Find us on Social Media

Club Report: 14th May 2017

That scent of rain on dry pavements is called Petrichor, and it returned this weekend as temperatures cooled and the sky darkened. Mallusk Harriers are however a hardy bunch, wearing the vest come shower or shine, and giving one the excuse….. To run through the puddles.

Saturday 13th May 2017:
ParkRun:

Antrim.
After a couple of weeks break Antrim returned to the parkrun circuit and Mallusk’s Deborah Ewing turned on the speed with an impressive 24:35. Tina Steele not far behind and just missing a PB in 25:20. Martin Keenan 25:48 our only Mallusk male senior as Elaine Kennedy finished in 27:22. Junior Harrier Ethan Barrington arrived next 31:47, with Catherine Boyd a step behind 31:48. Another Junior Cole Barrington 36:48, with mum Anna Marie just behind 38:49.

Falls.
Ken McAuley 30:05, was the solidary Harrier at Falls this week.

Valley.
Mallusk’s Neil Campbell was our first man home in 20:27, with his training buddy Martin McCready 21:38. Patrick McGuickin 23:45, and Nuala Muldoon 24:42 our 1st lady. Mark Hay 25:51, Neil McGlinchey 27:57, Fidelma McCoppin 31:35, Debbie Sterrit 32:30, Patricia Kane 37:25.
Parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteer Owen Fulton.

Waterworks.
Mallusk’s Danny Donaldson appeared to stroll to his 21:37 at the Waterworks, with Stephen Semple next 22:50, Junior Harrier Jack McCready with an impressive 23:24 and Catherine Mullan a PB in 25:33. Patrick Hamil 25:45, Tiffany Donaldson 30:54, Mairead O’Hare impressive with a PB 35:21. Deirdre McCann 35:28, Lisa Thompson 38:56, Elizabeth Peeples 40:19, Joanne Haddock 40:30.
Parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteer Fiona Wylie.

Jengana 10K
At Shanes Castle the Jengana 10K saw Mallusk’s Mark Smith tackle the woodland course in an excellent 37:05.
(no results available for 5K)

As our Couch to 5K participants continue to improve, it is important to remember that there is not any other quality essential to success of any kind as the quality of perseverance. It overcomes almost everything, including nature. Whether you are training for your first 5K or moving up to a 10K. A half marathon, full marathon or demonstrated by some Harriers, an Ultra. Perseverance should be engrained in your soul.

Have a good week….

The Insider.

Sunday 7th May 2017

After the exertion of the last couple of weeks for many of you Harriers. It was back to more familiar territories’ for parkrun this weekend, amid the blazing sun.

Newcastle Upon Tyne
Absent of any fog on the Tyne or Gazza. Mallusk’s Stephen Weir came in 30:03.

Valley:
Neil Campbell arrived first at the local parkrun for Mallusk 20:32, Brendan McGeown 23:26, Ciaran Skillen 23:49, Owen Fulton 24:04, Neil McCready with a PB 24:48. Clare Teer 26:23, Janet Grew 26:49, Tina Steele 27:31, Karen Jamison 28:18, Junior Harrier Christopher Campbell 29:29, Leeanne and Paul Skillen arriving together 30:03. Marie McFarlane with a PB 30:26. Fidelma McCoppin 30:35, Alyson Taylor 30:39, Frances Kane 31:06, Maeve McGinley 32:31, Debbie Sterritt 32:32, Roseann McGeown 33:48, Junior Harrier Leah Skillen 40:49.

Parkrun thanks volunteer Alex Davidson.

Wallace Park
Elaine Kennedy 28:46 and Martin McCready 28:47, paired up for a run around Lisburn.

Waterworks
Mallusk’s Danny Donaldson arrived 1st in 21:38, Stephen Semple 23:24, Patrick McGuckin 23:52, Susan Thompson 24:26, Ken McAuley 24:27, Sharon McCavana 25:30, Catherine Mullan 25:59, Maeve Kennedy 27:17, David Mullan 29:40, Tiffany Donaldson 30:08, Patrick Hamill 31:10, Fiona Wylie with a PB 31:28, David McCavana 34:43, Joanne Haddock 41:23.

Glenavy Milk Run 10K.

Three Harriers travelled for the Milk Run this year, and proving he was pasteurised before you saw him, Martin McCready arrived home for Mallusk in 44:38, followed by Michael McFarlane 53:50 and Elaine Kennedy 56:54.

After strenuous training and racing, it is beneficial for the body and mind to rest. For a field that has been set aside or rested will produce a beautiful crop.

Have a good week.

The Insider.

Tuesday 2nd May 2017

The month turns once more, as the world’s favourite season is spring. Be like the flower and turn your face to the sun. Spring is the time for plans and projects; all things seems possible in May.

Saturday 29th April 2017:

Parkrun

Carrickfergus:
In Carrick Maeve Kennedy proudly wore the Mallusk vest as our solitary runner crossing the line in 26:54.

Colin Glen:
Harrier Alan Ladd, fresh from his Connemara Ultra mission, arrived with in an impressive 21:34.

Ecos:
In Ballymena Martin Keenan tested the Ecos run in 26:31.

Falls:
Elaine Kennedy paired with Belfast Marathon runner Ken McAuley as they both navigated the course in 27:14.

Portrush:
Junior Mallusk Harrier Chloe Davidson tackled a brisk wind on the north coast in her parkrun arriving in 37:02.

