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Club Race Report – 11th June 2023

They say heat makes things expand, which may explain my waistline at the minute. But you’ve got to love Summer in Mallusk. At least the rain is warmer.

Taking on the parkruns this week:

Valley parkrun:

Marie McBrien 30:22, Joanne Milne 32:56, Martin McCready 35:41, John Teer 37:50, ADav 49:57

Waterworks parkrun:

Neil McCready 25:30

Victoria parkrun:

Kobe McClelland 26:01, Kayden McClelland 27:36

Antrim parkrun:

Maeve Kennedy 25:54, Elaine Kennedy 32:53

Stormont parkrun:

Lois Usher 26:42

Garvagh Forest parkrun:

Johnny Carey 22:54PB

But the big event in parkrun this weekend was the latest Harriers tourism event, this time at Falls parkrun. Like we don’t have enough hills in our own parkrun…

But some great results with two Harriers in the first three finishers and the first female finisher also being a Harrier:

Ben Davidson 19:43, Sean Doherty 20:43, Rab Gould 21:58, Dawn Blain 22:41, Joe Mathers 24:06, Lord Ian Brennan 24:37, Anthony McKinley 25:20, Paul Skillen 25:57, Karen McKee 26:40, Robbie Gould 26:40, Stephen Curran 27:16, Aaron Ladd 28:38, Suzanne Brennan 28:49, Louise Ladd 29:34, Neill McGlinchey 29:38, Matthew Gallagher 30:06, Stephen Gallagher 30:09, Terri Ganley 30:25, Hollie Brennan 40:55, Clare Gallagher 44:14

19 of the 20 runners were first timers at this parkrun so it just shows the benefit or organising these days away.

Jordanstown junior parkrun:

Layla Robinson 8:20 and first finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:21, Rory Mason 9:40, Noah Goodall 11:07, Jack Goodall 11:34

Waterworks junior parkrun:

Kayden McClelland 8:47, Kobe McClelland 8:52PB, Alice McAuley 14:17, Leo JOTM McAuley 14:18, Eloise McAuley 14:18, Hollie Brennan 15:16

And

congratulations to Hollie on completing her 50th junior parkrun!

Victoria Junior parkrun:

Nathaniel Cooke 8:58

In other racing this week, our vest in the west was at it again, this time at Washing Green Bay. Aidy Hughes took on the 10k distance this time round in a time of 58:09. That vest must have been photographed more often than the Eiffel Tower by this stage.

But the vest has competition! This morning David Graham slapped on the suncream, downed half a dozen gels and took on the catchily titled Strabane Lifford Half Marathon (or the SLHM to absolutely no-one). Davy finished in the top 20 in a field of over 800 runners in a highly respectable 1:22:50.

Lifford is home to Donegal’s only greyhound track. It is possible Davy has entered a few races there.

I looked for something nice to say about Strabane. Then I found out Hugo Duncan is from Strabane. So I stopped.

So, this week’s tune is for everyone who has to get back in their car after a training session. Seats hotter than the sun and seatbelt shaped burns all around.

Until next week, behave.

CAVILLATOR

Club Race Report – 4th June 2023

But it’s comin, by gum. We can feel it come. You can feel it in your heart. You can see it in the ground. You can see it in the trees. You can smell it in the breeze. Look around! Look around! Look around! June is bustin’ out all over.

Swaltered.

A late result off the Vidiprinter as I can finally confirm Lee O’Boyle’s official time in his international appearance in France last week at the Trail de Guerledan. Lee completed the 26k course in 2:29:34 finishing 45th out of a field of 711 runners.

Taking on the parkruns this week:

Valley parkrun:

Stevo Armour 19:20PB and second finisher, Ben Davidson 20:10, Sean Doherty 21:21, Elijah Cushley 22:28, Paul Skillen 25:41, Clare Teer 28:23, Layla Robinson 29:36PB, Joanne Milne 29:50, Owen Fulton 30:21, Terri Ganley 30:23, Helen Agnew 30:51, Neill McGlinchey 30:52, Galina Stanevicius 35:29, John Teer 37:22, Calla Crossan 47:12PB

Waterworks parkrun:

Rab Gould 21:02, Robbie Gould 21:12, Joe Mathers 23:15, Suzanne Brennan 24:57, Lord Ian Brennan 24:57, Neil McCready 25:05, Hollie Brennan 45:35

Victoria parkrun:

Anthony McKinley 23:16, Elaine Kennedy 31:47

Falls parkrun:

Stephen Semple 24:23, Maeve Kennedy 26:18PB

Ormeau parkrun:

Martin McCready 35:57

Antrim parkrun:

Calum Murphy 26:58PB, Stephen Murphy 26:59, Carrie Murphy 31:05

Limavady parkrun:

Johnny Carey 23:40

And we had an early Summer tourist this week as Lauren Penman headed south to take on the Tramore Valley parkrun in Cork. Lauren finished in 31:04.

