Still sunny; still warm. Wee bit of rain. Blah blah blah. Move on. Too much running happening this week.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Ben Davidson 20:09 and first finisher, David Graham 22:30, Anton Piatek 25:10, Coach Sinead O’Hare 25:59, Paul Skillen 26:00, Stephen Curran 27:24PB, Neill McGlinchey 28:59, Joanne Milne 35:00, Sharon Dunn 35:00, Karen McKee 35:00, Martin McCready 35:12, Marie McBrien 37:13
And a special well done to Ben for overcoming genetics to claim his first ever first place finish at the Valley.
Waterworks parkrun:
Lord Ian Brennan 25:17, Maeve Kennedy 25:39, Lois Usher 27:56, Suzanne Brennan 31:25
Victoria parkrun:
Kobe McClelland 23:06PB
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Robbie Gould 21:29, Rory Mason 28:19, Lisa Kerr 33:17PB
And we even had a tourist this week as Owen Fulton headed east to Sale Water parkrun. Owen completed the course in 29:45. Sale Water Park has an artificial lake. Big O is the real deal though.
And don’t forget that next week is graduation day for our C25k heroes. So let’s get as many Harriers on the Valley parkrun course as possible. We all know we need a bit of a push to get up that hill. Twice.
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Layla Robinson 8:17 and second finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:15, Noah Goodall 11:17, Naomi Usher 11:25, Jack Goodall 12:05
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Leo McAuley 10:10, Alice McAuley 14:07, Eloise McAuley 14:08
Portrush Junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 11:46
So the busy week started on Wednesday with the latest Tafelta Night of Friendly 5000s.
Stevo Armour 18:32, Joe Mathers 20:48, Suzanne Brennan 23:58
Great results on a warm night!
Then on Friday evening we had great representation at the popular Comber 10k:
Mark Smith 35:09, Prof Alan Ladd 35:27PB, David Graham 36:38, Martin O’Neill 36:47, Stevie Smyth 37:19, Stephen Gallagher 40:19, Craig Goodall 49:07, Suzanne Brennan 50:25, Aidy Hughes 53:22
And this morning we had a full squad of what now seems to be called Harrierettes (for legal and personal safety reasons, please note I did not come up with this) at the first Almac Women’s 10k:
Dawn Blain 45:45PB, Karen McKee 49:03, Sharon Dunn 53:04, Suzanne Brennan 54:49, Angela Smyth 55:01, Hannah McKee 57:05, Louise Ladd 58:11, Patrice McCann 58:11, Joanne Milne 58:41, Lauren McMillan 59:19, Marie McBrien 59:22, Helen Agnew 1:01:14, Carrie Murphy 1:06:47, Bronagh Adjey 1:14:57, Clare Gallagher 1:38:00, Calla Crossan 1:38:00
So, this week’s tune is totally ignoring those Harrierettes and is, instead, celebrating Father’s Day.
Possibly not the most positive lyrics on the subject but it has Papa in the title and is a crackin’ tune so I’ll take it.
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.
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.
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
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!
The Harriers are an inquisitive bunch, always looking for something new to keep that spark in their running relationship. So this week they invented the parkrun ultra. A new event for people who think that running just over 3 miles on a Saturday with a hangover is just not enough.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Andrew McNevison 21:17, Eloise McAuley 26:23, Leo McAuley 27:07, Cathy Ryan 31:19, Martin McCready 35:34, John Teer 37:00, ADav 59:16
Waterworks parkrun:
Anthony McKinley 22:11, Jim Hewitt 24:34
Victoria parkrun:
Mark Smith 17:13
Portrush parkrun:
Kobe McClelland 27:05, Kayden McClelland 27:53
Antrim parkrun:
Stephen Semple 23:51, Maeve Kennedy 24:34, Elaine Kennedy 29:51, And Obviously Dermot Boyd 33:23
But the real action was at Ballyclare’s Sixmilewater parkrun, the location for the latest Harrier parkrun tourism event:
David Graham 19:20 and third finisher, Ben Davidson 19:24, Robbie Gould 19:29, Sean Doherty 19:44, Rab Gould 20:35PB, Stephen Murphy 21:18PB, Steven Smyth 21:53, Johnny Carey 22:02, Emily Murphy 22:45PB, Stevo Armour 22:54, Lord Ian Brennan 22:57, Joe Mathers 23:17, Coach Sinead O’Hare 24:00, Paul Skillen 24:25PB, Maeve Dunseath 24:48PB, Calum Murphy 25:34, Stephen Curran 25:35, Aidy Hughes 26:19, Bernie McAllister 27:10, Marie McBrien 27:23PB, Neill McGlinchey 28:25, Helen Agnew 28:54, Karen McKee 29:17, Terri Ganley 29:18, Roisin Brooks 29:33, Owen Fulton 29:34, Carrie Murphy 31:11PB, Joanne Milne 31:35, Lisa Kerr 34:29, Clare Gallagher 35:12, Louise Ladd 35:14, Hollie Brennan 40:10, Suzanne Brennan 40:18, Mairead O’Hare 43:54
and
congratulations to Joe on completing his 100th parkrun!
And the Murphys for a full house of PBs (Calum being a first timer)
And a result also in from our international desk. In what was probably not a homage to Eurovision, Lauren Penman completed the Gothenburg Half Marathon in 2:32:05. Grattis Lauren!
So, this week’s tune is for Davy, Stevo, Steven and anyone else who decided to reroute the Sixmilewater parkrun in the middle of the event. We salute your effort if not your navigation.
So myself and the Cavillator had a little break away and we’ve returned to find that we need to take on a 3rd job to cover the bills for a slight overspend in London expenses, lets just say it was less painful running the marathon.
What a busy week the Harriers have had, London is over but Belfast Marathon was just round the corner, but more about that later. As always here are the parkrun results.
Aaron Ladd 28.17, Alan Ladd 28.18, Lisa Kerr 35.44
Stormont
Stephen Semple 23.43, Maeve Kennedy 28.23
Valley
Adam McCann 18.25 for a second week running, 1st Finisher, Stevo Armour 20.34, Joe Mathers 22.47, Ben Davidson 24.19, Nuala Muldoon 24.33 and 3rd female finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 27.44, Cathy Ryan 28.21, Marie McBrien 28.29, Owen Fulton 30.24 and a 200th Parkrun, Sharon Dunn 30.25, Roisin Brooks 31.37, Joanne Milne 31.41, John Teer 35.01, Emma Toner 37.39.
Waterworks
Neil McCready 23.49, Jim Hewitt 25.15, Hollie ‘dressed as a bee’ Brennan 42.22, Suzi Brennan 42.23.
Jordanstown Junior Parkrun
Leo ‘Junior of the Month’ McAuley 7.56 and 2nd finisher, Eloise McAuley 8.20, Noah Goodall 12.50, Coach Sinead O’Hare 13.46, Alice McAuley 16.34.
Late results from the 2nd instalment of the Lagan Valley Fab 5 event.
60m Under 11 girls – Eloise McAuley 10.04
600m Under 11 Boys – Rory Mason 2:20.53 Andrew Scott 2:30.97
1500m Under 13 Boys – Leo McAuley 5:36.07
Long Jump Under 11 girls – Eloise McAuley 3.28
Turbo Javelin Under 11 boys – Andrew Scott 8.58
Congratulations to Eloise McAuley who was 3rd in the long jump. Well done, you are a superstar.
On Wednesday, the Harrierettes were out in force at the Springwell purple ladies 5k in Ballymoney. This is a popular event and I promise it has nothing to do with the post race feed. First over the line was Suzanne Brennan 23.11, Coach Sinead O’Hare 23.26, Pamela McCafferty 26.55, Maeve Mullan 27.00, Patrice McCann 28.21, Bronagh Adjey 29.03, Helen Agnew 30.02, Terri Ganley 30.31, Louise Ladd 31.47, Mairead O’Hare 37.52 and Clare Gallagher 37.52.
Congratulation to Sinead O’Hare who was first Junior across the line. Well done Sinead, showing our Senior ladies how to do it right.
The miles for Belfast were done however the prep for the Mallusk mile had just begun, some say Karen McKee was locked in the container all week sorting through flags and banners, with DJ Stevo belting out the banging tunes and the roars and cheers of the Harriers along mile 18 at the Oldpark, could be heard echoing through Belfast. The feedback from other runners has been fantastic, so well done to everyone involved we showed Belfast how to do a cheer squad right. In the words of Suzanne Brennan we brought the noise!!!!!
Now the moment you have all been waiting for the results from the Best of Belfast
Stephen Smyth 2.53.13
Marty O’Neill 2.55.05
David Graham 2.58.37
Kevin Donnelly 2.58.57
Neil Campbell 2.59.11
Kyle Lucas 3.15.59
Stephen Gallagher 3.21.17
Robbie Gould 3.21.01
Ben Davidson 3.23.48
Anton Piatek 3.43.53
Dawn Blain 4.04.19
Rab Gould 4.13.55
Alan Stewart 4.13.51
Bernard McKeaveney 4.57.09
Angela Stephens 4.58.55
We had two Relay teams taking part also,
Mallusk Machin (Not sure what happened to the E but sure) – Maeve Kennedy, Stephen Semple, Kelly Carlisle, Neill McGlinchey and Aidy Hughes with a time of 4.16.33
Fonda Running (See what they did there)- Cathy McLoughlin, Louise Ladd, Terri Ganley, Calla Crossan and Clare Gallagher finished in 5.22.02. Well done girls, hope you enjoyed the experience of the marathon and maybe we will have one of our C25K graduates running a marathon is the future.
Enjoy the week ahead, I know the weekly report is a day late so please do post your complaints via Royal Mail they’ll make sure it never reaches me.
This week’s tune is for the Best of Belfast, in the words of Van Morrison……
With the Cavillator and Work Experience boy away on a team building weekend retreat. I was drafted in, to write and release the report.
I turned up at the Cavillator’s office…… It looked like something from 1970s film. Old manual typewriters, note pads, pens and vidiprinter (what on earth even is that….)
I was told under no circumstances to use the credit card for expenses. I thought to myself, I am not staying here it’s filthy and old, not a modern day gadget in sight.
So with that credit card, I booked flights and 5 star hotel, so as I sit drinking champagne in the Shard, I bring you, the weekly race report.
First up parkruns……..
Antrim
Elijah Cushley 21.57, Elaine Kennedy 28.59
Castlewellan
Stephen Semple 24.05, Maeve Kennedy 25.36
Ormeau
Neil McCready 23.14
Portrush
Eoin Turley 26.18
Sixmilewater
Robbie Gould 18.22, Robert Gould 21.25, Mark Hay 23.57, Martin McCready 32.22, Lisa Kerr 35.37
Valley
Adam McCann 18.03 and 1st Finisher, David Graham 18.29 and second finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 26.03, Marie McBrien 28.33, Clare Teer 28.45, Terri Ganley 31.51, Roisin Brooks 31.51, Galina Stanevicius 34.37, John Teer 36.46, Emma Toner 37.39.
Waterworks
Anton Piatek 26.35, Stephen Curran 27.05
We had a few tourists this week at Clapham Common and Mile End parkruns in London
Mile End
Stevo Armour 19.48, Suzanne Brennan 25.08, Kobe McClelland 25.40, Kayden McClelland 27.42, Lord Ian ROTM Brennan 27.48, Joanne Milne 32.11, Sharon Dunn 32.12.
Clapham Common
Congratulations to Dermot Boyd who completed his 100th Parkrun with a time of 34.54.
And Adav went to Mile End, rumour has it he was on time and wearing shorts, he managed a course PB of 35mins.
Waterworks Junior Parkrun
Leo “Junior of the Month” McAuley 7.46 and 1st Finisher. Aaron Ladd 10.46, Caleb Ladd 13.31, Alice McAuley 14.08.
Jordanstown Junior parkrun
Coach Sinead O’Hare making it a double this week, finishing 2nd with a time of 8.54. Lois Usher 10.08, Noah Goodall 12.45, Jack Goodall 12.54, Naomi Usher 13.05, Rhys Kerr 16.24.
The Ultra King had the second helping of the Hill and Dale series, Lee O’Boyle finished 5th with a time of 33.18.
Our Elites were over at the track on Thursday for round two of the LVAC Fab 5.
Will post the results when I get back to the office and retrieve them from the Vidiprinter. Rumour has it Eloise McAuley made the podium with 3rd place n the long jump event.
Congratulations Eloise.
And now for the main event……. the reason for disobeying orders and using the Cavillator’s credit card. The London Marathon results.
Alan too many pints Erwin 3.08.29
Adav I remembered my shorts 3.19.32
Sean the babysitter Doherty 3.22.02
Patricia wee boots Curistan 3.25.53
Stevo Royal Avenue Armour 3.30.11
Jonny Uber Carey 3.46.01
Karen the boss McKee 3.57.48
Lord Ian ROTM Brennan 3.59.36
Ken stops to give hugs McAuley 4.12.41
Sharon the Pam Dunn 4.25.42
Joanne Captain Birdseye Milne 4.31.55
Congratulations to the Legends of London. So this week’s tune is for you, I have been forewarned not to pick any rubbish tunes. Like I am going to obey that order also.
Easter’s over. It’s bucketing rain most of the time and blowing a gale. I think it’s marathon season folks. Time for maranoia to set in in households across Mallusk.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Adam McCann 18:10 and first finisher, Stevo Armour 19:55PB and third finisher, Ben Davidson 25:12, ADav 25:44, Paul Skillen 26:04, Anton Piatek 26:32, Alan Stewart 26:38, Sharon Dunn 28:11, Cathy Ryan 28:28, Clare Teer 28:46, Stephen Curran 28:48, Terri Ganley 31:58PB, Roisin Brooks 32:07, Bronagh Adjey 34:02, Martin McCready 34:42, Cathy McLoughlin 35:41PB, Shane McBrien 36:02, John Teer 36:50, Emma Toner 37:48, Clare Gallagher 39:11
Waterworks parkrun:
Kevin Donnelly 20:40, Ciaran Wright 23:18, Lord Ian Brennan 23:47, Joe Mathers 23:47, Dawn ROTM Blain 23:48, Jim Hewitt 25:14, Suzanne Brennan 26:00, Karen McKee 26:15PB, Joanne Milne 30:46
Victoria parkrun:
Mark Smith 17:00, Stephen Murphy 21:37, Carrie Murphy 31:10PB
The wind is blowing; the rain is coming. It must be Easter in Mallusk.
