick (Pat) Watterson. Big Pat, as he was affectionately known, also achieved almost cult status through his deep involvement in all things GAA, not only in his native Downpatrick where he was a stalwart in the RGU Club for many years but later with Kilclief Ben Dearg, to whom he devoted all his energies after he was appointed Principal of Kilclief Primary School, and was respected far beyond the county town. He was a giant of a man, certainly through my eyes as I first encountered him playing for RGU, in both physical stature and in terms of the esteem in which he was held.

He was never the quickest on the field but he was the one who was always talked about by opposing teams as the most difficult to get past. As we often found to our cost he was always there to block shots or make vital interceptions, at the most crucial of times. It was only years later that I grew to appreciate his tremendous positional sense allied with a great catching technique which he used with great skill to make up for his lack of pace. If the term Gentle Giant ever suited anyone then it was surely Pat.

It was Pat who first made contact with me several years ago to discuss organising a 10K race in Kilclief beginning and ending at the GAA Club premises, on the shores of Strangford Lough, and he was always there, quietly and unobtrusively guiding those around him, yet always with great respect for everyone and appreciative of all help given. I never heard him complain about anyone or anything.

He was quite content to help out in any way he could at the finish line, whether in handing out bottles of water, or medals to the younger participants or even taking the results sheets back to the pavilion.

He was described to me on the day of his funeral as “One of life’s good guys “ and I wouldn’t disagree with that sentiment. That is how I’ll remember him too. He will be missed by everyone with whom he came into contact and we can ill afford to be without him.

On behalf of everyone associated with East Down AC, I extend our sincere condolences to his wife Patricia, his sons and daughters and entire family circle at this very sad time.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

25 June 2018

The Weekly News – 11/06/2018

Posted on 11/06/2018 by Neil McCartan

CRAIGAVON LAKES 10K (WED)
On Wednesday night Gavin McConvey undertook his first outing since the 3 Lakes Challenge almost a month ago when he completed the Craigavon Lakes 10K in a very respectable 57.14, which given the very hot conditions was an even better result.

HILL & DALE ROUND 8 (THURS)
Once again it was Neil Andrews who led the East Down contingent home in round 8 of the Hill and Dale series. The venue was Slieve Loughshannagh, a name that brings a shudder to my body every time I think of it, though it attracted what must be close to a record entry of well over 200 on Thursday night. Perhaps it’s easier now than when I did it? With Gavin Hynds and Niall Gibney on Mourne Way Marathon duty on Saturday the next East Down colours to appear were carried by Deirdre Weatherall , followed by Paddy McDonald, Lisa Milligan John Manley, Cheryl Denvir and Janine Murray

MOURNE MOUNTAIN MARATHON GLORY FOR NIAMH (SAT)
The heat, the terrain and the difficult to follow or absent signage put the pressure on those who took part in this veritable Festival of Running in a Day, comprising ultra, full, half marathon and 10K distances. There was even a walking option!!.
Headline grabber of the day has to be Niamh Kellett – 2nd woman to finish in 3.58 only 7 minutes behind the winner Newcastle’s Sinead Murtagh, Well Done Sinead, and 24 minutes ahead of 3rd woman home Karalee Porter. Niamh was an amazing 7th overall in a field of 154.
Others to complete the marathon were Phillip Vint 4.21, Gavin Hynds 4.43, Stephen Heasley 4.44 and Cathy Burke and Liz O’ Hagen 5.56.
Of course Linda Cuningham, now on her way to marathon number 200 completed in the company of sister Jacqueline Moore and her Murlough clubmate Paula McKibbin in a blanket finish in 7.09.
So in spite of one or two getting a bit lost en route everyone managed to finish in good humour.

26 Extreme Mourne Marathon – Niamh Kellett East Down AC on left 2nd lady overall, Sinead Murtagh Newcastle AC Ladies winner and Karalee Porter 3rd (No Club)

Gavin Hynds, Niamh Kellett and Phillip Vint before the Mourne Marathon

HALF MARATHON RETURN FOR MARK (SAT)
The half marathon attracted over 250 entries among them being Niall Gibney 1.43, 19th Mark McDowell 1.45 22nd and Stephen McCartan 1.54, 38th. A special welcome back is accorded to Mark who has had a long lay off from running and has had to work hard to get back to this level. A not unnoticed inspirational effort, Well Done Mark.

JOANNE IN HALF MARATHON JOY
Joanne Carson went for a weekend having read on a poster that the Portumna Forest Marathon was a chance to experience “nature at its best” and though she found that it certainly was scenic and it was an enjoyable experience she was happy to have chosen the shortest distance out of the three options of 100K, 50K Marathon and Half Marathon on offer. She covered the trail 13.1 miles in a respectable 2.05 and was 136 out of over 200 runners.

