Other News – Page 33 – Mallusk Harriers

Weekly report part 2

On a blistering almost summers evening 5 runners travelled to Magherafelt for the Holy Family 5k race in aid to raise vital funds for Friends of the Cancer Centre, in lieu of the runners the club also had 4 members up offering our services volunteering, which received an mighty thank you from the Holy Family School. Alan Ladd returned home in 17th place in a great time of 19:34, Susan Thompson was at it again as she returned 5th lady home in a time of 21:53 and claimed to be feeling a little sluggish from a week of celebrating, heaven help us if she gets her act together, well done Susan. Deborah Ewing was next home in 24:10, next over the line was Jennifer Butler in a time of 24:42, Jen was followed closely home by Tina Steele in 25:12.

As Saturday rolled around and back to the smaller miles around the parkruns for many of the Harriers, there was always going to be one would push the boundaries, although not at the parkrun.

With four events taken on, we begin at the Valley course with Alex Davidson in overall 5th place in 20:43, Neil Campbell 21:30, Nuala Muldoon first lady in a time of 23:47, Deborah Ewing 25:36, Laura Rose 26:15, Noel Bloomfield 26:16, Sarah Dinsmore 26:17, Tina Steele 26:36, Ben Davidson 27:42, Chloe Davidson 28:40, Lauren Whitehouse 31:48, Margaret Mulgrave 36:23 and tail runner Lorraine Ann Forsythe 48:03.

Over at the Waterworks, no rest for the wicked as Mr Donaldson returned in 6th place 18:50, Patrick J Hamill 24:29, Jim Hewitt 24:40, Patrick McGuckin 24:49, Tiffany McAllister 32:16. Whilst at Belfast Victoria, three ladies Jennifer McCoppin 34:23, Marion Harrison 42:57 and Rosalind Stitt 42:58, well done ladies.

Up at the Ecos parkrun at Ballymena the club had one sole representative of Dawn Dubois completing the course in 40:25.

Then there was one crazy… not having enough of marathon running Michael McAuley took on the Annalong Horseshoe Mountain Race. We must say Michael put in a cracking shift for the course taking on the 5 peaks of Chimney, Commedagh, Cove, Lamagan and Binnian returning in 25th place in a time of 3hrs 8mins absolutely fantastic running sir…!!!

A last minute decision on Sunday, saw Martin McCready travel to take on a very tough course in weather that was scorchio by all accounts, in the Termoneeny 10k road race. However Martin did manage to put in a decent shift, returning in 48:50. Well done sir great to see the club vest getting an outing.

Final big shout out goes out to those folk from the Harriers that took up spots around the 26.2 miles of the Belfast marathon offering much needed support, water, sports drinks, bananas and even some friendly abuse. Those folk were Jim Hewitt, Carol Leckie, Hilary Faith, Patrick McGuckin, Joanne Haddock, Maeve O’Gorman, Dean Finlay, Martin McCourt, Barry Macaulay and the countless supporters howling ‘come on Mallusk Harriers’ a huge thank you from all at the club. Of course not forgetting our very own honorary lady at the line, who after spending over 12 hours on her feet travelled up to the club to hand deliver Ciaran’s finisher medal, Mags Mathieson. I am very sure I may miss out someone, for that I am truly sorry as for me there is nothing better than receiving great support from fellow runners during a Marathon.

Again apologies if any of our runners have been missed out in this week’s report, as I am sure someone may have been overlooked…
Safe running to you all, ‘pay it forward…’ and remember ‘Right to the Line…’

Weekly report

It wasn’t exactly Cheltenham races on Bank Holiday Monday in Belfast, neither colts nor fillies in sight (there was plenty of other fancy dress out there), but the Mallusk Harriers ladies certainly had their hats on and took top honours with some absolutely smashing times at the 35th Belfast City Marathon; the lads also put in some quality times over the 26.2miles of the course, with Patsy ‘Batman’ Hamill or now known as ‘Batsy’ completing the course in full Batman outfit in 3hrs 30mins . Amongst the 25 members running the full marathon, there were also several relay teams running for Action on Hearing Loss and Meningitis Now, NI Hospice, Mencap and PIPS all extremely worthy charities. In addition to this I am very sure I am going to miss out on other club members who completed the relay for work or other charities, if by chance I do miss you out in this report I am sorry…!

First to enter Ormeau Park after completing the full 26.2miles for the Harriers was Danny Donaldson. Young Danny has been in fine form already capturing the club records for many distances from 5k up to Half Marathon. This being Danny’s first Marathon he certainly didn’t hold back and completed in fine fettle with a smashing time of 3hrs 13 mins, and now adds the club marathon time to his collection. Next to cross the line was Neil Campbell; Neil also notched himself up a PB in a great time of 3hrs 24mins. Neil was very closely followed home by Alan Ladd. Alan completed last year’s marathon after having to receive medical attention and had to take some time out before finishing the run. However no such episodes this year, Alan put in some great training this year and knocked 30+ mins off his time returning in 3hrs 25mins smashing running Alan!

Yep indeed – the first three past the post have been gents and I did say ladies took top honours… our fourth runner home claimed good for age for either London, New York, Boston or even Berlin. Entering her very first marathon Susan Thompson had an absolutely cracking race and first marathon and returned 3hrs 42mins, all at the club are extremely well proud for you Susan.
Back to the lads. Michael McAuley came across next in a time of 3hrs 50mins knocking 40mins off his previous years time claiming himself a new PB. The next lad to come home had a somewhat unplanned end to his marathon. Ciaran Skillen had been going great guns up until the 23 and half mile mark, many would say oops the dreaded wall, although this wasn’t to be as Ciaran had pushed himself to the limits and beyond and told me the minute he came off the Ormeau tow path he could not remember a single thing until crossing the line. Ciaran managed to get to the finish line and cross in a smashing time of 3hrs 54mins, however collapsed and had to seek medical attention. Thankfully St Johns medical staff were quick to react and got Ciaran off to hospital where he was later diagnosed with Rhabdomyolysis or in lay man’s terms his muscles had broken down and released nasty toxins into his blood which attacked his kidneys. I have been inundated with many well wishes from all at the club, family and friends from other running clubs wishing him a full and speedy recovery.