Don’t know about you but I’m at the stage where I can hide my own Easter eggs and still not find them all.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Eoin Turley 25:40, Leo McAuley 28:58, Eloise McAuley 29:03, David Esler 42:57, Martin McCready 57:34
Waterworks parkrun:
Martin O’Neill 19:02, Michael Crossan 19:47, Neil McCready 21:24, Ramunas Stanevicius 22:31, Jim Hewitt 25:03, Cathy Ryan 28:52
Victoria parkrun:
Alan Erwin 18:44, Kobe McClelland 25:15PB, Kayden McClelland 26:19PB
Portrush parkrun:
David Smyth 26:41
Antrim parkrun:
Stephen Semple 24:10, Maeve Kennedy 24:54, Katherine Todd 52:14
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 27:26
Dunleath Playing Fields parkrun:
Adam McCann 18:01PB and first finisher
It being Easter and all, we had a few parkrun tourists on the go.
Eva Morgan stayed on the island and went to Donegal to the Falcarragh parkrun, finishing in 35:35.
Stevo Armour and Sharon Dunn continued their recent UK tour with a visit to Preston parkrun in Preston. Stevo finished in 20:15 and Sharon in 26:44. It is not known if Sharon brought cake for her 103rd parkrun. Preston is the birthplace of several sporting legends, Sir Tom Finney, Freddie Flintoff and Phil Jones to name but two.
Susan Thompson finished the Princes Park parkrun in Liverpool in 29:07. The park has a gravestone for Judy the donkey who gave rides to kids for 21 years in the park. It is not known how many games she got in the Liverpool midfield though.
Owen Fulton went to Wales to take on the Conwy parkrun. Big O finished in 30:45. The vowel has never been found.
But the main parkrunning this week was at Carrickfergus, with the latest Harriers parkrun on tour event:
David Graham 19:35, Robbie Gould 21:32, Stephen Murphy 22:03, Dawn ROTM Blain 22:44 (and first female finisher), Sean “the cuppa” Doherty 23:32, Ciaran Wright 24:35, Ben Davidson 24:36PB, Joe Mathers 24:40, Sophie Magee 25:01, Paul Skillen 26:13, Aidy Hughes 26:49, Marie McBrien 27:19, Karen McKee 27:19, Calum Murphy 27:39, Neill McGlinchey 27:40, ADav 28:43, Shane McBrien 28:53, Roisin Brooks 30:32, Carrie Murphy 30:48, Joanne Milne 32:19, Terri Ganley 32:37, Louise Ladd 32:38PB, Stephen Curran 34:59, Lord Ian Brennan 36:22, Clare Gallagher 38:10, Emma Toner 38:25, Hollie Brennan 43:42, Suzanne Brennan 43:43
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Sinead O’Hare 8:54 and second finisher , Andrea Bradley 14:04, Riley Kerr 14:24, Rhys Kerr 14:56, Joseph Eager 19:35
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Eloise McAuley 15:20, Hollie Brennan 15:40, Leo McAuley 16:53, Alice McAuley 16:55
Portrush junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 11:15
Our elite squad were in action again on Thursday night, this time in the Lagan Valley Fab 5 event:
U11 Boys 60m
Kayden McClelland 10:14, Kobe McClelland 10:23, Conor Ryan 10:35, Rory Mason 10:62, Andrew Scott 10:78
U13 Girls 100m
Hollie Brennan 22:46
U11 Girls 600m
Eloise McAuley 2:10:69
U13 Boys 800m
Leo McAuley 2:48:22
U13 Boys Long Jump
Leo McAuley 3.48
U11 Girls Javelin
Eloise McAuley 10.14
U11 Boys Long Jump
Kayden McClelland 3.22, Kobe McClelland 3.21, Rory Mason 3.00, Connor Ryan 2.67, Andrew Scott 2.28
U13 Shot Putt
Hollie Brennan 3.77
In other racing, Coach Sinead O’Hare was at the latest Born to Run event.
Bright nights and back to the pitches. It’s Springtime in Mallusk!
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Martin O’Neil 20:48, David Graham 20:49, Leo McAuley 23:07, Eloise McAuley 24:10, Coach Sinead O’Hare 24:14PB, Stevo Armour 26:25, Ciaran Wright 26:26, Brendan McGeown 26:51, Johnny Carey 27:06, Owen Fulton 28:41, Joe Mathers 28:43, Neill McGlinchey 28:56, Sharon Dunn 28:57, Cathy Ryan 29:19, Marie McBrien 30:25, Shane McBrien 30:27, Ben Davidson 30:41, ADav 30:42, Joanne Milne 32:58, Carrie Murphy 32:58PB, Stephen Murphy 33:12, Terri Ganley 34:16, Roseann McGeown 34:45, John Teer 37:43, Clare Gallagher 41:37
And
congratulations to Marie on completing her 250th parkrun. And Joanne completing her 150th.
And
congrats on the excellent cakeage all round.
Waterworks parkrun:
Kevin Donnelly 20:08, Lord Ian Brennan 27:29, Michael Crossan 35:11
Wallace Park parkrun:
And Obviously Dermot Boyd 34:12
Ormeau parkrun:
Robbie Gould 22:13
Antrim parkrun:
Maeve Kennedy 25:20, Susan Thompson 29:06
Stormont parkrun:
Paul Skillen 24:36PB
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 20:26PB
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:47 and second finisher, Riley Kerr 14:27, Rhys Kerr 14:27
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Leo McAuley 7:29PB and third finisher, Alice McAuley 20:56
2 of our Harriers headed east to the big smoke to take part in the London Landmarks Half Marathon. Patrice McCann finished in 2:09:11 and Kelly Carlisle in 3:17:00.
This morning saw the latest Titanic 10k. Another event on the club championship calendar and so hotly contested by many (you know who you are Stephen!):
Mark Smith 35:35, David Graham 36:21, Stevo Armour 39:14PB, Stephen Gallagher 40:14PB, Alan Erwin 41:22, Stephen Murphy 46:03, Joe Mathers 47:18, Dawn ROTM Blain 47:31PB, Suzanne Brennan 47:42PB, Craig Goodall 48:53, Cathy Ryan 55:10, Aidy Hughes 55:18, Stephen Curran 57:45PB, Marie McBrien 57:46PB, Roisin Brooks 1:02:03
And our elite squad were competing in the junior 1k race:
The wind and rain didn’t stop the hardy Harriers going to training on Tuesday and it didn’t stop you lot racing all week. So let’s get on with it.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Adam McCann 18:18 (and first finisher), Elijah Cushley 21:19 (and third finisher), Nuala Muldoon 26:04, Johnny Carey 26:32, Ciaran Hawkins 26:41, Paul Skillen 27:02, Cathy Ryan 28:24, Neill McGlinchey 28:26, Marie McBrien 28:59, Bronagh Adjey 32:27, Martin “the victim” McCready 34:09, Karen “the perpetrator” McKee 34:10, Coach Sinead O’Hare 34:59
Waterworks parkrun:
Robbie Gould 23:41, Sean Doherty 24:48
Victoria parkrun:
Sharon Dunn 23:04PB, Lord Ian Brennan 23:04, Ben Davidson 26:49, ADav 26:50, Joanne Milne 30:53, Hollie Brennan 44:01, Suzanne Brennan 44:42
Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:06, Rory Mason 9:23PB, Joseph Eager 12:05, Matthew Hawkins 12:43
The racing started on Thursday night this week with the latest flat and fast Queens 5k. Plenty of Harriers and plenty of PBs (and plenty of drama from Robbie & Stevo who decided to pick up their numbers after the race started – a new technique maybe?). Anyhow:
Adam McCann 17:12PB, Mark Smith 17:19, David Graham 17:21, Stephen Gallagher 19:32, Robbie Gould 18:28, Stevo Armour (using bib in hand technique) 18:33PB, Emily Murphy 21:11, Stephen Murphy 21:38, Dawn ROTM Blain 22:37PB, Suzanne Brennan 22:52, Coach Sinead O’Hare 22:59PB, Karen McKee 23:20, Sophie Magee 23:36PB, Aidy Hughes 27:12, Roisin Brooks 30:11, Clare Gallagher 36:35
On Friday night, our elite squad was at Lisburn for the Atlas Running City of Lisburn 5k event to compete in the Junior Mile event. Leo McAuley came first in 5:45 and Rory Mason 8th in 6:41.
Congratulations on the win Leo. First of many, no doubt!
Racing continued on Saturday with the Larne 10 Miler. Kyle Lucas finished in 1:04:29 and Stephen Murphy in 1:20:31PB.
Also on Saturday, our polka dot Harrier was back in the mountains. This time at the IRMA Maurice Mullins 50k in Wicklow. Lee O’Boyle, for it is he, finished, after 6,700ft of elevation, in 5th place with a time of 4:34:21.
A busy weekend finished today with two very different races. Both with similar elevations though!
It was the first running of the Monkstown Spartans Zoo 5k, a slightly hilly run around Bellevue Zoo. And yes, I am surprised all the Harriers made it back out without several being mistaken for inmates:
The other race today was the Omagh Half Marathon. In Omagh. After the clocks went forward. Excellent.
David Graham 1:20:54PB, Steven Smyth 1:21:00, Kevin Donnelly 1:21:15, Sean Doherty 1:31:36, Stevo Armour (inc bib) 1:32:06PB, Anton Piatek 1:37:40PB, Brendan McGeown 1:44:03, Bernard McKeaveney 1:54:33
Right, that’s me off for a lie down. But before I do, just another gentle reminder to both renew your membership and buy your tickets for the Harrier Ball. I don’t come cheap and your funds help to pay for my house staff. Thank you.
So, this week’s tune is for all those who made it up and down the hills at the Zoo. You have a heart like a lion. But he wants it back.
So it’s Mothers’ Day. A special day for special people. As a joke, I asked my mum how many people it takes to change a light bulb. She said none – I don’t need a light BECAUSE NOBODY EVER COMES TO VISIT ME. Like I said, special.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
ADav 23:14, Nuala Muldoon 24:59, Ben Davidson 26:24, Anton Piatek 26:25, Johnny Carey 27:34, Coach Sinead O’Hare 29:10, Joanne Milne 29:13, Paul Skillen 29:14, Owen Fulton 29:15, Karen McKee 29:15, Elaine Kennedy 31:20, Matthew Hawkins 33:33, Martin McCready 34:06, Marie McBrien 34:34, Terri Ganley 34:39, Ciaran Hawkins 40:19, Clare ROTM Gallagher 43:58
And
congrats Ciaran on completing your 50th parkrun.
Waterworks parkrun:
Lord Ian Brennan 24:52, Suzanne Brennan 26:35, Jim Hewitt 26:43, Kevin Donnelly 27:22, Joe Mathers 27:45
Victoria parkrun:
Leo McAuley 20:43PB, Michael McAuley 20:47, Elijah Cushley 21:39, Eloise McAuley 22:52
Not only did we have the 8 local parkruns, we also had tourists this week. At the home of parkrun itself, no less! Yes, Stevo Armour and Sharon Dunn headed off to a very wet looking Bushy Park to celebrate Sharon’s 100th parkrun. Stevo finished in 19:34 and Sharon in 27:17.
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:02 and second finisher, Matthew Hawkins 10:43, Andrea Bradley 16:07
The main race of the week was the Spar Craic 10k, a Paddy’s Day jaunt around the middle of Belfast. Or round most of Ormeau Park. A couple of times. A great turnout for this one and some great performances:
Mark Smith 35:50 (and a top 20 finish), David Graham 36:11PB, Adam McCann 36:36PB, Kevin Donnelly 36:52, Stephen Gallagher 40:47, Johnny Carey 43:56PB, Patricia Curistan 44:19, Lord Ian Brennan 47:04PB, Alan Stewart 47:06, Karen McKee 47:30, Craig Goodall 48:24, Sophie Magee 49:59, Joe Eager 50:44, Nuala Muldoon 50:45, Bernard McKeaveney 51:03, Aidy Hughes 57:02, Cathy Ryan 56:56, Marie McBrien 57:58, Stephen Curran 59:07, Louise Ladd 59:50, Neill McGlinchey 1:01:21, Roisin Brooks 1:03:06, And Obviously Dermot Boyd 1:04:05, Maeve Kennedy 1:07:58, Roseann McGeown 1:09:45, Clare Teer 1:13:07, John Teer 1:13:07, Clare ROTM Gallagher 1:19:18, Mairead O’Hare 1:38:04, Calla Crossan 1:38:04
This week’s tune is to celebrate Mothers’ Day and so that means there is only one tune I can use.
Snow may have slowed (some of) us down during the week but we definitely made up for it come the weekend. Racing all over the show. First, a late result off the Vidiprinter as we catch up with the final event in the East Coast Junior XC Series. This event took place at Sandy Bay last Sunday 5th: Mini Girls 800m Alice McAuley 5:30 and third place Minor Girls 1600m Eloise McAuley 6:22 and first place Junior Girls 2000m Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:34 Junior Boys 2000m Leo McAuley 7:58, Joseph Eager 9:14
In the overall series standings, Alice McAuley came second in the Mini Girls section; Eloise McAuley came third in the Minor Girls section; Coach Sinead O’Hare came tenth in the Junior Girls section and Leo McAuley came fourth in the Junior Boys section.
Well done to all our Juniors on representing the club so well in this series.
Taking on the parkruns this week: Valley parkrun: Ben Davidson 22:31, Neil Campbell 24:10, Nuala Muldoon 25:32, ADav 26:00, Lord Ian Brennan 28:13, Karen McKee 28:13, Neill McGlinchey 29:13, Joanne Milne 29:42, Cathy Ryan 30:35, And Obviously Dermot Boyd 35:14, Shane McBrien 35:35, Marie McBrien 35:35, Martin McCready 36:00, Hollie Brennan 43:25, Suzanne Brennan 43:25, Maeve Kennedy 46:38, Joseph Eager 46:38 Waterworks parkrun: Kevin Donnelly 20:37, Robbie Gould 27:35, Rab Gould 27:36 Bangor parkrun: David Graham 18:04 and third finisher, Stevo Armour 19:37, Sharon Dunn 25:12 Jordanstown Junior parkrun: Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:32, Rory Mason 10:29, Matthew Hawkins 10:37, Andrea Bradley 14:05 Waterworks junior parkrun: Leo McAuley 7:55 and third finisher, Eloise McAuley 8:10, Joseph Eager 8:51, Aaron Ladd 10:39, Caleb Ladd 16:46, Alice McAuley 16:50
Yesterday saw the first race of this year’s NIMRA Championship with the latest Glenariffe Mountain Race (i.e. the Spud Run). 1,200ft of elevation over 6 miles with a bag of spuds as your bling: Micky McAuley 54:16. Anton Piatek 1:07:29
On the same day Alan Erwin (yes, he of quiz fame) and Bernard McKeaveney (yes, he of cake fame) ran the Walled City 10 mile Road Race. Alan finished in 1:06:58 and Bernard in 1:25:28.