Jordanstown junior parkrun:

Layla Robinson 8:32 and first finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:58, Lois Usher 9:10PB, Jack Goodall 11:31, Noah Goodall 11:43, Naomi Usher 12:47

Waterworks junior parkrun:

Aaron Ladd 10:17PB, Caleb Ladd 13:53, Hollie Brennan 16:02

Victoria Junior parkrun:

Rory Mason 9:58

On Friday night, Mark Smith took part in the Annadale Striders Evening of 3000ms.

Not surprisingly, this race was over 3,000m. Mark finished 4th in his race in a time of 10:04.

In other racing, Mairead O’Hare did the We Run Wild Causeway Coast Half Marathon yesterday. Both Mairead and the organisers are keeping her official time as a closely guarded secret but industry rumours have her time as approx. 3:35.

Finally, mountain goat Micky was back at it again as Micky McAuley finished the East Coast AC Cairncastle Classic fell race in 1:31:00.

So, this week’s tune is to celebrate the start of the Mallusk Summer (which will probably have ended by the time you read this to be fair). I am obliged both legally and morally to use this song. Pop perfection in just 1:37. And that’s quicker than Davy Graham downing 4 gels or Michael Whittley booking his Monday night S&C spot!

Until next week, behave.

CAVILLATOR

Club Race Report – 28th May 2023

Shock in Mallusk this week as the sun actually came out. I heard some Harriers complain about the heat. Behave.

Taking on the parkruns this week:

Valley parkrun:

Ben Davidson 20:34, Neil Campbell 22:42, Eloise McAuley 25:03, Gavin Boyle 26:58, Terri Ganley 30:34, ADav 39:33

Waterworks parkrun:

Jim Hewitt 24:34, Johnny Carey 27:44

Rostrevor parkrun:

Alan Stewart 26:30

ECOS Ballymena parkrun:

Owen Fulton 29:57

Antrim parkrun:

Paul Skillen 23:46, Maeve Kennedy 25:18, Elaine Kennedy 32:28

Castlewellan parkrun:

Joe Mathers 24:46, Joanne Milne 29:48, Sharon ROTM Dunn 29:55

Jordanstown junior parkrun:

Noah Goodall 11:22, Jack Goodall 11:46, Coach Sinead O’Hare 15:59

Waterworks junior parkrun:

Eloise McAuley 8:10, Aaron Ladd 10:18PB, Matthew Gallagher 12:02, Caleb Ladd 13:16PB

In other racing, we had another great Harrier turnout, this time at the always popular County Antrim Harriers May Fair 5k and 10k Races. CAH brought the weather as usual but did not remove the 10k hills as requested!

5k

Prof Alan Ladd 17:36, Stevie Smyth 17:40, Stephen Gallagher 19:54, Emily Murphy 21:32, Craig Goodall 21:40, Dawn Blain 21:47PB, Karen McKee 23:07, Coach Sinead O’Hare 24:19, Aidy Hughes 25:21, Suzanne Brennan 27:34, Roseann McGeown 32:00, Carrie Murphy 32:24, David Graham 33:28, Mairead O’Hare 43:28, Calla Crossan 43:28PB

10k

Robbie Gould 39:17, Rab Gould 44:03, Stephen Murphy 46:28, Brendan McGeown 50:13, Alan Erwin 50:17, Angela Smyth 56:58, Monica Tutuianu 59:31, Marie McBrien 1:01:12, Roisin Brooks 1:02:46, Bronagh Adjey 1:05:48, Lisa Kerr 1:11:01

But the weekend racing didn’t end there. The action moved to Newry today for the Half Marathon:

Mark Smith 1:18:17, Marty O’Neill 1:19:44, Joe Mathers 1:40:33, Suzanne Brennan 1:44:51PB, Joanne Milne 2:05:19, Cathy Ryan 2:07:05

On the same day, our vest in the west took on yet another Tyrone 5k, this time the Newell 5k in Coalisland. Aidy Hughes, for it is he, finished in 25:30.

And Johnny Carey headed north to take on the Edinburgh Marathon completing it in a PB time of 3:38:52.

So, this week’s tune is for those Harriers who showed once again what our club is all about by stopping to help a clubmate, irrespective of what it meant for their own race.

And wishing you a speedy recovery Adam.

Until next week, behave.

CAVILLATOR

Lee O’Boyle selected to represent Ireland.

Tomorrow Lee O’Boyle takes to the big stage, representing Ireland in the 26km Trail de Guerlédan in Brittany.

Lee’s selection to represent Ireland is a momentous occasion. His 6-year journey to this point has been incredible to say the least.

Lee’s post on social media sums up what it means to him.

“Without the vest of the left, the vest on the right would not exist for me.

