2018

Posted on 17/12/2018 by Neil McCartan

THE ALL IRELAND X/C UNEVEN AGE GROUP CHAMPIONSHIPS

On what was predicted to be one of the wettest, windiest days of the year with the threat of storm Deirdre, athletes were wondering if the Novice and Juvenile Uneven Age Group XC championships in Navan would even take place. In the end the weather didn’t turn out it as bad as had been expected. However conditions were still extremely tough to run in with a constant gale blowing and many heavy showers. It was the first true XC conditions of the year. The course had an uphill start with many other hills and sharp turns along the way and an uphill finish with a headwind blowing to top it all off.

UNDER 11 GIRLS
The first race of the day was the U11 girls who ran a 1500m course. EDAC had 2 athletes in this race, who both ran exceptionally well in their biggest race to date with a total of 181 girls. Kari Foster (who qualified through provincial team) and Erin Moore who was included as part of the County Down Team. Kari managed a very respectable 99^th and Erin ran well to finish 165^th .

MEDAL WINNERS

Next EDAC athletes to toe the line were the U13 Girls’ Team which consisted of Lucy Foster, Anna Gardiner, Jodi Foster, Kara Trainor, Emily Burns and Anna Kearney. Lucy ran a brilliant race and came across the line in 8th place and received a top 12 medal for her efforts. Anna came a well deserved 29th. Lucy’s tremendous effort also earned her a silver medal as the first scorer of the Ulster team that placed 2^nd . Next one across the line was Jodi Foster in 74th then Kara in 115th, Emily Burns (123rd) and Anna Kearney (151st). Overall the team placed 7th, a mere 18 points off 3^rd place ad bronze medals.

Oliver Robinson with Kari, Lily and Jay Foster trying to keep warm in the icy wind and rain

Oliver Robinson was the only EDAC runner in the U13 Boys race and as ever he ran a well paced race to cross the line in 115th place out of 160 finishers.

Oliver Robinson (679) mid race in the U13 Boys at Navan

ANOTHER MEDAL

The U15 Girls’ race kicked off soon after all the U13 boys finished. Kirsti Foster and Lauren Madine were the only girls in this race from East Down both having qualifying on the provincial team. Kirsti ran well to finish in 13th and was also part of the Ulster team which came 3rd. Lauren seemed somewhat off colour on the day but nevertheless placed well in 89^th . She is however entitled to an off day every so often as all top athletes do and has had a tremendous season.

Lucy, Jodi, Kari and Kirsti Foster at the All Irelands XC at Navan

LAST MAN RUNNING
Last EDAC junior to run that afternoon was Mackenzie Murray in the U15 Boys’ race. Mackenzie had a strong run on the tough course to come 61st position. A very good run for his first ever all Irelands.
As it turned out the runners got the better part of day as the weather took a turn for the worse just as they were leaving, making the drive home horrendous with strong winds, heavy rain, many floods and constant road spray. It was a great relief when all reported that they were home safe.

WELL DONE TO THE PARENTS

A special word of thanks is sent to the parents who have driven their children to all corners of the country, North and South, often in the worst of the weather conditions, like those at the weekend, which saw most of our seniors hibernate, in pursuit of those elusive medals.

It can be tough going at times and takes a special type of dedication that only parents possess as they help make the memories which will be the stuff of family stories forever. So a big THANK YOU from the coaches and senor members at East Down AC.

WISDOM FROM NEIL AT THE NOVICE X/C

Neil McCartan was a little disappointed with his performance in the Novice race over a 6K distance. – he felt that he didn’t cope as well with the hills as he might have and that his recent form led him to expect to finish a bit closer than 6^th to Newcastle’s very experienced winner Zak Hanna. On reflection however and on a more positive note he has enjoyed the XC outings so far this year and sees them as good base work for the events ahead, which is what every coach tells his track and road racing stars.

CATHERINE STARS in the BEKO 5K in DROGHEDA on SUNDAY

The Beko Christmas 5K started and finished on the track at the Lourdes stadium running track in Drogheda with almost 700 participants a mix of serious and fun runners alike. East Down’s Catherine O’ Connor 18.19 had a stormer of a race and proved she is returning to peak form finishing second only to the still formidable former Queen of Irish Runners Catriona McKernan 17.20. Donal Smith was the only other EDAC participant his time of 24.12 wasn’t far off his 5k best and was well inside the top 200 finishers and left him happy enough with his morning’s outing.

DRIVEN TO THE NORTH WEST CROSS COUNTRY?

No one from the Club chanced the long run to Derry for the North West Cross Country in Gransha Park on Saturday as the prospect of freezing rain and the warnings issued with the forecasts made even the stalwarts pull the duvets back over their heads again. I didn’t even get that sort of exercise either as having decided on Friday night that I wasn’t going I already had my duvet exactly where I wanted it come getting up time on Saturday morning.

Hats off to all who drove to Derry through driving wind and rain to be greeted by driving wind and rain and then had to drive all the way back in more driving wind and rain. I wonder what drove them to do that?

