Sunday 23rd July 2017.

 

You can run them, you can walk them or you can crawl them; but the hill will remain a hill. In the heat of battle under a scorching sun, concentrate your thoughts to the job at hand. You have a choice. You can throw in the towel, or you can use it to wipe the sweat from your face. Chose the latter.

Tuesday 18th July 2017.

Portaferry 10 mile & Relay.

10 mile:
On a hot bright summers evening on the Strangford Riviera, with shades covering eyes as if a scene from a Quentin Tarantino movie. Sarah McCafferty powered home in 1.32:45 for the 10miles, with mum Pamela McCafferty a few seconds behind in 1.33:06.

5X2 Relay.
Putting their rivalry aside for one evening and joining forces for the team event were Mallusk’s version of Asafa Powell and Usian Bolt: Danny Donaldson / Matthew Cromie with an excellent 1.07:48. Eyeing up the pubs on the way around were one half of Alex Davidson / Dave Gibson in 1.13:22, with Hillary Faith / Alastair Houldsworth in 1.19:46. Tiffany Donaldson / Lisa Marie White were a great pairing in 1.43:26, Mairead O’Hare / Tony McKeating with a fine time of 1.44:54, and Angela Stevens / Dermot Boyd 1.47:10 completing a good evening for the club.

Saturday 22nd July 2017.

parkrun.

Carrickfergus:
Before they enjoyed a slap up breakfast (this collator is led to believe), Mallusk Harriers Susan Thompson 24:13 & Ken McAuley 24:18 made space for it, by burning a few calories at the Carrick parkrun.

Clonakilty:
Quite possibly the most south westerly parkrun in Ireland, saw Mallusk’s Janet Grew around the showgrounds in 26:38.

ECOS:
Harrier Dawn Dubois found herself as the club’s only representative in Ballymena this weekend in a time of 41:53.

Enniskillen:
In lake land for Mallusk this weekend was Dermot Boyd in 32:24.

Limavady:
In the North West on Saturday for Mallusk were husband and wife team Louise Ladd 30:56 & Alan Ladd 30:57.

Ormeau:
Harrier Stephen Weir’s first trip to the Ormeau Park saw him around the 5K course in 29:29.

Portrush:
Paddling their feet along the east strand were Mallusk’s Stephen Semple 24:10 & Maeve Kennedy 26:50.

Telford:
A visit to the West Midlands for Harrier Elaine Kennedy on Saturday with a time of 28:27.

Valley:
Mallusk’s Laura Rose was 1st Harrier at the local parkrun and with a PB in 23:39. Terrence McIvor close behind also with a PB 23:54. Noel Bloomfield arrived next 24:27, with Owen Fulton 25:08. Junior Harrier Ethan Hutchinson with a PB 26:04. Clare Teer 26:21, Neil McGlinchey 26:51, Martin McCready 26:59, Gemma Fowler with a PB 27:16, Lee Ann Hutchinson with a PB 30:!6, Junior Harrier Ryan McCready 41:24, Neil McCready 41:25.

Victoria:
Team Davidson were out in full force for Mallusk in the east of the city, as junior Harrier Ben Davidson hit a PB in 22:36, followed by dad Alex 22:37. Ben’s two sisters were next Sophie in 31:19, with Chloe 31:39.

Waterworks:
Harrier Patrick Hamil in 25:29 was home 1st for Mallusk, with Sharon McCavana 25:55, Roisin Brooks in 28:39. Fiona Wylie 31:58, Tracey Whittley 33:03, Rosalind Stitt 34:02, Debbie Sterrit 34:15, Jennifer McCoppin 34:39, Alyson Taylor 35:17, David McCavana 36:08, Deirdre McCann 41:11 & Miriam Clarke with a PB 41:11, Margaret Craig 41:26, Joanne Haddock 41:43.

Dervock 10K 
In the quaint village of Dervock among the North Antrim countryside the scene was set for Springwell’s festival of running. In the 10K for Mallusk was Brian McDonald in good form finishing in 51:31. With Jackie McCreesh 1.04:25. Fidelma McCoppin & Marie McFarlane tying in 1.04:27.

Dark Hedges (Dervock) Half Marathon.
Team Mallusk on location like its HBO legendary television series Game of Thrones saw them tackle an undulating route of country roads, narrow twisting lanes and of course those famous tourist filled Dark Hedges on The Drones road; a bonus for our touring Harriers as Danny Donaldson arrived 1st for Mallusk in 1.29:54. Next was Alan Kerr with a PB in 1.51:52, as Nuala Muldoon closed in with a time of 1.52:07. Close behind came Deborah Ewing with a course PB in 1.53:35, with Tina Steele a course PB in 2.00:27. Nothing could separate Anna Marie Nolan & Matthew Allen as they crossed the line together in 2.01:49, with Catherine Boyd a step behind in 2.01:50. On their tails was Joanne Milne in 2.01:53, with young sister Sharon Dunn 2.04:57. Skipping their way through the Dark Hedges and eventually to the finish were Kelly Carlisle 2.35:14 & Tiffany Donaldson 2.35:17.

Sunday 23rd July 2017.

Snowdonia Trail Half Marathon:
This half marathon ascends Wales highest peak, with iconic, spectacular scenery as well as a challenging course. Mallusk’s Elaine Kennedy circumnavigated the 13.1 mile course in 3 hours 25 mins.

Another good week for the club.

Until next week.

Stay Safe…

The Insider.

Club Report: Sunday 16th July 2017.