Joanne Carson after the Portumna Forest half marathon.

NEIL TAKES SILVER AT ULSTER SENIOR T&F CHAMPIONSHIPS (SAT)
Two of East Down’s best athletes took part in the NI & Ulster Track and Field Championships at Mary Peters Track on Saturday. Top junior Lauren Madine continues to push the boundaries and ran very well in the Under 14 Girls 1500, posting 5.16.14 to take 6th place. Neil McCartan who came 6th in the senior 1500 metres last year, returned to take an excellent Silver medal this time after a tactical race where he judged his pacing well. Well done to both in the very hot conditions.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll
11 June 2018

The Weekly News – 04/06/2018

Posted on 04/06/2018 by Neil McCartan

HILL AND DALE

Eleven East Down runners took to the hills again on Thursday night for the Millstone race, Round 7 of the 2018 Series. Neil Andrews was first EDAC man home, in 18^th position, followed by Dee Murray in 38^th Gavin Hinds 55^th Niall Gibney 59^th, with Deirdre Weatherall 91^st heralding the arrival of the Ladies squad, with the ever improving Lisa Milligan next in 171^st place followed by Cheryl Denvir 202^nd, Janine Murray 214^th and Oonagh Breteche 215^th respectively, who enjoy themselves every week and are a great advertisement for Hill Running. Paddy McDonald 135^th and John Manley 180^th are another pair who have clearly caught the H&D bug.

Hill and Dale – Lisa Milligan, Janine Murray, Deidre Weatherall, Neil Andrews, Dee Murray, Gavin Hynds, Niall Gibney and John Manley – Missing from photo Paddy McDonald, Cheryl Denvir and Oonagh Breteche

WEATHER WATCHERS

I was due to spend last Saturday helping at the Special Olympics meet at Mary Peters Track, with a full programme of events scheduled as a final warm up for the athletes from NI , who will be competing in the Special Olympics in Dublin in 2 weeks time. I was very disappointed therefore to be informed on Friday night that due to warnings of severe weather received from the Met Office the meeting had been called off and as there was insufficient time left between this weekend and the Olympics themselves the meeting could not be re-scheduled. Now I know that while we all complain about the weather most of the time the forecasts are reasonably reliable so it begs the question in this case of whether those in charge of issuing the forecasts are over careful and just too fussy about letting people decide for themselves, in individual cases, what to do about pessimistic forecasts.

Certainly here in Downpatrick it was probably the best day of the year so far and I haven’t head of anyone anywhere experiencing the sort of conditions likely to have disrupted an important sporting fixture. It’s a pity that the squad were deprived of the chance to perform in front of their families and friends. The awful thing about this unfortunate incident is that the Weather Men had been warning that severe storms would potentially devastate practically everything in NI, from last Friday, only to keep rolling the date forward as the weekend approached. There are however 2 sides to this of course in that, it’s all very well being ultra cautious about potential dangers, taking all information into account, but the information needs to be spot on accurate, otherwise it just becomes another example of someone crying “Wolf” too often.

NO WEATHER WORRIES HERE

Having spent the Winter months commending the Juniors for their enthusiasm to wade through mud in all conditions it now falls to us to admire their approach to Track and Field. To line up on an athletics track is daunting as every metre of each event is open to scrutiny. No tree lined corners to take a breather! As well as that some of them have attempted disciplines that are new to them in Jumps and Throws in addition to experimenting with the different distances from sprint to longer events. It is fantastic to see and who knows what talent will be discovered. With the North Down Minis and Open Events and the Fab Five Series continuing throughout the Summer there are more opportunities for those who are still trying to pluck up the courage and they should take heart from the experiences of others as to date EDAC Juniors have done themselves proud.

FAB FIVE FIXTURE @ MARY PETER’S TRACK – THURSDAY

U13 Mile Lauren Madine came a blistering first with Lucy Foster 3rd -5.39 and 5.54 respectively.

U15 Mile Kirsti Foster was 2nd ( no time available).

U11 800m (out of 24) Jodi Foster won her heat in a time of 2.45 which placed her 3rd overall. Kari Foster placed 11th in 3.02 and Erin Moore finished in a time of 3.07 in 14th place.

Erin Moore also ran the 100m and had a go at the javelin and Kirsti tried the hurdles for the first time.

Caragh Moore and Erin Moore

NI & ULSTER T&F CHAMPIONSHIPS – FINN VALLEY
At the weekend a contingent travelled to Finn Valley in Donegal for the NI&Ulster Championships (U9-U13) known as The Children’s Games. It turned out to be a hot, sunny day which made for fantastic spectating conditions but was tough on the athletes especially those who entered multiple events. Caragh and Erin Moore, Alex and Oliver Robinson, Anna Gardiner and Kari, Jodi and Lucy Foster ran and jumped their hearts out and gained a lot of useful experience. Thanks are due to their parents for transporting them to the venue and as a result of this commitment we had athletes in every category U9/10/11/12 and 13.