5K TIME TRIAL

All members are invited to tomorrow night’s (Thursday) 5K Time Trial at the measured course at Downshire Hospital, where you’ll be asked to turn in your watch and /or any other timing device to try to run as near as possible to your predicted time. Needless to say the person who does so wins the top prize. But there are lots of prizes on offer and all will be presented back at the Clubrooms afterwards where some seasonal food and refreshments will be provided. Also the draw for the Club’s London marathon place will be made and the bronze medals will be presented to the All Ireland Over 50 Marathon Team from the Dublin marathon, who were all from EDAC.

Come and join the fun.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE.

Joe Quinn, Alison Carroll and Kirsti Foster (on the Juniors)

17 December 2018

The Weekly News – 03/12/18

Posted on 03/12/2018 by Alison Carroll

A PERFECT WAY TO SPEND THE DAY??

Saturday began dull, damp and foggy, a typical early December day and the feeling of depression it engendered was not eased any by difficulties encountered with my word processing system. You know the sort of thing, when the machine which you are in total control and charge of, suddenly closes down and all your inspirational and potentially Booker prize winning prose is lost, without so much as a “Would you like to save this?”

Allowing for the fact that 2 hours slipped past during this session, when I should have been shopping or at least sampling the delights of some local coffee shop, you’ll perhaps appreciate my mood as I left the house at 11.30am. Even allowing for the fact that it was Seeley Cup day, one of the highlights of the road running fixtures and one of my favourite events, to which I was looking forward to immensely, I was not a happy bunny.

So after stocking up with some replacement lighting accessories, to lighten my mood, I paid a visit to Tel’s recently opened coffee shop and enjoyed a splendid latte and a toffee scone. The day was already brighter as I headed off to Belfast to my usual marshalling spot in Ormeau Park, with plenty of time on my side, or so I thought.

Anyway the traffic gremlins were at their work, beginning on the outskirts of Saintfield, where a street market which, on reflection, I realised I knew about, was causing long tailbacks into the village. However when you’re in the middle of a traffic jam there is no point in remembering the traffic bulletin you heard earlier, it only adds to your frustration. Does your memory do that on you too? I mean mine is perfect at remembering things it just has a serious timing defect!

JUST IN TIME

By the time I reached the entrance to the Ormeau Embankment on the Ravenhill road, it was closed off. Not only that but it was totally deserted so I had no option but to drive on, cross the Albert Bridge and turn up the Ormeau Road to enter the Park by a different gate. I made it at 2.10pm, just twenty minutes before the race was due to start. Not so lucky were a group of EDAC runners who were delayed in Saintfield and who only just made it to the start in time. So annoyed by this disruption to their pre-race rituals that several of them dropped out after one lap, which kind of put my day in perspective.

SEELEY CUP ACTION WORTH WATCHING

However despite all these negatives what a lift to spirits was the sight of the leading group as prominent was the unmistakable shape of Neil McCartan alongside a formidable quintet comprising Mark McKinstry, Ben Branagh, Paddy Hamilton, (the last 3 winners of Jimmy’s Ten) Conall Kirk and Chris Madden. By the end of lap 2 Branagh and McKinstry were clear of McCartan, Kirk and Madden and it was a superb run by Madden to eventually finish third. However one week after he had been beaten comprehensively in the Malcolm Cup in Ballyclare, Kirk produced a blistering burst of speed which took him clear of Neil who had to yield not only to Kirk but to the fast finishing Conan McCaughey. Although a little disappointed that he slipped to 6th position in the last 500 metres he nevertheless was pleased to have set a new PB of 31.25, knocking over 80 seconds off his previous best and is up for another exciting race next year, but with the intention of providing a very different outcome. He certainly gave all the spectators, especially this one, a huge lift in morale.

Neil McCartan 763 in full flight chasing Chris Madden City of Lisburn in the Seeley Cup in the Ormeau Park

OTHER and FORMER EDAC RUNNERS

A little further back Paul Lloyd as predicted in these pages some weeks ago broke the magic 40 minute barrier with a fine 39.27 timing.

Donal Smith suffered a bit of hip niggle but enjoyed the course and posted a time of 50 minutes dead. Gavin McConvey’s time of 54.20 was a course PB by over 3 minutes.

Eimear Degan, was one of those who only made the start line by the skin of her teeth, then proceeded to set a PB of 53.13 for the distance and was our only female competitor on the day.

Eimear Degan heading for a PB also Seeley Cup

Davy Foster and Dee Murray were within sight of each other through the race but Dee came out on top in the last lap, using his years of experience to cross the line in 38.01 to Davy’s 39.19.

I noted too Connaire McVeigh, a former youth member of EDAC, striding to a magnificent 36.21 PB for present club Newcastle AC. And it would have been hard to have missed Andrew Telford as he cruised round 43.20 wearing a bright red duncher followed closely by his friend and co-organiser of the recent successful Co Down 5K championships in Downpatrick, Mick McCreesh in 44.39.