 

On the 8th August 2017 Wimbledon Men’s Singles Champion Roger Federer will be 36 years of age. He has won 19 Grand Slam titles, the most by any male tennis player and like 37 year old Venus Williams this year’s Wimbledon Ladies Single’s runner up, in the twilight of his career. So what keeps sports people like Federer and Williams at the top of their game?

All great athletes regardless if they are tennis players, runners on the track or road are totally focused on sporting perfection; blocking out distractions, whether it be competitors, expectations, nerves, weather conditions, past mistakes or the implications of future results; but importantly they master their emotions.

We have all heard of the phrase, being in the zone. Some of us claim to have experienced it. When everything within clicks into place and your body is a well-oiled, tuned up machine and nothing will prevent you from powering across the finish line.

So next time you lace up for a run, starve your distractions and feed on your focus.

Tuesday 11th July 2017.

Congratulations to junior Harrier Adam McCann on winning the 1 mile race at Killough in County Down. Adam is a real jewel for our club.

Killough 10K:
Martin McCready was 1st for Mallusk on a beautiful summer’s evening by the shore in a time of 43:58. Anna Marie Nolan was 2nd Harrier home in 53:43, with Elaine Kennedy 3rd in 56:40. Only a few seconds separated Lisa Marie White 1.00:03 and Rosin McLaughlin 1.00:13.

Friday 14th July 2017:

Sea 2 Sky. 5K/10K. 
Through the foothills of the Mournes and along the shore at Newcastle’s seafront, Mallusk Harriers stormed across the finish line on Bastille Day. Dermot Boyd running the 5K arrived in 33:45.

The 10K saw King of the mountains Danny Donaldson powering home 1st for Mallusk through the rain in 44:09, almost a minute ahead of Alex Davidson 45:10. Dave Gibson next in 46:49. Mallusk’s Queen of the Kingdom of Mournes was Nuala Muldoon in 51:43. Owen Fulton arriving 54:02, Noel Bloomfield 55:37, Clare Teer 59:58, Nikki Fleck 1.00:21, Jennifer Butler 1.01:09, Neil McGlinchey 1.03:50 who seemed far too comfortable crossing the finish line. Leeanne Skillen 1.08:14, Laura Campbell 1.08:15, Tiffany Donaldson 1.09:57, Mairead O’Hare 1.19:04.

Saturday 15th July 2017:

parkrun.

Antrim:
Mallusk’s Alan Kerr 23:04 was 1st Harrier home on the banks of the Six Mile Water. Cole Barrington next in 40:12, with Anna Marie Nolan & Ethan Barrington 40:20. Dawn Dubois came next in 41:53.

Bangor:
A trip to the seaside saw Mallusk’s Ken McAuley tackling a Poo Bear after finishing his parkrun in 21:21. Susan Thompson crossed the finish line as 1st lady overall in 22:55, Elaine Kennedy arrived next in 28:04.

Comber:
Enjoying the County Down countryside were Harriers Kelly Carlisle 43:09 and Joanne Haddock 44:04.

Ecos:
In Ballymena Martin Keenan had plenty of Harriers for company this week as he crossed the line in 24:45. Marie McFarlane & Jackie McCreesh bot arrived in 29:10. Fidelma McCoppin 30:00, Fiona Wylie a PB 31:06, Maeve McGinley 31:18, Jennifer McCoppin 33:40, Rosalind Stitt a PB 34:14, Deirdre McCann a PB 36:22, Aimee Hughes 40:40, Margaret Craig 40:58, Miriam Clarke 41:10, Mairead O’Hare 41:11.

Portrush:
On the sand, on the East Strand this week was Kelly Forsythe with the crashing of the Atlantic surf for company, arriving in 31:02.

Victoria:
Mallusk’s Mark Smith finished 2nd overall at Victoria with a phenomenal 17:33. Nothing could separate Catherine Boyd & Matthew Allen in 24:21.

Valley:
1st home for Mallusk was Brendan McGeown at the local parkrun in 26:00, Junior Ethan Hutchinson next 27:04, Yasmin Lynn 29:25, Clare Teer 29:43, Lee Anne Hutchinson 30:48.
parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteer Owen Fulton.

Waterworks:
Danny Donaldson 22:45 was once more 1st Harrier home at Waterworks, but had to gas it as Neil Campbell with a PB 22:46 was a second behind. Neil McCready a PB 23:22, Alex Davidson 23:23, Patrick McGuickin 23:54, Stephen Semple 24:03, Paul Skillen 24:40, Nuala Muldoon 25:02, Patrick Hamil 25:21, James Hewitt 25:32, Junior Jack McCready 25:39, Ian Brennan 26:00, Maeve Kennedy 26:56, Martin McCready 37:32, Tiffany Donaldson 38:14, Alan Ladd 39:34.

Running isn’t about being better than someone else.
It’s about being better than you used to be.

Until next week.

Stay safe…

The Insider.

Club Report: Sunday 9th July 2017.

The will to win is nothing, without the will to prepare. Therefore, if you are going to win any battle you have to do one thing. You have to make the mind run the body. Never let the body tell the mind what to do. The body will always give up. It is always tired, in the morning, the afternoon and the evening; but the body is never tired if the mind is not tired.

Seek and run towards your goal….

Thursday 6th July 2017.

North Coast 10K:
The Atlantic coast in Portrush saw Mairead O’hare break a PB in this 10K race with a time of 1.13:32. Also running was Elizabeth Peeples in 1.30:03.

Saturday 8th July 2017.
parkrun.

Antrim:
Mallusk’s Alastair Houldsworth 1st parkrun at Antrim’s Loughshore saw him home in 20:58. Alan Kerr with a PB 22:51, Michelle Ker with a PB 27:42, Kelly Forsythe with a PB 27:49.