Next up was Brian McDonald completing his second marathon in as many weeks; Brian returned in a great time of 4hrs 3mins. Then there were more ladies. Notching up a PB was Elaine Kennedy with a time of 4hrs 8mins. Next home was Catherine Boyd also with a new personal best in 4hrs 10mins, Nuala Muldoon came across the line next in 4hrs 12mins completing the run for Action on Hearing Loss. The ladies had been followed home by two gents Martin McCready and Alan Kerr in 4hrs 14mins, the lads were closely followed by Louise Bond in 4hrs 16mins. The next runner over the line and running in his first marathon was the very youthful Noel Bloomfield with a great time of 4hrs 17mins (was that Dublin I hear your say?). Janet Grew was next over the line, 4 weeks prior Janet completed the Paris marathon for Meningitis Now. Again running Belfast Marathon for the charity, Janet grabbed herself a new PB in 4hrs 17mins a fantastic achievement for a very worthy beneficiary, it doesn’t stop there as she is geared up to tackle the Walled marathon.

Running his first marathon Darren Taggart with his cheese strings, oops sorry hamstrings playing havoc with 10 miles to go, he still returned in a great time 4hrs 19mins. After completing the Belfast marathon 28 years previously and said no chance would he ever do another, Mr Tom Wylie collected his aches and pains around 17 miles and returned to the finish in 4hrs 25mins. More ladies, Siobhan Dempsey running her first marathon had the opposite shouts of joy to that of Tom and many others and wanted to run the race again the very next day. Siobhan returned in a great time of 4hrs 36mins. Dave Gibson like many other gents in the club that day with dodgy knees came home in 4hrs 41mins and still managed a 5min PB, great stuff Dave.
The next two ladies over the line were Jolene O’Donnell, with a new PB, running under the banner of Mencap and Jessica Wilson under NI Children’s Hospice, in her first marathon, both ladies returned in 4hrs 48mins, great running girls and very well done.

If you think Darren Taggart’s hamstrings were bad, the word on the street is that Paul Skillen is still scouring the Whitewell Road for his knees with both his ITB giving way around mile 15, but sure in his own stupidity he shuffled and jogged to the finish accompanied by his oldest lad who was only meant to run the Antrim road leg of the relay for the PIPS charity and now wants to complete a full marathon, see the madness doesn’t fall far from the tree. The next three runners home completed the course stride for stride, Duncan Baxter, Kelly Nelson and Tiffany McAllister. A great testament to Duncan who had stuck with Kelly throughout her training and never once complained but took on the challenge and got right to the line, further to this Tiffany managed the majority of the training on her own, an extremely difficult task, it can become very easy to throw the towel in especially as this was the girls first marathon, but not a chance all three made home in 5hrs 51mins absolutely smashing stuff folks.

The club also had notable runners in relay teams in the marathon; first set home was the two ladies Deborah Ewing running the first three legs and Tina Steele running the next two legs in a great time of 4hrs 5mins. There was also the relay team of ‘The Illegal Eagles’ made up of Dean Finlay completing the first two legs, Leeanne Skillen the Antrim Road leg and Gillian Bainbridge completing the final two legs, with the team returning in 4hrs 25mins. The next relay team Barry’s Belles, made up of Joanne Haddock, Anna Marie Barrington, Karen Marsden and Ian Simpson came home in 4hrs 55mins.

A special mention to two other members running for Meningitis Now, Jim Grew and Benny McGeown, the lads were part of Team Snickers and completed in 3hrs 31mins, well done lads. Also a big shout out to our famous Jenny Butler who ran the London Marathon a week previously ran the first leg of the marathon for Action on Hearing Loss, well done Jen.

Phew… I am sure I missed out someone, sorry…
Again apologies if any of our runners have been missed out in this week’s report, as I am sure someone may have been overlooked…
Safe running to you all, ‘pay it forward…’ and remember ‘Right to the Line…’

A True Inspiration

This week’s running began with the annual Queens’s 5K Race around the River, allowing for 19 Mallusk Harriers to test their mettle on the course. A total of 12 out of 19 runners returned with personal bests after pushing right to the line, on a fine spring evening. The ball started rolling with Danny Donaldson hitting top form with a PB in smashing time of 18:04, next to cross the line was Alex Davidson also with a PB in 19:30. Third home, Ciaran Skillen continued his impressive running, he also notched up a PB in 20:34. Third and fourth place was up for debate as Tom Wylie claims he just edged out Benny McGeown, however the results give Benny the result of 22:19 and a new PB, Tom in 22:20, not to split hairs the gents have agreed to arm wrestle for the elusive 1 second, well done gents… Next home, after some differential and integration equations were applied, thankfully his engineering degree came to good use, Paul Skillen was handed a race number that wasn’t his own although completed the race in 24:08, just a pity he can’t read… The Personal bests began to flow for the next three over the line, Elaine Kennedy 25:05, Janet Grew 26:17 and club junior Hannah Mulgrave 29:04, smashing running girls. Next over the line was Tiffany McAllister 29:06, Duncan Baxter worked with the next set of folk to help them obtain a PB; Kelly Nelson 30:24 and Jenny McBride 30:38. The following ladies were not to be out done and also decided to get in on the act with PB’s of their own for Paula Hanvey 31:12, Margaret Mulgrave 31:21 and Darcia Turner 32:15. Our final 3 ladies who completed the course were Jennifer McCoppin 34:28, Kelly Bell 35:40 and Rosalind Stitt 36:17. A smashing evening on a smashing course attended by a smashing turn out of club members, very well done to all…!!!

As Saturday rolls around, over to the parkrun events with 5 courses taken on by the Mallusk Harriers.

Beginning with the Valley, Alex Davidson returned in overall third place in a time of 20:40, next home for the Harriers and first lady was Nuala Muldoon in a time of 23:56, a little under par, perhaps 1 or 2 too many cocktails in the Dead Rabbit whilst visiting her brother, oops sorry I mean she may have been a little jet lagged. Not to be out done by his dad, club junior Ben Davidson has been making great inroads and completed the Valley course with a new PB in a time of 26:05, great running wee man… next to cross the finish line was Jennifer McCoppin in 35:19 Jennifer was followed by tail runner Lorraine Forsythe.

Over at Victoria parkrun it finally happened, Robert Gould Senior got the upper hand on Robbie junior. Robert notched up a new Personal Best over the 5km distance in 17th place with a great time of 20:33, young Robbie completed in 21:12, leaving dad to hold the bragging rights in the Gould household, well for one week at least, great running lads…

Over at Ormeau parkrun Patrick McGuckin strolled around with his better half Lynn McCullough returning home in a time of 25:26.

Down at the Waterworks, Danny Donaldson finished in overall 4th place in a time of 19:31 and his partner in crime Tiffany McAllister 33:06.

Whilst up at Antrim the club had 6 runners take on the castle grounds with Susan Thompson topping the list of Harriers and first lady over the line with a new PB in 21:12, very good running young lady… Deborah Ewing returned in 26:28 followed by Tina Steele 26:59, Elaine Kennedy 27:15, Martin McCready in fine support 27:16 followed by new club member putting in sterling work, Dawn Dubois in a time 38:40.