HOWTH MARATHON

Another of those events which attract more and more runners these days this time brought 2 of our regular competitors and “one” who I thought should know better, to the genteel surroundings of Howth on Saturday. Phillip Vint, 3.38.54 was the first of the trio to finish what was described as 3 laps of an out and back course over Howth hill each time, the 6 climbs representing 2400 feet of climbing in all. He was followed home by the already referred to “one” above, Mark McDowell, in 3.46.1 with Declan Teague just behind 3.46.56. I think that concludes Declan’s marathon programme for the year with his total on 12 marathons completed. Stephen McCartan ran the half marathon as an alternative to the full 26.2 miles he had entered, citing some sort of flu bug as the reason for his decision. Unfortunately his name did not appear in the half marathon results as he is presumed to be alive.

Declan Teague, Mark McDowell, Stephen McCartan and Phillip Vint in Howth at the Marathon Event.

OTHER BITS AND PIECES

Lara Proctor- Amos took part in a Santa run in Loughborough while younger sisters Keira and Mia upheld the family honour with good displays in the 5K Santa Run in Crossgar, a race in which Callum Kent finished in 3^rd place overall out of a field of nearly 100 runners.

Lara Proctor-Amos in Loughborough Santa Run

Keira and Mia Proctor- Amos ready for the Santa Run in Crossgar

Pos	Bib	Athlete	Gender	Club	Finish
1	47	Kyle Ross	Male	Ballydrain Harriers	00:16:31
2	95	Thomas Compton	Male	Crossgar Harriers	00:17:52
3	121	Callum Kent	Male	East Down Athletics	00:18:46

Callum Kent – 3rd in the Santa Run 5K

CROSSGAR 5 MILES SANTA RUN

Roisin Gaffney chose to celebrate her birthday running the longer 5 miles race on offer and she finished in 50.49. A really consistent competitor is Roisin to whom I offer belated Happy Birthday wishes from all at Éast Down. Eamon Kelly was the first of the East Down contingent to finish in 10^th place in 41.34 followed closely by the first EDAC Female Clare Carson in 43.21 in 14^th place overall. Kevin Kelly was next in 47.52 followed by the ubiquitous Gavin McConvey 49.50, who had also turned out the day before in Ormeau.

Kevin Kelly, Eamon Kelly, Gavin McConvey, Clare Carson and Roisin Gaffney in Crossgar

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

3 December 8

The Weekly News – 19/11/2018

Posted on 19/11/2018 by Neil McCartan

JOG MOIRA CROSS COUNTRY

On what was described as a lovely Sunday afternoon and with perfect running conditions it was good to see the return to the fixture list of the Moira Cross Country though the course was described as twisty & lumpy with an uphill finish. Competitors found it to be a well organised event as we have come to expect from any event under the Atlas Running banner.
And what a day out it proved to be for the Foster family.

All the junior races were combined Boys and Girls contests over a 1K lap, and after a tough battle the winner was Jodi Foster with sisters Kari 4th and Lily not far behind. Little brother Jay ran with his Dad alongside him and he wasn’t last!!!!
In the U13 race, Lucy won the Girls title with just two boys ahead over the 2K distance. In the Under 15 race over a 3K distance Kirsti won overall.
In senior race Mum Joanne ran well finishing 4th and Dad Davy had a super race and managed to finish 8th.

Co. DOWN 5K CHAMPIONSHIPS

Sunday morning once again provided ideal running conditions the 2^nd running of the Co. Down 5K Championships on a flat, fast circuit of the roads around the car park and the inner lane of Lr Market St, in the count town,which had been officially measured by ANI officials since last year, resulting in the Start being moved to opposite the library entrance with the Finish now located alongside the Grove, in all 7 and a half laps later. Prior to the first 5K race for those who had earmarked over 30 minutes for their likely finish time there were 2 races for school children and unfortunately I have been unable to find any published results for these so am unable to make any comments on these races.

30+ CONTESTANTS

The event comprises 3 separate races, race 1 is for those who estimate their finishing time to be over 30 minutes, Race 2 is for those who reckon they can run it between 20 and 30 minutes and Race 3, is for the elite athletes who think they can run it in under 20 minutes.

EDAC did not have any runners in Race 1, which was won by Sara Murray from Emma Gordon and Mark McNally in 26.49, 26.50 and 26.56 respectively and 12 runners had crossed the line before the first over 30 minute runner emerged in the shape of Dympna Morrison, Tels Fitness, so the leading dozen should really have been running in Race 2, as they undoubtedly will have to next year!

RACE 2 ESTIMATED TIME BETWEEN 20 – 30 MINUTES

East Down had 8 runners in this category and clearly the estimated times of all the entrants were much more accurate than the Race 1 competitors had been, with only 5 of the 76 runners finishing inside 20 minutes, and everyone else coming home inside 30 minutes, the last being 29.58, an excellent piece of predicted timing by Phillip Keown. The race winner was Barry Kelly 18.55 Flying Horse flyers, repeating last year’s victory in only a slightly slower time, proving that there is plenty of life there yet, from Nigel Grier 19.11 Dromore AC and Alan Jordan 19.38, Saintfield Striders. The most accurate estimate at the sharp end of the field was Newcastle’s Gerard McAuley 6^th place whose time of 20.00 minutes was a new PB for him and left him safe for next year! Adam Morgan continues to impress and he certainly did not look out of his depth as he clocked 22.05.