I joined almost 6 years ago as an overweight smoker.

Mallusk Harriers provided me with support, friendships, family, direction, and dedication.

It is quite fitting that in the week where we have celebrated our 10-year club anniversary, I get to run and represent on an international level.

Anything is possible, dare to dream, right to the line 😁“

Lees’ international selection is a testament to his talent, hard work, and his unwavering focus. Lee has always time to help others, pass on advice, participates in coaching and more importantly, stands proud to be a Mallusk Harrier.

As Lee takes on this challenge on the international stage, we are all honoured knowing that one of our own has achieved greatness.

Congratulations Lee on this achievement. We are immensely proud.

#RightToTheLine

#WeAreMallusk 💙💛

Club Race Report – 21st May 2023

My head is still sore. My stomach has not settled and I need to sleep.

It’s amazing the effect one of Alex’s speeches can have on a person.

But despite his oratorical efforts, last night’s Harriers Gala was definitely an unqualified success.

Clare’s story, awards for the Skillens, fond memories of dringo, Alex’s dodgy raffle wins and his Spirit of Mallusk, Max’s red suit and a close shave from being called Terriers. Only the Harriers could cram all these, and more, into one huge night of craic. Add in some funky music and a lot of dodgy dancing and you have a night to remember. Until the next one at least.

One result from last week that came in too late for the report but definitely worth a mention was Micky McAuley’s completion of the UTMB Snowdonia Ultra. Only 21,500ft of elevation over 100km and 22 hours. Or a Sunday long run as Micky calls it. We salute you sir.

Taking on the parkruns this week:

Valley parkrun:

Eloise McAuley 23:28 and second female finisher, Micky McAuley 23:30, Coach Sinead O’Hare 25:51, Gavin Boyle 27:10, Neill McGlinchey 29:03, Owen Fulton 30:56, Martin McCready 34:44

Waterworks parkrun:

Suzanne Brennan 24:21, Jim Hewitt 24:31, Lord Ian Brennan 24:41, Robbie Gould 25:06, Maeve Kennedy 25:22, Neil McCready 25:55, Rab Gould 26:16, Dawn Blain 26:17, David Graham 26:19, Sophie Magee 26:32, Paul Skillen 27:12, Cathy Ryan 28:06, Karen McKee 28:39, Marie McBrien 28:41, Joanne Milne 30:35, Roisin Brooks 31:22

Victoria parkrun:

Mark Smith 16:55PB and first finisher, Stephen Murphy 21:06PB, Elijah Cushley 21:21, Carrie Murphy 29:51PB

Limavady parkrun:

Johnny Carey 22:10

Sixmilewater parkrun:

Stevo Armour 18:41PB and third finisher, Sharon ROTM Dunn 24:13PB, Lisa Kerr 34:53

Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun:

Lauren Penman 32:06, And Obviously Dermot Boyd 34:13

Jordanstown junior parkrun:

Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:04, Lois Usher 9:33, Naomi Usher 10:59PB

Waterworks junior parkrun:

Jessie Smith 11:13, Lexi Smith 11:15PB, Alice McAuley 15:46, Leo JOTM McAuley 15:47

Larne was the popular destination on Tuesday night (there’s a sentence that has never been written before) for the Larne AC Inter Club race.

Whilst we had a huge turnout, and I was really looking forward to typing it all out, results are no longer available online (that I can see anyway) and so I can’t report any times.

The only other racing was another amazing ultra effort from Angela Stevens. Angela took part in the Baronscourt 12 Hour Challenge. Despite a restricted effort due to injury, Angela still covered 33 miles.

So, this week’s tune is the unofficial anthem of the Gala. It’s in honour of all the sponsors, the hosts, the band and everyone who attended.

But mostly it’s for all those who organised it so well. A hell of a lot of work went into that event on many levels. And for it to produce so much craic on the night is a real credit to all involved. And never have so many balloons had so many balloons. Committee, we salute you!

Until next week, behave.

CAVILLATOR

Club Race Report – 7th May 2023

Not sure what happened but I clear off for 2 weeks and now the bailiffs are here trying to lift my Vidiprinter (good luck with that!). So, whilst I finish barricading the doors to Cavillator Towers, you can read the results.