Other Harriers headed for Portadown to take on the half marathon distance there: Marty O’Neill 1:19:17, Robbie Gould 1:28:14PB, Johnny Carey 1:38:22, Rab Gould 1:39:25
To finish off the weekend of racing, Mark Smith completed the Jimmy’s 10k in 36:27. So this week’s tune is for the members in the club who celebrated International Ladies Day on Tuesday, and no doubt continue to do so. And, yes, I was told to use this song. https://youtu.be/6FOUqQt3Kg0 Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
Just remember, if you’re out running and see someone going faster than you, it’s because you’re running further. Fact.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Adam McCann 18:06PB and second finisher, Neil Campbell 24:39, Coach Sinead O’Hare 26:07, Ciaran Hawkins 27:33, Stephen Curran 34:16
And
congrats to Coach Sinead on completing her 50th senior parkrun.
Waterworks parkrun:
Kevin Donnelly 20:38, Stephen Semple 28:00, Maeve Kennedy 48:30
Victoria parkrun:
Leo O’Boyle 16:22PB and third place
ECOS Ballymena parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 21:04PB
We had a tourist this week as Martin McCready headed off to Ballina in County Mayo to complete the aptly named Ballina parkrun in 33:52. Ballina is the birthplace of Mary Robinson and was Jack Charlton’s base for his fishing trips. But the most exciting fact about Ballina is that it is twinned with the northern paradise that is Craigavon. Lucky sods.
But the real bit of tourism this week was the Harriers trip to Antrim parkrun. 24 Harriers and their support crew were tempted by Sean’s offer of free tea and coffee with a wee bit of running:
Stevo Armour 18:45PB, ADav 21:28, Ben Davidson 23:44, Robbie Gould 23:45, Lord Ian Brennan 24:27PB, Joe Mathers 24:28, Brendan McGeown 24:48, Aidy Hughes 26:09, David Graham 26:10, Shane McBrien 27:18, Suzanne Brennan 27:31, Sharon Dunn 27:32, Sean Doherty 27:34, Marie McBrien 27:46, Neill McGlinchey 28:12, Owen Fulton 28:29, Joanne Milne 28:48, Susan Thompson 31:58, Roseann McGeown 32:07PB, Terri Ganley 32:30, Carrie Murphy 32:30PB, Stephen Murphy 32:31, Elaine Kennedy 34:19, Clare ROTM Gallagher 37:02
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Riley Kerr 12:18, Matthew Hawkins 12:29, Joseph Eager 12:54, Rhys Kerr 16:20, Coach Sinead O’Hare 16:48
And a big shout out to Matthew on completing his 200th junior parkrun. Well done sir.
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Aaron Ladd 10:29PB, Caleb Ladd 16:13
Other racing started early this week as the Harriers were represented again at the latest Tafelta AC night of 5000s track event. Taking on the 5k distance were:
Mark Smith 17:33, Sean Doherty 17:57PB, Stevo Armour 19:06PB
Several Harriers stayed on in Antrim on Saturday to take part in the Atlas Shane’s Castle half marathon event:
Meteorological Spring starts on Wednesday so they tell me.
Nothing is so beautiful as Spring –
When weeds, in wheels, shoot long and lovely and lush;
Thrush’s eggs look little low heavens, and thrush
Through the echoing timber does so rinse and wring
The ear, it strikes like lightnings to hear him sing
So said that Gerard Manley Hopkins bloke. But then he didn’t live in Mallusk. It’s still baltic here.
Firstly, some late results off the Vidiprinter from last Sunday’s East Coast Junior XC event:
Mini Girls 650m:
Alice McAuley 4:24 and second place
Minor Girls 1300m:
Eloise McAuley 5:27 and third place
Junior Girls 1750m:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 10:02
Junior Boys 1750m:
Leo McAuley 8:09
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Adam McCann 18:11PB and first finisher, Ben Davidson 20:37, ADav 23:33, Eloise McAuley 25:08, Coach Sinead O’Hare 25:22, Anton Piatek 25:41, Ciaran Hawkins 26:23, Paul Skillen 26:45, joe Mathers 27:03, Shane McBrien 28:47, Marie McBrien 28:59 (brave man Shane!), Neill McGlinchey 29:13, Nuala Muldoon 29:13, Owen Fulton 29:56, Sharon Dunn 29:57, Joanne Milne 31:39, Martin McCready 34:14, Stephen Curran 35:37
Waterworks parkrun:
Maeve Kennedy 25:00, Jim Hewitt 25:04
Victoria parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 20:48
ECOS Ballymena parkrun:
Stephen Murphy 22:39
Wallace parkrun:
Elaine Kennedy 29:09
Antrim parkrun:
Rab Gould 22:53, Robbie Gould 25:44
Carrickfergus parkrun:
And Obviously Dermot Boyd 34:25
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 25:03
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Rory Mason 27:38
Crawfordsburn Country parkrun:
Clare ROTM Gallagher 43:23, Louise Ladd 43:24
Victoria junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 9:23
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:58, Matthew Hawkins 9:47PB, Rhys Kerr 19:42
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Leo McAuley 7:49, Joseph Eager 8:48, Alice McAuley 13:47PB, Eloise McAuley 13:48
In other racing, Lee O’Boyle was podium hunting again at the latest Sperrin Harriers Winter League Event. Lee finished the 10 mile race in second place in 1:00:50.
Well done Lee. A great result.
Today saw the finale to this year’s XC League at Billy Neill Playing Fields.
Ladies 6k:
Suzanne Brennan 29:45, Sharon Dunn 32:55
Men’s 12k:
Michael Crossan 48:21, Kevin Donnelly 49:22, David Graham 49:22, Sean Doherty 50:36, Micky McAuley 52:51, Stephen Gallagher 52:52, Stephen Armour 53:24
By now, most of you will be willing this to end and eagerly awaiting the next question in the Alan Erwin quiz. Unfortunately, the quiz has been suspended for legal reasons (i.e. the lawyers thought it wasn’t funny). In other news, water is wet.
So this week’s tune is for Karen McKee who has progressed the Harrier Sunday morning 10@10 from a potential prayer meeting to a chance to shout randomly about her love of cars. Who knew?
We had athletes falling over (gracefully), seniors panicking over getting beaten by the juniors (rightfully so) and Sunday runs almost turning into prayer groups. A fairly typical week for the Harriers then.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Ben Davidson 21:21, Elijah Cushley 21:31, Rab Gould 23:09, ADav 26:04, Martin McCready 34:20, Matthew Hawkins 36:06, Ciaran Hawkins 36:10, John Teer 37:34, Clare Teer 37:35, Terri Ganley 59:40, Clare Gallagher 59:52
Huge congratulations to John Teer on completing his 100th parkrun.
And similarly sized congratulations to Rab Gould who was told afterwards that he had just completed his 200th parkrun.
Waterworks parkrun:
Jim Hewitt 25:23, Marie McBrien 27:43, Cathy Ryan 27:50, Shane McBrien 28:08, Suzanne Brennan 28:11
Victoria parkrun:
Joe Mathers 23:45, Nuala Muldoon 23:55, Sharon Dunn 24:15
Antrim parkrun:
Elaine Kennedy 29:18
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 27:30
And we even had a couple of tourists this week:
Rory Mason headed to the Black Country, to Wolverhampton, the home of Robert Plant, Liam Payne and Enoch Powell, to take on the Wolverhampton parkrun. Rory finished in 27:27.
Also, 3 Harriers took on the Burgess parkrun in London: Joseph Eager 23:27, Stephen Semple 24:41, Maeve Kennedy 24:41. This parkrun is situated in Camberwell, previously home to famous parkrunners including Karl Marx, Enid Blyton and Florence Welch. Carrots were not involved.
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Matthew Hawkins 13:09, Coach Sinead O’Hare 15:03, Andrea Bradley 15:23, Rhys Kerr 15:39
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Aaron Ladd 11:10, Caleb Ladd 14:04PB
In other racing, Coach Sinead O’Hare completed her 6th and final leg of the Born 2 Run series, completing the Castlewellan 5k in 27:11.
Also on Saturday, the club held its latest running of its 5k handicap event. This is where start times are staggered depending on 5k PB times (or Harrier’s versions of them!). If everyone matches their PB then everyone crosses the line together. Simples.
Finish times were as follows:
Adam McCann 17:55 PB, David Graham 18:16, Stevo Armour 18:50, Robbie Gould 18:50, Michael Crossan 18:57 PB, Kevin Donnelly 21:47, Anton Piatek 22:34, Ian Brennan 22:39, Dawn Blain 23:14 PB, Karen McKee 24:03, Stephen Curran 26:27 PB, Erin Dunseath 33:54 PB, Clare Gallagher 37:54,Hollie Brennan 39:20 PB
After Prof Ladd did his wizardy calculation things, Hollie Brennan was declared the well-deserved winner. Congratulations Hollie. Good time to ask for a pony.
If any of our juniors were competing in the second East Coast Junior XC event today we will update next week as result are not available yet.
So, to finish on a low, it’s time for the Alan Erwin Quiz. Again.
First of all, last week’s answer – Alan Erwin. So well done again if you got that one.
This week’s question is:
Which Harrier thinks that Game of Thrones is a documentary but that Fiona Bruce is made up?
Just keep your thoughts to yourselves.
So this week’s tune is for Davy Graham, the man who loves to eat. Especially before he takes on the juniors over 5k.
Another fairly quiet week, with only the highest class international road racing event and high quality league XC running to break it up. So, you know. Quiet.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Adam McCann 18:14PB and first finisher, Neil Campbell 20:41, ADav 22:29, Anton Piatek 25:35, Coach Sinead O’Hare 26:35, Paul Skillen 26:36, Cathy Ryan 28:44, Clare Teer 29:18, Terri Ganley 32:47PB, Martin McCready 34:10, John Teer 37:46
Waterworks parkrun:
Jim Hewitt 25:10, Lord Ian Brennan 25:57, Joe Mathers 25:57, Marie McBrien 27:55, Shane McBrien 29:24, Hollie Brennan 44:12, Suzanne Brennan 45:51
Victoria parkrun:
Robbie Gould 21:39, Stephen Semple 24:00, Maeve Kennedy 24:40, Sharon Dunn 32:06, Stevo Armour 32:07
Craigavon parkrun:
And Obviously Dermot Boyd 32:02PB
Antrim parkrun:
Stephen Murphy 22:09PB, Carrie Murphy 32:33PB, Elaine Kennedy 49:37
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 24:45
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Tom Fleming 16:36 and first finisher, Rory Mason 26:54, Matthew Hawkins 32:51PB, Ciaran Hawkins 32:59
Crawfordsburn Country parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 21:24PB
Garvagh Forest parkrun:
Owen Fulton 29:27
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Matthew Hawkins 12:54, Andrea Bradley 13:28, Coach Sinead O’Hare 18:47
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Leo McAuley 7:57 and second finisher, Joseph Eager 8:33PB, Hollie Brennan 14:26, Caleb Ladd 14:37, Alice McAuley 14:40PB
In other racing, we had Harrier representation at the ever impressive Armagh International Road Race Series on Thursday night. Kevin Donnelly completed the 3k in 10:06
Then the mudsuckers were back at it again on Saturday, this time at the latest league event at Stormont:
U13 Boys & Girls
Eloise McAuley 7:48, Joseph Eager 8:08, Leo McAuley 12:05
Michael Crossan 26:46, Kevin Donnelly 27:37, Robbie Gould 28:03, Stevo Armour 28:55, Stephen Gallagher 29:06, Micky McAuley 29:07, Ben Davidson 29:10, Ciaran Wright 30:34
In other mysteries, the Alan Erwin quiz has still not been killed off. Work that one out.
First of all, last week’s answer – Alan Erwin. So well done again if you got that one.
This week’s question is:
Which Harrier has left their straighteners on since June 1983?
Answers on a postcard to the usual address.
So this week’s tune is for all you lovers out there. So, on Tuesday evening, cuddle up close to your loved one (or someone else’s if that way inclined) and sing this in their ear. Happy Valentine’s Day Harriers.
A fairly quiet week this week for racing and results. You must all be focusing on your strength training or cleaning your XC spikes. Or maybe just bingeing Happy Valley. All equally painful.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Adam McCann 18:17PB and first finisher, Neil Campbell 21:59, Nuala Muldoon 24:39, Coach Sinead O’Hare 27:51, Stephen Curran 28:03PB, Paul Skillen 28:03, Marie McBrien 29:27, Ciaran Hawkins 37:56, John Teer 38:14
Waterworks parkrun:
Jim Hewitt 27:14, Cathy Ryan 27:56
Victoria parkrun:
Lord Ian Brennan 22:47PB, Martin McCready 33:24
Ormeau Park parkrun:
And Obviously Dermot Boyd 32:52
Antrim parkrun:
Maeve Kennedy 25:23
Colin Glen parkrun:
Neil McCready 22:01
Orangefield parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 22:57
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Anita Piatek 47:31
Garvagh Forest parkrun:
Johnny Carey 23:28
But the Harriers also had a wee parkrun day out as several headed off to sunny Carryduff to take on the Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun. This parkrun takes place in Knockbracken and the course surrounds a reservoir. Imagine.
Great results all round with 5 Harriers filling spots in the top 10 finishers.
David Graham 17:26PB and second finisher, Kevin Donnelly 18:18, Robbie Gould 18:25, Stevo Armour 18:34, Sean Doherty 18:50PB, Ben Davidson 20:32, ADav 21:16, Rab Gould 21:57, Stephen Murphy 22:05PB, Sharon Dunn 25:46, Neill McGlinchey 27:25, Owen Fulton 29:34, Joanne Milne 30:43, Louise Ladd 31:21, Carrie Murphy 32:34, Emily Murphy 32:34, Clare Gallagher 37:48
Belfast Victoria junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 10:23
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Riley Kerr 13:23, Matthew Hawkins 13:35, Andrea Bradley 14:21, Coach Sinead O’Hare 15:28, Rhys Kerr 15:47
Bangor junior parkrun:
Aaron Ladd 10:30PB, Caleb Ladd 12:45
No Harriers at the Waterworks junior parkrun this week but I did say I would catch up with last week’s results which were delayed:
In other running, we were represented at Half Marathon distance at the We Run Wild Rabbit Run event at Woodburn Reservoir:
Alan Kerr 2:23:26, Elaine Kennedy 2:29:18
We also had vests at the latest Sperrin Harriers Trail Series 10k event at Drum Manor:
Lee O’Boyle 37:19 and second place and Aidy Hughes 1:00:53
Our elites (basically Team McAuley) were then in action today at the first event of this year’s East Coast AC Junior XC Series at Larne. Whilst each of the 3 McAuleys were good enough for podium finishes, the exact results and times are not yet available. I’ll update full details next week but well done McAuleys.
But no racing doesn’t mean no question folks! The Alan Erwin Quiz continues (why? most of you ask)
First of all, last week’s answer – Alan Erwin. So well done again if you got that one.
This week’s question is:
Which Harrier cannot say the work “ticket” and so missed out on their dream of being a train conductor?
If you know, tell someone.
So this week’s tune is for those who ran the reservoir yesterday. Even Neill. Who smiled whilst running. Honestly.