Adam Morgan sprinting to the line

Cormac O’Hare battled manfully too and probably took considerable pride in posting 24 minutes against the 26.18 recorded by his Dad Shane. Well done to them – Isn’t it great to be part of a sport where parents and their children can compete against each other on equal terms?

LAUREN ENDS AWARDS WEEK IN STYLE

The first female to finish in overall 7^th place was East Down’s Lauren Madine 20.28, from Edwina Ternan 20.56, Saintfield Striders, in second and Lauren’s clubmate Anna Gardiner in third on 21.04. Lauren had cause for double celebration as on Friday night she was presented with the Ulster Athletic Council Juvenile Star Award 2018 for County Down in the Under 12 – 15 Age Category at a function in the Four Seasons Hotel, Monaghan.

Lauren Madine at the Ulster Athletics Award Night – U13-U15 Ulster Star 2018

The places and times of all the East Down runners are as listed in the table below.

Position	Number	1^st Name	Surname	M/F		Time
7	868	Lauren	Madine	F	1st female	00:20:28
10	900	Callum	Kent	M	1st Jun	00:20:46
14	954	Anna	Gardiner	F	3rd Female	00:21:04
25	979	Morgan	Adam	M		00:22:05
38	950	Cormac	O’Hare	M		00:24:00
39	879	Catherine	Gilchrist	F		00:24:02
54	338	Seamus	Savage	M		00:25:27
62	949	Shane	O’Hare	M		00:26:48

Catherine Gilchrist and Seamus Savage

MACKENZIE ON TOP OF HIS GAME

Only Mackenzie Murray took on the challenge of the Elite 5K and how well he performed. This was a very competitive race, run at a very fast pace, the sort of situation where an inexperienced runner could easily get carried away early on, get sucked into a suicidal pace and end up struggling for survival in the last few laps.

But not Mackenzie. He ran a very well judged race, displaying a maturity beyond his years and certainly belying his inexperience, to come home in a superb 19.00 minutes, 45 seconds inside his previous best for the distance. I’ll bet there won’t be a prouder wearer anywhere of the unique medal (in the shape of the number 5) presented to every finisher on the day.

Mackenzie Murray shows off his medal

ELITE MEN

The race as won in fine style by John Black, North Belfast Harriers, in 15.21 from Eoin Hughes Acorns AC in 15.24 with Steven McAlary City of Derry Spartans in 15.34 in third place. The winner was always in the leading group but only asserted himself on the penultimate lap to win fairly comfortably in the end. In fact the top 6 runners all finished under 16 minutes though last year the top 2 broke 15 minutes, but only 4 were under 16 minutes, over what has come to be recognised as a “short” course.

Position	Number	1^st Name	Surname	M/F	Time
1	874	John	Black	M	00:15:21
2	973	Hughes	Eoin	M	00:15:24
3	860	Steven	McAlary	M	00:15:34

ELITE WOMEN

The winning Female was Kelly Neely 17.28, City of Lisburn from North Down’s Rachel Gibson, 17.34, with Sarah Grant North Down 17.42 just edging out QUB’s Sinead Sweeney who was given the same time.

27	947	Kelly	Neely	F	City of Lisburn AC	00:17:28
28	971	Gibson	Rachel	F	North Down AC	00:17:34
29	866	David	Leavy	M	City of Lisburn AC	00:17:40
30	882	Tommy	Hughes	M	Termoneeny R C	00:17:42
31	336	Sarah	Grant	F	North Down AC	00:17:42
32	991	Sweeney	Sinead	F	QUB AC	00:17:42

“EXPRESS” STILL IN WORKING ORDER

Sandwiched between these two pairs of female finishers was the Marrakesh Express, former Belfast and Dublin Marathon winner (and of course the Marrakesh Marathon too) and Olympian, Tommy Hughes, now running with Termoneeny Running Club and looking as sprightly as ever at age 54. He too was credited with a time of 17.42.

This was a very well organised event which, with the official certification of the distance, looks destined to become a “must do” fixture for the top runners to aspire to in the future.

NEXT WEEK END

The action switches back to the turf next week end when the Malcolm Cup meeting is the top fixture. The action takes place in Sixmilewater Park in Ballyclare, where if present weather holds, the going will be firm and fast underfoot. East Down expect to field strong teams in both the Men’s and Women’s races. Action begins at 1.00pm with the Under 11 Boys and Girls half mile race and with races for Under 13s, Under 15s and Under 17 age groups there is something for everyone.

See you all there.