Taking on the parkruns this week:

Valley parkrun:

David Graham 19:23 and 2nd finisher, Ben Davidson 22:25, Elijah Cushley 22:32, Nuala Muldoon 24:51 and first female finisher, Ramunas Stanevicius 25:30, Paul Skillen 26:32, Clare Teer 28:03, Marie McBrien 28:36, Helen Agnew 30:06PB, Terri Ganley 30:15PB, Roisin Brooks 31:15, John Teer 35:40, ADav 48:04

Waterworks parkrun:

Kevin Donnelly 19:03, Robbie Gould 19:18, Rab Gould 21:39, Anthony McKinley 23:19, Joe Mathers 24:59, Jim Hewitt 26:58, Lord Ian ROTM Brennan 27:15, Suzanne Brennan 31:37

ECOS parkrun:

Calum Murphy 27:13, Emily Murphy 28:45, Stephen Murphy 32:12

Wallace parkrun:

Elaine Kennedy 31:17

Omagh parkrun:

Stephen Semple 24:00, Maeve Kennedy 24:52

Carrickfergus parkrun:

Riley Kerr 33:09, Lisa Kerr 36:10

Limavady parkrun:

Johnny Carey 27:12

Orangefield parkrun:

Aaron Ladd 29:01, Louise Ladd 29:30

Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun:

And Obviously Dermot Boyd 32:53

Jordanstown junior parkrun:

Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:52, Kobe McClelland 9:11PB, Kayden McClelland 9:30, Lois Usher 9:33PB, Naomi Usher 11:45

Lurgan junior parkrun:

Eloise McAuley 8:37

At least I didn’t miss much racing during my absence but it was back to business this week with some Friday night racing on the runways at Ards:

Junior 2k Race:

Lois Usher 9:05 and 3rd girl, Naomi Usher 10:55

5k:

David Graham 17:37, Craig Goodall 21:59, Coach Sinead O’Hare 23:21PB, Aidy Hughes 26:33, Clare Gallagher 35:08PB, Calla Crossan 44:00PB

10k:

Mark Smith 35:54, Adam McCann 37:10, Stevo Armour 39:19, Stephen Gallagher 41:04, Suzanne Brennan 47:48

So, this week’s tune is a randomer.

No hilarious or clever link to this week’s action (as usual says you…)

Still a classic though.

Until next week, behave.

CAVILLATOR

Adam McCann – Antrim and Newtownabbey – Joan Christie Bursary Award 2022

Since our formation, Mallusk Harriers, have been involved in work in our community. We supply volunteers for a range of running events, including the Belfast Marathon, parkrun and junior parkrun. We have held many donations to North Belfast and Newtownabbey Foodbanks as well as Newtownabbey Babybank, Our members have also made clothing and food donations to the homeless in Belfast. In addition tens of thousands of pounds have been raised fundraising for 100s of charities.

Volunteering and trying to give back is an important part of who we are.

Thats why last night was such a special night for the club, when one of our Junior athletes, Adam McCann was awarded the Joan Christie Bursary for young People volunteering in the community.

Some of you will know that in 2019, Adam was involved in a very serious accident at school which nearly resulted in tragic consequences. Unfortunately, due to the pandemic Adam was not able to get the help he needed and the Club was able to help in a small way. Adam has since made a miraculous recovery. (As anyone who attends training on Tuesday night will attest to) Its been brilliant to see.

During Adam’s recovery, we invited him to stay involved at the club and help Paul out at Junior training. Adam was able to pass on his own knowledge and experience to his peers. On top of this Adam has volunteered and attended every other event we have held as a volunteer, including our Couch to 5k and Road Race. In addition Adam will shortly complete his ANI Athletics Coach qualification.

Running wise, Adam has gone on to represent the Club at the NI Road Relays, Cross Country and our 5000k track nights. He has also represented his school at Ulster School level.

As part of the award process, Adam had to attend an interview panel and explain why helping out at the club was important to him and the Judges were very impressed with him. Like many of our Juniors, Adam is an amazing unassuming and humble person. We are lucky to have him at the club.

Last nights awards saw 100’s of nomination, celebrating a range of good people in our community helping each other out for free. I feel that Adam stood rightfully beside all the other winners and nominees.

In addition to Adam’s individual award Mallusk Harriers were awarded £1000. Thank you to Adam’s mum Patrice McCann for the nomination. This money will be used to ensure the club continues to help our local community and our junior athletes.

I have opened up a chatroom if you wish to pass on your congratulations to Adam.

Once again congratulations Adam

Mark Smith selected for the 2022 NI Masters team.

Mark competed recently at the NIMAA XC Championships and Trials, with a strong finish, Mark has been selected to represent NI in the British and Irish International XC in Santry, Dublin on 12th November 2022.

Congratulations to Mark Smith on his selection for the 2022 NI Masters team. All club members wish Mark the best of luck during the International event. It’s fantastic achievement.

🎉🎉Podium Alert 🎉🎉

Fantastic performance from our Junior Athletes at the Firmus Fab5 at Mary Peters on the 21st April 2022. Our Juniors who took part were Owen Dunseath, Leo Mcauley, Joseph Eager, Maili Skillen, Eloise McAuley , Jessie Smith , Kobe McClelland, Sinead O’Hare, Amelia Fleming, Peter Fleming and Tom Fleming, Andrew Scott.

Every one of them were outstanding, especially Eliose, who was first in the U11 girls Turbo Javelin #Juniorathletes#futureathletes