Amongst the mayhem, the madness, the celebrities and the elite runners pounding the 26.2 miles around the streets of London, were two of Mallusk’s finest…
Michael McFarlane was the luck name to be drawn from the hat back in November for the club’s sole place to take on the 2016 London Marathon. Michael has previously completed the last two Belfast marathons and is certainly not a stranger to the distance, but I am very sure he will not have experienced a marathon with such a huge numbers of runners or fantastic spectator support around the course. 10 miles into the race Michael suffered an injury but determined to see the race through, completed the run in 5:06:11. All at the club are extremely proud of you Michael, very well done. So on to our next runner, Jennifer Butler who was afforded a place through Asthma UK and managed to raise an astounding amount of over £3,000 for the charity. A charity extremely dear to her own heart as 14 months previous, Jennifer suffered not one but two asthma attacks which saw her spend time in the intensive care unit in Belfast on both occasions. Not to be defeated, Jennifer set about changing her lifestyle in a dramatic way. Suggested by life-long friend Martin McCready, a c25k programme at the Harriers in April 2015, little did we know how much this would indeed change her life. Over the next 12 months as her fitness grew she completed many 5k, 10k and half marathon races, but to venture out on her first marathon is a truly great testament for someone who does not accept impossible as an option. A true inspiration to us all at the Harriers with her can do attitude and dedication to training, Jennifer has proven that every dream that lies within your heart can become true if you only just believe in yourself, as she completed the 2016 London Marathon, even after picking up an injury at the 18 mile mark, in an absolutely fantastic time of 4:43:22.

Pure and simple every time

Pure and simple every time…

Apologies folks for the lack of reports over the last few weeks, I have tried my upmost best to keep this report as short as possible and to include as many runs as possible, therefore please accept my apologies if this seems a little bland to say the least… here it goes anyway.

Parkruns
02/04/2016 –
Waterworks: – Robert Gould 20:35, Patrick McGuckin 21:39, James Hewitt 24:51, Dave Gibson 25:42, Bethany Finlay 25:43, Patrick J Hamill 26:14, Gillian Bainbridge 28:24.
Antrim: – Deborah Ewing 24:50, Tina Steele 25:51, Jennifer McCoppin 32:46 with a new PB, Tom Wylie 32:47, Rosalind Stitt 34:40, Dawn Dubois 40:27.

Valley: – Alex Davidson 23:15, first lady home, Nuala Muldoon 23:15, Paul Skillen 25:21, Noel Bloomfield 25:35, Jennifer Butler 25:36, Ian Simpson 29:02, Ben Davidson 29:44, Chloe Davidson 30:30, and tail running Lorraine Forsythe 49:09.

Over the pond at Forest Rec parkrun and coming in 3rd place was Danny Donaldson in 19:15, new PB for the course. Danny was followed home by his better half Tiffany McAllister in 30:18

09/04/2016 –
Waterworks: – Danny Donaldson 18:24 with a new PB, Patrick Hamill 25:31, Catherine Mullan 30:04, Tiffany McAllister 35:28 and David Mullan 40:24.

Belfast Victoria: – Two gents, Patrick McGuckin in 20:13 new PB for Victoria course and Robert Gould 20:40 also chipping in with a new PB, very well done gents.

Whilst up in Antrim the 3 ladies from Macbeth, oops sorry 3 Harriettes, Susan Thompson 22:48, Deborah Ewing 25:15 and Tina Steele 25:43.

On the home turf of the Valley: – Alex Davidson 20:13 with a new PB, first lady home, Nuala Muldoon 23:16, Alan Ladd 26:41, Ben Davidson 26:41 with a new PB, Duncan Baxter 27:57, Anna-Marie Barrington 28:46, Jennifer McCoppin 35:10 and tail running Lorraine Forsythe 49:41.

16/04/2016 –
Waterworks: -The ever present duo of Danny Donaldson 18:45 and Tiffany Mc Allister 29:23 completed the waterworks run.

Ormeau: – Fresh from their travels in Dublin the night before, where Robbie Gould attended the All-Ireland boxing championships, to which he lost in the final to a very talented 3 time Irish Champion, although Robbie did manage to deliver a knockout blow at Ormeau Parkrun of 20:24, closely followed by dad Robert Gould in 21:05, next was Julie Tully 30:40. Well done Robbie, we all at the club are extremely proud of you, well done champ…!!!

Antrim: the lonely soul of Elaine Kennedy took on Antrim in a time of 26:05.

Valley: – Over to home grounds we had the following trying to hold on to the tail of Joe McAllister in first place. Alex Davidson 20:20, Neil Campbell 21:39, Noel Bloomfield 23:37 (new PB), Dave Gibson 25:52, third lady home and with some debate after kicking some poor soul to the ground (Alex has taught you well) was Jennifer Butler 26:39, Laura Rose 27:15, Ben Davidson 27:53, Gillian Bainbridge 30:11, Chloe Davidson 30:29, Alan Magee 31:00 (new PB), tail runner Lorraine Forsythe 48:58.

Colin Glen: – Coming first was Alan Ladd, I was a little reluctant to add Alan as first place as Colin Glen parkrun had the gremlins strike their scanning devices, but after some enquiries it was said Alan put in a great performance on a tough testing course in a time of 20:35. Apart from the photos at Colin Glen, Alan has also bombarded me with his Garmin link, very well done Alan…!!! Also at Colin Glen was Martin McCready in a time of 23:52.

On to the Races:
The 3rd April saw the 2nd Rabbit Run event take place at Loughshore. Patsy Hamill finished in second place in a smashing time of 19:21. He was followed over the line by 23 Harriers, Anna-Marie Barrington 27:06, Ian Simpson 29:26, Clare Teer 29:32, Louise Bond 29:56, Leeanne Skillen 30:40, Benny McGeown 32:00, Dave Gibson 32:23, Kelly Nelson 32:23, Joshua Nelson 35:10, Christopher Baxter 35:11, Natasha White 35:18, Ben Needham 35:22, Nuala Muldoon 35:22, Jennifer McCoppin 35:38, Paige Baxter 37:13, Duncan Baxter 37:14, Kelly Bell 37:24, Hollie Murray-Lakota 41:29, Chelsea Baxter 42:18, Natasha Nelson 42:28, Marion Harrison 43:09, Rosalind Stitt 43:10 and Karen Marsden 44:25.