Joe Quinn, Alison Carroll

19 November 2018

The Weekly News – 12/11/2018

Posted on 12/11/2018 by Neil McCartan

BALLYNAHINCH RUN TO REMEMBER 5K and 26 EXTREME MARATHONS IN TOLLYMORE and NI and ULSTER UNEVEN AGE GROUP CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS

East Down athletes had a busy weekend despite only a relatively small number actually running. So while most of its long distance runners rested after their efforts in the Dublin Marathon 2 weeks ago, many of the members were involved in making preparations for the Annual Senior Award Night, held on Saturday night in the Club’s Premises in Downpatrick, a marathon effort in itself!

However as he had entered the 26 Extreme Tollymore Trail Ultra marathon long before the date of the Awards night was known, Stephen Heasley didn’t want to opt out of taking part, eve though a few hours on the dance floor was the carrot dangled in front of him. So off he went to begin the Ultra (39 miles) around the trails and hills of Tollymore Forest Park and a right good job he made of it as he was done and dusted in 6 hours and 51 minutes taking 20^th place overall in a field of 48 finishers Well Done to him. And he also turned up ready to trip the light fantastic at the Awards Do later on that night. I just need to remind him here though that when it comes to “tripping” that is my particular speciality at the present time.

DECLAN TEAGUE 3 in 5, 11 in 12 or 13 In 12.

Another to clock up yet another marathon, his 3^rd in the past 5 weeks and 11^th this year, was Declan Teague who although he had no expectation of attending the Ball later on, still made short work of the 2 lap marathon distance in 3.55 , placing him 24^th out of 80 finishers in that particular race. He said he was looking for another marathon somewhere before the end of December to give him a round 12 in 12 total for the year, though he doubts if he really wants to go for the Baker’s dozen.

Declan Teague – Tollymore Trail Marathon

HALF MARATHON

Niall Gibney was 25^th in 1.41 the Half Marathon, which had 318 finishers, while Marguerite Robinson rediscovered her love of the trail and enjoyed every minute of it finishing in 174^th in 2.06. Probably enjoyed the freedom of getting away from being chauffeur in Mum’s Taxi, for a few hours! Gavin McConvey was another one cashing in on the miles built up for Dublin taking a respectable 223^rd place in 2.15.

Gavin mcConvey and Marguerite Robinson after the Tollymore Trail Half marathon (26xtreme)

There was also another 119 in the 10K which meant that almost 570 runners took part in these increasingly popular races.

RUN TO REMEMBER 5K

On Saturday morning Martin Willcox proved yet again that he doesn’t do slow and easy as he completed the Atlas Running organised 5K Run to Remember in Ballynahinch, his 19 minutes time being bettered by only one other person as he claimed 2^nd spot to John Craig’s winning effort of 17.12. John is in tremendous form at the moment as he won the Decathlon 10K last weekend in 32.45, so Martin certainly did well to keep him in view.

Ross Moore (3rd) John Craig (1st),Martin Willcox (2nd) In Ballynahinch Run to Remember

Fastest female was Sarah Graham Mourne Runners with East Down’s Joanne foster an impressive 2nd place running 21.45, a good 40 seconds ahead of 3rd place Beverley Mitchell of Albertville Harriers in a field of 241 finishers.

Joanne Foster (2nd ) Sarah Graham (1st) Beverley Mitchell (3rd) Ballynahinch

ANNA EXCELS AT SCOTSTOWN

After a last minute course change caused by a farmer taking exception to the route, the NI&Ulster XC Uneven Age Groups at Scotstown, Co. Monaghan, took place on a bright clear day with little wind. The hurriedly revised course was flatter than the original and as a result the mud lovers and hill seekers were disappointed and it was said that it was almost like a track event held on grass. No matter though as athletes have to race what is in front of them and race they did. EDAC had sent a good quota of Juniors and it was a well rewarded mission.

As with the Evens a couple of weeks back, these Age Group races are qualifiers for All Irelands (Dec 15th) and selection is based on coming in top 12 individuals or being part of a club team that is placed in top 4 or by coming top 10 in a County Team that is in the top 3 of all the County Teams. Confused? Now you can see why we say to the Juniors run, run and don’t look back and only stop when you reach the finish and then when the race is over, we can calculate any selections. More on that later.

HOW DID THEY DO?

The youngest athletes ran in the U11 category. Alex Robinson and Kieran Trainor battled hard as they always do and came 29th and 53rd respectively out of a lively 84 youngsters. Erin Moore and Kari Foster were in the U11 Girls and again put in the efforts we have come to expect. Erin got 36th out of 86 and Kari was delighted to come 11th. In the U13 Boys we had Oliver Robinson (27th of 93) and in the U15 boys Mackenzie Murray 23rd out of 64. These boys are consistent performers and do the club proud every time they pull on the vest. In the U13 it was fantastic to see Anna Gardiner take the outright win. Well deserved, Anna! Behind in the same category were Lucy Foster (7th), Jodi Foster (20th), Kara Trainor 32nd), Emily Burns (44th) and Anna Kearney (68th). Their collective results out of a huge field of 94 secured third Club Place so bronze medals for the team! In the U15 Kirsti Foster ran a well paced race to take 5^th place with Lauren Madine a couple of places back in 7^th .