Carrickfergus:
One who was fighting fit in Carrick was Mallusk’s Ken McAuley as 1st Harrier home in 21:53, with Susan Thompson 23:23, Elaine Kennedy 29:28, Louise Ladd 33:37, Alan Ladd 41:05.

Colin Glen:
Pairing up again were Harriers’ Neil Campbell 21:20 & Martin McCready 28:16.

Ormeau:
Mallusk’s Fdelma MCoppin was 1st for the club at Ormeau and with a PB 28:53. Jackie McCreesh 29:30, Marie McFarlane 29:31, Fiona Wylie 33:50, Rosalind Stitt 33:51, Jennifer McCoppin 35:05, Deirdre McCann 35:59.

Roundshaw Downs Croydon.
South London was the place to be seen for Harrier Tina Steele as she crossed the line in 30:01.

Stretford Manchester:
The Stretford end saw Harrier Owen Fulton on his Manchester debut 36:27.

Valley:
Junior Harrier Ben Davidson at the local parkrun hit a PB in 23:25. Alex Davidson & Brendan McGeown 23:26. 1st lady overall was Laura Rose and with a PB in 23:57, Nuala Muldoon 25:23, Junior Ethan Hutchinson with a PB 26:25, Neil McGlinchey 27:49, Yasmin Lynn 29:11, Noel Bloomfield 30:27, Lee Anne Hutchinson with a PB 30:40, Maeve McGinley 32:53, Terrence McIvor 33:12, Junior Sophie Davidson 34:27, Junior Chloe Davidson 34:39,. The elusive Duncan Baxter 36:22, Mal Quail 40:50.

parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteers Jennifer Butler, Paul Skillen.

Victoria:
In the east of the city at Victoria Harrier Joe Mathers arrived in an impressive 20:12

Waterworks:
Stephen Semple was Mallusk’s 1st runner home in 23:15. Ian Brennan with a PB 24:17, James Hewitt 25:43, Patrick Hamil 26:04, Maeve Kennedy 26:29, Lisa Marie White 29:19, Junior Ryan McCready 29:30, Neil McCready 29:32

parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteers Danny & Tiffany Donaldson.

Sunday 9th July 2017.

The Great Rosa Run in the village of Ardboe Tyrone, is viewed as one of the most picturesque races in the west of the province. Along with a great medal, T-shirt and slap up spread afterwards.

5K.
1st for Mallusk in the father and son battle was the old man himself Neil McCready in 23:00, Junior Harrier Jack McCready just behind in 23:39, with Mairead O’Hare 35:56.

10K.
Mallusk’s Anna Marie Nolan impressed with a great time of 51:35, Sam Hastings shortly behind in 52:52, with Joanne Milne 53:42.

Half Marathon.
Patrick McGuckin was 1st Harrier home in 1.38:10, with Alan Ladd 1.39:16. Martin McCready 1.40:10 who again pipped Stephen Semple 1.49:48 who was seeking revenge for last year’s event.

Until next week…

Stay safe folks…

The Insider.

 

Club Report: Sunday 2nd July 2017

Welcome July.
The summer night has a smile of light,
And she sits on a sapphire throne.

Friday 30th June 2017.

Ards Half Marathon:
On the ‘Ards Peninsula Harrier Mark Smith continued his fine form with a sublime 1.20:01. Exceptional again from Joanne Milne with a sub 2 hour in 1.59:37, Clare Teer free from the shackles of school life for the summer months impressed with a PB in 2.00:33. Joe Mathers arrived next in 2.01:11, with Sharon Dunn 2.04:12, Hillary Faith 2.10:49, and Neil McGlinchey 2.23:08. Nothing could separate Laura Campbell & Leeanne Skillen as both arrived in 2.25:41, with Kelly Carlisle home in 2.30:47.

Saturday 1st July 2017.

parkrun.

Antrim
:The Six Mile River, saw Mallusk’s Catherine Boyd with a repairing left wing and a PB in 24:55, Tina Steele 25:29, Janet Grew with a PB in 25:53, Dermot Boyd with a PB in 30:04, Kelly Forsythe 32:18, Michelle Kerr 32:24, Dawn Dubois 38:32,Elaine Kennedy 40:53.
parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteer Elaine Kennedy.

Bangor:
Making Bangor rock was Martin McCready with a PB in 24:21.

ECOS:
Harrier Martin Keenan at Ballymena with a time of 26:34.

Falls:
A slight change to the course still saw Ken McAuley with a PB in 21:01 with Susan Thompson in 22:53.

Valley:
The local parkrun saw Mallusk’s Alex Davidson upped the gears again with a time of 21:58, Joe Mathers next in 23:33, Laura Rose 1st Mallusk Lady with a PB 24:11, Brendan McGeown 24:39, Alastair Houldsworth 25:03, Sarah McCafferty 26:37, Pamela McCafferty 26:44, Junior Ethan Hutchinson with a PB 26:57, Nikki Fleck with a PB 27:11, Ciaran Skillen 27:12, Yasmin Lynn with a PB 27:19. Well done to Neil McGlinchey in his 100th parkrun with a time of 29:34, Neil Campbell 29:40, Clare Teer 30:01, Lee Ann Hutchinson with a PB 30:55, Roseann McGeown with a PB 31:21, Marie McFarlane 32:03, Laura Campbell & Leeanne Skillen 32:33, Claire Hamilton with a PB 34:01, Maeve McGinley & well done to Junior Anna McGinley in her 1st parkrun 34:41. Fiona Wylie with a PB 34:43, Jennifer McCoppin 36:14, Mairead O’Hare 36:37, Junior Ella McGinley with a PB 37:24, Rosalind Stitt 37:33, Joanne Milne 37:39, Patricia Kane 38:36, Junior Aimee Hughes 43:29, Miram Clarke 46:23.
parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteers Alex Davidson, Nuala Muldoon, Paul Skillen.