Meanwhile down the road, four ladies took on RunHer 10k in an extremely tough course at Delamont. First home for the Harriers was Susan Thompson in a time of 51:03, followed by Deborah Ewing in 53:22. Next home was Jennifer Butler 56:28 followed by her sister Laura Rose in 57:20. Next up was Tina Steele in 59:38. Extremely well done ladies on a tough 10k course, all in under the hour mark.

On 9th April crazy fell runner, Michael McAuley took on the Donard Commedagh Horseshoe Mountain Race and returned home in an impressive time of 1:58:26.

For many of our runners, Sunday 10th April meant a long run of 20+ miles in preparation for the Belfast Marathon, for many others it meant Titanic 10k and Family fun run, the 2nd event in the Novosco Grand Prix. 7 of our juniors took to the 1 mile fun run with Chloe and Ben Davidson finishing in 7:42. Next home was a young Christopher Baxter in 9:18, Sophie Davidson 9:37, Joshua Nelson 9:58, Chelsea Baxter 10:40, Natasha Nelson 10:49 and Paige Baxter 11:31. A further 11 happy harriers took to the 10k course with Danny Donaldson leading the field of Mallusk Harriers home in a time of 38:25, followed by Patsy Hamill in 40:15. Next home was Dave Gibson 49:31, Jim Hewitt in 50 mins with a new PB, Jennifer Butler 50:03 new PB, Laura Rose 50:49 new PB, Duncan Baxter 53:41, Lauren Whitehouse 61:20 new PB, Kelly Nelson 62:40 new PB, Anna-Marie Barrington 62:55, Jenny McBride 63:33 new PB, Tiffany McAllister 63:41 and Joanne Haddock 80:29.

Wednesday evening 12th April drew 12 of our ladies to the countryside for the Ballymena Belles 5 mile road race. Lisa Brown returned in a smashing time of 37 mins in 13th position, followed by Jennifer Butler in 40:18. Hot on Jennifer’s tail, was Deborah Ewing in 40:25, followed by Laura Rose in 40:56, Anna-Marie Barrington 42:03, Tina Steele 43:19, Elaine Kennedy 43:28, Gemma Fowler 44:02, Janet Grew 44:42, Clare Teer 46:28, Leeanne Skillen 48:15 and Lauren Whitehouse 50:36.

On 14th April, not content with the road races, Michael McAuley continued with fell running in the opening Hill and Dale Series at Castlewellan, returning home in a smashing time of 43:19.

Saturday 16th April was Born to Run 10k and Half Marathon events at Castleward. Two Mallusk Harriers competed in the 10.4k, Brian McDonald returning in 50:16 and Lauren Whitehouse in 68:08. In the Half Marathon, we had impressive running with Patsy Hamill in 15th place and a great time of 1:39:55, followed by Darren Taggart in 2:00:34 and Cat Boyd in 2:06:04.

Sunday 16th April was the 3rd event in the Novosco Grand Prix with the Armagh 10k. 5 hardy Harriers took on the ‘undulating’ course with Anna-Marie Barrington first to cross the line for the harriers in 51:24, followed by Jennifer Butler in 52:25, Laura Rose 53:06, Leeanne Skillen 62:54 and Joanne Haddock 84:59. Great running ladies.

Some recovery taper time for Cat Boyd and Darren Taggart who took themselves off to the Colour Run at Ormeau Park, who said running can’t be fun??

With marathon season well upon us, the club has had 4 runners take on both the Paris and Manchester Marathons. First up on 3rd April, Jim and Janet Grew took to the streets of Paris for a lovely romantic weekend, but as Mr McCready points out would they still be speaking to each other come Sunday afternoon?? The pair were running in aid of Meningitis Now, a charity extremely close to their hearts, Jim finished in a smashing time of 3:54 and Janet followed in a time of 4:19, both obtaining new personal bests for the marathon distance. Extremely well done on all accounts, both fundraising and drinking red wine, oops sorry running the marathon…

A week later, Skilly and McDuck (well that’s how the magnificent support around the course hailed at them) took sail from Belfast to take on the 40th Manchester Marathon. Brian returning in 3:51 and Paul finished in 4:24, with both lads taking 10 minutes off their previous marathon times and new PBs also.

Best of luck to all our club members due to take to the streets of Belfast in a fortnights time for the 35th Belfast City Marathon. Over 25 of our runners are due to participate in the full course and relay slots.

To top the report off, what can only be described as an absolute joy, is to see our junior section growing so quickly with 11 of our young, up and coming aspiring juniors taking on the first of the Firmus Energy Super 6 race meets at the Mary Peter’s Track. For many of these young athletes, this was their first time ever on a race track and they most certainly can hold their heads up high with great competing, each and every one adopted the club ethos of ‘Right to the Line’… an absolute delight for both parents and coaches to see the young faces beam with joy on the night.

More than a running club….

Eggstravaganza

Just the four parkrun events attended by the Mallusk Harriers on Easter Saturday, alongside these, club members participated in the Omagh Half Marathon, Ballyliffin 10m costal challenge, Ballygalget 10k, Benone Run, Whitehead 5mile, Cardiff and NI Duathlon.

Beginning with Saturday’s parkrun events, on the home patch of the Valley Alex Davidson was 2nd to cross the finish line and recorded a new PB for the Valley course in a great time of 20:20. Alex was followed home by the first lady finisher Nuala Muldoon in 23:40, next to cross the finish line together was Dave Gibson & Jennifer Butler, with Dave ‘encouraging’ Jennifer to a new PB of 24:55. Not to be out done on the day with PB’s being dished out like confetti, Anna-Marie Barrington got in on the act collecting her PB of 26:02. Laura Rose finished in 27:09, Gillian Bainbridge in 30:30, and club junior Ben Davidson completed the runners for Mallusk at the Valley course in 33:13.

Up at the Antrim parkrun event, first over the finish line for Mallusk was Patrick McGuckin, Patrick who has completed 109 parkruns managed to complete his first Antrim run in 21:05. Next home for the club and fresh from her explosive half marathon run in North London the previous week was our very own Susan Thompson in a time of 22:29, yep a new PB for Antrim parkrun but still a minute and a half off her 5k PB, congrats Susan… Deborah Ewing was next home in 25:42, followed by Birthday girl (and completing her 50th parkrun) Tina Steele in a time of 25:48, congrats Tina on the milestones… Rosalind Stitt returned next in 41:57.

At the Waterworks Michael McAuley was first past the post for the Harriers, with sheer grit and determination Michael put everything into the run to break the 20 mins. Michael did manage a new PB by 6 seconds returning home bang on 20 mins, it will come Michael keep the faith, it will come. Robbie Gould was next in 20:22 followed by his dad Robert in 21:03 and Patrick J Hamill in 25:07.