Well, the good news this week was that training was back. The bad news, training was back.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Ben Davidson 22:05, Elijah Cushley 23:31, Nuala Muldoon 24:31, Leo McAuley 26:28, Eloise McAuley 26:39, Micky McAuley 26:45, ADav 28:17, Cathy Ryan 28:46, Stephen Curran 29:24, Sharon Dunn 30:05, Owen Fulton 30:06, Joe Mathers 30:07, Joanne Milne 32:44, Terri Ganley 32:53PB, Martin McCready 35:34, John Teer 38:56
Waterworks parkrun:
Stephen Murphy 22:17PB, Jim Hewitt 25:27
Victoria parkrun:
Martin O’Neill 17:30PB, Robbie ROTM Gould 18:31PB, Alan Erwin 20:20, Anton Piatek 21:22PB
ECOS parkrun:
Tom Fleming 16:46 and first finisher
Ormeau parkrun:
Lauren Penman 30:39
Antrim parkrun:
Maeve Kennedy 24:55, Johnny Carey 30:16, Elaine Kennedy 32:57
Congrats to Johnny on hitting 50 parkruns
Colin Glen parkrun:
Neil McCready 21:43PB and third finisher
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Lisa Kerr 35:58
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Joseph Eager 9:10, Matthew Hawkins 13:25, Andrea Bradley 14:14, Coach Sinead O’Hare 15:19
Portrush junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 10:27
Waterworks junior parkrun results are not available yet so if any of our elites were there today, we’ll catch up on their times next week.
The only other racing this week was a Harrier targeted event, the latest Born2Run event at Antrim Castle Gardens. Plenty of Harriers were out in the vest covering both the 5k and 10k distances:
5k
Coach Sinead O’Hare 27:08
10k
Mark Smith 35:52 and 6th overall, David Graham 36:25 and 10th overall, Kevin Donnelly 36:36, Stevo Armour 40:17PB, Ciaran Wright 43:11, Johnny Carey 44:25, Karen McKee 47:54, Elaine Kennedy 58:04, And Obviously Dermot Boyd 1:04:35, Clare Gallagher 1:20:21, Louise Ladd 1:20:21, Mairead O’Hare 1:36:34, Calla Crossan 1:36:35
But I know you’ve scanned quickly down through all that running nonsense just to get to the Alan Erwin Quiz.
First of all, last week’s answer – Alan Erwin. So well done again if you got that one.
This week’s question is:
Which Harrier takes a Paw Patrol friend (Chase, obviously) to bed to help them sleep?
Answers to itsalanagain@compuserve.com
I can’t find any decent tunes about Antrim (nope, not doing that one about green glens) so here is one about a garden. And it’s a tune. And I know these links are thinner than my highlight reel but give me a break. Run somewhere with better links!
“Freeze, freeze, thou bitter sky, that dost not bite so nigh as benefits forgot: Though thou the waters warp, thy sting is not so sharp as friend remembered not.”
No, not the thoughts of the modern day philosopher, Taylor Swift, but actually some auld fella called Shakespeare. Not sure what he was on about to be honest but it was definitely baltic this week. It was so cold that Lee and Micky only went out running twice some days.
Taking on the surviving parkruns this week:
Waterworks parkrun:
Eloise McAuley 24:49 and 2nd female finisher, Micky McAuley 25:00, Lord Ian Brennan 26:36, ADav 26:37, Suzanne Brennan 29:04, Joanne Milne 34:08, Martin McCready 40:24
Victoria parkrun:
Tom Fleming 16:25 and second finisher, David Graham 17:39, Stevo Armour 19:03PB, Robbie ROTM Gould 19:08PB, Sharon Dunn 24:52
Wallace parkrun:
Stephen Semple 24:51, Maeve Kennedy 24:53PB, Elaine Kennedy 29:55
Ormeau parkrun:
Johnny Carey 22:15, Nuala Muldoon 24:07PB, And obviously Dermot Boyd 32:26, Anita Piatek 36:31
Stormont parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 27:28
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Joseph Eager 9:15, Matthew Hawkins 10:46, Coach Sinead O’Hare 11:16
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Leo McAuley 7:50 and first finisher, Eloise McAuley 8:13, Caleb Ladd 15:17
So no other racing this week, given the conditions. But, have no fear, not even the weather gods can stop the juggernaut that is the Alan Erwin Quiz.
First of all, last week’s answer – Alan Erwin. So well done again if you got that one.
This week’s question is:
Which Harrier is frightened by white chocolate and raspberry scones, if toasted?
Answers to the usual address.
So, I can’t cope with any more songs about cold and ice, etc so here is a tune because it is good. That’s it.
A new year miracle today as the sun actually shone on the Mallusk Harrier XC event, a bit. But at least the rain stayed away. And the wind. And the snow. Result! Mud was still there though. And those hills. And the mud. Did I mention the mud?
First of all, a late result off the Vidiprinter as Coach Sinead O’Hare’s Born2Run Loughall time is finally available. Sinead completed the 5k in 27:27.
David Graham 19:13, Robbie ROTM Gould 22:44, Sean Doherty 25:16, Kevin Donnelly 25:17, Joe Mathers 26:30, Cathy Ryan 27:28, Jim Hewitt 29:28, Susan Thompson 30:20, Sharon Dunn 31:21, Joanne Milne 33:45, Terri Ganley 34:20, Clare Gallagher 40:47, Louise Ladd 40:48
Wallace parkrun:
Anton Piatek 26:40, Elaine Kennedy 29:34
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 26:01
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Tom Fleming 16:28PB and first finisher, Stephen Murphy 22:26, Stephen Semple 23:56PB, Joseph Eager 24:18PB
And we even had a Winter tourist as Lauren Penman completed the Edinburgh parkrun in 32:00. Only the 626 runners in this one!
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Joseph Eager 9:48, Matthew Hawkins 12:13, Riley Kerr 12:21, Andrea Bradley 15:04, Rhys Kerr 15:48
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Aaron Ladd 11:04PB, Caleb Ladd 14:05PB
A quieter week (until today!) for other racing.
David Esler, Head of International Operations, completed the Trinidad & Tobago Shine 10k in 1:09:09. I’ll have to double check but I think this is a club record for this event. Well done David!
You are now officially in charge of organising our first Harrier warm weather training camp.
Slightly closer to home, Coach Sinead O’Hare continued her Run Forest Run campaign, completing the Tollymore 5k in 27:38. And Obviously Dermot Boyd completed the 10k event in 1:11:11.
But the big event of the week was the Mallusk Harriers XC League event on home soil. Full results will be available via the event’s own Facebook page but the Harrier times were as follows:
Primary Boys 800m:
Kayden McClelland 2:50, Andrew Scott 2:57, Kobe McClelland 2:58
Primary Girls 800m:
Eloise McAuley 2:39, Alice the legend McAuley (turns out that is her real name) 5:17
U13 Boys 2k:
Leo McAuley 8:02
U13 Girls 2k:
Emily Murphy 9:18, Coach Sinead O’Hare 11:06
U15 Girls 4k:
Mali Skillen 22:06
Ladies Race 6k:
Dawn Blain 29:57, Sharon Dunn 33:59
Men’s Race 8k:
Lee O’Boyle 29:17, Prof Alan Ladd 31:16, Michael Crossan 32:09, David Graham 32:28, Andrew McNevison 32:31, Kevin Donnelly 33:15, Patrick Shields 33:32, Robbie ROTM Gould 33:39, Sean Doherty 33:40, Stevo Armour 34:18, Stephen Gallagher 34:41, Johnny Carey 38:41, Brendan McGeown 40:42, Alan Kerr 40:46
Fair play to all who took part, Harrier or not. The event continues to grow and has become a real credit to the club.
Huge congratulations to Paul and Leanne and all those who were involved in the organising before and during. It’s not easy making it look that easy!
And many thanks to all those who volunteered on the day. Even big Marty who went on his hoop.
But the other big news of the week is the answer to last week’s quiz question. Well, the answer was Alan Erwin. So well done to everyone who got that one.
An even harder question this week in the Alan Erwin quiz:
Which Harrier has named all their toes?
Send your answers to alanistheanswer@hotmail.com
Answer next week.
So, this week’s tune is for everyone who ran the XC today. We feel your pain.
Hopefully by this stage you’ve finally finished off the last of the brie and the Christmas cake and the new year’s resolutions are still intact. My resolution to stay off PBs for the whole year is working really well so far. Just need to hang in there.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Valley parkrun:
Johnny Carey 23:38, Alan Stewart 25:01, Ciaran Hawkins 28:56, Paul Skillen 29:08, ADav 29:08, Joanne Milne 30:24, Owen Fulton 33:23, Martin McCready 56:29
Waterworks parkrun:
Joe Mathers 24:25, Jim Hewitt 25:04, Lord Ian Brennan 25:36
Victoria parkrun:
Alan Erwin 22:23
Antrim parkrun:
Stephen Semple 24:37, Maeve Kennedy 24:40, Elaine Kennedy 30:06
Carrick parkrun:
Stevo Armour 19:51 and third finisher, Alan Kerr 25:09, Sharon Dunn 28:40
Stormont parkrun:
Robbie ROTM Gould 20:09, Rab Gould 21:35
Colin Glen parkrun:
Neil McCready 22:59
Jordanstown Junior parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:33, Joseph Eager 10:52, Matthew Hawkins 13:27, Riley Kerr 13:29, Andrea Bradley 15:03, Rhys Kerr 19:12, Alice McAuley 20:52, Eloise McAuley 20:52
And congratulations to Riley on completing your 50th junior parkrun and to Eloise on completing your 150th!
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Caleb Ladd 15:17PB
Other racing this week started way back on Monday 2nd (remember then? when you were still on your holidays!!) with the Expleo Festival events:
3k:
Leo McAuley 12:11, Eloise McAuley 12:53, Calum Murphy 16:20
5k:
Tom Fleming 16:18 and 5th place overall, Emily Murphy 21:27, Coach Sinead O’Hare 24:58, Aidy Hughes 26:03, Clare Gallagher 35:11PB
10k:
Prof Alan Ladd 36:08PB, Stephen Murphy 45:37PB
A few hardy Harriers headed west to take part in the rescheduled City of Derry Spartans XC League event yesterday:
Juniors:
Leo McAuley 1.5k 6:08 and 6th place
Eloise McAuley 1k 4:14 and 5th place
Senior Men:
David Graham 26:12, Sean Doherty 27:11, Kevin Donnelly 27:25, Stephen Gallagher 28:15
And well done to all (junior & senior) for travelling to represent the club so well.
Also out west were Lee and Aidy who took on the latest Sperrin Harriers trail league event, An Creagan 5 mile:
Lee O’Boyle 28:31PB, Aidy Hughes 45:22
The latest Born2Run trail race at Loughall also took place this week:
5k:
Coach Sinead O’Hare (time not yet available)
10k:
And Obviously Dermot Boyd 1:12:26
But never mind results and PBs, what you all want to know is, what was the answer to last week’s quiz question? Well, the answer was Alan Erwin. So well done to everyone who got that one.
A harder question this week though:
Which Harrier watches the first Alvin & the Chipmunks movie on a weekly basis?
Send your answers on a postcard to:
The Alan Erwin Quiz
Pebble Mill
Birmingham
B16 2FU
And one last reminder about the club’s very own XC event next week. One more chance to enter or volunteer or both.
So, this week’s tune is to encourage you to step up and get involved at the XC next week.
If you don’t then I will give you this tune every week for the rest of the year. You have been warned.
Apologies for the lack of reports over Xmas. Being the elite athlete that I am, (stop sniggering at the back) I was away at a high altitude training camp over the holidays. Bet the Hill Tavern’s never been called that before.
So quite a few parkruns to catch up on:
Christmas Eve
Valley parkrun:
Tom Fleming 17:00 and first finisher, David Graham 19:37 and second finisher, Marty O’Neill 19:56, Leo McAuley 22:59PB, Eloise McAuley 24:06 and first female finisher, Alan Stewart 25:17, Sharon Dunn 26:29, Aidy Hughes 27:16, Marie McBrien 28:16, Coach Sinead O’Hare 28:38, Neill McGlinchey 29:32, Jasper Brooks 33:05, Roisin Brooks 33:09, Anton Piatek 43:23, Anita Piatek 49:01, Martin McCready 51:54, ADav 1:00:51
Waterworks parkrun:
Sean Doherty 22:42, Kevin Donnelly 24:40, Suzanne Brennan the Younger 25:18
Antrim parkrun:
Maeve Kennedy 24:11, Stephen Semple 25:28, Elaine Kennedy 32:07, Stephen Murphy 33:32
Larne parkrun:
Alan Kerr 25:55
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 23:32
Stretford parkrun:
Owen Fulton 32:07
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Rory Mason 26:54
Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun:
And obviously Dermot Boyd 31:57
Hillsborough Forest parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 25:31
Christmas Day
Valley parkrun:
Stevo Armour 20:31 and third finisher, Craig Goodall 23:50, Ben Davidson 24:47, Sharon Dunn 28:45, Marie McBrien 28:56, Neill McGlinchey 29:06, Bernard McKeaveney 29:40PB, Coach Sinead O’Hare 29:45, Emily Murphy 29:46, Calum Murphy 30:15, Stephen Murphy 30:16, Clare Gallagher 40:12PB, Martin McCready 57:31, ADav 57:55, Joanne Milne 57:56, Carrie Murphy 58:27
Waterworks parkrun:
Robbie ROTM Gould 19:50, Rab Gould 21:34, Neil McCready 21:53, Joe Mathers 25:12, Kevin Donnelly 25:23, Maeve Kennedy 26:51, Stephen Semple 26:53, Lord Ian Brennan 27:06, Leo McAuley 28:32, Eloise McAuley 28:35
Derry City parkrun:
David Graham 18:46, Johnny Carey 22:45PB
Wallace Park parkrun:
Elaine Kennedy 31:43
New Year’s Eve
Valley parkrun:
Tom Fleming 17:06 and first finisher, Aidy Hughes 27:18, Marie McBrien 27:37, Coach Sinead O’Hare 28:17, Cathy Ryan 28:44, Ciaran Hawkins 30:11, Roisin Brooks 31:10, Clare Gallagher 38:45PB, Martin McCready 58:30
Waterworks parkrun:
Robbie ROTM Gould 21:14, Rab Gould 23:02, Suzanne Brennan the Elder 28:45, ADav 28:45, Anita Piatek 45:23, Anton Piatek 50:49
Portrush parkrun:
Rory Mason 26:54
Ormeau parkrun:
And Obviously Dermot Boyd 32:19PB
Antrim parkrun:
Stephen Semple 24:48, Maeve Kennedy 25:03
Carrickfergus parkrun:
Alan Kerr 25:31
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 28:12
Stormont parkrun:
Stephen Murphy 26:46, Emily Murphy 27:09
Colin Glen parkrun:
Ciaran Wright 23:56
New Year’s Day
Valley parkrun:
Alan Stewart 24:40, Neill McGlinchey 28:52, Martin McCready 48:17, Calla Crossan 55:49, Terri Ganley 55:51, Clare Gallagher 55:52, ADav 57:24, Joanne Milne 57:25
Waterworks parkrun:
Lord Ian Brennan 24:35, Cathy Ryan 27:08
And congratulations to Cathy Ryan who started off 2023 with her 200th parkrun.
Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:29 and second finisher, Andrea Bradley 13:59, Matthew Hawkins 14:11
And the award for full attendance at all 4 parkruns over the holiday season goes to Martin McCready, ADav, Maeve Kennedy and Stephen Semple.
But there was plenty of other racing over the holidays to help burn off those Xmas calories.
On Boxing Day, we had 2 representatives at the Greencastle Oliver McCullough 5 mile race:
David Graham 31:27, Ciaran Wright 36:42
On the same day, 2 other Harriers were at Brocagh Bay:
5k
Aidy Hughes 25:34
10k
Kevin Donnelly 38:11 and 6th overall
There were several masochistic Harriers at the annual Newcastle AC Castlewellan Christmas Cracker pairs event. Even the Brennans!
Aaron Stevenson +1, 1:20:08, Andrew Nevison +1 1:13:15, Gareth McLoughlin & Stephen Gallagher 1:35:17, Anton Piatek +1 1:39:29, Lord & Lady Brennan 1:43:12, Bernard McKeaveney +1 1:50:13
Elaine Kennedy took part in the EAMS B2B 10k event on 30th and 31st with times of 1:03:37 and 1:02:24.
On NYE, David Graham finished off the year in style completing the Lough 5 miler in 31:10.
But no better way to shake off the hangover and start the new year than with the traditional Ballymena Runners Race over the Glens. Obviously, I was nowhere near this nonsense but several Harriers were:
Lee O’Boyle 44:25 and 9th place overall, Aaron Stevenson 55:36, Stephen Gallagher 56:16, Ciaran Wright 1:02:21, Anton Piatek 1:02:46, Alan Kerr 1:09:30, Bernard McKeaveney 1:13:06
And breathe…
So that’s 2022 finished and 2023 already started.
Training starts back on Tuesday 3rd and don’t forget to sign up for our own XC event on Sunday Jan 15th (you can run or volunteer but its even better to do both!)
I still don’t like any of you but just to help ease in the new year I am starting a new segment for 2023. It’s called the Alan Erwin Quiz. Each week there will be a general knowledge question and the answer will be given in the following report. There are absolutely no prizes as I am not paid for this rubbish.
So this week’s question – Which Harrier shares their birthday with some other people?
The answer to this very first ever Alan Erwin Quiz question will be published next week. Bet you can’t wait. And please don’t post the answer on Facebook (Aidy).
So, this week’s tune is for me and everyone who feels like me after those Xmas celebrations.
Training cancelled, roads too icy to run on, even XC was cancelled.
I decided to switch my training up a bit because of it. Instead of a morning run I did some strength work. By strength work I mean that I watched Die Hard. Alone. All in one go. With no interruptions.
It is not a Xmas movie. It is THE Xmas movie. End of conversation.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 22:23, Stephen Murphy 24:41, Coach Sinead O’Hare 25:39, Marie McBrien 28:51, Cathy Ryan 29:08, Joanne Milne 32:42, Sharon Dunn 32:43, Roisin Brooks 33:02
Waterworks parkrun:
Robbie Gould 20:17, Rab Gould 21:28, Lord Ian Brennan 23:44, Maeve Kennedy 24:28, Owen Fulton 32:18
Antrim parkrun:
Tom Fleming 16:57PB and first finisher, Elaine Kennedy 29:54
Carrick parkrun:
Alan Kerr 24:43, Lauren Penman 32:42
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:10 and second finisher, Joseph Eager 11:27, Matthew Hawkins 11:27, Andrea Bradley 17:21
Given that we lost the latest XC league meeting to the weather, there was no other racing this cold and icy week.
So, given this is the last report before the holidays, can I wish both my readers a very merry Xmas.
Here’s a lovely Xmas tune for you. Yes, I have used it before and, yes, it’s from Die Hard. Ho Ho Ho.
And a word of thanks to all the Harriers who took part in the takeover of this week’s event – organising, on volunteering duties, teas and coffees (and biscuits) and handling any unexpected medical emergencies. And a huge thanks to those (Harrier and otherwise) who contributed to the local foodbank appeal. All a credit to the club.
Just shows what can be achieved when Alex doesn’t make a speech.
Waterworks parkrun:
Suzanne Brennan 23:23, Maeve Kennedy 24:53
Hillsborough Forest parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 23:15
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Leo McAuley 8:03PB and third finisher, Eloise McAuley 8:39, Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:00, Calum Murphy 10:39, Emily Murphy 10:41, Joseph Eager 12:47, Matthew Hawkins 13:37
And congratulations to Sinead and Emily on their well co-ordinated 50th junior parkruns.
Our vest from the West, Aidy Hughes, was back in 5k action again yesterday.(I know, shocker). He was in action at the latest Sperrin Harriers Winter Trail event at Lough Fea. Aidy completed the 5k trail course in 27:29.
Also out west yesterday were our hardy mudsucking men’s XC team. The results say it was the latest league event at MUSA, Cookstown. Their reports suggest it may have been Mordor.
Men’s 4 mile race:
Prof Alan Ladd 26:11, David Graham 26:34, Robbie Gould 28:18, Kevin Donnelly 28:19, Sean Doherty 30:52, Rab “the one shoe wonder” Gould 30:55, John McBride 33:00
Being based in Mallusk, it’s hard to come up with decent tune about ice and cold every week for at least 50 weeks of the year. And yet I do. So this week’s song is for everyone who braved the cold – at training, Cookstown, Lough Fea, Woodburn or wherever.
Christmas. The season of goodwill, mince pies, egg nog (whatever that is), Xmas parties and, evidently, leather trousers. Did I miss that meeting?
Martin Luther King Jr, Winston Churchill, Julius Caesar, Abraham Lincoln, Barack Obama.
All legendary public speakers. But move over boys, we’ve a new name for the list.
Those in attendance last night will forever remember the date, the atmosphere, the tension in the room. And that was only to see if Karen could handle the PowerPoint.
Anyhow, we had a great turnout for the Harrier Xmas party last night. The Wee Bistro were excellent hosts, even having the good sense to lock the doors when Alex started speaking.
A special non-sarcastic shout out to Sean Doherty who organised the festivities. Better watch yourself Sean. We’ll have you organising everything now it was that good.
And well done to all our winners on the night. But just remember, we’re all winners really. Even those of you who couldn’t even win the raffle.
Special proper mention to Janet Grew and Sean Doherty who were presented with their prizes for winning the female and men Club Championships.
Firstly, a few late results off the Vidiprinter.
We had a couple of Harriers at the latest Born 2 Run event last weekend at Gosford.
Coach Sinead O’Hare completed the 5k in 27:48 and Obviously Dermot Boyd completed the 10k in 1:11:31.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun:
ADav 20:57 and third finisher, Elijah Cushley 21:41, Eloise McAuley 24:45 and second female finisher, Aidy Hughes 26:29, Claire McCann 48:41, John Teer 1:00:42, Martin McCready 1:00:43
Waterworks parkrun:
Robbie Gould 20:55, Rab Gould 21:48, Coach Sinead O’Hare 23:55PB, Neil McCready 24:46, Jim Hewitt 25:30, Cathy Ryan 27:08, Suzanne Brennan 27:12, Lord Ian “London baby!” Brennan 27:13
Victoria parkrun:
Owen Fulton 34:35
Citypark Craigavon parkrun:
Stephen Semple 23:41PB, Maeve Kennedy 24:00PB
Antrim parkrun (sponsored by Murphys):
Emily Murphy 21:32 and first female finisher, Calum Murphy 28:55, Carrie Murphy 34:28, Stephen Murphy 34:29
Carrickfergus parkrun:
Alan Kerr 25:18
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:51 and second finisher, Andrea Bradley 13:31, Matthew Hawkins 13:39
Yesterday saw the Seeley Cup finish off the road racing season for 2022 and there were some great efforts from the Harriers:
Mark Smith 34:46, Kevin Donnelly 37:53, Paddy Shields 38:52, David Graham 41:14, Stevo Armour 41:34, Ramunas Stanevicius 44:06, Johnny Carey 44:53, Craig Goodall 45:10
Our international team was in action again with a couple of Harriers swapping sunny Mallusk for cloudy Lanzarote. Ken McAuley completed the half marathon in 1:49:12 and Stevie Smyth completed the full marathon in a huge PB time of 3:06:44.
Despite medical advice to the contrary in some cases, several Harriers appeared at the Valley today for the NI Hospice Jingle Team Run:
1k Reindeer Dash:
Matthew Gallagher first place!
5k
David Graham 19:38 and second place overall, Aidy Hughes 27:00, Bernard McKeaveney 33:24, Cathy McLoughlin 37:20, Clare Gallagher 37:33PB, Calla Crossan 46:05PB
10k
Sean Doherty 43:45, Alan Stewart 50:30, John Teer 1:14:35PB, Clare Teer 1:14:37
Apologies to anyone I’ve missed as club name is not recorded in the results. And the eyesight today is not what it should be to review photos.
Also today, Tom Fleming was representing the club yet again, this time at the All Ireland Uneven Age Group XC event in Cork. Tom finished 14th in a field of 129 in a time of 17:11. He was also part of an Ulster team that placed second overall. A real credit to the vest.
I just wanted to finish with one photo that our esteemed Chairman seemed to omit last night.
You’re welcome.
So this week’s tune is for our master of ceremonies, our silver tongued, wordsmith. The man, the legend. ADav.
Many thanks to Work Experience Boy for covering last week. Over the long years of our close association he has progressed, slowly and painfully, from barely adequate to almost readable. Due to this improvement, he has been sacked.
Firstly, a few late results off the Vidiprinter.
We had a huge turnout for last week’s XC event, the Comber Cup, including a few of our recent C25k graduates having their first go at XC. God love them. They may never come back:
U14 Girls:
Emily Murphy 13:54 and third place in age category, Coach Sinead O’Hare 15:56
Martin O’Neill 32:16, Andrew McNevison 33:09, ADav 33:51, Micky McAuley 34:08, Kevin Donnelly 35:12, Stephen Armour 35:56, Sean Doherty 36:01, Robbie Gould 36:20, Stephen Gallagher 37:51, Rab Gould 38:58, Johnny Carey 43:15
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun:
Ciaran Hawkins 27:54, Marie McBrien 27:56, Stephen Curran 29:21, Cathy Ryan 29:51, Terri Ganley 33:23PB, John Teer 36:19, Cathy McLoughlin 37:34, Clare Gallagher 41:19
Waterworks parkrun:
Neil McCready 21:45, Kevin Donnelly 24:09, Suzanne Brennan 24:26, Lord Ian Brennan 24:28
Antrim parkrun:
Johnny Carey 22:11, Maeve Kennedy 24:46, Elaine Kennedy 58:07
Carrickfergus parkrun:
Alan Kerr 25:18
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Tom Fleming 16:45 and first finisher, Robbie Gould 20:05, Rab Gould 21:14, Carrie Murphy 35:06, Stephen Murphy 35:07
Crawfordsburn parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 23:52
Narin Beach parkrun:
Martin McCready 55:47
We had two instances of winter tourists this week and two very exotic locations – Stoke and Salford.
Bernard McKeaveney completed the Hanley parkrun in 24:48. Hanley Park is in Stoke-on-Trent which is in England. Bernard follows in wake of many other Stoke sporting legends such as Sir Stanley Matthews, Phil Taylor, Anthea Turner, Lemmy and Kendo Nagasaki.
Our other tourists headed to Peel parkrun in Salford:
Salford is known for many things but mainly for being the home of Paul Scholes. There is nothing else you need to know.
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Calum Murphy 10:16, Matthew Hawkins 12:40, Joseph Eager 13:18, Andrea Bradley 14:23
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Jessie Smith 11:22, Lexi Smith 12:23PB
A quiet week for other racing as the road season seems to be nearly over. But the mudsuckers were back at it again as Annadale Striders hosted the Malcolm Cup XC league event today at Dub playing fields. We had elites, vets and even a few gents:
U13 Girls 1 mile:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:28
U13 Boys 1 mile:
Leo McAuley 6:40
U15 Girls 2 miles:
Emily Murphy 14:26
Men’s Masters 3 miles:
Alan Kerr 24:00, David Butler 25:10
Men’s Malcolm Cup 4 miles:
Marty O’Neill 25:17, Andrew McNevison 25:26, Micky McAuley 26:36, Kevin Donnelly 27:00, Robbie Gould 27:06, Sean Doherty 28:17, Stephen Gallagher 28:19, Robert Gould 29:04, Brendan McGeown 30:49, Lord Ian Brennan 31:50
And here’s to getting an even larger crew out for the next sizzling XC event – Cookstown on Dec 10th.
Next week’s report will be in the aftermath of the Xmas dinner. So expect it around Wednesday. With legal action likely.
So this week’s tune is from New Order, another of Salford’s finest exports. And I think they used old footage from previous Harriers Xmas dinners in their video.
Another week has come and gone and we’re getting closer to the Christmas party, it has been mentioned that Mr Chairman plans on making no speeches but rumour has it that he does plan on buying everyone a drink, fill your boots folks.
Thankfully a quieter week to report on and thanks to the cav for letting me brush up on my race location knowledge but more on that later.
Taking on the parkruns this week:
Waterworks
Sean Doherty 22:15, Sinead O’Hare 25:15, Lord Ian Brennan 25:16, Suzanne Brennan 25:17, Cathy Ryan 28:20, Carrie Murphy 33:42, Stephen Murphy 33:42, Rosalind Stitt 41:47.
Victoria
Robbie Gould 19:44, Robert Gould 21:13
Antrim
Anton Piatek 25:01, Elaine Kennedy 30:57, Lauren Penman 31:03
Limavady
Johnny Carey 25:16
Hillsborough
Elijah Cushley 26:31
Valley
Ramunas Stanevicius 23:53, Eloise McAuley 23:54 and 1st Female, Micky McAuley 23:55, Stephen Semple 25:01, Ciaran Hawkins 27:08, Marie McBrien 27:43, Neill McGlinchey 28:03, Stephen Curran 28:52, Joe Eager, 29:47, Maeve Kennedy 29:48, Sharon Dunn 30:21, Galina Stanevicius 34:35, Joanne The Lav Milne 34:53, John Teer 37:25
And A Dav was at the Valley 19:55 and 1st male finisher…Moving swiftly on.
On Saturday Dermot Boyd took part in the Annagassan 10k in a time of 1.04:44, Annagassan is in Co Louth and as far as I read it was the 2nd most important Viking settlement in Ireland after Dublin, this Wikipedia is great and if I’ve googled the wrong place I do apologise to the people of Annagassan.