Valley:
Arriving on time this week and fresh from his erm… colourful London Marathon experience, Alex Davidson was again first Harrier at the Valley in 20:24. Another Ultra hero Neil Campbell arrived next 22:20, Owen Fulton 24:31, Tina Steele 27:05, Ciaran Skillen 27:07, Neil McGlinchey 21:19, Laura Rose 28:24, Jennifer Butler 28:29, Frances Kane 29:09, Paul Skillen 29:22, Martin (Ultra Man) McCready 29:24, Noel Bloomfield 30:07, Marie McFarlane with a PB 30:48. Patricia Kane 38:28, who has unfortunately been missed by this collator over the past few months since joining the club; a big hello and welcome to the Mallusk Harrier family Patricia. Fidelma McCoppin 46:28.

ParkRun thanks Mallusk volunteers, Ben & Sophie Davidson, Lorraine Anne Forsythe, Fidelma McCoppin.

Victoria:
Mallusk Harriers and husband and wife ultra-runners, Danny & Tiffany Donaldson, ran in the east of the city at Victoria Park. Danny arriving with a PB 19:18, Tiffany 35:42.

Waterworks:
Robert Gould raced to a PB as 1st Harrier home in 20:30 at the Waterworks. Junior Harrier Jack McCready also with a PB 22:43. Neil McCready 24:06, Patrick McGuckin 24:07, Robbie Gould 26:07, Alyson Taylor 29:37, Junior Ryan McCready 33:59, Deirdre McCann 36:01, Joanne Haddock 39:56, Kelly Carlisle 39:57.

Monday 1st May 2017:

Belfast Marathon.
To the east, and before sunrise the sky was the colour of burnt amber, as final preparations began for the start of the 36th Belfast Marathon. Around city hall an army of volunteers arrived at the start for final instructions. Across the city to Belfast Lough and third relay changeover point, the gentle lapping waves on the shore reflected the rays of the rising sun into a milky sky like a million stars in a cloudless night. It was going to be a glorious day….

At the stroke of 9am, Donegall Square North was alive to the pounding of feet as up to 15,000 runners began the long marathon haul of 26.2 miles. The turnout of people who flocked to cheer on the runners was extraordinary. Just over the 3 mile mark and our Harriers were well into their stride. The flush surface of the bypass at Sydenham and City Airport saw them growing into their pace. A slight check if everything is okay. Legs moving well, muscles relaxed, breathing regular. A crescendo of noise marked a relay change at Bridge End. 6 miles a 10K, minds ticking off the first milestone. Once more through the centre of the city, and a slight incline onto Falls, Clonard, but no effect on our hill conquering Harriers. Along Shankill to Oldpark and another little rise, before the descent through Westland. The long gradual elevation along Antrim Road brought the first real mental test to our marathon Harriers. With most now two hours into their run, the sun blazed down at half way, with many seeking shelter in the form of trees from Bellevue. Several Harrier volunteers were welcome faces at the top of Floral Park, with a Mallusk feed station. A sudden drop off as the road tumbles to sea level can catch many out, as the body goes into recovery with less intensity required travelling downhill.

The cool onshore breeze was welcome along the coast before the arduous industrial experience of Duncrue. At 19 – 21 miles this long flat uninspiring part of the course is the ultimate test of mental agility. Come through this section unscathed and less than a 10K remains. The fire station at Garmoyle Street turned their hoses to cool for our hardy Harriers. Another relay point, and with tired legs it was more difficult to avoid being bumped and bruised as relay runners jockeyed for position. A refreshing gentle downhill at the Blue Fish and Oxford Street before the switch back through Lanyon Place to Central Station and the tow path. The sweeping bend appears to run forever while trying to ignore the sound of the finish across the river, so near, but so far, then a bump up onto Ormeau, and a slog up the mile long road, to the jack-knife onto Ravenhill.

A slight smile appears on our Harriers lips as the finish is in sight. ‘Almost there,’ a cry from the crowd. ‘One mile to go,’ shouts another. One mile is 5280 feet, which is 1.6Km. The mind is too tired to think. Just run…. The turn now to the funnel of people on the embankment, but that 0.2 miles is so long. One final push through the gates to the finish, as if a red carpet awaits you and then glory….right to the line!

Our first Harrier home in the intense heat in a remarkable time was Alastair Houldsworth in his first marathon 3.23:59, with Alex Davidson his second marathon in 8 Days, 3.28:00, Ken McAuley arrived next his first marathon 3.43:59. Matthew Cromie 3.44:10, Dave Gibson 3.50:31, and Nuala Muldoon our first lady in her 30th marathon run 3.58:40, Also a Connemara 40 miler was Mickey ‘Ultra Mountain Man’ McAuley in 4.23:00, Sam Hastings in his first marathon 4.27:45, Danny Donaldson a 40 mile Ultra runner from last week 4.30:19, Noel Bloomfield 4.45:06, Joanne Milne in her first marathon 4.49:03, Martin McCready also a 40 mile Ultra runner from the previous week 4.57:59. Sharon Dunn another first marathon runner 4.58:15, as was Gillian Bainbridge 4.59:37. A first marathon for Laura Campbell 5.06:23, and a first for Leeanne Skillen 5.06:42, and May’s Mallusk Harrier Runner of the Month Tiffany Donaldson another 40 mile Ultra runner from last week 5.11:11

The Marathon Relay:
Mallusk Harriers entered 3 teams in the 2017 relay race under the supervision of relay team captain Mairead O’Hare, who proceeded with calm enthusiasm to ensure clockwork precision for each team throughout the entire day.