They were worthy representatives of EDAC and while not all the placings etc are available at this time there were some promising performances. For Caragh Moore one of our youngest athletes racing as U9 it was a great introduction to the sport. It is also worth noting that it was the 9th birthday of Alex and he chose to spend it bashing out a 500m race. Such dedication! Oliver Robinson got value for money by getting to re run his 80m heat twice due to malfunction of timing equipment. Luckily he was first both times but the added exertion took its toll and he finished 5th in final. Erin ran in U11 60 and 600m with confidence.

Oliver Robinson slipping past Finn Cross (Willowfield) in U13 80m

Anna Gardiner, Alex Robinson, Oliver Robinson, Erin Moore, Kari Foster, Caragh Moore, Jodi Foster and Lucy Foster

The Fosters collectively declared the longer distances their preference but still tackled the sprints for good measure. Jodi was 2nd in her heat of the U12 600m and may qualify for the All Irelands in July as one of the top 4 fastest times when the results are collated. Lucy Foster and Anna Gardiner both ran in the U13 600m. Lucy had a strong race coming 3rd in her heat and Anna was delighted to come home with a Silver Medal placing 2nd overall with an exciting dip on the line. This will definitely qualify her for the All Irelands. Well done Anna!

Anna Gardiner – (on extreme left) silver medal in U13 600m

NEIL McCARTAN in POMPEY

As the lone Senior EDAC representative on the track Neil can pride himself on leading the way for the Juniors with his dedication to his sport. This weekend he travelled to Portsmouth to a British League Match and took part in the 1500m. It was a tactical race with a slow start leading to an inevitable charge to the finish. Neil did well to place 5th in 3.56.16. Next weekend will see him race in the NI&Ulster Senior Championships and we wish him well.

WALLED CITY MARATHON

Clare Carson having declared Paris Marathon a little hot probably never thought that the Walled City Marathon would offer a repeat of those warm conditions but on Sunday the temperatures gradually rose throughout the day to go from being pleasant to becoming a drain on energy. Despite this she managed a respectable sub 4.30 (4.29) in the company of Kevin Kelly and they both enjoyed the event. Linda Cunningham also added this one to her belt. With her tally now over 100 she will be needing a new belt very soon! 1033 competitors took part and the winner was Dan Tanui in a new course record of 2.19.44. The fastest female was Heather Noone in 3.05.

THIS WEEKEND

The big event this weekend is the NI and Ulster Open Senior Outdoor Track and Field Championships beginning at 10.00am on Saturday 9 June at Mary Peters Track.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

4 June 2018

The Weekly News – 28/05/2018

Posted on 28/05/2018 by Neil McCartan

BALLYCLARE MAY FAIR 10K RACE AND FUN RUN

One of my favourite races is the Ballyclare May Fair 10K and 5K Fun Run which is held every year on the Saturday before the Spring Bank Holiday Monday. (Perhaps that should be two of my favourite races as there are 2 separate routes and I’ve done both, though not in the same year) However I’m not quite sure what it is that sets this particular event above other races, and there are plenty to choose from, though the friendliness of the promoting Club, Co. Antrim Harriers and the near ideal starting time of 10.00am clearly contribute to my feelings towards it, and the not to be missed quality of the post race refreshments possibly play a part in influencing my opinion. Anyway on Saturday we (me and one of my daughters, Karen) set off for Ballyclare Rugby Club, race HQ and race starting point, leaving at 8.20am and arriving without incident around 9.45 to a warm welcome from some good friends I hadn’t seen for a while. It was 9.50 by the time we parked up and after making an essential pit stop and picking up our numbers the runners were being called to the start line. That’s the great thing about travelling with someone else and early start times. Both ensure that there is the minimum of hanging about time before the race begins thus preventing the risk of injury during the “warm up”

FEELING NEEDLED

The background to Saturday’s race was that I had an injection into my left knee on Tuesday morning to alleviate, cure or just generally get rid of the pain I’ve been living with for several months now and which has rendered me incapable of walking, never mind running 5K. In order to make the injection a success it was strictly doctor’s orders “do nothing for 48 hours and then break yourself in gently”. So with this in mind I walked to the start line alongside Karen, ran 3 steps and dropped out. Karen, like many mothers in her position, struggles to fit in much training so she had every reason to be satisfied with her time of 33.22, having overtaken 60 plus runners after I had persuaded her to run her own race. Luckily I had recovered from this disappointment sufficiently to do the superb post race spread of food justice.