Oliver Robinson (U13)

Alex Robinson and Kieran Trainor (U11)

Scotstown – NI&Ulster Uneven XC Championships Anna Gardiner – Gold

NAVAN HERE WE COME

So in the final tally up we are proud to say that the following are going to the All Ireland Uneven Championships on December 15th at Navan race Course – Kirsti and Lauren and Kari as individuals, Anna Gardiner and Lucy Foster also achieve this as well as going as part of the EDAC U13 Girls’ Team with the rest of the girls- Jodi, Kara, Emily and Anna Kearney. Mackenzie and Oliver and Erin may well get the call based on County selection as Down came 2nd County in their age groups. Not a bad day’s work for Team EDAC. Thanks are due to Coach Peter for drawing up the entries which is no mean feat and to the parents for transport. See you at the next one.

EDAC Junior girls after their races

SENIOR AWARDS NIGHT

On Saturday night the Club held its Annual Senior Awards night, superbly organised by the Social Secretary, Janine Murray and ably assisted by Alison Carroll and the rest of the Committee. Thanks are due to Roisin Gaffney, Gavin McConvey, Gavin Hynds, Joanne Carson, Ella Carroll, Dermot Cahill and Daniel McClean for pitching in to set up and clear up. Much appreciated. A great night’s craic was enjoyed by many of the members and their friends.

The Awards which were presented were as follows:-

Most Improved Female Athlete:- Clare Carson,

Most Improved Male Athlete:- Gavin Hynds,

Male Athlete of the Year:- Phillip Vint,

Female Athlete of the Year:- Deirdre Weatherall

Club Person of the Year:- Alison Carroll

201718 East Down AC Club awards – Alison Carroll ( Club Person) Clare Carson (Most improved Female) Deidre Weatherall (Female Athlete ) Gavin Hynds (Most improved Male) Missing from pic Phillip Vint (Male Athlete)

Speaking at the presentation Club Chairman Tom McClean paid tribute to all the athletes who had represented the Club throughout the past year, to the hard working Committee who were eager to do everything in their power to deliver excellent facilities and coaching for the benefit of all the members, and to parents who were stepping in to help the coaches on junior club training nights. He said that the premises, which are the envy of most other clubs, were now used on 5 out of 7 days/nights every week for a variety of fitness related activities and he thanked the management and staff of AMH for their ongoing help and co-operation in making night’s like this one possible and he called for a special round of applause for Tony and his staff in the Gaolers Kitchen for providing a very enjoyable meal. He wished all those present and all the members juniors and seniors, continued and even greater success in the coming year.

Joe and Vera Quinn with EDAC Chairperson Tom McClean

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

12 November 2018

The Weekly News – 05/11/2018

Posted on 05/11/2018 by Neil McCartan

TOM A LONE STAR AT CROSS COUNTRY AT BALLYCLARE

As it is no longer a Cross Country League Fixture, the McConnell Shield event at Ballyclare has become a much less important meeting, and attendance has fallen dramatically over the past 2 years. Runners pick and choose their races with much more thought about the next team performance nowadays and for the most part are glad to have a “free” Saturday when they can relax and chill out. On Saturday only one EDAC runner, the evergreen Tom Dowey turned out at Ballyclare and gave evidence of his well being by taking 6^th place in the Over 60 Masters category. Unfortunately until I have obtained a new left knee I will be unable to accompany him on this so far, very impressive season or indeed any other campaign. But keep on going Tom you’re doing a great job, I’ll join you when I can!

LAUREN IMPRESSES AT MINNOWBURN

On Saturday morning it was Lauren Madine who took the honours when she finished second female and a very creditable 3^rd overall in 19.47 in the Born2Run Minnowburn 5K, which was won by top North Down runner Rachel Gibson.

Lauren Madine at Minnowburn Born2Run 5K

SUNDAY IN DROMORE

It is hard to believe that another McGrady Financial Services Junior XC has come along again so quickly but the theory is to get the bulk of the 5 race series over before the colder weather appears and so it was that the Juniors took to the playing fields in Dromore in bright autumnal sunshine for Race number 3 hosted by Dromore AC in their usual efficient fashion. The racing stuck to schedule and although there are no real hills in this course there are plenty of twists and turns so full concentration is required. This is one for the tacticians rather than the mud lovers. 30 of our Juniors took part and represented EDAC to the best of their ability. Every competitor gets a point for his or her club so we are delighted that so many made the effort to attend.

EDAC in the front line – P6 Boys and Girls. Eventual winners Kari Foster (80) and Alex Robinson (87)

Darragh McCrickard of Newcastle is a whiz with the figures so it makes it easy to see who did what. At a glance we can see that of our 30 athletes, 18 have managed to attend 3 out of 3 so far and are well on their way to collecting their reward for completing the series, 13 athletes made podium at Dromore – Lily Foster (P4 and under), Aoibheann McVeigh (P5), Alexander Robinson and Kieran Trainor (P6) Kari Foster and Erin Moore (P6) Matthew Taylor (P7) Jodi Foster (P7), Emily Burns (Yr8), Lauren Madine, Lucy Foster and Kara Trainor (Yr9) Mackenzie Murray (Yr 10) with special congratulations to Alex, Kari, Jodi and Lauren for coming first in their respective age groups.