Wallace:
In Lisburn Mallusk’s Alan Ladd cantered around the 3 mile course in 35:39.

Waterworks:
Queen Mary’s Gardens at the Waterworks saw Harrier Stephen Semple home in 24:05, Patrick Hamil 24:56, Maeve Kennedy 26:24, Darren Linton 29:49.

Until next week.
Stay Safe…

The Insider.

Club Report: Sunday 24th June 2017

As nine Harrier Gladiators began the 24 parkruns in 24 hours. It was first blood to the New Zealand All Blacks against the British & Irish Lions. In Aotearoa – The Land of the Long White Cloud – Maori culture plays a significant part of everyday life. As both teams lined up on a cool winter’s evening in Auckland’s Eden Park, the challenge was thrown down to the northern hemisphere tourists and a Kiwi collator dedicated it to a Mallusk Band of Brothers….

Te Timatanga (Haka)

If you aim for the sky you will reach the mountain peaks.
Climb up and thrive along the pathway of knowledge.
For you will achieve excellence spiritually, mentally and physically.
___________________

Wednesday 21st June 2017.
Under a heavy laden sky, amid a hot and humid evening on the summer solstice, the Lisburn 10K and Half Marathon took place.

10K:
1st in for Mallusk was Joe Mathers in 44:51, with Stephen Semple 50:53. 1st Mallusk lady was Catherine Boyd 53:31, with Nikki Fleck 55:49. Maeve Kennedy in 58:10 and Dermot Boyd 1.06:00. Alyson Taylor & Nicola Hunter Boyd tied on 1.09:07, with Mairead O’Hare 1.19:12. Lisa Thompson arrived in 1.21:41 with Elizabeth Peeples just behind in 1.22:22.

Half Marathon:
Another remarkable time for Mallusk Harrier Mark Smith in 1.21:07, Danny Donaldson next in 1.34:14. Excelling in the heat was Mallusk’s 1st lady Patricia Curistan in 1.46:03. Stephen Weir was next in 1.59:42. Joanne Milne crossed the line in 2.01:39, with Emma Fagan close behind 2.02:06. Anna Marie Nolan 2.04:04. Clare Teer enjoyed the final few miles to finish in 2.09:58, with Sharon Dunn 2.12:05 and Hillary Faith on her tail in 2.15:29. Karen Jamison next in 2.22:54, with Tiffany Donaldson 2.32:39.

Saturday 24th June 2017.

parkrun.
Antrim:

At Lough Neagh Alan Kerr was 1st for Mallusk in 23:09, Catherine Boyd with a PB in 25:01 and Nikki Fleck 26:23.

Derry City.
On the shores of Lough Foyle and the starting point of 24/24, young Harrier Christopher Campbell gave his father Neil a great send off with a time of 26:54. Laura Rose just behind 26:55, Elaine Kennedy 27:35. Johnathon Ladd (24/24) 28:00, Michael McAuley (24/24) 28:01 with Martin McCready (24/24) a PB 28:01, Paul Skillen (24/24) & Noel Bloomfield tied in 28:02. Three more 24/24 runners Patrick McGuickin, Neil Campbell, Danny Donaldson 28:03, Alan Ladd (24/24) 28:04, Alastair Houldsworth (24/24) and Jennifer Butler 28:05, Alex Davidson 28:06, Tiffany Donaldson 32:33.

Hyde.
Ken McAuley sauntered around the Greater Manchester course in 30:59.

Milano Nord.
The Self Preservation Society was alive for the parkrun in the Milan district of Sesto San Giovanni which saw junior Harrier Jack McCready home in 30:28, Junior Ryan McCready 31:13 and father Neil McCready 31:15, complete an Italian Job minus the minis, Charlie Croker and the Gold.

Valley:
Harrier Dave Gibson smashed a PB in the local parkrun in 22:05, Junior Harrier Adam McCann arrived in 25:29. Owen Fulton next 26:51. Junior Harrier Ethan Hutchinson 27:57, Frances Kane 29:45, Fidelma McCoppin 30:55, Lee Anne Hutchinson with PB in 30:57, Katherine McCloskey 38:11. parkrun volunteer Patricia Kane 52:00.

Victoria.
A Victorian parkrun in East Belfast for Harriers Matthew Cromie 19:47 & Lisa Marie White 28:42.

Waterworks:
Harrier Stephen Semple ambled around the Waterworks in 23:54, with 1st Mallusk lady Sharon McCavana in 25:29. Patrick Hamil 25:58, Maeve Kennedy 27:13, Jennifer McCoppin 34:39, David McCavana 34:58, Deirdre McCann 38:02, Margaret Craig 39:58, Rosalind Stitt 39:59, Joanne Haddock 42:00.

Twin Peaks Half Marathon Newry:
This unique event started in Camlough village climbing the 423 metre Camlough Mountain and the 576 metre Slieve Gullion Mountain, before eventually picking up the Ring of Gullion Trail. Mallusk’s Nuala Muldoon was our solitary entry with a terrific time of 2.32:43.

Wild Air Inflatable 5K.
Enjoying the inflatables that were dotted around Stormont for the 5K challenge were Ethan and Cole Barrington along with big sister (sorry mother) Anna Marie.

Sunday 25th June 2017.