Team Mallusk 3: 4hrs 24mins 45sec
A Nikki Fleck
B Hillary Faith
C Hillary Faith
D Margaret Craig
E Ian Dinsmore

Team Mallusk 1: 4hrs 39mins 31sec
A Elaine Kennedy
B Neil McCready
C Mairead O’Hare
D Josi McKeating
E Anthony McKeating

Team Mallusk 2: 4hrs 59mins 07sec
A Neil McGlinchey
B Tracey Whittley
C Maeve McGinley
D Maureen Ward
E Elizabeth Peoples

Also taking part in today’s marathon relay were Dermot & Anne Boyd with daughter Catherine.

Team Boyd 4hrs 30mins 54sec.
A Dermot Boyd
B Catherine Boyd
C Catherine Boyd
D Anne & Catherine Boyd
E Catherine Boyd.

It’s not about being the best. It’s about being better than you were yesterday. When you keep your faith, it becomes bigger than any fear. By putting your heart, mind and soul into even your smallest acts, you will find the secret of success….

Mallusk Harriers a small club with an enormous heart….

(Hopefully everyone has been included this week, apologies, if not.)

The Insider….

Footnote: if you have recently joined the club, please ensure you have updated your club name to be included in the Mallusk Harriers weekly club report, otherwise, we may miss you 🙁

Sunday 23rd April 2017

This weekend saw many Mallusk Harriers, testing their mental agility, physical endurance through down right gritted teeth in London and Connemara for Marathon and Ultra Marathon challenges. With the long road ahead many would have stood at the start, lost in their own thoughts, possibly sharing a few reassuring words with a friend or even a stranger beside them, because you’re all in it together. As the seconds’ counted down, a shiver of anticipation run’s through you, with maybe an apprehensive look behind, but knowing there’s no turning back; and then…….

Saturday 22nd April 2017

ParkRun:

Antrim
Tina Steele led the way for Mallusk on the shores of Lough Neagh in 25:40. Fidelma McCoppin next in 30:15. Marie McFarlane 30:27. Fiona Wylie 31.00, Deirdre McCann 36:12. Elaine Kennedy 47:04.
parkrun thanks to Mallusk volunteers Elaine Kennedy, Jennifer McCoppin.

Colin Glen
Enjoying the peace and tranquillity of the Colin Glen Forest Park, were Catherine Boyd and Anna Marie Nolan who both arrived for Mallusk in 26:55, with Dermot Boyd 34:04.

Mile End
Mallusk’s Alex Davidson spent the early part of Saturday morning ransacking the second hand shops in the hipster part of east London searching for a pair of running shorts, before finally managing to negotiate a very tight pair of Bermuda’s. It is rumoured that the shorts only came with a free surfboard and Alex received bemused looks from the locals as the giant bald headed Ulsterman pelted down Whitechapel High Street in his shorts and trainers, with a surfboard under one arm. On arriving at Mile End, a parkrun volunteer whispered, ‘Is this guy carrying a surfboard or is he just pleased to be here.’ Anyway Alex managed to get shot of the surfboard and make new friends, as his Facebook page shows and cantered around Mile End in 43:21. However, The Insider is still unclear if his time was due to either Alex volunteering at parkrun or his tight shorts. Hopefully Alex will have traded them in for a more comfortable pair for the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday. And the surfboard? Lasted spotted floating down the Thames near to Surrey Quays.

Ormeau
Veteran Mallusk Harrier Patrick McGuickin blasted his way to a PB at Ormeau in 18:41

Valley
Mallusk’s Gareth Mcloughlin with a PB 23:13 was 1st Harrier home at the local parkrun at the Valley. Owen Fulton next 24:26, Ciaran Skillen 24:56. Junior Harrier Jack McCready 26:27. Clare Teer 27:14, Neil McGlinchey 27:26, Debbie Sterrit 32:37. Junior Harrier 32:58. Karen Jamison 35:49. Lisa Thompson a PB 40:12, Elisabeth Peeples PB 40:15.
parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteer Neil McCready.

Waterworks
Ken McAuley raced around the Waterworks in a PB 20:25, a sub 20 is not too far away for this Harrier. Robbie Gould 21:21. Mark Hay 24:04, Patrick Hamil 25:12. Lisa Marie White 29:17. David McCavana 33:37.
parkrun thanks Mallusk volunteers Matthew Cromie, Danny and Tiffany Donaldson.

Westport
On a Mallusk Harrier adventure to the west of Ireland arriving in Quiet Man country, five Harriers made a stop at the Westport parkrun. Laura Campbell was our first Harrier home in 28:17, with Leeanne Skillen just behind 28:18, Husband Paul a few seconds behind in 28:36 and Neil Campbell 28:37, with Martin McCready 28:41.

Sunday 23rd April 2017

The Virgin London Marathon
St Georges Day shone bright for the 37th running of the London Marathon and 40,382 competitors received a Royal send off by The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge alongside Prince Harry. Mallusk Harriers sent 10 runners to compete in one of the World’s Marathon Majors. A nail biting finish was in store as a reinvigorated Alex Davidson led the way out of Canary Wharf at 21 miles. Approaching the Tower and the embankment Susan Thompson began narrowing the gap from 5 to 4 minutes. As Alex turned into Parliament Square, Susan had narrowed again by another 30 seconds. The roar of the finish lifted Alex on Birdcage Walk and as he turned on to The Mall with 300 yards to go, he managed to find that little extra in his legs to break the tape in his first marathon with a phenomenal time of 3.24:09. Susan Thompson powered on arriving in 3.27:27 and a marathon PB. Brendan McGeown also with a marathon PB in 3.54:48. Next Harrier home was Matthew Allen in 3.57:49. Another excellent outing for Janet Grew with a marathon PB in 4.17:00. Laura Rose impressive in her first marathon with a time of 4.19:42. Catherine and David Mullan stayed together as a husband and wife pacing team coming in 4.27:38. Jennifer Butler survived her third marathon in 5.08:46. Duncan Baxter who stopped for selfies with a few celebrities along the way eventually finished in 7.23:45.