Jodi Foster leads the way – P7 Girls

Lauren Madine (76) Lucy Foster (82) and Kara Trainor make the front pack in the Year 8 race

Kieran Trainor racing in to take 2nd place

As well as the ones at the front of the pack we had plenty who put in sterling performances and raced all the way to the line. Alice Taylor in one of the biggest races of the day (14 girls in the P4 and under) was not in the lead pack but caught the eye as she finished in a bunch of 4 with 2 seconds covering all 4 crossing the line. Others to impress were Anna Kearney, Ellen Tumelty, Seana Murray, Thomas Brown and Orla Gibney with a sprint finish! It was fantastic to watch.

Alice Taylor( P4 and under)

Anna Kearney EDAC(90) battles it out with Amy McCartan (35 Dromore AC)

NEWCOMERS WELCOMED

We had some first timers too – Rose and Sam Kelly gave it a go and hopefully enjoyed the experience. Aaron Mullan also a late recruit was obviously not put off by his outing in Kilbroney as he came back for a second go. This series is all about encouraging juniors to have a go and it is not too late as there are still 2 events left. Our EDAC hosted race takes place in Delamont on January 20th so plenty of time to prepare.

WHAT’S NEXT?

The only action on the home front next weekend is the Run to Remember 5K on Saturday organised by Atlas Running, in Ballynahinch starting at 2.00pm from the British Legion Hall. The N.I. and Ulster Uneven Age Groups Cross Country Championships take place on Sunday in faraway Scotstown Co. Monaghan.

On a different tack East Down AC will hold its annual Senior Awards and Social Evening in the Clubrooms on Saturday 10 November meeting at 7.00pm for 7.30pm. Hope to see all you senior members there.

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

5 November 2018

The Weekly News – 22/10/2018

Posted on 22/10/2018 by Neil McCartan

RULE CHANGES for START of NEW CROSS COUNTRY LEAGUE SEASON

Further changes to the Cross Country rules this year mean that clubs only have to find 12 runners to score maximum attendance points, down from last year’s 16. This is aimed at the smaller clubs who were struggling to field 16 runners over the 8 rounds of the League to enable them to send a more realistic number to gain full attendance points in order to retain an interest in the League throughout the season. There are points in addition to the award of place points depending on the finishing places of the first 4 runners, all the way down to 8^th place. The other rules are unchanged and Clubs are reminded that they must field a minimum of 4 runners in order to receive any attendance points, nor will they be eligible to be included in the calculations for place points unless they have at least 4 finishers.

COMBER CUP TIME AGAIN

After deciding that I would go to Comber for the opening round of the Cross Country League again this year, as opposed to heading in the opposite direction to observe the Gr8 Dundrum Challenge which was again scheduled for another full house, I was surprised to find that my reasoning last year was because I was actually RUNNING at Comber!

That is but a pipe dream now as I have joined the ranks of the masses looking for a new knee. I’m asked often if it’s because of the thousands of miles of running I have asked my joints to bear over my forty year “career”. And of course I say not at all, sure my right knee has taken just as much punishment as the left one and it’s perfectly all right!! My own view is that the wear and tear is related to running in that too much praying, seeking favours from on High for running oriented activities, caused the excessive use of the joint!

JUNIORS IMPRESS

Conditions were pleasant with autumnal, almost warm, sunshine and surprisingly firm ground which barely necessitated spikes. Anna Gardiner pulled off a good win in the U13 Girls event and Lauren Madine also made the podium coming 2nd in the U15 age group. Adam Morgan lined up in the U17 event and ran strongly over the longer distance.

Anna Gardiner picking up first prize in U13 Girls at Comber XC

Lauren Madine 2nd in U15 Girls Comber XC

EDAC Juniors relax after the afternoon’s racing at the McGrady Financial Junior XC Series

LADIES LEARN FROM TOM

The East Down Ladies turned out a team of 4 runners led by Catherine O’ Connor who, in spite of struggling through 2 of the 3 lap race with a pace restricting stitch, held on tenaciously to 6^th place, fending off the in – form Gerrie Short from Beechmount in a sprint to the line. Catherine Gilchrist and Janine Murray both ran very well, drawing on the experiences gained in last year’s cross country and the Hill & Dale series.

6	104	Catherine O’Connor	FO	00:21:56
54	162	Tom Dowey	M60	00:27:52
59	108	Catherine Gilchrist	F40	00:28:05
67	106	Janine Murray	FO	00:28:38
113	109	Eimear Degan	FO	00:32:08

Eimear Degan had heard so much about the XC that she thought she would like to try it for herself. After the race she was still in two minds, both of them against, as to whether it really was her cup of tea but she has been “persuaded” to try, at least, another one!