24in24.run
Well….
They did it. 24 parkruns in 24 hours. 72 miles and countless more driven by a tremendous support crew came to an end with a final 3 mile (5K) run around the Lakeland forum on the shores of Lough Erne at a little after 10.15am. Just over 24 hours but still under 25 hours, which saw the Mallusk Band of Brothers start on the banks of the River Foyle at 9.30 the day before and proceed in a clockwise direction to take in the six counties of Northern Ireland.

What lies behind you,
and what lies before you,
are tiny matters,
compared to what lies within you.

(Maori Proverb)

Well done guys….

Until next week
Stay safe.
The Insider…

Club Report: Sunday 18th June 2017.

The starting point of all achievement is desire. Without desire there is no heart, without heart there is no will. The will to succeed is in everyone. Some may not have found it yet. Others have and embrace it. You must expect great things from yourself before you can execute them. Ultimately, with self-discipline, all things are possible.

Friday 16th June 2017.

10K Comber:
In the evening race in the County Down market town Mallusk’s Mark Smith romped home in 36:18, with Clare Teer 56:18, Ian Simpson 1.02:10, Dermot Boyd 1.05:36.

Saturday 17th June 2017.

parkrun:

Antrim.
Alan Kerr 23:02 was 1st for Mallusk on the shores of Lough Neagh. Deborah Ewing next in 24:12, with Michael McFarlane 24:33, Tina Steele 25:16, Marie McFarlane got a PB in 29:53, Tracey Whittley 29:54, Alyson Taylor 29:05, Fidelma McCoppin 29:59, Dawn Dubois 41:39.

Bangor.
Tasting the salt air in the County Down seaside town Mallusk’s Matthew Cromie hit a sub 20 in 19:55, with Lisa Marie White 32:07

Clermont Waterfront Orlando Florida.
In the Hiawatha Preserve Fiona Wylie claimed the furthest travelled Harrier for this week with a time of 31:54.

Ecos.
Ballymena’s Ecos saw Harrier Martin Keenan crossed the line in 24:27.

Enniskillen.
In Lakeland another Harrier Patrick McGuckin raced home in 22:41, Martin McCready with a PB in 23:22, Paul Skillen 25:58, James Hewit 26:41.

Ormeau.
On the sweep of the Lagan Ken McAuley was 1st Harrier with a superb 21:14, Susan ‘Gin’ Thompson with a PB in 22:23 and Elaine Kennedy with a PB 27:31.

Portrush.
Mallusk’s Nikki Fleck tried her hand at beach running on the East Strand with a time of 26:43.

Valley.
The Valley saw Harrier Matthew Allen home in 22:48, Brendan McGeown 24:03, Mallusk Junior Adam McCann in 24:10. Nothing to separate Alex Davidson & Laura Rose as both arrived in 24:30. Noel Bloomfield 25:44, David Mullan 25:49, Owen Fulton 26:08, Jennifer Butler 28:22, Neil Campbell 28:27, Frances Kane 29:36, Lisa Kerr with PB in 30:55. Another two Harriers with PBs Roseann McGeown 32:05 and Claire Hamilton 35:34. Patricia Kane 53:59.
parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteer Patricia Kane.

Victoria.
Harrier Claire Linton tackled Victoria solo in 43:59.

Waterworks.
Young Harrier Robbie Gould 22:14 was first around the Waterworks for Mallusk, with Stephen Semple next in 23:19, Patrick Hamil 25:03, Maeve Kennedy 27:45, David McCavana 36:02, Aimee Hughes 42:01, Joanne Haddock 44:08, Kelly Carlisle 53:08.

Next Week the Harrier Gladiators will undertake a Tour de Force. A feat of great virtuosity as they attempt 24 parkruns in 24 hours.
Find out more at 24in24.run.

Until next week….Stay safe.
And maybe spare a thought for those less fortunate than ourselves. #grenfelltower

The Insider….

Club Report: Sunday 11th June 2017:

Many politicians this week end were found licking their wounds from the turmoil of the General Election, which saw some parties failing to get out of the starting blocks, while several failed to reach the finishing line, with one needing a little help just to break the tape. Mallusk Harriers however, were once more powering over the line without the slightest hint of assistance.

Wednesday 7th June 2017.

Fairhill 5 mile.
Several Harriers took part in this evening race through the centre of Ballymena. Once more Mallusk’s Mark Smith upped the gears for the club in spectacular form finishing in 28:19. Darren Taggart arrived next 37:56, Gillian Bainbridge 45:24, Dermot Boyd 52:03.

Saturday 9th June 2017.

Parkrun.

Antrim.
At Lough Neagh Mallusk’s Deborah Ewing sprinted home in 24:46, with Tina Steele 25:47 and Nicola Hunter Boyd 34:26.

Carrickfergus.
Junior Harrier Cole Barrington finished his parkrun in 35:19, with Anna Marie Nolan not far behind 35:54.

Craigavon.
Lone gunslinger Martin McCready was our solitary Harrier at the City parkrun in Craigavon with a time of 25:20

Valley.
Alex Davidson was 1st for Mallusk at the local parkrun in 22:07, with Paul Skillen having to settle for being 2nd Harrier this week in 26:36. 3rd home for Mallusk was Clare Teer 26:50, with Neil Campbell just behind 26:51. The improving Neil McGlinchey arrived in 27:34. Yasmin Lynn 31:03 and just ahead of Terence McIvor 31:04. Joanne 37:17, Patricia Kane 37:59, Maeve McGinley 43:15.