The final parkrun for the Easter weekend took place at Clermont in the sunny state of Florida, where Joanne Haddock completed the run in 40:04, enjoy the rest of your hols Joanne.

The Pure Running Half Marathon series continued with the third in the championship being held at Omagh. The club’s sole representative was Danny Donaldson, fresh from his blistering 84 mins at Larne the previous week you can slightly forgive Danny for finishing in 77th place over a more testing hilly run in a smashing time of 86:15, extremely well done lad, we are well chuffed for you…!!!

How could it forget the main man of the weekend, shame on me, Sorry Martin… Martin McCready traveled to Cardiff with his better half Anne for the world Half Marathon 2016. Anne had received a place at the run through her sterling work at parkrun, unfortunately she was unable to run due to an injury she obtained ironically at a parkrun. In lieu of the run the organisers afforded her the luxury of traveling in style in the lead car and mixing it up with the big stars, whereas poor Martin was soaked and blown from pillar to post but did manage a smashing run of 1:43, great running buddy… A huge special thanks goes out to OrangeGrove AC for the exceptional hospitality to Martin and over the weekend, many thanks guys for keeping Martin intact…

Three of the lads took the long trek up the Glenshane pass and into the Inishowen peninsula in County Donegal to take on the Ballyliffin 10mile coastal challenge along the Wild Atlantic way against the backdrop of some stunning scenery. Ciaran Skillen continued his fine running competing in his first 10miler and returned in a great time of 77:12, Ciaran was followed home by Tom Wylie, someone who has been rejuvenated and completed in 85:19, a few minutes slower than last years’ time, however last year Tom admitted they didn’t have the added luxury of running the final 2miles on the shingles, and indeed we can vouch for that, it was a tough 2miles to run in. Paul Skillen was our final runner home, like his brother also running his first 10mile event and returning in 89 minutes, very well done lads great to get the Harriers’ vest out and about.

After hours of hiding Easter eggs around her house and garden and with minutes for the little people to fish them out and devour, our Club ladies’ captain couldn’t think of a more relaxing way to spend her Sunday than to travel to Ballygalget 10k. Nuala had forgotten how far it was and indeed how hilly a course, although this certainly didn’t put her off as Nuala returned in a great time of 48:41, great running Nuala.

The Sunday leisurely stroll…
For many this would be to throw the kids and the good lady into the car and take a nice drive up the coast road… Although not for Patsy Hamill, it was the call of the NI Duathlon with a nice sprint session of 2mile run – 10 mile bike – 2 mile run. Patsy pushed hard to break the hour mark for the event and returned just a little short, although still put in a smashing time of 63 minutes. We would all like to say a very well done on the Duathlon, indeed you seem to have ignited a spark amongst a further half dozen members within the club wanting to give this a try, even talking about a MH cycle jersey (no pressure Mr D). Although from my own personal perspective, why did you put those photos up of the race, you made it look an extremely fun event and now I just have to give this a bash…

The club had a great turnout at the annual Easter Monday 5 mile road race in Whitehead with no fewer than 10 runners from the club. The results as follows:
Danny Donaldson : 31:55, Neil Campbell: 34:28, Lisa Brown 36:26, Tom Wylie: 37:05, Nuala Muldoon: 37:05, Dave Gibson: 39:43 , James Hewitt: 43:29, Duncan Baxter: 45:58 , Gillian Bainbridge: 46:10 , Fidelma McCoppin: 48:39, Tiffany McAllister: 49:54 , Kelly Nelson: 53:09… Very well done to all and many thanks for getting out to support a local club race.

Easter Monday also saw the 10K race on Benone Beach, hosted by 26 Extreme. Trying to sneak under the radar in her first ever 10K race, new recruit Gemma Fowler returned with an excellent time for the run of 62:03. Ps. Remember Gemma, you can run but you cannot hide, we have spies everywhere, extremely well done from all at the club on a great race.

Hear ye

Normal Saturday running usually paves the way for the weekly parkrun events, although for 15 Mallusk Harriers the lure of the scenic village of Carlingford to take on the half marathon and 10k road race on the Cooley Peninsula was too great to turn down. It may have been extremely hard to beat the stunning surroundings of the village and the peninsula, but try as we did the 15 Harriers pulled off stunning results with all of the 13 half marathoners returning in under the 2 hour mark, with some notable personal bests obtained in some testing conditions for the last 5 mile of the race when met with strong head on winds.

First to return home in the half marathon was Martin McCourt in 73rd place and with a new personal best of 1:34:14. Martin was followed home by Ciaran Skillen, Ciaran was competing in his first half marathon and notched up a great time of 1:39:19. Not to be out done by these speedy lads, Susan Thompson came home in a smashing time of 1:40:45, although not a PB for Susan she did manage to be the 7th lady home and first in her age group, top marks for a lady that has been plagued with a niggling Achilles pain… The trend continued with another personal best for Lisa Brown, the next Harrier to cross the finish line with a great time of 1:44:57, next to cross the line was Tom Wylie who also picked up a personal best with a time of 1:46:51. This paved the way for the next influx of female Harriers with Nuala Muldoon 1:48:36, oops sorry Benny McGeown (male runner) 1:49:50, Elaine Kennedy with a new PB of 1:54:36, followed by Siobhan Dempsey running her first half marathon in a great time of 1:54:43. Next also competing in her first half marathon distance was Jolene O’Donnell, Jolene finished in 1:57:14 and was followed home by Paul Skillen (also a male runner Benny…) 1:58:01. The remaining two half marathon runners crossing the line to collect their bling were Noel Bloomfield and Jennifer Butler in 1:59:23 with Jenny recording a personal best for the distance.

The other two runners taking to the Carlingford roads were Laura Rose and Leeanne Skillen. Laura managed to return with a personal best with a great of 52:27, whilst Leeanne managed to pick up loads of new friends chatting her way round the 6.2 miles but did still return in a great time of 64:13, great running ladies… a smashing achievement by all and great to get the blue and green vest out on the roads…!!!
Whilst at home at the Valley parkrun Alex Davidson continued to push hard around the course and returned in 2nd place with a time 20:27 with a new PB and followed by Neil Campbell in 20:54 also with a new PB. Club juniors, Ben and Chloe Davidson returned home in 28:23. Next home was Fidelma McCoppin in 30:16, Robert Jackson 30:44 and Lorraine Forsythe 52:10.

Down the road at the Waterworks, first home for the club, was Danny Donaldson with his consistent running and a time of 18:52, followed by ladies Tiffany McAllister 37:24 and Joanne Haddock 37:25.