Our Juniors as usual took part in the junior parkruns on Sunday morning at the Waterworks where, Jessie Smith 11:45, Lexie Smith 14:01, Alice McAuley 20:54, Eloise McAuley 20:54, Taking part at Jordanstown where, Calum Murphy 10:41, Joe Eager 13:15, Andrea Bradley 13:55, Riley Kerr 14:06, Rhys Kerr 17:36.
Today was another instalment of the cross country league at Billy Neil playing fields for the Comber Cup, it was a bitterly cold day but that didn’t stop our 8 women and 10 men teams braving the cold to put in some brilliant performances, the women’s race was over 6k and men over 8k of rolling hills and countryside, Unfortunately there aren’t any result posted yet by Ballydrain Harriers the hosts so these will follow in due course but a very well done to you all.
So this weeks tune is for all those at todays XC who are eventually defrosting and starting to feel their fingers and toes again.
Only 6 weeks to Christmas folks! Time to go looking for those running gifts that seem a good idea at the time. But aren’t. Hope you have enough drawer space to stuff them in from January.
More importantly, only 3 weeks to the Harrier Xmas Dinner. I promise that if the event sells out, I will ensure ADav does not make a speech. If that isn’t enough incentive then I don’t know what is.
BYO maybe????
Firstly, a few late results off the Vidiprinter.
Also running at Minnowburn last week was Coach Sinead O’Hare. Sinead completed the 5k distance in 28:17.
And Obviously Dermot Boyd completed the Ballynahinch Run to Remember 5k in 34:14.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun:
David Graham 18:55 and second finisher, ADav 21:53, Alan Stewart 24:17, Joseph Eager 24:52PB, Stephen Semple 25:37, Neil McCready 26:25, Coach Sinead O’Hare 27:11, Ciaran Hawkins 28:08, Anton Piatek 28:12, Neill McGlinchey 28:23, David “I’m back” Esler 28:28, Cathy Ryan 29:31, Joanne Milne 30:59, Helen Agnew 31:08
Tom Fleming 16:18PB, Martin “sub-18” O’Neill 17:56PB
Wallace parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 22:39
Ormeau parkrun:
Robbie Gould 19:14PB, Rab Gould 21:13
Antrim parkrun:
And obviously Dermot Boyd 32:58
Carrickfergus parkrun:
Alan Kerr 25:35
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 25:15
Castleblaney parkrun:
Elaine Kennedy 32:40
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Emily Murphy 7:56 and second finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:06, Calum Murphy 10:34, Ben Halliday 11:24, Andrea Bradley 13:54, Zari Warren 15:38, Matthew Hawkins 21:35, Joseph Eager 21:36
Victoria junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 9:03
On Wednesday night, some of our newer Harriers donned the headlamps and Hi-Vis to represent the club at the Run in the Dark at Stormont.
Yesterday, 3 Harriers headed west to Davagh to take part in this 10k event as part of Sperrin Harriers Winter League Series:
Lee O’Boyle 35:38 and second place overall, Kevin Donnelly 40:29, Micky McAuley 40:42
Well done to all, but especially Lee on another podium finish for the club.
And yesterday, our very own Mark Smith swapped his blue and green vest for an international one as he represented NI at the British & Irish Open International Masters XC (basically XC for really fast old people). Mark finished a very respectable 29th in a time of 30:04. Congrats Mark and big thanks for representing the club so well at international level.
So this week’s tune is for Mark and his international Masters debut. I hear he’s more of a Petula Clarke man himself but this one has master in the title and if it’s good enough for Eddie Munson then it’s good enough for me.
Not surprisingly, it was a quieter week after all the fun of Dublin last week. Blisters and hangovers being nursed all across Mallusk.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun:
ADav 20:20 and first finisher, Stevo Armour 20:29PB and third finisher, Stephen Murphy 22:58PB, Maeve Kennedy 25:02, Emily Murphy 27:03, Alan Stewart 27:10, Marie McBrien 28:02, Clare Teer 28:36, Neill McGlinchey 28:42, Ciaran Hawkins 28:45, Joanne Milne 31:11, Sharon Dunn 31:11, John Teer 37:15, Anita Piatek 48:12, Martin McCready 58:01
Waterworks parkrun:
Kevin Donnelly 18:18 and third finisher, Jim Hewitt 25:47, Ciaran Wright 30:14, Terri Ganley 34:29, Cathy McLoughlin 38:36, Clare Gallagher 39:07
And congratulations to Kevin on completing his 100th parkrun.
Ormeau parkrun:
Robbie Gould 21:17, Rab Gould 21:31
Antrim parkrun:
Neil McCready 22:08, Rory Mason 25:36
Castlewellan parkrun:
Cathy Ryan 29:41
Carrickfergus parkrun:
Alan Kerr 24:34
Comber parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 23:05
Limavady parkrun:
Johnny Carey 23:26
Not really a tourist run but a new course for a Harrier as far as I know. David Graham completed the Holy Cross College parkrun in Strabane in 17:49PB and was first finisher to boot!
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Leo McAuley 7:47 and second finisher, Eloise McAuley 8:37, Alice McAuley 19:14
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Sinead O’Hare 9:05, Joseph Eager 11:54, Matthew Hawkins 11:55, Andrea Bradley 14:56, Rhys Kerr 17:04
Victoria junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 9:05
In this quieter week, our elites (Juniors) took the spotlight with some great performances at the Uneven Age Groups XC Championships at Finn Valley Centre in Stranorlar, Donegal.
Boys U17:
Tom Fleming 13:57 and 7th place
Boys U19:
Adam McCann 23:29
Micky McAuley also continued his off road racing with a 35:19 result in the NIMRA Run for Rescue race at Donard Park.
Yesterday also saw the latest Run Forest Run event in the Born 2 Run series. This one was at Minnowburn:
10k:
And Obviously Dermot Boyd 1:08:29, Lauren Penman 1:08:42
So this week’s tune is for our juniors. Yes, it is a tenuous link. And, yes, I’m sure the juniors have never heard of this. But they’re still young. They can learn.
In Dublin’s fair city, where the girls are so pretty, I first set my eyes on … a load of Harriers, a lot of smiles, definitely a few pints, a fair few PBs and maybe even some club records. But more later.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun:
Coach Sinead O’Hare 25:03, Joseph Eager 25:04, Stephen Semple 25:05, Maeve Kennedy 25:47, Rory Mason 25:52PB, Marie McBrien 27:24, ADav 28:04, Ciaran Hawkins 28:55, Neill McGlinchey 29:20, Cathy Ryan 30:49, Joanne Milne 30:56, John Teer 37:08, Martin McCready 1:00:57
Waterworks parkrun:
Micky McAuley 19:11PB, Robbie Gould 19:35, Leo McAuley 21:33PB, Eloise McAuley 23:40PB, Lord Ian Brennan 28:54
Definitely 3 Shredded Wheat each in the McAuley household this Saturday! Well done on all getting PBs.
Victoria parkrun:
Mark Smith 17:08
ECOS parkrun:
Tom Fleming 16:48 and first finisher
Wallace parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 23:37
Antrim parkrun:
Alan Kerr 29:36, Carrie Murphy 32:53, Stephen Murphy 32:59, and Obviously Dermot Boyd 33:15
On the tourist front, Elaine Kennedy completed the Poolbeg parkrun in 33:58. This one is at Sean Moore Park in Sandymount, Dublin (see what she did there?). The park is named after an Irish politician and, sadly, not after the drummer from The Manic Street Preachers.
Susan Thompson continued her parkrun tour down under this week with a 27:56 run at Coffs Harbour parkrun. Coffs Harbour is on the Gold Coast between Sydney and Brisbane and is the home of the Big Banana. Yes, the Big Banana. A 15m long sculpture celebrating the region’s history as a banana plantation. It is not yet known if this is the main reason that Susan went to Australia. But we really hope it is.
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Emily Murphy 8:04 and first female finisher, Eloise McAuley 8:17PB, Kayden McClelland 8:45PB, Leo McAuley 9:03, Kobe McClelland 9:13PB, Andrea Bradley 14:22, Coach Sinead O’Hare 14:22, Alice McAuley 15:44, Rhys Kerr 16:04, Riley Kerr 16:05, Joseph Eager 16:05, Matthew Hawkins 16:05
Looks like the Mallusk juniors took over the place!
And
congrats to Rhys on completing his 50th junior parkrun!
Portrush junior parkrun:
Rory Mason 9:55
In other racing, yesterday saw the Saintfield 10k and 5k.
In the 5k, Coach Sinead O’Hare finished in 25:34, Aidy Hughes in 27:44 and Obviously Dermot Boyd in 32:47.
But the big stories this week, like Guinness and wrapping paper, come from Dublin.
20 Harriers were foolish enough to take on the Dublin marathon course on Sunday. And they won!
Lee O’Boyle 2:38:27PB, David Graham 3:13:00, Stephen Gallagher 3:14:28, Neil Campbell 3:14:29, Alan Erwin 3:17:43, Kevin Donnelly 3:24:44, Patricia Curistan 3:25:37PB, Stevo Armour 3:38:27PB, Johnny Carey 3:49:17PB, Alan Stewart 3:50:46PB, Suzanne Brennan 3:55:47PB, ADav 3:55:47, Ken McAuley 3:55:49, Paul Skillen 3:58:14, Karen McKee 4:09:28, Joanne Milne 4:29:33PB, Lord Ian Brennan 4:31:55, Bernard McKeaveney 4:38:26, Angela Stevens 4:54:40, Elaine Kennedy 5:09:32
And I am proud to note we now have new club records for the marathon distance in both our male and female categories. So a huge
congratulations to both Lee and Patricia.
So this week’s tune is for Lee and Patricia, our very own record breakers.
Another week over, another week nearer to Dublin for many Harriers and taper madness is rife. Don’t panic, nearly there folks. But not everyone runs marathons and there was plenty of parkrunning and mudsucking this week too. Taking on the parkruns this week were: Valley parkrun: ADav 21:30, Ramunas Stanevicius 21:33, Neil Campbell 24:52, Clare Teer 29:08, Stephen Curran 29:25, Cathy Ryan 30:00, Neill McGlinchey 30:02, Roisin Brooks 32:36, Ciaran Hawkins 37:01, John Teer 37:32, Andrea Bradley 41:48 And a begrudging congratulations to ADav on completing 350 parkruns. Waterworks parkrun: Lord Ian Brennan 23:24, Jim Hewitt 25:53, Clare Gallagher 40:11 Wallace parkrun: Elijah Cushley 22:29 Antrim parkrun: Stephen Semple 24:38, Maeve Kennedy 24:47, Elaine Kennedy 31:07, And obviously Dermot Boyd 32:07 And we had a real tourist this week. Susan Thompson completed the South Bank parkrun in 38:49. This parkrun is in Brisbane. Brisbane Australia. Where the Bee Gees lived. How far away do you have to go to avoid ADav’s 350th at the Valley?? The parkrun is held in the South Bank Parklands, a lovely area of park and beaches. It is also home to the Ghandi Curry House. Jordanstown junior parkrun: Emily Murphy 8:01 and first finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:41 and second finisher, Calum Murphy 10:11, Joseph Eager 12:39, Riley Kerr 12:40, Matthew Hawkins 12:40, Andrea Bradley 13:08PB, Rhys Kerr 14:49 Waterworks junior parkrun: Leo McAuley 7:34PB and first finisher, Matthew Gallagher 10:23PB, Alice McAuley 15:45PB, Eloise McAuley 20:40 Victoria junior parkrun: Rory Mason 8:51PB and second finisher It’s been a quiet week for racing with not even Aidy nor Dermot getting the vest on. That must be a first! Too busy working on your Halloween costumes gents? But there was finally another day out for the mudsuckers. Yes, XC is back! Hate it or really hate it, there are always a few Harriers ready to dig the spikes out of the attic. The usual routine is “I don’t want to do this; I hate this; I really hate this; that was class, when’s the next one?” Both Robbie and David definitely fell into this category yesterday. Yesterday was the Bobby Rea XC Event at Billy Neill Playing Fields in sunny (genuinely!) Comber. We had juniors, ladies and even a full team of “gentlemen”. U10 Girls 1,000m: Eloise McAuley 3:46 and 6th place U10 Boys 1,000m: Rory Mason 4:01 U14 Girls 2,500m: Emily Murphy 10:33, Coach Sinead O’Hare 11:44 U16 Boys 3,500m: Tom Fleming 10:49 and 2nd place U18 Boys 5,000m: Adam McCann 19:49 (running for St Malachy’s) Senior Woman 6,000m Nuala Muldoon 32:12, Sharon Dunn 33:18 Senior Men 8,000m Mark Smith 30:49, David Graham 32:33, Andrew McNevison 33:31, Kevin Donnelly 33:51, Micky McAuley 34:33, Sean Doherty 34:56, Robbie “used to be white spikes” Gould 35:33, Stevo Armour 36:13, Alan Erwin 38:13, Brendan McGeown 38:58 So this week’s tune is for all the juniors and seniors who tackled the Comber mud yesterday. You should all know better. I know I’ve used this tune before but there only so many mud related songs out there and this one is still an absolute belter. For the melters. https://youtu.be/_nGsT_qFMBs Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR Mudhoney – Touch Me I’m Sick [OFFICIAL VIDEO] YOUTUBE.COM Mudhoney – Touch Me I’m Sick [OFFICIAL VIDEO] Subscribe To Sub Pop’s YouTube Channel http://www.youtube.com/us
So many decisions to make when you’re training and planning for a marathon. Nutrition, race refuelling, shoe choice, race pace, clothing, etc. However, for most Harriers this week it seems to be the choice of pub for the post-race pint. Fair play. Taking on the parkruns this week were: Valley parkrun: Ramunas Stanevicius 21:14, Eloise McAuley 23:55, Nuala Muldoon 24:18, Coach Sinead O’Hare 24:40PB, Anton Piatek 28:02, Marie McBrien 28:08, Cathy Ryan 29:00, Johnny Carey 29:36, Emma Toner 35:44PB Waterworks parkrun: Suzanne Brennan 26:15, ADav 26:16, Joanne Milne 29:35PB Ormeau parkrun: Stephen Murphy 22:16PB Antrim parkrun: Joseph Eager 24:15, Maeve Kennedy 24:56, Elaine Kennedy 31:06 Colin Glen parkrun: Martin McCready 35:09 Jordanstown junior parkrun: Coach Sinead O’Hare 8:35PB and second finisher, Joseph Eager 9:58, Ben Halliday 10:52, Andrea Bradley 16:20 And well done Sinead on a double PB weekend! Waterworks junior parkrun: Leo McAuley 7:53 and second finisher, Hollie Brennan 16:59 Wardown junior parkrun: Rory Mason 8:52 and third finisher Yesterday saw the latest Friendly 5000 event. This one was back with Tafelta AC, our friends in Magherafelt. Not the best conditions but still plenty of great performances in the rain: Aidy Hughes 25:38, Stevo Armour 19:39, Robbie Gould 19:31 and B Race winner, Kevin Donnelly 18:18, Adam McCann 18:10, David Graham 17:56, Tom Fleming 16:13 and A Race winner. Earlier today the Harriers were back in action at the Centra Run Together events in Ormeau Park: 5k: Emily Murphy 23:47 and first female finisher, Aidy Hughes 27:42, Carrie Murphy 33:54, Terri Ganley 34:23, Bernard McKeaveney 34:27, Clare Gallagher 43:47, Calla Crossan 48:17 10k: Bronagh Adjey 1:02:34PB, Hannah Hope 1:02:34 And particular congratulations to all the C25k graduates who were representing the club for the first time. Great to see it. I’ve treated you all to enough musical classics over the weeks and months as well as passing on some essential nuggets of general knowledge. It’s now time you put all that effort to good use and get yourselves out to the club quiz this Friday. You may not know all the answers but seeing how bad the rest of the Harriers are will make you feel better at least! To finish, I was going to pick a track from that “classic” Bon Jovi album, Slippery When Wet, for those who swam around the track in Magherafelt yesterday. However, today really needed recognised as it was the annual outing of Alan Erwin’s “special” socks. Alan, we salute you.
realmenwearpink #sub3pinkies
https://youtu.be/RuWmsg-ihLg Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR The Psychedelic Furs – Pretty in Pink (Official Video) YOUTUBE.COM The Psychedelic Furs – Pretty in Pink (Official Video)
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.