Victoria.
Venturing east this week for Mallusk were Ken McAuley with an excellent time of 21:17, Susan Thompson who accelerated home in 22:16 and Elaine Kennedy easing back to running in 27:53.

Waterworks.
Mallusk’s Matthew Cromie just missed a sub 20 at Waterworks in 20:37. Robbie Gould next 21:48, with Stephen Semple 24:20, completing the first three Harriers home. Patrick McGuckin 25:21, Sharon McCavana 27:26. While Tiffany Donaldson was on fire with a PB 27:42, with hubby Danny just behind in 27:45. Fiona Wylie 32:31, Deirdre McCann 37:40, Jennifer McCoppin 37:43, Rosalind Stitt 38:16.

Stunnerz n Runnerz.

This ladies only 5 mile race hosted by Sperrin Harriers in Magherafelt got under way at midday. Clare Teer after competing in the Valley parkrun only a few hours earlier, sliced her way through the hills and blasted home in 45:48. Mairead O’Hare was next for Mallusk 1.01:17, with Lisa Thompson 1.03:23 and Elizabeth Peeples 1.05:09.

If Mallusk Harriers were a political party, we’d win every time.

Until next week… Stay safe.

The Insider…

Club Report: Sunday 4th June 2017

Every morning in the animal kingdom, a gazelle wakens up knowing that it must outrun the fastest lion. That same lion wakens up each morning knowing it must run faster than the slowest gazelle. It doesn’t matter whether you are the lion or the gazelle. When the sun comes up – you’d better be running….

Friday 2nd June 2017.

Albertville 4 mile (Duncrue).
Being 1st male over 45 home and 10th place overall was the lighting fast youthful Mallusk Harrier Mark Smith with a time of 22:45. Danny Donaldson was next 24:02 and Neil Campbell 24:50, completed the first three Harriers home. Jim Green arrived in 28:03, with young Susan Thompson 28:13 close behind as 1st female over 45. Paul Skillen cantered in with a time of 29:23. Sam Hastings 31:07, had just enough to keep Owen Fulton 31:08 at bay. Joanne Milne 33:03, Sarah McCafferty 33:13, Clare Teer 33:30, kept Team Mallusk rolling in. The ageless Pamela McCafferty 33:47 became the 1st female over 50 home. Nikki Fleck raced to the line in 35:10, Lisa Thompson next in 36:16, Leeanne Skillen & Laura Campbell shared the tape in 37:41, with Tiffany Donaldson on their tails in 37:43. Roisin McLaughlin 39:11, Roseann McGeown 40:36, Dermot Boyd 41:14, Maeve McGinley 41:26, Mairead O’Hare 44:59, completed a roaring night for Mallusk.

Saturday 3rd June 2017:
parkrun.

Valley:
The accomplishment is that you finished. The triumph is that you had the guts to begin…

Over 100 Mallusk Harriers and Run Newtownabbey descended to the Valley parkrun on Saturday, for the culmination of the club’s couch to 5K.

*Run Newtownabbey – RN.

Junior Harrier Adam McCann continues to inspire being the 1st to the line for Mallusk in 23:03. Dave Gibson 2nd Harrier home in 24:07. 1st lady and 3rd for Mallusk was Laura Rose back to the parkrun circuit with a PB 24:26. Patricia Moore next 28:27 bringing the 1st RN home Gabrielle McMillan also in 28:27, with Sarah McCafferty just behind 28:28. Roger Smith RN 28:36, Nikki Fleck 29:10. Yasmin Lynn RN with a PB 29:10. Terrence McIvor RN also with a PB 29:11.

Darren Linton 30:10. Kerry Smith RN 31:05, Patricia Gallagher RN 31:18, Bronach McAuley 31:43. Junior Harrier Ben Davidson 31:59, Ciara Burnell RN 32:01. Catherine McGrann 32:10, Junior Harrier Ryan McCready 32:20. Lisa Kerr RN & Leeanne Hutchinson RN 32:44, Elizabeth Davidson RN 32:57, Samuel Wheavil RN & Philip Hewitt RN 32:58. Junior Harrier Connor Burns in his 1st parkrun 33:25, Lyndsey Collins 33:44. Debbie Reid RN & Ken McAuley 34:07, Freda Stubbs RN 34:16, Susan Thompson 34:17, Hannah Hope RN 34:26.

Junior Harrier Sinead O’Hare in her 1st parkrun 35:43. Janet Grew 35:44. Tina Steele 35:47. Young Bentley Hodgson RN (terrific name!) in his 1st parkrun 35:48 along with Clare Teer also 35:48. Danny Donaldson 35:58, Heather Bowman RN 37:17, Mark Smith RN 37:31, Karen Jamison 37:32, Sharon Thompson RN 37:45, Neil Campbell 37:47, James Hewitt 37:49, Jackie Kelly RN 37:55, Deirdre McCann 37:56. Young Georgia Milne RN in her 1st parkrun 37:57. Elaine Kennedy & Gillian Bainbridge both brought junior Harrier Ella McGinley home in her 1st parkrun as all three finished together in a time of 37:58. Mal Quail 37:59, Fiona Wylie 38:00, Joanne Milne 38:02. Young Matthew Smith RN in his 1st parkrun 38:07, Tracey Whittley RN 38:15. Junior Harrier Alysha Carson in her 1st parkrun 38:26, Leeanne Skillen 38:27, Claire Hamilton & Carly Acheson RN 38:32. Mary Hodgson RN 38:40, Laura Campbell 38:41, Junior Harrier Mali Skillen 39:07. Young Sophie Bainbridge RN with a PB 39:09 along with junior Harrier Jack McCready also 39:09.