Connemara Half Marathon and Ultra Marathon
The breathtakingly unspoiled beauty of Connemara in County Galway was the setting of the Ultra Marathon, Marathon and Half marathon. With spring sunshine and temperatures in the mid to high teens, the scenic terrain, undulating hills and deep freshwater loughs the colour of cobalt would on another day been a relaxing day out. However testing the waters for the Ultra next year was Paul Skillen as he tackled the Half. The challenging course which began with a massive hill climb in the first mile, took in part of the Ultra Marathon route and Paul had hills to contend with such as Devils Mother and Hell of the West. The experienced Harrier took it in his stride as he crossed the line in 2 hours 8 minutes.
The Ultra runners did a complete loop of the 39.3 mile course starting at Mamm Cross, before continuing through to Lough Inagh. At the 26 mile point and the start of the Half Marathon they climbed 200 feet at Devils Mother then a long sweeping undulating dissent. However the hills were not finished, with over 30 miles in their legs the Category One Hell of the West brought our Ultra runners up 300 feet before a gradual downhill to the finish again in Mamm Cross. Neil Campbell was our 1st Ultra man home in 6 hours 16 minutes with Alan Ladd 6.26, Martin McCready 6.35, Micky McAuley 6.43. Danny Donaldson 6.54, with Tiffany Donaldson 8.57.

What a week-end for this great club and the achievements of every club member whether it be a 3 mile parkrun, 26 mile marathon or a 39 mile Ultra marathon. Running shows that we are capable of much more than we ever imagined and it brings a warm glow to one’s heart.

Next week it’s Belfast’s turn, with more of our Gladiatorial Harriers entering the marathon arena….

Until then, enjoy your week.

The Insider.

(Monday 1st May to take in Belfast’s results.)

Sunday 16th April 2017

Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success.
The marathon countdown continues for many. Some may begin to self-doubt, asking oneself, have I enough, was there more I could do. The answer is in the training now gone. How you felt after accomplishing those toughest runs, will keep your body strong, the mind sharp and nourish the soul, so that the spirit is alive and positive to the finish. Whether that will be next week or next month, and as you arrive at each mile marker, tick it off and do it 26 times…

Tuesday 11th April 2017:

Ballymena Belles:
The Belles of Mallusk travelled a few miles to the north on a breezy cool evening for the Ballymena Belles 5 mile race. 13 seconds separated four of our Harriers, with the chip timing recording Catherine Mullan 1st in 42:32, with Clare Teer 42:34, Gemma Fowler 42:37 and Sarah McCafferty 42:45, only a few seconds behind. Elaine Kennedy 43:57, Karen Jamison 44:55, Gillian Bainbridge 45:17. Lisa-Marie White 48:00, Fidelma McCoppin 51:37, Fiona Wylie 53:47, Jenni Reilly 55:01. Mairead O’Hare 1.00:09, Joanne Haddock 1.09:31.
Saturday 15th April 2017:
parkrun.

Antrim:
Husband and wife Harriers David and Catherine Mullan were the one and two for Mallusk at Antrim with David 23:14 and Catherine 26:19. Elaine Kennedy arrived in 26:36 and Jenni Reilly 33:16.
Comber:
Two Harriers, Ken McAuley and Susan Thompson travelled to Comber and crossed the finish together in 22:21.

Craigavon:
The lakes at Craigavon is where husband and wife Harriers Brendan and Roseann McGeown travelled to for their Easter parkrun, Mr McGeown arriving home in 25:06, with Mrs McGeown 31:09.

Lismore – NSW:
Harrier Nikki Fleck’s exotic tour of parkrun land continued in the picturesque town of Lismore New South Wales on the banks of Wilsons River close to the border with Queensland and the Gold Coast. Nikki proudly wore the Mallusk vest arriving in 28:05.

Ormeau:
Mallusk Harrier, Alex Davidson brought the family to Ormeau Park, again powered to a sub 20 and a PB in 18:39. Junior Harriers, Ben 28:58, Chloe 32:40 and Sophie Davidson 33:09, made it a great morning for the Davidson clan.

Stormont:
Great running from Kelly Carlisle as she gained a PB in 29:46 and Duncan Baxter 29:47 who were the Mallusk party at Stormont on Saturday.

Valley:
Two brothers battled again for 1st place for Mallusk as Ciaran Skillen 25:13, pipped the slightly older Paul 25:34. Almost joined at the hip were Ultra men Martin McCready 28:07, and Neil Campbell 28:43. Fidelma McCoppin and 1st Mallusk lady in 30:59 with Marie McFarlane and a PB in 31:13. Maeve McGinley 31:50, Debbie Sterritt 32:26. Continuing to improve is Mairead O’Hare with a PB in 35:49. Lorraine Ann Forsythe 48:35.
parkrun wishes to thank Mallusk volunteers – Lorraine Ann Forsythe, Jennifer McCoppin, Ciaran Skillen.