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.
The rain is back, the wind is back and its turning baltic again. Great to see Mallusk returning to its natural state, no longer pretending to be, in any way, warm or inviting. Must be almost XC season then… Taking on the parkruns this week were: Valley parkrun: Tom Fleming 16:51PB and first finisher, Ramunas Stanevicius 21:14, David Graham 23:32, Coach Sinead O’Hare 25:21, Eloise McAuley 25:36, ADav 26:39, Marie McBrien 27:44, Cathy Ryan 28:34, Clare Teer 28:40, Neill McGlinchey 29:08, Bernard McKeaveney 34:50, John Teer 37:58 Waterworks parkrun: Marty O’Neill 18:59PB and third finisher, Nuala Muldoon 24:32, Jim Hewitt 26:02, Lord Ian Brennan 26:15, Joe Mathers 26:16, Joseph Eager 27:43, Maeve Kennedy 27:47, Terri Ganley 34:06, Susan Thompson 37:15, Clare Gallagher 37:48 Antrim parkrun: Robbie “the party” Gould 18:51PB, Stephen Murphy 22:37PB, Rory Mason 24:07, Elaine Kennedy 32:07, and obviously Dermot Boyd 32:42, Carrie Murphy 32:45PB And congratulations Elaine on completing your 250th parkrun! I assume there was cake. Limavady parkrun: Johnny Carey 25:30 Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun: Martin McCready 32:14 Jordanstown junior parkrun: Emily Murphy 7:55PB and second finisher, Coach Sinead O’Hare 9:10, Calum Murphy 10:17, Ben Halliday 11:26, Riley Kerr 12:55, Matthew Hawkins 12:55, Joseph Eager 12:58, Andrea Bradley 14:00, Rhys Kerr 17:14 Waterworks junior parkrun: Leo McAuley 7:46PB, Alice McAuley 18:06PB A couple of late results off the vidiprinter from last Sunday’s Mary Peter’s Festival of Running: 5k race: Emily Murphy 22:31, Aidy Hughes 26:19, Calum Murphy 27:12PB, Carrie Murphy 34:17 10k race: Stephen Murphy 46:59PB (and obviously avoiding getting beaten by the kids!) 20 mile race: David Graham 2:21:43, Stevo Armour 2:48:06, Bernard McKeaveney 3:34:47 Apologies to anyone missed at this event but the results did not include club names (post on Team App to get included folks!). In international news, Lauren Penman took part in the Chicago 5k yesterday. This race is part of their marathon weekend. Lauren finished in 29:12 (and definitely not in 29:16). This morning, our Vest in the West, Aidy Hughes, was at it again, this time at the Les Jones 5k. Aidy collected even more bling with a time of 26:15. Where was Dermot we ask? I was going to pick a Belinda Carlisle classic this week just to annoy Lord Brennan. But there were too many to choose from. So this week’s tune is for Robbie Gould. The boss of party central. Get the dry ice and lasers ready Robbie, we’re all on our way. Just don’t tell his Da. https://youtu.be/Cj8JrQ9w5jY Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
Good to know that things are finally back to normal. I’m back doing the reports, society is falling apart, United are getting stuffed and the boss stood on my toe. I’m not in a good mood.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun:
Tom Fleming 17:00 and first finisher, Elijah Cushley 22:59, Eloise McAuley 23:25PB, Micky McAuley 23:25, Neil Campbell 23:26, Ramunas Stanevicius 23:31, ADav 26:17, Ciaran Hawkins 27:39, Cathy Ryan 28:59, Galina Stanevicius 32:17, Martin McCready 35:10, Clare Gallagher 42:40
Waterworks parkrun:
Neil McCready 22:13, Coach Sinead O’Hare 25:26
Rostrevor parkrun:
Sean Doherty 21:51 and third finisher
Victoria parkrun:
Maeve Kennedy 26:51
Carrickfergus parkrun:
Alan Kerr 24:32
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Rory Mason 24:31
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Joseph Eager 12:06, Matthew Hawkins 12:06
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Hollie Brennan 17:04
A couple of results from last Sunday.
We had 2 Harriers in the Bangor 10k. Doing it for the oldies were Mark Smith 35:30 and Rab Gould 45:34.
David Graham competed in the Finn Valley AC Glenmore 10 Miler, finishing 9th in 59:40
Thursday night was the Citi 5km. Another podium for David Graham as he finished 2nd in 17:03PB.
Also representing the Harriers were Ciaran Wright 19:56, Craig Goodall 20:52, Alan Stewart 21:50PB, Bronagh Adjey 30:18, Emma Toner 33:39, Clare Teer 36:36, John Teer 36:37
Yesterday was the latest running of the popular team event, the Orangefield Victoria Park Relays. This is for relay teams of 4 runners covering 2 mile each.
Our Men’s Seniors Team of Robbie Gould, David Graham, Adam McCann and Stevo Armour finished in 47:40.
Our Women’s Senior team of Hannah Hope, Bronagh Adjey, Marvel Mullan and Suzanne Brennan finished in 1:08:24
Our Men’s Masters Team of Lord Ian Brennan, Rab Gould, Craig Goodall and Mark Smith finished in 52:33.
Our Women’s Masters A team of Karen McKee, Dawn Blain, Pamela McCafferty and Suzanne Brennan (again!) finished in 1:00:50
Our Women’s Masters B team of Maeve Kennedy, Clare Teer, Maeve Dunseath and Patricia Curistan finished in 1:03:49
Another Sunday, another marathon major. No rest for the Harriers’ international division as 4 Harriers took to the gold paved streets of London looking for PBs and Liz Truss’ autograph:
Prof Alan Ladd 2:48:36, Big Mary O’Neill 2:58:35PB, Kevin Donnelly 2:58:59PB and Angela Stevens 4:56:24.
Results for the Mary Peters event today are not yet available and so will be noted next week.
So this week’s tune is for our Londoners. Big congrats on finishing a marathon, a major and, for some, a PB. Gents and lady, we salute you.
And, just to cheer you up, it’s the Smiths. Told you I was in a bad mood.
Another busy week was had by all and the Cavillator must’ve got wind of this and took themselves off for a break, so Cavillator towers has been locked up and all being well will return soon.
The big event of the weekend took place today in Berlin and I’m not talking about the marathon yes that’s right its been rumored that a 5-a-side was talking place but more about that later.
Taking on the Parkruns this week: Valley: David Graham 19:36, Elijah Cushley 22:07, Alex Davidson 25:43, Sinead O’Hare 25:44, Catherine Ryan 29:35, Neill McGlinchey 29:49, Rosalind Stitt 52:31 Waterworks: Kevin Donnelly 19:32, Ciaran Wright 21:12, James Hewitt 27:07, Susan Thompson 27:35 Victoria: Marie McBrien 27:00, Shane McBrien 27:09 Ormeau: Lauren Penman 30:25 Antrim: Maeve Kennedy 24:51, Joe Edgar 26:05, Carrie Murphy 34:05, Stephen Murphy 34:06 Limavady: Johnny Carey 24:15 Sixmilewater: Riley Kerr 38:54, Lisa Kerr 39:03 The ever popular Annaghmore Festival took place on Saturday with Elaine Kennedy taking on the 10K in 59:53, Karen McKee taking on the 18 miles in 2:40.04 and Joanne ‘Lav’ Milne also doing the 18 miles in 3:18.19 Andrew McNevison took on the FEARmanagh long race which is a mixture of running and cycling over a distance of 74km, he did it in a time of 4:19.17 David Graham took part in the Glenmore 10 mile road race after warming up with his 2nd place finish at the Valley on Saturday in a time of 59:40. Suzanne Brennan headed to Bristol just to get away from the Lord for weekend and while there did the Great Bristol Half Marathon in a time of 1:53.27, Rumour has it that the Lord hasn’t eaten in 2 days so please hurry home.
Lee & Mickey headed off to take part in the NIMRA Buzzards Roost race, Lee finished in 1:22.55 and Mickey in 1:27.52, before researching this race I googled Buzzards Roost and now need to delete my search engine, cheers fellas. Anton Piatek took himself off south to tackle the Wicklow Ecotrail 30K, he finished in a time of 4:09.25.
And thankfully last but not least is our Berlin Marathoners, Anyone who has ever tackled a marathon training plan knows how difficult they are, and by the end we all hope that everything has gone to the plan and then you’re ready. All 4 of our runners have stuck to their plans and the results speak for themselves and you should be very proud of yourselves, Alan ‘The big lad at the back’ Erwin 2:59.51, Benny ‘Safe hands’ McGeown 3:29.10 PB, Sean ‘Thor the Norse God’ Doherty 3:29.10 PB, Patricia ‘Wee boots’ Curistan 3:31.35.
This weeks tune is for the Berliners Work Experience Boy Kraftwerk — Das Model Video HD
Sean Doherty 22:58, ADav 23:12, Sinead O’Hare 29:07, John ROTM Teer 40:01, Marie McBrien 44:44, Owen Fulton 54:57
Waterworks parkrun:
Joe Mathers 21:16, Suzanne Brennan 24:21, David Esler 25:46, Claire McCann 33:34, Lord Ian Brennan 36:04
Victoria parkrun:
Dermot Boyd 31:46
Ormeau parkrun:
Stephen Armour 20:21, Sharon Dunn 25:40, Sarah Ross 26:28
Antrim parkrun
Paul Skillen 23:21, Maeve Kennedy 24:26
Sixmilewater parkrun:
Tom Fleming 17:52 and 2nd finisher, Elijah Cushley 21:56, Bernie McAllister 26:40, Andrew McNevison 31:30
And 2 parkrun tourists this week.
Martin McCready was at the first ever Derrynoid parkrun, finishing in 32:44. Well done to the new team at Derrynoid! This one is run in Derrynoyd Forest near Draperstown.
And Maeve Dunseath was at the Donabate parkrun, completing in a time of 26:03. This one takes place in the grounds of Newbridge House in Donabate, just north of Dublin. Newbridge House, a Georgian mansion, was a location for the 1965 Richard Burton film “The Spy Who Came in From The Cold”. (7.6 on IMDB folks!)
Jordanstown junior parkrun:
Elijah Cushley 7:58PB and first finisher again!, Joseph Eager 9:35, Ben Halliday 11:13, Matthew Hawkins 12:01
Waterworks junior parkrun:
Jessie Smith 11:36, Lexi Smith
In other racing this week, Aidy Hughes dug out yet another Tyrone-based deep cut. This time it was the Mountfield Community Association 5k. Aidy finished in 26:34
Alan Kerr completed his tour of the Sperrin Harriers Winter Trail Series with the Parkanaur 10 mile race, the longest of the series. Alan finished in 1:39:06.
Three Harriers took part in the EAMS World Marathon event yesterday, all at the half marathon distance. Johnny Carey finished in 1:50:36 and Elaine Kennedy in 2:15:52 but the result of the day was Prof Alan Ladd who won the event with a crackin’ PB time of 1:20:08.
Results for the Junior East Coast XC event are still to be published so we’ll catch them up next week.
So this week’s tune is for Alan. He completed his win in 80 mins and 8 secs. So here’s an 808 State classic for all the overage cheesy quavers at the club. Glow sticks at the ready…..
A quieter week after the excitement of our XC event last week. 3k time trials and Sunday long runs were enough to keep most of us occupied this week.
Taking on the parkruns this week were: Valley parkrun:
Ben Davidson 22:51, Elijah Cushley 23:01, Johnny Carey 23:10PB, Neil McCready 23:30, ADav 24:01, Sarah Ross 24:04 (and first female finisher), Paul Skillen 26:17, Neill McGlinchey 31:12, Cathy Ryan 32:27, Anita Piatek 34:01, Joanne Milne 36:09, John Teer 38:27, Marie McBrien 41:19
Waterworks parkrun: Kevin Donnelly 21:57, David Esler 24:13PB, Lord Ian Brennan 26:01, Claire McCann 31:46, Martin McCready 32:56
Antrim parkrun: Elaine Kennedy 29:26
Sixmilewater parkrun Bernie McAllister 26:30PB
Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun: Dermot Boyd 31:59 This week’s “tourists” were Stephen Semple and Maeve Kennedy who bravely ventured to sunny Strabane, the jewel of West Tyrone. Stephen finished his first visit to this parkrun in 22:55 and Maeve in 24:06. Strabane is the birthplace of John Dunlap, who we all know printed the United States Declaration of Independence. It is also the home of Hugo Duncan who is, another person.
Jordanstown junior parkrun: Emily Murphy 8:47PB, Sinead O’Hare 10:03, Ben Halliday 12:51, Matthew Hawkins 12:58
Waterworks junior parkrun: Jessie Smith 12:48, Hollie Brennan 14:21, Lexi Smith 14:28
Some of our juniors were running with the big boys (and girls) yesterday at the International XC event at Billy Neill Playing Fields: Under 13 Girls: Emily Murphy 10:18 Sinead O’Hare 11:22 Under 15 Boys: Tom Fleming 10:58
Speaking of tourists, Angela Stevens found somewhere even more exotic than Strabane. Honestly. Angela took part in the Kearsney Striders Half Marathon in Durban, South Africa finishing in 2:40:02. So, here’s a tune to commemorate Angela’s far away efforts. Hope the club vest was on show! And yes, I know this should be Toto. But where’s the fun in that…
https://youtu.be/9J3lwZjHenA Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
Runner of the Month – December Ignoring the temptation to take it easy over the festive period, plenty of Harriers kept up their training during December. Those efforts were rewarded with some brilliant PBs and fantastic race performances. And for one unsung hero all the hard graft finally paid off.