Sara McCloskey RN 40:21, Matthew Cromie 40:26, Michelle Fleming RN 40:27, Ciaran Skillen 40:29, Pamela McCafferty 40:44, Julie Quail RN 40:54, Tiffany Donaldson 40:55. Junior Harrier Elyse Taylor 41:21 in her 1st parkrun, Alyson Taylor 41:26, Maeve McGinley 41:57, Jennifer Butler 42:31. Junior Harrier Aimee Hughes 43:00 in her 1st parkrun. Noel Bloomfield 43:01, Miriam Clarke 43:49, Debbie Sterritt 43:50, Dawn Dubois RN 44:19, Sharon Dunn, Neil McGlinchey & Jackie McCreesh 44:20, Elizabeth Peeples 44:21. Junior Harrier Rory Burns also 44:21 in his 1st parkrun. Young Katelyn Patterson RN 44:49 also her 1st parkrun. Margaret Craig & Sharon Burns RN 44:51.

Breda Hughes RN 45:25, Alex Davidson, Patricia Kane & Neil McCready 45:26, Katherine McCloskey 47:30, Deirdre McCloskey RN 47:31. Wendy McCullough RN 49:38, Mairead O’Hare 49:39, Paul Skillen 49:41. Young Jager Boyd (another great name!) RN 52:33 in his 1st parkrun. Catherine Boyd 52:34, Dermot Boyd 52:48, Frances Kane 1.03:35 (sweeper).

parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteers Alex Davidson, Owen Fulton Frances Kane, Jennifer McCoppin, Nuala Muldoon.

A word of thanks for Alex Davidson who has sweated more than a few calories to fulfil this C25K programme. Through sun, rain, possibly a little bit of thunder and the odd rainbow, Alex has been the voice behind the mic, always offering encouragement and always available for questions. Without Alex, Ian Simpson and countless Mallusk Harrier volunteers, this healthy body and mind programme would not be possible…
Thank you guys.

Ecos (Ballymena).
Mallusk’s Martin Keenan was our solitary Harrier home in 25:05.

Waterworks.
Three Harriers took part at the Waterworks this weekend, which saw Sharon McCavana with a PB in her 50th parkrun in 24:03, a massive congratulations for reaching the half century. David McCavana 36:00, Joanne Haddock 42:00.

Sunday 4th June 2017

Leg it Hazelbank 5 mile / 1 mile.

1 mile event for the juniors at Hazelbank saw Ben Davidson in cracking form 1st home for Mallusk in 6:50. Ellen Butler next 8:15, Christopher Campbell 8:16 and Chloe Davidson 8:17 all pushing for the line. Sophie Davidson 10:03, Eoghan Cromie 10:32, Erin Teer 11:28.

Another amazing weekend for this big hearted running club.

It is though unfortunately we finish on some sad news. This week we learned of the passing of club member Louise Ladd’s mother. All at the club pass on our condolences to Louise, Alan and the extended family circle at this difficult time.

Until next week, stay safe.
The Insider.

Unbeaten, unbowed, unvanquished. #London.

Club Report: Sunday 28th May 2017

It’s been a difficult week…..
Unyielding. Steadfast. Courageous. #Manchester.

…..But we must go on!

Mallusk Harriers Club Report: Sunday 28th May 2017.

Friday 26th May 2017:
Runher Stormont 10K.
With the mercury close to the mid 20s, Mairead O’Hare 1.17:05 and Lisa Thompson 1.27:45 who suffered an extraordinary injury, when her shoe plastic support snapped puncturing the sole and cutting her foot, valiantly managed to finish in the baking Stormont heat.

Saturday 27th May 2017:

Parkrun:
Antrim.
Mallusk’s Stephen Semple accelerated around the Lough Neagh course in 22:55.

ECOS Ballymena.
Another Harrier going solo was Martin Keenan at the ECOS centre crossing the line in 24:47.

Valley.
Junior Mallusk Harrier Adam McCann who has burst onto the parkrun scene, sustained another phenomenal time with a PB in 22:46. Nuala Muldoon arrived next for Mallusk in 24:56.

Victoria.
Another great time by young Ben Davidson and junior Harrier with a PB in 23:49, followed close behind by proud dad Alex 23:57.

Waterworks.
Matthew Cromie arrived first for Mallusk at the Waterworks just missing a sub 20 in 20:07, Patrick Hamil next 26:47, Sharon McCavana 33:57, David McCavana 35:41, Cole Barrington 37:50, Ethan Barrington and Anna-Marie Nolan 39:06.

Ballyclare May Fair 5K / 10K.
With temperatures returning to normal for the time of year, and heavy thunder showers forecast, many Harriers were slightly apprehensive regarding running attire. Thankfully the rain stayed away and the slightly humid conditions produced excellent racing conditions.
In the 5K Mallusk’s Danny Donaldson warmed up for the Newry Marathon with a time of 23:33, Neil McCready arrived next 24:23, Junior Harrier Jack McCready 25:37, Tiffany Donaldson with a PB 28:13. Fiona Wylie 31:07, Mairead O’Hare with a PB 34:23. Deirdre McCann 35:52, Rosalind Stitt 36:04, Patricia Kane 36:05.
The 10K saw Mallusk’s Paul Skillen destroy the Harrier field as he powered home in 44:16. Owen Fulton who fought hard to stay with Paul had to settle behind his fellow Harrier in 45:30. Susan Thompson 45:32 and Neil Campbell a hair’s breadth behind 45:33. Ken McAuley and Brendan McGeowan 46:13. Darren Taggart 48:37, Michael McFarlane 52:56, Sarah McCafferty 54:23, Clare Teer 54:39, Pamela McCafferty 55:28, Nikki Fleck 55:30, Neil McGlinchey 56:08, Ian Simpson 1.00:35, Kelly Carlisle 1.06:44, Dermot Boyd 1.07:12.