Waterworks:
Mallusk’s Patrick McGuickin gained a sub 20 with a time of 19:06 as 1st Harrier. Matthew Cromie next in 22:03. Liam McGowan 23:42. Neil McCready 24:16, was just ahead of son and junior Harrier Jack 24:37. Patrick Hamill 25:08, Sharon McCavana was Mallusk’s 1st lady home 25:18. Mark Hay 25:36, Maeve Kennedy 25:47, Neil McGlinchey powered to a PB in 26:55. Dermot Boyd 31:36. Fiona Wylie 32:00. Three junior Harriers came next, as Ethan Barrington completed his 1st parkrun in 33:40, followed by junior Ryan McCready 33:47 and junior Cole Barrington with a PB 34:26. Anna Marie Nolan 34:27. David McCavana 34:49. Anne Boyd 35:11, Catherine Boyd 35:12, Deirdre McCann 38:29, Cathy McGowan 41:45.
parkrun wishes to thank Mallusk Volunteers – Danny & Tiffany Donaldson.
One of World’s Marathon Majors takes place next Sunday, and several Mallusk Harriers have the honour of taking part in one of the most famous marathon races on the planet. As an amateur, running the London marathon is one of those few times that you have the opportunity to compete in the same race as Olympic Gold Medallists, World Champions and other elite runners. As you line up on Blackheath or Greenwich Park, close your eyes, take a deep breath, hold…. then exhale….
You’re ready.

Maeve McGinley 31:50, Debbie Sterritt 32:26. Continuing to improve is Mairead O’Hare with a PB in 35:49. Lorraine Ann Forsythe 48:35.
parkrun wishes to thank Mallusk volunteers – Lorraine Ann Forsythe, Jennifer McCoppin, Ciaran Skillen.

Harriers – Lond-ON.
Not content with running 26 miles. Harriers, Neil Campbell, Danny and Tiffany Donaldson, Alan Ladd, Mickey (mountain man) McAuley and Martin (speedy) McCready will fly the Mallusk banner next Sunday in Connemara for an Ultra Marathon. This enduring terrain race of 39.3 miles takes place in an area of unspoiled beauty and begins at an elevation of 108 feet, before rising to an elevation of 328 feet. Truly a dramatic and breathtaking event. What awaits our intrepid runners at the finish, is a well-deserved cold pint of Guinness by a fireside, with a drifting scent of peat rising from the hearth.

The Best of Luck to all our endurance runners.
The Insider…

Club Report: 9th April 2017

A run begins, the moment you forget that you are running….

Many Harriers returned to parkrun this weekend, and with their various aspects of training, many continued to push the barriers from previous unknown times. Again the term personal best, is becoming synonymous to the vest of Mallusk as once more PBs’ were shattered.

Saturday 8th April 2017.

parkrun:

Antrim:
Debbie Ewing cruised along the shores of Lough Neagh in a time of 27:04, with Tina Steele close behind 27:08.

Colin Glen:
In the west of the city Patricia Curistan got her PB in 23:42.

Forest Rec:
Our very own sheriff of Nottingham was Danny Donaldson’s sub 20 time of 19:38, with Maid Marion Tiffany Donaldson in 30:19.

Ormeau:
Patrick McGuckin finished with the 3rd podium place and a PB in 19:00, Duncan Baxter preparing for London in a few weeks cantered around the park in 30:57.

Portrush:
There was a trip to the north coast and a paddle in the sea for Anna Marie Nolan’s 50th parkrun celebration. Elaine Kennedy enjoyed the salt air in 26:48, with Dermot Boyd 33:36, wife Anne 35:56, Anna Marie Nolan 41:17, Catherine Boyd & Kelly Carlisle sharing 41:19 with Joanne Haddock 41:20.

Rhodes (Sydney)
The furthest travelled Mallusk Harrier for a parkrun award this week goes to Nikki Fleck who went down under, completing her parkrun while most of us were in bed with a time of 26:19.

Stormont:
Storming across the finish line was Susan Thompson who was 2nd lady at Stormont in 22:36. Marie McFarlane next in 30:45 with Fidelma McCoppin a PB also with 30:45. Fiona Wylie 31:45, Darren Linton 32:30. Rosalind ‘PB’ Stitt with yet another PB 34:16. Deirdre McCann 37:07.

Valley:
The local parkrun at the Valley was another location for a plethora of PBs, starting with Alastair Houldsworth with a PB in 20:08. Brendan McGeown PB 22:31. Liam McGowan 23:40. Clare Teer celebrated as 1st lady in her category with a PB in 24:44. Ciaran Skillen just behind 24:45, with brother Paul 24:55. Sharon Dunn 27:54 and sister Joanne Milne 28:06, Neil Campbell a breath behind 28:07, Neil McGlinchey 28:39. Alyson Taylor with a PB 30:34 and also Debbie Sterritt a PB in 31:26.
A big parkrun thankyou to Mallusk volunteers Lorraine Anne Forsythe and Owen Fulton.

Waterworks
Mallusk’s Alex Davidson again pushed his body to not only a sub 20 but a PB in 18:30. Matthew Cromie 22:22, Jack McCready with a PB in 23:33 and father Neil a PB 23:42. Sharon McCavana 25:00, Maeve Kennedy 26:03, James Hewitt 27:06, David McCavana 33:24.

Castleward B2R
One of the most picturesque settings for a race took place on the shores of Strangford on Saturday with the Born 2 Run Castleward 10K. Darren Taggart 55:33 and Hilary Faith 1.01:41 were our Harriers involved.

Sunday 9th April 2017.

Titanic 10K
Queens Island now renamed as Titanic Quarter saw Mallusk’s Mark Smith close the gap on the leaders in the 10K race with an impressive 36:42. Gareth Mcloughlin 47:42, Maeve Kennedy 52:20.