Here are December’s Runner of the Month nominees, and what you had to say about them:
Cathy Ryan caught your attention with a stunning 5k effort. “Outstanding PB performance at Victoria parkrun, showing that all the hard work on Tuesdays does pay off! “Cathy’s time really stood out amongst some really strong performances that day.”
Eloise McAuley and Sinead O’Hare were also mentioned in dispatches. “For fantastic performances at XC and parkruns.”
Dawn Blain’s consistency earned further recognition. “Because Dawn puts everything into her speed sessions.”
Micky McAuley has been a stalwart of cross country season, turning up and shining in every race entered. “Really consistent training block, rounded off with a lung-busting effort at the Christmas Cracker. Been a regular representative of the club at XC events throughout December.” Stephen Gallagher’s bold sartorial statement was impressive in its own right. “Wearing a tutu like no other member at the Christmas Cracker.”
Clare Teer reaped the rewards for her motivation, achieving a superb time. “Hitting a 5k PB, showing the success from her constant commitment and dedication to training. Well done Clare.”
But of course there can only be one winner. A legend with the ability to sniff out any 5k being staged within a 30 mile radius, this Harrier finally got his hands on the much-coveted cup. December’s Runner of the Month is the one and only Aidy “Runner” Hughes. “Feel like he has put in that little bit of extra work over the past month.” “Aidy works hard at training and enters lots of 5k races. He’s a great running buddy and shows so much enthusiasm. Long overdue recognition.” Congratulations Aidy, and well done to everyone nominated!
Apologies for the late report but I took the whole weekend to make sure that Cavillator Towers is lit up like a Heathrow runway. Those reindeers aren’t going to light themselves you know. Worked so hard that I gave myself tinselitus. Sorry. Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun: Ben Davidson 21:45 and 3rd finisher, Johnny Carey 23:24PB, Ramunas Stanevicius 24:06, Stephen Semple 24:39, Paul Skillen 24:41, Maeve Kennedy 24:49, David Esler 27:15, Alan Erwin 27:16, Clare Teer 38:47, John Teer 38:48, Gemma Fowler 38:48, Marie McBrien 41:30
And a big congratulations to Clare Teer on achieving her 100th parkrun! Victoria parkrun:
Stephen Armour 2036, Sharon Dunn 25:42
Queen’s parkrun: Elaine Kennedy 31:15
Falls parkrun: Lord Ian Brennan 24:37
Wallace parkrun: Dermot Boyd 32:25
Ormeau parkrun: Kevin Donnelly 20:29
Comber parkrun: Elijah Cushley 23:19
Sixmilewater parkrun: Tom Fleming 17:39PB and 2nd finisher And ADav was back at the Valley again, finishing in 22:33.
Jordanstown junior parkrun: Joseph Eager 8:27, Matthew Hawkins 10:52
The only other racing this week was back on the mud. This time it was the Acorns AC XC event at MUSA, Cookstown. Belfast’s fittest family, the McAuleys, had a nice wee day out. U10s Eloise McAuley 1:29 (2nd place overall and 1st female finisher) U12s Leo McAuley 3:13, Sinead O’Hare 4:03 Men’s Race Micky McAuley 30:55 Sperrin Harriers Winter League trail series. Lough Fea Alan Kerr 25.38
So, this week’s tune is to settle one Xmas argument before it even starts. Yes, Diehard is a Xmas movie (his wife is even called Holly for Santa’s sake). Yes, it is the best Xmas movie. End. Of. https://youtu.be/OR07r0ZMFb8 Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
This week it wasn’t just me suffering from wind as several parkruns also felt the effects. But that didn’t stop our XC teams or road racers as you will see below. It’ll take more than Arwen to blow them off course. Thank you, I’ll be here all week…..
Firstly, a late result off the Vidiprinter – last week’s XC Comber Cup at Billy Neill Playing Fields. Kevin Donnelly 35:50, Michael McAuley 36:13, Ramunas Stanevicius 36:27, Stephen Gallagher 37:48, Sean Doherty 40:15, Johnny Carey 43:40
Taking on the parkruns this week were: Valley parkrun: Tom Fleming 19:02 and 2nd finisher, Ramunas Stanevicius 23:06, Johnny Carey 23:31PB, Elijah Cushley 26:25, Clare Teer 27:46, Emily Murphy 29:11, Cathy Ryan 32:47, John Teer 40:14
Waterworks parkrun: Joe Mathers 22:03, Kevin Donnelly 23:57, Stephen Semple 24:18, Maeve Kennedy 25:27, Claire McCann 30:54 And we had tourists again this week. 4 Harriers headed east to the music capital of England (not up for debate),
Manchester. Taking part in the Peel parkrun were Stephen Armour 21:53, ADav 22:16, Sharon Dunn 30:34, Joanne Milne 30:35. Many of you will be familiar with Peel Park from the works of LS Lowry, obviously. But you may be more surprised to learn that the park was not named after famed DJ John Peel. Although it bloody should be.
Jordanstown junior parkrun: Joseph Eager 8:58 and 3rd finisher, Matthew Hawkins 13:39
Waterworks junior parkrun: Eloise McAuley 8:52 and 2nd finisher, Leo McAuley 10:05, Jessie Smith 12:59
There was yet another outing for the mudsuckers this weekend as several Harriers, both junior and senior, competed in the Malcolm Cup at Queens Dub playing fields. U13 Girls: Emily Murphy 7:14, Sinead O’Hare 8:28 Men’s Masters: Alan Kerr 24:37 Women’s Race: Sarah O’Kane 24:46, Pamela McCafferty 25:08, Gemma Fowler 33:23, Hannah Hope 33:23 Men’s Race: Kevin Donnelly 26:17, Micky McAuley 27:29, Stephen Gallagher 28:51, Alan Erwin 28:57
But there was other racing this week too. Elaine Kennedy and Matthew Carvill took part in the Born2Run Loughgall 10k, Mathew finishing in 50:35 and Elaine in 59:25. And Dermot Boyd finished the Joe Duffy Clontarf 5 mile road race in 49:33.
I tried to think of a decent song about wind but I’ve done both of them before. So this week’s tune is for the famous four who headed to Manchester and are now declared the Harriers own version of ABBA. Enjoy. https://youtu.be/XEjLoHdbVeE Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
Well, have you spent your £100 voucher yet? Have you spent it on gifts for the runner in your life? Or someone else’s life? How could you let another Xmas go by without a hilarious quote on a mug? Or a hat with a built-in lamp? Or Suzie Brennan socks? Just remember folks, buy local!
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun: Ramunas Stanevicius 24:01, Emily Murphy 26:22PB, Paul Skillen 26:23, Joe Mathers 27:26, Lord Ian Brennan 27:26, Clare Teer 28:06, Neill McGlinchey 29:33, Joanne Milne 30:22, Sharon Dunn 30:22, Roisin Brooks 30:38, John Teer 39:20, Marie McBrien 44:55
And well done Joanne on completing your 100th parkrun. Despite your Friday night training regime!
Waterworks parkrun: Kevin Donnelly 18:51, Stephen Semple 24:32, Maeve Kennedy 24:59, Ciaran Wright 25:49, Sinead O’Hare 27:18, Claire McCann 28:59, Neil McCready 29:42, Mairead O’Hare 41:27 (welcome back Mairead!)
Wallace parkrun: Dermot Boyd 32:08
Antrim parkrun: Elaine Kennedy 29:27
Comber parkrun: David Esler 24:28
Hillsborough Forest parkrun: Elijah Cushley 23:11
And we finally had a tourist again this week. Obi Wan McCready was at Deerpark Forest parkrun, finishing in 37:20. The results stated this parkrun was in Virginia so I had visions of Marty running up the Blue Ridge mountains or crossing Chesapeake Bay. But no, he wasn’t in the home of the Algonquian and Laurel and Hardy, he was in County Cavan. So fairly similar then, just not as far away. Jordanstown junior parkrun: Joseph Eager 8:22 and 2nd finisher, Emily Murphy 9:02 and 1st female finisher, Sinead O’Hare 10:17
Waterworks junior parkrun: Leo McAuley 8:42 and 1st finisher, Eloise McAuley 8:45 and 2nd finisher, Kayden McClelland 9:09PB, Kobe McClelland 9:38PB, Hollie Brennan 14:55
And great to see some family battles at the front end of this parkrun. And ADav was at the Valley finishing in 22:30
There was another outing for the mudsuckers this weekend as several Harriers competed, mainly for survival, in the Comber Cup at Billy Neill Paying Fields.
Unfortunately, results are not available until tomorrow so I’ll have to update next week. And as usual, Tom Fleming was representing the club at national level, this time at the National Cross Country Championships in Santry. Tom finished in a more than respectful 36th place in the U16 4k race in 14:12. So, this week’s tune is definitely not related to any recent footballing stories. (Come on, it’s been a quiet week on the running front!). And it’s a chance to play an absolute belter. Pity Utd can’t do the same.
https://youtu.be/SnkjvECEQr4 Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
Some Harriers claimed that Ballyboley Forest was haunted. Some told chilling tales of the ghostly cries of children heard in its woods. Some were heard screaming this morning but only with laughter when one of our hardy Sunday trail runners took a nosedive into the mud.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun: Ben Davidson 21:20, Joe Mathers 22:10, Elijah Cushley 23:16PB, Paul Skillen 23:21, Eloise McAuley 25:03PB (and 2nd female finisher!), Clare Teer 27:51, Galina Stanevicius 29:53, Ramunas Stanevicius 29:54, Joanne Milne 29:55, Marie McBrien 33:24, John Teer 39:15
Waterworks parkrun: Kevin Donnelly 19:28, Johnny Carey 22:50PB, Joseph Eager 23:36PB, Lord Ian Brennan 23:49, Maeve Kennedy 24:38, David Esler 27:36, Claire McCann 29:59
Victoria parkrun Ciaran Wright 22:56
Antrim parkrun: Elaine Kennedy 31:06 Queen’s Glasgow parkrun: Sarah Ross 25:38 Jordanstown junior parkrun: Sinead O’Hare 11:20, Matthew Hawkins 12:18 Waterworks junior parkrun: Leo McAuley 9:20, Eloise McAuley 11:11, Hollie Brennan 13:59
And ADav was at the Valley finishing in 23:20 Also on Saturday was the Born2Run Minnowburn 10k. Bernard McKeaveney finished in 55:18 and Dermot Boyd in 1:07:17.
It was another XC weekend for the mudsuckers. For most that meant Ballyclare and the McConell Shield: U14 Emily Murphy 7:40, Sinead O’Hare 8:33 Ladies 3 mile: Suzanne Brennan 24:10, Sharon Dunn 27:17 Men’s 5 mile: Micky McAuley 34:59, Alan Erwin 36:36, Stephen Armour 36:52, Sean Doherty 38:20, Brendan McGeown 38:48, Jonny Smith 40:17, Alan Kerr 44:37, Aidy Hughes 44:57 Tom Fleming was representing the club at the big boys XC, the NI & Ulster Uneven Ages XC Championship in Stranorlar. Tom finished an amazing 6th in the U15 Boys race in 11:30
Last, but certainly not least, Angela Stevens was at it again, this time completing the Tour of the Island Half Marathon around Islandmagee in 2:33:21.
So, this week’s tune is for the unnamed Harrier who hit the soggy deck this morning. But remember, its not about falling down, it’s all about how you get back up and keep going. (Just remember to pause your watch though).
https://youtu.be/v5zav2yrC7M Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
The shops are full of mince pies and selection boxes and the television is full of toy ads. It must be Halloween already! That reminds me though, Social Boy needs some more names down for the Harrier Xmas Dinner.
Why not take this opportunity to share some festive cheer with your favourite Harriers and see how they look in real clothes (answer is the ladies look amazing and the gents, unfortunately, look exactly the same). Bad jokes, bad dancing and bad behaviour are all guaranteed so get on the merch store and buy some tickets for Dec 4th. Now.
Taking on the parkruns this week were:
Valley parkrun: Ben Davidson 21:22 and 3rd finisher, Stephen Armour 22:22, Sarah Ross 23:50, Lord Ian Brennan 24:14PB, Suzanne Brennan 24:17, Joe Mathers 25:19, Elijah Cushley 28:15, Clare Teer 28:31, Anton Piatek 29:20, Galina Stanevicius 29:42, Ramunas Stanevicius 29:43, Marie McBrien 30:18, Joanne Milne 30:19, Sharon Dunn 33:24, Owen Fulton 33:25, John Teer 39:17
Waterworks parkrun: Kevin Donnelly 20:57, Elaine Kennedy 28:57
Victoria parkrun: Stephen Semple 24:04, Maeve Kennedy 24:21 ECOS parkrun: Tom Fleming 18:18PB and 3rd finisher, Peter Fleming 22:26PB Portrush parkrun: Nikki Fleck 30:10 Ormeau parkrun: Emily Murphy 28:00
Antrim parkrun: David Esler 26:38
Limavady parkrun: Johnny Carey 22:53
Jordanstown junior parkrun: Joseph Eager 8:22 and 2nd finisher, Sinead O’Hare 10:20PB, Matthew Hawkins 13:57
Waterworks junior parkrun: Leo McAuley 8:33, Eloise McAuley 8:34PB, Emily Murphy 8:56PB, Jessie Smith 12:45PB
And ADav was at the Valley finishing in 26:06
XC season continued yesterday with the North Down AC Festival of Cross Country. The Harriers were represented at both junior and senior level:
Primary School Boys: Jack O’Neill 7:07 Primary School Girls: Sinead O’Hare 8:40 U13 Girls: The unstoppable Sinead O’Hare 18:21 Senior Men: Micky McAuley 26:50, Alan Erwin 27:22
Our perfect cousin was at it again this weekend. Kevin Donnelly took part in the Armagh 10 mile road race this morning. His unofficial time was 1:02:13
And I should also mention the achievement of Prof Alan Ladd and his brother Jonny. They both ran from Wheatfields Hospice in Leeds to Bolton Hospice in, er, Bolton. A distance of only 51 miles with a few inclines (i.e. The Pennines) included for fun!
This was to raise funds for both institutions who have looked after family members in the past. So, this week’s tune could have been for Alan. It could have been for the XC juniors, it could even have been for Kevin again. But no, this week’s tune is for Roseann and Marie. 2 Harriers who loved the Sunday trail run so much that they decided to try and stay in the forest all day. The rest of us did 6 or 7 miles. They did…. more.
One lap is never enough is their new motto. Ladies, we salute you (when we can find you). https://youtu.be/xik-y0xlpZ0 Until next week, behave. CAVILLATOR
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
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!
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.
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