JUNIORS SHINE

The Newry Mourne and Down Primary Schools XC Championships were held in Kilbroney Forest Park on Tuesday. It was a bit bizarre to see a Cross Country event take place in the sun but there was a huge turn out of over 1700 children and it was run with precision. There were 2 races for each age group p4-p7. Kari Foster was 3rd in her P5 race. Jodi Foster was 1st in P6 and Ollie Robinson and brother Alex were 6th in their respective races. The top 6 in each race got a medal. A great day out for all.

Oliver and Alex Robinson at Kilbroney Forest Park – Newry, Mourne and Down XC Championships

IRISH MILERS at MPT

At Mary Peter’s Track on Saturday there was a 1k Boys’ and Girls’ Race for children aged 10-13 as a warm up to the prestigious Belfast Irish Milers’ Meet. Kirsti Foster judged her race to perfection tucking in with the lead group then with 600 to go she eased ahead and then with a decisive kick left the other athletes in her wake to secure victory. Lucy and Jodi meanwhile were in the mix behind her and with sheer determination managed to cross the line in 5th and 12th places respectively. Mackenzie Murray then lined up in the Boys’ Event and despite saying that track racing is not his thing he ran strongly and never looked out of place. His reward was a bronze medal and hopefully a bit of a mental boost besides. Well Done Mackenzie, you can compete with the best on any surface.

Jodi, Lucy and Kirsti Foster at Mary Peter’s Track after the 1000m Girls’ Race

Laura Gardiner on a trip home from University in Worcester and Edie Carroll were in the 800m B Race. As with all senior events at this meet pacers are provided and the idea is to use them to chase a time rather than to worry about race positions. Laura finished in 2.26 which was far from a PB but a marker of form for the rest of the season. Edie was in a similar position with 2.33 but it was an enjoyable occasion and a great experience on her birthday without any pressure. Laura also ran in the 400m

EDINBURGH MARATHON

Taking advantage of the Bank Holiday Weekend two of our members travelled further afield. Carmel Tumelty and Catherine Gilchrist took part in Edinburgh Marathon as a culmination to some intensive training through the last months. Catherine beat her previous PB by a minute in 4.11.51 and Carmel finished in a creditable 4.30 with steady pacing throughout . Apparently the course was relatively flat and the conditions enjoyable. Some of you may have seen my (Joe) comments on fb recently on the Edinburgh Marathon which were far from flattering but our two gallant ladies prove that there are always two sides to every story and Catherine’s PB will make her view very different to mine. Well done Ladies!

Carmel Tumelty and Catherine Gilchrist at Edinburgh Marathon

RUNHER HALF DEBUT FOR OLIVIA

Friday night saw the renewal of the Runher 5 and 10K coastal runs which this year introduced a half marathon distance taking the beautiful coastline from Holywood to Crawfordsburn Country Park. Here it was that Olivia Mooney, a very welcome newly rejoined member of the club made her debut at the distance and posted a very respectable 1.49.59 which placed her 25^th overall. She will certainly strengthen the Ladies squad for next Winter’s X/C campaign. Clare Carson contented herself with the 10K on the most beautiful of evenings for running and placed 38^th in 51.03.

EAST DOWN at MOUGHANMORE

Gavin Hynds was first of the East Down runners to finish the Moughanmore round of the Hill and Dale Series on Thursday night equalling last year’s 43^rd place in spite of carrying another year’ and the best part of his birthday cake around inside him. Niall Gibney was next, maintaining his good form in the mountains with Deirdre Weatherall first of the East Down ladies., followed closely by Paddy McDonald, Lisa Milligan 2^nd in the FV45 category, John Manley and Janine Murray.

NEWRY HALF on SUNDAY

James Magennis found a certain amount of redemption in completing the 13.1 miles of the Newry Half Marathon on Sunday, following his experience in the Belfast Marathon 3 weeks ago and he has concluded he is more suited to Half’ns, a view confirmed by his local hostelry! Dee Murray also completed the distance in an excellent 1.25 which was good enough to place him in 22^nd position.

SPARTAN SPRINT RACE at PUNCHESTOWN RACECOURSE

In keeping with his reputation for finding unusual events for his family to enjoy with him Gareth Amos came up trumps again on Sunday when he and his 4 daughters took part in the Spartan Race Sprint held at Punchestown Racecourse near Naas . Described as Ireland’s toughest obstacle race, the 5K course consists of 20 obstacles including walls to climb over and mud hazards to be crawled through, which the family teams have to negotiate.

Gareth Amos and his 4 daughters after the Spartan Event held in Naas at the weekend.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

28 May 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.