Catherine Gilchrist, Janine Murray, Catherine O’Connor, Eimear Degan at Comber XC

And the evergreen Tom Dowey improved his 69^th place last year to 54^th in a field of 152 finishers and in the process, giving an excellent example to Catherine and Janine of how to pace a race.

HOW THE MEN FARED

27	259	Paul Burns	M40	00:27:20
108	330	Paul Lloyd	M40	00:32:13
124	262	James Smyth	U20	00:33:40
170	334	Donal Smith	M45	00:40:44

Ably led by Paul Burns in the absence of several of East Down’s big hitters, mostly because of their attention being on Dublin Marathon business next Sunday, East Down’s men fielded the requisite 4 runners to register a team score, though they were 10^th placed team, just outside the top 8 point scoring places. Apart from Paul B, who maintained an excellent pace throughout to take 27^th place, the team comprised of Donal Smith, Paul Lloyd and James Smyth is still eligible to be called novices at cross country level.

Donal Smith, Paul Burns, James Smyth and Paul Lloyd at Comber XC

FAST LEARNERS or NO PAIN NO GAIN??

Donal had learnt from his experiences at the Relays that a quick start can lead to misery so he paced this one from the get go. Not sure if he would say he avoided the suffering part as a result but it did mean he finished strongly. As a fast learner he will come to realise that the suffering is part of the enjoyment of cross country running and that being able to speak, inside ten minutes afterwards, is a bonus! By all accounts though, he is eager for the next one to give it another go. James Smyth is on the comeback from his months of studies and did well to get through the challenging course. Paul Lloyd ran his usual competent race and did well to finish just outside the top 100 in what was a high class field, headed by this year’s Jimmy’s Ten winner Mark McKinstry.

NIALL STARS in MOURNE SKYLINE RACE

In all of the efforts by East Down’s runners at the weekend top of the heap must be Niall Gibney’s efforts in the 2018 Mourne Skyline Mountain Trail Race on Saturday. In a field of 248 starters and 228 finishers he placed a superb 68^th in 5 hours 35 minutes. This race involves climbing to the top of all the high peaks in the Mourne range twice and covers a distance of 35K with a total climb of 3730 metres. Considering that Niall only took up mountain running a year ago this performance is a tremendous achievement.

GR8 RACE in DUNDRUM

Again although this is one of my favourite races I missed it for the second year in a row. Why? Well I wasn’t in shape to run it this year and I was already on my way to Dundonald for the Comber Cup cross country fixture when I remembered it. Not, to be honest, that it would have made a difference to my choice of venue. The Gr8 Dundrum Challenge is, for me at least, a participation event, not really one to spectate at, so I opted for Comber!

Anyway East Down was well represented in Dundrum by Phillip Vint 58.35 and Gareth Kelly 58.50, having a last blow out before their assault on Dublin next Sunday, with debutant Eamon Kelly 66.20, George Kerr 69.07 supported by wife Noreen 88.20, great to see them on the road again, Gabhan Mac ConMidhe 72.32 and Carmel Tumelty 76.04 making up the squad.

Gareth Kelly (423) slipstreams Phillip Vint (954) on the boardwalk during the Gr8 Run at Dundrum

McGRADY’S FINANCIAL SERVICES JUNIOR CROSS COUNTRY SERIES Round 2

At almost the same time as the above, the second race of the McGrady Series, hosted by Burren AC, was held in the hard to beat surroundings of the Forest park at Kilbroney. The turnout from EDAC was down in number as some were racing at the Comber Cup XC and others were locked into other Saturday sports commitments but those that were there, did the club proud. 11 EDAC athletes were in the top 3 of their age group and the following took first place – Lily Foster (P4 and under), Alexander Robinson (P6), Kari Foster (P6), Jodi Foster (P7), Anna Kearney (yr8), Lucy Foster (yr9), Mackenzie Murray (yr10), Kirsti Foster (yr10). And watch out all you Foster girls, I’ve heard that brother Jay is on the run now too and he’s looking out for you!!

It is worth mentioning again that every athlete gets a point for the club so all who turned out are deserving of praise and hopefully they enjoyed the great conditions and the excitement of running in the packs. Next round is in Dromore on Sunday 4th November and it would be fantastic to see a big entry from the club.

Thomas Brown, Jack Carson and Aoife Burke at Kilbroney Forest Park for the McGrady xc

DUBLIN MARATHON RUNNERS.

Good Luck to all EDAC members and indeed to all runners from the NM&DDC area who will be taking on the streets of Dublin on Sunday morning as part of the City Marathon. May you have a dry, calm, cool and fast run – in preparation for the Flatter and Faster new Belfast City Marathon on SUNDAY 5 May 2019.

Don’t forget all you thrifty running folk out there, it’s cheaper to enter Belfast before the end of October. So why not get your entry in now and run Dublin with an easy mind?

Joe Quinn & Alison Carroll

22 October 2018

The Weekly News – 15/10/2018

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