Whilst over at the Queens’ Parkrun was the lonely soul of Alan Ladd returning home in 23:56.

Not to be outdone by lonely souls, Patrick McGuckin took on the Ormeau Parkrun event, returning in 20:55.

Further up the road at the Antrim parkrun, Deborah Ewing returned home in 24:31, followed by Tina Steele 25:28 with a new PB, Jennifer McCoppin 36:18 and Rosalind Stitt 36:27.

Our final accolade of the week goes to Michael McAuley who took on some of the big boys and ladies in the Slieve Gullion mountain race. Being battered, bloodied and bruised did not put Michael off as he returned in 27th place and a cracking time of 40:01 in some tough, testing terrain.

Final note to all, good luck to all our runners competing in Jimmy’s 10k in Downpatrick this Sunday, the first in our club championship schedule.
Again apologies if any of our runners have been missed out in this week’s report, as I am sure someone may have been overlooked…
Safe running to you all, ‘pay it forward…’ and remember ‘Right to the Line…’

Stumped

Stumped…

Rewinding to the week gone by, not that one the other one…

A quick overview for the weekend of 20/02/2016, the club attended 5 parkruns at the Valley, Waterworks, Victoria, Carrickfergus and Antrim…
Waterworks: Danny Donaldson 19:32, David & Catherine Mullan 29:09, Tiffany McAllister 36:09, Joanne Haddock 36:31.
Antrim: Tom Wylie 23:09, Deborah Ewing 23:22 with a new PB, Susan Thompson 23:22, Tina Steele 26:02, Martin McCready 26:04.
Valley: Ryan Clarke 22:45, Nuala Muldoon 23:20, Alex Davidson 23:20, Laura Rose 27:09, Alan Ladd 27:10, Noel Bloomfield 28:48, Jennifer Butler 28:48, Ben Davidson 28:51, Hannah Mulgrave 32:04 new PB, Lauren Whitehouse 32:08 new PB, Paula Hanvey 35:21 5km PB.
Carrickfergus: Lindsay Hamilton 32:07
Belfast Victoria: Robbie Gould 20:07 and Robert Gould 20:50.

Close to being one the busiest weekends of running for the club to date, with numerous parkrun events, road and XC races. Beginning at the Waterworks park run, young Danny Donaldson continued his consistent running with a 6th place finish in a time of 18:58. Following Danny was the ever present Patrick J Hamill returning in 24:40, next saw Anna Marie Barrington notch up a new PB in a time of 25:38 and closely followed home by Tiffany McAllister, who is also going from strength to strength and also hitting a new PB with a time of 29:22, great running ladies and gents.

Further up the road, in Ballymena to be precise, Alan Ladd took to a gentle stroll around the Ecos parkrun before taking on the ABO Wind Raceview 10k. Alan completed the parkrun in a time of 30:01, perfect pacing or just lucky… I’m going for pacing myself.

As for the ABO Wind Raceview 10k race, Alan was first of the Mallusk Harriers to cross the finish line in 21st place with a great time of 42:00 (yep I was right perfect pacing) and only 3 seconds off his PB for the 10k on what was a hilly run, certainly would say job well done. Next home was Darren Taggart on home turf and a slight advantage over the city folk, Darren came in with a time of 50:18. Next home was also a mid-Antrim native, Louise Keenan returning in 52:53, great to see you back racing Louise… Janet Grew was the next Harrier to cross the line and in true birthday style managed to start the celebrations with a new 10k PB in 55:37, I suppose it made the wine taste that little sweeter… our final runner was Catherine Boyd, plagued by niggles and pains Catherine completed and returned 56:16. Very well done to all…!!!

Back at the Antrim parkrun, the club had 6 runners taking on the castle grounds with Susan Thompson returning first for the Harriers in 23:59. Not quite enough running for Susan, she decided to take herself to Stormont for Cross Country. Next home for the Harriers was Deborah Ewing in 24:30, Tina Steele 26:02, Tom Wylie 28:26, Jennifer McCoppin 37:43 and Rosalind Stitt 37:49.

Meanwhile at the Valley parkrun, Mr Davidson notched up yet another great run, Alex returned in 3rd place with a time 20:48. Alex was followed in by Nuala Muldoon in 23:09 and by doing so notched up a Valley parkrun PB, well done young lady…!! The remainder of the Harrier field saw Laura Rose 27:11, Fidelma McCoppin 30:36, Hannah Mulgrave with a new PB 30:37 and Robert Jackson 31:26.

The lone ranger up at the Desertmartin 10k road race was Martin McCready, Martin returned in 21st place with a great time in what was described as ‘an undulating course’ with a time of 45:38, great running sir…

Another event over the weekend the Harriers had representation at was the Resolution run in aid of The Stroke Association with Deborah Ewing in a time of 54:37 and Tina Steele 55:49, great running ladies for a great cause, very well done…

The finale of the Born2Run run forest run 10k event saw the bandwagon rolling onto the beautiful surroundings of Castlewellan forest. The usual Harrier suspects were in attendance with Patsy Hamill at the forefront returning home on the hilly course with a smashing time of 41:26. Patsy had great cause for celebrations as not only did he complete the full set in the series, he laid claim to the T-Shirt. He also managed to top his age category in the Men’s 35, which can only set you nicely for the upcoming year in the blue and green of Mallusk, very well done from all at the club Patsy. Another gentleman who also completed all series runs was David Mullan, given that David’s first run at Minnowburn was little over 60 minutes it is clear to see the strides David has made hitting PB’s in many of the runs and completing the Castlewellan run in 51:43. Yet another lad that has gained great reward in his running is Ian Simpson. Ian came to the club on the back of the couch to 5k programme and through sheer determination Ian has pushed on and challenged himself and notched up PB’s throughout the year, Ian finished Saturdays run in 59:15, with his sidekick and running buddy Clare Teer accompanying him across the line in 59:15. The final lassies or otherwise known as the troublesome trio Joanne, Kelly and Lorraine (only joking ladies), completed the series with all goals accomplished going from 5k to 10k, well who knows what is next in the challenge, very well done ladies.

The final cross country event of the year lent itself to the NICSAC at Stormont Estate for a very well organised event, although I would expect nothing less from Mags and her band of volunteers, most notably those from Mallusk Harriers that gave up their Saturday morning and afternoon to help. Great work on the volunteering front from Noel, Martin, Jennifer and Gary, and not forgetting our adopted friend to the club, Anne Smith… job well done by all.