Palm Sunday brought out the runners before Easter with the Rabbit Run at Loughshore, Mallusk’s Brian McDonald was 1st Harrier in 24:31, with Karen Jamison the 1st female Mallusk Harrier in a time of 27:03, Ian Simpson 30:55, Rosalind Stitt 33:36, Joanne Haddock 42:45, Kelly Carlisle also 42:45, Deborah Finlay 44:51, Theresa Corrigan 44:54.

Stena Line Triathlon
Dedicated training pushes the body to preform in all aspects of sport and a big well done to star tri-athletes Mallusk Harriers Hillary Faith 1.36:13 and Frances Kane 2.06:03.

Hopefully everyone has been included for this week.

Therefore I wish all our Mallusk Harriers a Happy Easter.

The Insider

Club Report: Sunday 2nd April 2017

April 1st: Let us be thankful for fools, but for them, the rest of us could not succeed.

As the long road of marathon training continues, the marathon runner can sometimes begin to doubt oneself. Sometimes the body does not want to do this. As you run it can tell you to stop.
But the mind must be strong. You always go too far for your body. You must adapt to the pain and you must concentrate on your strategy, but what will get you through most of all, is the sheer determination and will to succeed.

Longer evenings brings plenty of more opportunities to run, and the Queens 3K, 5K around the river is traditionally the curtain raiser for night races. Once more Mallusk Harriers rallied themselves, and on a school night!

Wednesday 29th March 2017:

Queens 3 K
Jack McCready pushed on for Mallusk in 12:44 and Mairead O’Hare with an impressive 20:26.

5K
First Harrier home for Mallusk was Mark Smith with an excellent 17:47 and Danny Donaldson 18:13, being pushed by Alex Davidson 18:27. Matthew Cromie 19:23, Matt Allen 20:39. Ciaran Skillen 20:48, with Andrew Diver 21:32 splitting the two brothers as the more mature Paul Skillen arrived in 22:36. David Mullan 23:02, Neil McCready 24:17, Catherine Mullan 24:27, Patrick Hamil 24:48, Lisa Marie White 26:56, Tiffany Donaldson PB 27:36, Duncan Baxter 28:08, Dermot Boyd 31:34, Anne Boyd 33:59, Katherine McCloskey 35:03, Joanne Haddock 39:05, Kelly Carlisle 39:06.

As the calendar turned to welcome the new month, the showers as so accustomed to April arrived…..

Saturday 1st April 2017:

parkrun:

Antrim:
Mallusk’s Ken McCauley raced around the Loughshore at Antrim with a PB in 20:25, followed by Elaine Kennedy 27:41

Falls:
The second lady home overall was Mallusk’s own leading lady Susan Thompson in 23:10.

Stormont:
Kelly Carlisle and Joanne Haddock 42:09, were our sitting MLAs (Mallusk’s Leading Athletes).

Valley:
With a PB at the Valley was Mallusk’s Gareth McLoughlin 23:43, Owen Fulton next 24:00, Ciaran Skillen 24:32 our 3rd Harrier. Laura Rose 24:41 impressed again as 3rd lady in her category. Paul Skillen 25:22, Sarah McCafferty with a PB in 25:23. Clare Teer 26:23. Our first Junior home was Ben Davidson 27:09 followed by young Christopher Campbell 27:25. Noel Bloomfield 27:26, who split another youngster Ryan McCready with his own PB 29:25. Neil McCready 29:26, just ahead of Junior Chloe Davidson 30:18 with Dad Alex 30:19. Martin McCready 30:26. Lorraine Forsythe 50:48. Carol Leckie 50:50.

A big parkrun thankyou to Mallusk’s volunteers Neil Campbell, Sophie Davidson, Carol Leckie.

Victoria:
Harrier Neil McGlinchey continued his impressive form with a PB in 25:53.

Waterworks:
Matthew Cromie led Mallusk’s charge in 22:19, Patrick Hamill 25:16, Sharon McCavana 25:29, Maeve Kennedy 25:57, Maeve McGinley and Fidelma McCoppin 30:02, Alyson Taylor 30:35, Fiona Wylie 33:11, David McCavana 33:38, Rosalind Stitt another PB in 33:59. In his first parkrun young Cole Barrington 35:44, Anna Marie Nolan 35:46, Catherine Boyd 35:46, Deirdre McCann 37:57.

Omagh Half Marathon:
Avoiding the showers in County Tyrone saw Mallusk’s Mark Smith with an astonishing 1.20:54. Danny Donaldson 1.31:55, Catherine Mullan 1.56:49, David Mullan 1.58:31. Tiffany Donaldson with a PB in 2.14:12.

Sunday 2nd April 2017:

Subway Half Marathon:
In his second half marathon of the weekend saw a rematch of the Don-Cromie battle, as Danny Donaldson 1.31:15, pipped Matthew Cromie 1.31:21. Nuala Muldoon 1.48:33. Anna Marie Nolan and Catherine Boyd 2.07:55, Tiffany Donaldson’s second half in 24 hours saw her home in 2.16:56, Kelly Carlisle 2.48:08, Duncan Baxter 2.48:10.

Running with discipline, anything is possible….

The Insider

Club Report: 26th March 2017

It was back to basics for many Harriers this weekend, parkrun on Saturday and those training for spring marathons, continuing to up their game and the miles as the weeks’ until race day reach the digits of one hand.

With the clock hand moving forward, the extra evening daylight, can give one a more eagerness to run. There is nothing more exhilarating after a day’s work, than running on an open road while following the sun.

End your working day with a run….

Saturday 25th March 2017:

PARKRUN:

Antrim:
Maeve Kennedy began her weekend with a PB in Antrim with a time of 26:14, followed by Deborah Ewing 26:48, Elaine Kennedy 26:52, Tina Steele 28:01.