Sunday 28th May 2017:
Edinburgh Half & Full Marathon.
Under Arthur’s seat and in the shadow of Edinburgh Castle, one brave hearted Harrier was the first to set off on her half marathon quest. An early 8am start for Janet Grew saw her home with a PB in a magnificent 1 hr 54.
26.2 miles was the Edinburgh number for 4 more of our well-travelled Mallusk Harriers. Patrick McGuickin was the first Harrier home in the marathon with a PB in an excellent 3 hrs 26. Patricia Curistan also a PB in
3 hrs 51, Deborah Ewing a PB in 3 hrs 54, Tina Steele a PB 4 hrs 23.

Newry Half & Full Marathon.
The kingdom of Newry and Mourne welcomed runners from all over the country for the half and full marathons. Mallusk’s Alaistair Houldsworth kicked on as the thermometer began to rise finishing with a remarkable 1 hr 33. Anna-Marie Nolan, and Joanne Milne with a PB, and both under 2 hours in a time of 1 hr 57 respectively. Excellent effort from Sharon Dunn who has been a little unwell since the Belfast Marathon earlier this month, but still a PB with a time of 2 hrs 03.

Newry Marathon.
Hail to Mallusk Harrier Mark Smith who not only PB’d in Newry but managed a sub 3 hrs with an exceptional 2 hrs 55. Dynamo Danny Donaldson was next Harrier home with another PB in 3 hrs 02. Another super effort by Tiffany Donaldson in 5 hrs 18mins. What remarkable young lady Tiffany is. Where husband Danny goes, Tiffany is also there, competing.

Stormont 5K (Cancer Research UK)
Mallusk’s Karen Jamison teamed up with fellow Tesco colleagues (other supermarkets are available) for a worthy charity 5K race. Karen who enjoyed the fantastic event arrived home in 29:01.
Again this club has gone above and beyond, and this collator has run out of superlatives. If I have repeated myself, it’s because there are not enough words in the English language to describe the wholehearted effort put in by all the Mallusk Harriers this week end – regardless of distance.
I trust everyone will enjoy the rest of their weekend, and a little amber nectar or a glass of rouge will be deservedly enjoyed.
Until next week.
Stay safe…
The Insider.

Club Report: Sunday 21st May 2017

Summer is the time of year when we embrace brighter nights and have the luxury to add a little additional training in way of an extra run, or a long brisk walk if coming back from injury. In May and June when the late evening sun is still high, and the sky is the colour of a Constable canvas; pause, reflect and breathe deep the fresh country or salt sea air, for it is that, which we first miss when winter snatches it back.

Saturday 20th May 2017:

Parkrun:
Antrim.
Neil Campbell stormed around the Lough Neagh course with a sub 20 in 19:28. Laura Rose was next for Mallusk with a PB in 23:27. Tina Steele 25:31, Neil McGlinchey with a PB 25:51, Laura Campbell a PB 28:31. Elaine Kennedy 39:53.
parkrun thanks Mallusk Volunteer Elaine Kennedy.

Falcarragh Donegal.
The award for the furthest travelled Harrier for a parkrun this weekend goes to Anna Marie Nolan for her forest run at Ballyconnel on the Atlantic shore and a PB in a time of 24:55.

Falls.
A trip around the Falls for Mallusk’s Fidelma McCoppin saw her home in 30:22.

Stormont.
Mallusk’s Kelly Carlisle was on the lookout for peroxide blondes as she navigated the course at Stormont in 31:04.
parkrun thanks Mallusk Volunteer Mags Mathieson.

Valley.
Dave ‘the power’ Gibson was 1st for Mallusk at Valley with a PB 23:45. Next came a Mallusk Junior in his first parkrun. Adam McCann was also the 2nd Harrier home in an impressive 24:14. Sarah Dinsmore 26:06, Alan Ladd 26:07, Frances Kane 28:40, Alex Davidson 28:56, Ken McAuley 29:27, Mairead O’Hare with a PB 35:15. Patricia Kane 48:34.
parkrun thanks Mallusk Volunteers Patricia Kane, Louise Ladd.

Waterworks.
1st for Mallusk at Waterworks was Martin McCready in 21:22, Robbie Gould close behind 21:35, Junior Harrier Jack McCready with a PB 22:10, along with Danny Donaldson 22:10. Mallusk’s First lady Susan Thompson nursing that calf back to fitness in 22:23, Neil McCready a PB 23:27. Patrick Hamil 25:19, Sharon McCavana 25:54, Junior Ryan McCready 30:23. Runner of the month Tiffany Donaldson 31:28, Fiona Wylie 35:16, Rosalind Stitt 35:17, Deirdre McCann 36:12, David McCavana 37:41, Joanne Haddock 40:05.
parkrun thanks Mallusk Volunteers Catherine & David Mullan.

Lough Neagh Rescue Charity 5 mile.
Missing out on a podium place by just 20 seconds was Mallusk’s Mark Smith in 4th place, completing the Lough Neagh 5 miles in a phenomenal 29:21.

Sunday 28th May, is the date for the Edinburgh Marathon & Half Marathon. Making Edinburgh rock will be Mallusk Harriers Patricia Curistan, Deborah Ewing and Tina Steele in the marathon, while Janet Grew and Elaine Kennedy compete in the half.

An enormous Mallusk Harrier Best of Luck to you all.

Until next week
The Insider….