On to the running, this saw some of the first outings for many of our junior runners ‘The Mallusk Minis’ with the sister act of Leah & Maili Skillen competing in the primary school category. It may have been Maili’s first ever run, maybe that’s why she didn’t understand the club ethos of right to the line as she occasionally returned to the back of the field to see if her older sister was ok. Does her Dad not teach her anything? Extremely well done girls…!!! Next up was brother and sister Joshua and Natasha Nelson, with mum away running at the Castlewellan 10k race this allowed dad to cheer both on from the side lines in the U13 boys race and U13 girls race, and indeed both put in a smashing performance, great running Joshua & Natasha. The next set of juniors running was Ben and Chloe Davidson, competing in the Boys U13 and the girls U15, with both putting in sterling performances with a very proud mum and dad. Very well done to all of our juniors and we all at the club are looking forward to the forthcoming year with more outings in the club colours. Later that afternoon the club had runners in the Men’s and Ladies open & vets. First up and fresh from her parkrun was Susan Thompson. Susan competing in her first ever XC, she certainly did do well and returned in 43rd place in a great time 23:41, great performance Susan. In the gents race Tom Wylie and Michael McAuley took to the course with Michael returning in 32:36 and Tom coming home in 36:49, smashing running lads. Let’s hope next year we can tempt more lads and lassies out to the cross country events.

Quickly at a glance

Quickly at a glance.

Just the four parkrun events taken on by 22 of the Harriers this weekend at Craigavon, Valley, Antrim and the Waterworks. Even though there were some cracking runs from our very own Mallusk Harriers, run of the day can only go to that of Jim Clinton from North Belfast Harriers, 250 and not out…!!!

Totally outstanding, for some of us getting to that milestone of 50 and then 100 is certainly a great achievement, but to run your 250th parkrun, the first person to do so in Ireland is a testament to his own endurance. Congrats Jim from all of us up the road, although as Eric may have pointed out the volunteer t-shirt escapes you, but I do notice a trip up the road to the Valley parkrun also missing from the 250 runs, therefore we all at Mallusk would certainly welcome you along on your road to 500.
On to the running…

First over the line for Mallusk at the Waterworks was young Robbie Gould in a 20:33, close on Robbie’s tail was the ever improving Ciaran Skillen. Ciaran returned home with a new 5km PB in a great time of 20:57. Next home was Robert Gould in 21:05 and just missing out on a new PB, consistent if anything. Patrick J Hamill was next in 24:55, Paul Skillen 28:32, Brian McDonald 28:38 and Joanne Haddock 36:48. Last but not least a very special mention to our volunteers at the Waterworks, with Danny Donaldson taking a gentle break, taking on the role of run director and Tiffany McAllister also taking a very well deserved break and volunteering.

Up the road at the Valley we had eight runners taking on the undulating course and indeed some turning in great results to boot…
First over the line was Nuala Muldoon in 23:51 followed by Noel Bloomfield recording a new PB in 23:57. Next was Laura Rose 27:46, Ben Davidson 28:27, Chloe Davidson 28:39, Duncan Baxter 31:04, Robert Jackson 31:33 and new club junior on her first parkrun, Hannah Mulgrave in 34:25.

Whilst at Antrim, Martin McCready cantered round in 23:02 followed by Deborah Ewing 24:13, Tina Steele 26:04 and Elaine Kennedy 26:05.

Three of the lads took on the Craigavon run before hitting the Sperrin Harriers Winter 10 mile trail run at Parkanaur. Alan Ladd, Michael McAuley and Brendan McGeown, with all the lads turning in great 5km times and indeed all hit a PB, Alan in 19:46, Michael in 20:06 and Benny 23:22.

To finish off Saturdays running the three lads were met by Martin McCourt and Tom Wylie to take on the 10 mile trail run, with all the lads notching up great performances and times. First home for Mallusk was Alan Ladd in 71:45, Martin McCourt 73:06, Michael McAuley 74:40, Tom Wylie 78:28 and Brendan McGeown 82:34… Smashing running lads…!!!

Sunday allowed for the opener of the Pure Running Half Marathon Series with the Dune Half Marathon. The club had four runners taking on the flat course from Newry to Dundalk… Woah…rewind that, if Patsy Hamill says it was a bit hilly then I for one would have needed a pair of hiking boots. Patsy was joined by Tiffany McAllister and Danny Donaldson, absolutely smashing running by all four. Tiffany has only taken up running a little over a year ago competing in parkruns each Saturday but has taken on the challenge of the longer running distances with the lure of the Belfast Marathon. Sunday saw Tiffany take on the half marathon and return home in 2:42:33, smashing Tiff very well done…!!!

The three lads also had a cracking run over the rolling hills, Danny nipped home just in front of Patsy in 42nd place in a fantastic time of 1:30:22. Patsy had an equally brilliant run coming home in 53rd place in 1:31:53 and Patrick McGuckin 1:40:40… Smashing running lads, on to Larne as Danny says.

As Time Goes By….

As time goes by…

As the weeks roll on Mr Davidson may have felt relieved that I had missed out on the report, unfortunately Alex I have just been slow in helping bodies out of the ditch in the valley parkrun.

Saturday 30th January saw Mallusk Harriers take first and second spot at the Valley parkrun with Alex Davidson home in first place with a time of 21:13 closely followed by Neil Campbell 21:59 with a new PB for Neil, great running lads. Home in 5th place was club junior Arran Gilliland in 22:29, not a PB on the course for the young lad, but smashing running all the same. To complete the sweep first lady past the post also went to our newly crowned ladies captain, Nuala Muldoon in a great time of 23:31. The remainder of the field at the Valley run was made up of; Laura Rose 28:18, Tom Wylie 28:19, Duncan Baxter 28:45, Chloe Davidson 29:25, Ben Davidson 31:12, Kelly Nelson 38:40, Joanne Haddock 38:44… smashing running folks and many thanks for staying behind and helping all the men, women, children and small animals out of the ditches and duck pond as Alex barged his way to victory…

The usual suspects ran the Antrim parkrun event with Elaine Kennedy 25:15, Deborah Ewing 26:01 and Tina Steele 26:48, whilst Alan Ladd took a stroll around Ormeau in 25:48 the rest of the folk park running this weekend went to compete at the Waterworks with the Mallusk Harriers field led home by Danny Donaldson in 4th place with a time of 18:57, Robbie Gould 21:06, Robert Gould 21:42, Mark Hay 24:15, Patrick J Hamill 26:36, Brian McDonald & Paul Skillen 27:47, Tiffany McAllister 29:54 with a new PB and Julie Tully 30:12.