Stormont:
Leading the charge for Mallusk was Alan Magee 28:09 and Darren Linton 30:26.

Valley:
Another PB and sub 20 for Harrier Alex Davidson 19:46, Patrick McGuckin 21:59, Gareth McLoughlin with a PB in 24:06, Jack McCready 24:36. The two Skillen brothers battled out with Ciaran claiming a moral victory 25:39, over Paul 25:42. A PB from Joanne Milne 26:02 and Janet Grew 26:12, who demolished her PB by 2 minutes. Neil McGlinchey 26:54, and young Christopher Campbell a junior Harrier who got a PB in 26:54. Sharon Dunn also a PB with a time of 27:45. Emma Fegan 30:38, Alyson Taylor 31:18. Dermot Boyd a PB in 31:19. Debbie Sterritt also a PB 31:36. Ryan McCready 33:50. Rosalind Stitt who’s middle name is becoming PB with another in 35:46. Anne Boyd a PB in 36:07. Fidelma McCoppin 36:07. Carol Leckie 51:21.

A big parkrun thanks to Mallusk volunteers Clare Teer, Carol Leckie, Martin and Neil McCready, Neil Campbell.

Waterworks:
Matthew Cromie arrived 1st for Mallusk in 20:53, Patrick Hamil 24:50, James Hewitt 25:12, Roseann McGeown 31:13, David McCavana 34:01, Fiona Wylie 35:56, Deirdre McCann 35:57, Kelly Carlisle 42:04, Joanne Haddock 42:45.

Ashton Court – Bristol:
Across the River Avon from Bristol city centre Danny Donaldson continued his parkrun form in 20:11 with MrsTiffany Donaldson 32:02.

Peckham Rye:
South London, the home of the world’s most famous yellow Reliant Robin was where Owen Fulton managed a PB in 23:47, and definitely no truth in the rumour he slipped Del Boy a pony.

Krakow:
Jim Grew was Mallusk Harrier’s furthest man east this week, with a trip to Poland, coming home in 22:09.

Remember the feeling you get from a great run is far better than the feeling you get from sitting around wishing you were running
.
The Insider.

Club Report: 19th March 2017

Mallusk Harriers Club Report: 19th March 2017:

Put your heart, mind, and soul into even your smallest acts, and the trail you blaze will leave others in your wake.

Friday 17th March 2017.

St Patrick failed to turn up the dry side of the stone this year, for the annual Craic outing in central Belfast. However many Mallusk Harriers did.

Mark Smith got into the festivities and our 1st Harrier home with an impressive 37:19, with Matthew Allen 2nd in 43:54, and Patricia Curistan 3rd Harrier in 46:13. Sharon McCavana was next 52:16 and Damien McLoughlin 52:52. Karen Jamison 56:38, and Duncan Baxter 59:52 completed the Sub hour runners. Michael McFarlane 1.01:26, with Marie McFarlane just behind 1.01:27. Emma Fagan 1.01:45, Dermot Boyd 1.03:31. Lisa Marie White & Roisin McLaughlin tied in 1.06:50. Jennifer McCoppin 1.07:40, Fidelma McCoppin 1.08:01. David McCavana 1.12:36, Deirdre McCann 1.15:20, Fiona Wylie 1.15:21.

Saturday 18th March 2017.

PARKRUN:

As many headed off to Larne for the half marathon. Showing strength in depth, several Harriers still managed to turn up for the weekly parkrun.

Antrim:
A struggle ensued on the shores of Lough Neagh, as Fiona Wylie and Fidelma McCoppin 32:33, both dipped for the line ensuring a photograph finish which couldn’t separate the two ladies as they tied for being 1st Mallusk Harrier home. Jennifer McCoppin arrived a few seconds later 32:56. Rosalind Stitt again hit a PB in 33:08, as this reporter runs out of fingers to count the many times this Harrier has smashed records. Deirdre McCann completed the famous five in 39:31.

Larne:
Patrick Hamil warmed up for the half marathon in 27:04.

Ormeau:
Darren Linton was our solitary Harrier in 30:07.

Valley:
Debbie Sterritt ran around Mallusk’s local parkrun in 32:43.

Victoria:
This week’s man of the east was Neil McCready in 24:30.

Larne Half Marathon:
There must be something about the salt air, which attracts such a large number to Larne Athletic Club’s golden coastal race. This event has just about everything. From sheer rugged cliffs, to a panoramic vista of the sea including through the haze, the hills of Dunfries and Galloway; and for unprepared runners, a tricky, demanding incline which can zap energy from limbs. This race is also a favourite among Team Mallusk, as we sent an Olympic size squad to compete.