Sunday saw the first Cultra 5 and 10k runs, raising money for an extremely worthwhile charity in the form of MacMillian nurses. Things may have not gone completely to plan on the morning of the race, although I am very sure for all those that took part in the race, reflecting on the time these nurses give up to help others is extremely immense and to run that couple of extra hills surely is nothing compared to the support given by the nurses involved. A big well done to the Harriers running the 10km, Danny Donaldson 44:02, Michael McAuley 46:45, Alan Ladd 46:55, Lisa Brown 54:39, Deborah Ewing 60:54, Tina Steele 62:09, Tiffany McAllister 71:11, Fidelma McCoppin 72:26, Lauren Whitehouse 73:05.

Moving on to week commencing 1st February; the club took to three of the parkrun events available in the Valley, Waterworks and Antrim.

At the Valley newest club member Neil Campbell took to his 3rd ever parkrun and for the third week running notched up a PB, returning in 21:28, great running lad and long may it continue… Nuala Muldoon 23:35, Alex Davidson 23:35, Louise Keenan 27:04, Martin Keenan 27:14, Laura Rose 27:41, Ben Davidson 28:32, Chloe Davidson 28:39, Fidelma McCoppin 30:53, Robert Jackson 31:27, Jennifer McCoppin 37:05.

At the Waterworks Alan Ladd led the Mallusk runners home with a new 5km PB of 19:47, great running sir… Next home for Mallusk saw Ciaran Skillen notch up a PB for the Waterworks course in 24:37, Patrick J Hamill returned in 25mins, followed by Paul Skillen 27:41. At Antrim parkrun Deborah Ewing strolled around the course in 29:54 before competing in the Born to Run 10km Run Forest Run event.

Not surprisingly Patsy Hamill has competed in all the Born to Run races and has yet to fail in delivering a great result, as did all the Mallusk Harriers who took part on Saturday afternoon. Patsy had a cracking run finishing in 32nd place with an equally great time of 39:51, as always Patsy, smashing running…!! Next home in club colours was Patrick McGuckin with another cracking time of 40:11 and indeed recording a club personal best for his 10km time, very well done sir… It just seemed to be one of those days as the PB’s continued to tumble down as Deborah Ewing was next home and just missed out on a PB by 1 second with a run of 49:41 although with running a parkrun an hour earlier, must say a very well done young lady…David Mullan returned home in 49:43 and recording a new PB taking just over 11 mins from his first B2R 10km at Minnowburn, great achievement David, remember it just doesn’t have to end there… Darren Taggart returned in 51:27, Duncan Baxter also notched up a PB in 52:48. Clare Teer crossed the line with her sidekick Mr Simpson, great to see you back running Ian after a bout of illness, both Clare and Ian returned in 57:49. Catherine Boyd also returning from a niggling injury happily crossed in 60:07, great to have you back running Catherine… Kelly Nelson managed to eclipse her previous 10k at Laganside with a great time of 67:37, smashing Kelly, hard work paying off for you. Next home for Mallusk saw Joanne Haddock return home in 73:21, Joanne was followed home by Lorraine Forsythe in 87:51.

The final event for this weekend was across the pond. Not that way, the other way… yep, ice hockey enthusiasts Danny Donaldson and partner Tiffany McAllister both travelled to Boston to take in some Boston Bruins games (seriously, what’s wrong with supporting the Blackhawks…), and as every other Mallusk Harrier has to do when on their travels, training gear and club vest packed and ready to go. Danny and Tiffany took part in the Boston Super Sunday 5 miler, oops sorry did I say take part in… more like held his own out of nearly 1400 runners Danny returned in 63rd place with a cracking time of 30:26, smashing lad… Tiffany also put in a brilliant result, only running parkruns since last year, Tiffany has shown what determination and hard work is, as she returned in 49mins, absolutely smashing the pair of you and from all us left behind stuck on the Sealstown road, enjoy the rest of your stay…

Short and sweet….

Short and sweet…

Just the four parkrun events ventured to by the Harriers, from home turf at the Valley to Waterworks, Antrim and across the sea to Stretford parkrun event in Manchester.

David Mullan decided to take on the other 443 runners at the Stretford run before heading off to what is known as one of the toughest football grounds to get a win at, even Manchester United are finding it difficult to record a victory there. For the run itself I dare say it would have been tough to get off the start line on that one with over 400 runners… David did come home in a good time of 26:18 though.

Whilst the home birds at the Valley did return in great times, first past the post for the Harriers was Alex Davidson in overall 5th place in 21:10, next saw Susan Thompson 23:12, followed by the effervescent and getting back on track Nuala Muldoon, recording a PB for the course in 23:19. Next home saw another improving lady, Anna-Marie Barrington who also recorded a PB in 27:56. Great running ladies, long may it continue. Our final duo home was Ben Davidson in 31:16 and Robert Jackson 32:36 well done lads…

At the Waterworks the usual clan of Danny Donaldson, Tiffany McAllister and Patrick J Hamill (not to be confused with Patsy ‘that’s not a hill’ Hamill…) were accompanied by Robbie & Robert Gould and Julie Tully, all returning in great times… Danny continued to impress with his consistent running in overall 10th place finish in 19:14, young Robbie resumed services in the Gould household pipping his dad home, Robbie in 20:06 and Robert returning in 21:01 with a PB for the Waterworks course… Patrick J Hamill returned in 25:14 and the ladies returned with Julie in 29:26 and Tiffany in 29:59 and just missing out on a PB, not to worry Tiffany it will come, very well done to all…

At the Falls: Alan Ladd 24:30.

At the Antrim event, the club had 8 members recorded and also a club junior who forgot her barcode, oops… Although young Olivia Thompson had a storming run and finished in 58th place, in a time of 25:40, smashing running young lady… The first Mallusk runner to come across the line was Deborah Ewing in 24:14, next up saw Tina Steele in 26:02, Elaine Kennedy in 26:10, Yvonne Thompson 27:56, Martin McCourt 30:09, Tom Wylie 30:20, Jennifer McCoppin 34:52 and Rosalind Stitt 38:30.

Later Saturday afternoon welcomed the Sperrin Harriers winter league series, with the 10k trail run at Drum Manor. A tough enough wee course I am led to believe with two laps and accounting for two lovely ‘wee’ hills… The club had three lads running at the event with Tom Wylie, improving on his last years’ time by 3 mins and returning in 49mins, Martin McCourt also beginning to fully recover and long may it continue, Martin returned in a great time of 44mins. Martin was only out done by club team mate Patsy ‘sure it’s only a flat road going upwards’ Hamill. Patsy continued his 10k trail running in a great time of 41mins… smashing running by all three lads and long may it continue for the forthcoming season ahead…!!!