Carrying on their dual from last week’s Jimmy’s 10 were Danny Donaldson 1.27:38, who pipped Matthew Cromie 1.29:16, by gun and chip time to 1st Mallusk Harrier position this week. The Don-Cromie Formula One rivalry looks set to continue throughout the summer. Patrick McGuckin just failed to split the atomic pair arriving as 3rd Harrier in 1.30:18. Super Susan Thompson was again the 1st lady of Mallusk in 1.37:51, Robert Gould had Susan in his sights along the promenade as he arrived in 1.38:17. A big welcome back from injury and to the race circuit for Michael McAuley 1.42:38. Brendan McGeown embraced the sea air with a PB 1.43:56. A smiling Nuala Muldoon arrived next 1.47:56. Laura Rose also hit a PB in 1.50:56. Sam Hastings 1.52:57 had a little extra in the tank as he nosed ahead of Deborah Ewing 1.52:59. Catherine Mullan 1.53:28, Alan Kerr 1.53:37 and Noel Bloomfield 1.53:59, continued the Mallusk trickle. David Mullan 1.55:09, Owen Fulton 1.56:22, who paced Janet Grew home in 1.56:24 and to another PB. Clare Teer 1.58:25 was another Harrier who got a half marathon PB. Nikki Fleck 2.01:44, was just inched out on a sub 2 hr. Joanne Milne 2.02:25 competing in her second half marathon within a couple of weeks. Anna Marie Nolan 2.03:30 and Catherine Boyd 2.03:32. Sharon Dunn 2.04:14, like her sister Joanne competing in her second half marathon within a matter of weeks. On Sharon’s tail was Lisa Hamilton in 2.04:15. Husband and wife team Ian and Sarah Dinsmore arrived together in 2.04:48, no doubt after receiving plenty of advice from their cross country competing son Harry. Tina Steele 2.04:55, arrived next still looking fresh. Sarah McCafferty 2.06:13, with mum Pamela McCafferty 2.06:25, who both nipped ahead of a waving Gemma Fowler 2.07:00 and Elaine Kennedy 2.07:03. Gillian Bainbridge 2.09:45 wore a wry smile as she crossed the line. Jennifer Butler 2.15:15, Tiffany Donaldson 2.15:47 and Lisa Marie White 2.15:48 as Mallusk continued to roar home. Kelly Carlisle 2.17:24 cantered home ahead of Laura Campbell & Leeanne Skillen 2.22:01 who showed the onlookers how to take the 13.1 miles in their stride. Ian Simpson 2.45:08 had thoughts of the black stuff as he arrived home. Mairead O’Hare eased over the line in 2.49:28. As did Lisa Thompson 2.56:43 and Elizabeth Peeples 3.06:09.

Running teaches us, that we are capable of so much more than we ever imagined.

Enjoy your week…

The Insider.

Club Report: 12th March 2017

Mallusk Harriers Club Report: 12th March 2017.

As the week turns, the digits of one hand tell we are close and that Larne is almost upon us. This is a good week for preparation. One of the times that the Benjamin Franklin quote springs to mind, ‘By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.’

Those who are familiar to running half marathons generally know their pre-race routine, but any who are treading the 13.1 miles for the first time, being prepared is the first hurdle to overcome.

Race kit, get it ready at the latest the night before, not on race morning and finding it in the dirty linen basket. Breakfast, eat early. Tape up, grease up. If sunshine is forecast, sun block is advised, it may not feel warm, but March UV levels can be high especially if you are going to be exposed for up to two hours or more.

Most importantly, enjoy the day. You’ve trained for it, conquered the Sunday hills, and now it’s time to make Larne rock!

As for this week, another abundance of parkrun PBs were to the fore for our happy Harriers.

Saturday 11th March 2017.

PARKRUN:

Antrim:

Tina Steele led Mallusk on the shores of Lough Neagh in 28:40, Deborah Ewing 29:01, and Elaine Kennedy 52:54 once more helping out as a volunteer to ensure that the parkrun takes place.

Derry City:

Our only maiden city flyer in the north west was Ken Mcauley arriving in for Mallusk in 22:04.

Falls Park:

An awesome run by Susan Thompson 22:40 at Falls, saw her breeze in as 2nd lady and 10th position overall.

Ormeau:

Robbie Gould 20:40, led the way as effortlessly as the Lagan flows past the park. Fiona Wylie again with another PB in 30:43, Jennifer McCoppin 33:06, with Rosalind Stitt 33:32, her third PB since the New Year. Fidelma McCoppin completed this famous five of Mallusk Harriers in 35:04.

Valley:

Running out of superlatives for Mallusk Harrier Danny Dynamo Donaldson as he once more ran a sub 20 with a PB in 19:50 at the Valley. Celebrating his 100th parkrun was Owen Fulton who enjoyed a double whammy with a PB in 23:38. Brendan McGeown sailed in next with a time of 24:02. A PB for Jack McCready in 24:16. Noel Bloomfield 24:34. Still pushing on was Laura Rose in 24:45, and regularly obliterating PB’s is Clare Teer with another one in 25:53. Neil McCready was just behind with his own PB in 25:54. Ciaran Skillen 25:55. Another PB for Joanne Milne in 26:48. Neil McGlinchy 28:12. Neil Campbell 28:28, Alan Ladd 28:30, Sharon Dunn 28:43, Paul Skillen and Martin McCready inseparable in 29:36. Tiffany Donaldson 32:17.

Victoria:

This week our man in the east was Alex Davidson who not only came home sub 20, but with another PB in 18:40.

Waterworks:

Matthew Cromie was first Harrier to roll in with a time of 23:42. Sharon McCavana next 25:27 and our 1st lady. Patrick Hamil 25:31, Catherine Boyd 28:53. A PB for Maeve McGinley 29:28, and a PB for Alyson Taylor 29:34. David McCavana 34:06, Catronia McGarvey 38:28, Anna Marie Nolan 42:45, Joanne Haddock and Kelly Carlisle side by side in 44:53.

Sunday 12th March 2017:

Jimmys 10

East Down Athletic Club, hosted this annual 10K race in picturesque Downpatrick, with Danny Donaldson again inspiring all with a time of 39:30. Matthew Cromie was close behind in 39:38. John Rooney 47:06, Tiffany Donaldson 58:50, Lisa White 59:01. Mairead O’Hare limbering up for Larne in 1.18:29.

Another colossal outing at the weekend for this great club, where boundaries are surpassed with utter strength and determination.

(Hopefully everyone has been included)

Have a good week.

The Insider.