Other News – Page 32 – Mallusk Harriers

Just calm down, for now

Just calm down, for now…

This week’s running report begins in Oslo Norway, where Sarah Dinsmore was taking on the Oslo marathon for the charity Extern in memory of her father, who sadly passed away earlier this year. Sarah put in a stirling performance and just missed out in achieving a new PB, however she completed a great pacing run and finished in 4 hours 22 mins… smashing achievement Sarah, we all at the club are extremely proud of you…

With almost perfect running conditions 23 Mallusk Harriers took to the streets of Belfast for the 4th Belfast Half Marathon, with some exceptional performances captured by most. First over the line for the Harriers and fresh from his holidays in Spain (and probably still on the intake of Sangria) was Danny Donaldson in a great time of 1:27:47, Danny closely followed by Patrick McGuckin 1:33:31 and Matthew Cromie 1:33:51, Matthew competing in his first half Marathon. First lady over the line for Mallusk was Susan Thompson and with a new Personal Best in a great time of 1:35:58, finishing a highly respectable 6th in her age category.

Further PB’s began to fall and again it was the ladies leading the way home with Patricia Curistan finishing in 1:42:04. Next up and also notching up a PB was Brendan McGeown 1:44:10, must have been all that talk on Thursday night’s run Benny… Deborah Ewing continued to show off her impressive progression and ran right to the line in 1:44:39, Darren Taggart also got in on the act of a PB in a time of 1:47:49. Nuala Muldoon was next over the line in 1:51:29, probably still rubbing off the effects of her triathlon from 2 weeks previous. Anna-Marie Barrington came home with a Personal best also to get in on the act in a smashing time of 1:52:04. Yet again the PB’s began to tumble, kind of makes me think why didn’t I run… any way, Tina Steele managed to record a new PB in a time of 1:56:44. Tina was followed home in by Laura Rose, Laura also achieving a new PB 1:56:53. Catherine Boyd was next home in 1:57:30, James Hewitt 1:58:06, Carol Leckie 2:01:11, Karen Jamison 2:07:32 with a new PB, Michael McFarlane 2:15:37, Kelly Carlisle 2:19:12, Kelly finishing with a new PB also. Laura Campbell was competing in her first half marathon, smashing achievement as Laura ran right to the line in a brilliant time of 2:20:14, travelling alongside Laura were Jennifer Butler & Noel Bloomfield in 2:20:16. Tiffany Donaldson, probably feeling the effects of running all the half marathons, spelt ‘Sangria’ finished in 2:23:21. Duncan Baxter made up the final runner for the harriers in 2:40:05… Absolutely smashing running by all, very well done especially all you ladies that took part…

The week previous saw the introduction of the East Coast AC inaugural 10K road race, the club had 3 for our folk down at the event, Paul Skillen, Sarah McCafferty and Ian Simpson. The only downside to this race was that it was capped at 200 runners… From start to finish the organisation was fantastic, the encouragement from all spectators and marshalls was totally impeccable, a spread after the event and cracking medal, all for £10 extremely hard to beat, not only that East Coast even had the weather switched on. Top marks to the lads and lassies from ECAC, to all the Mallusk Harriers when this race comes up next year get all over it… Oh yes the running… Paul Skillen finished in 50:16, Sarah McCafferty 59:59 and Ian Simpson perfectly pacing for the 1hour finishers…

Thursday 8th September saw the Mallusk Harriers inaugural 5k handicap race at Waterworks, many thanks to Alan Ladd who arranged the competition and times for everyone… Young Ryan McCready was first over the line followed by Maria Daly in second place with Dermot Boyd taking third place of the 32 runners who took to race. An excellent night enjoyed by all with 23 of the runners coming across the line with PB’s, with many alluding to finding it easier chasing down the runner in front rather than everyone taking off at the same time… again many thanks to Alan for the organisation…

And then there were parkruns…

10th September 2016

Waterworks parkrun, Danny Donaldson 18:54, Patrick Hamill 25:23, Jack ‘PB’ McCready 25:26, Tiffany Donaldson 29:52 & Lisa Marie White 30:54

Belfast Victoria parkrun; Dermot Boyd 30:27, Laura Hutcheson-Magee 33:44, Anne Boyd 34:33

Antrim parkrun; Liam McGowan 21:48, Deborah Ewing 23:59, Tom Wylie 24:20, Anna-Marie Barrington 25:40, Tina Steele 25:56 & Cathy McGowan 38:10 new PB.

Carrickfergus parkrun; Noel Bloomfield 25:36, Jennifer Butler 25:37, Laura Rose 25:54, Michael McFarlane 26:47 & Laura Campbell 29:12.

Valley parkrun; Patrick McGuckin 20:30, Alan Ladd 22:23, Robert Gould 23:17, Karen Jamison 26:21, Nuala Muldoon 27:32, Jackie McCreesh 28:15, Clare Teer 28:30 new course PB, Alex Davidson 28:30, Duncan Baxter 31:44, Debbie Sterritt 33:44, Lorraine Forsythe 44:59 and tail runner Fidelma McCoppin 48:39.

17th September 2016

Waterworks parkrun, Danny Donaldson 19:34, Alan Ladd 20:37, Patrick Hamill 24:40, Anne Marie Craig 33:03 new PB, Tiffany Donaldson 35:00, Deirdre McCann 38:28.

Derry City parkrun; Fidelma McCoppin 28:03.

Ormeau parkrun; Alex Davidson 21:39, Sophie Davidson & Chloe Davidson 32:00

Antrim parkrun; Robert Gould 21:27, Mark Hay 27:50, Deborah Ewing 28:32, Tina Steele 28:33, Robbie Gould 28:34, Alison McGibbon 40:41 new PB, Anna-Marie Barrington 43:55.

Valley parkrun; Patricia Curistan 23:22, Ciaran Skillen 25:19, Paul Skillen 25:20, Brendan McGeown 25:21, Laura Rose 27:12, Jackie McCreesh 28:22, Debbie Sterritt 32:25, Katie McManus 34:29, Sharon McAuley 35:58, Nuala Muldoon 42:45.

Final shout out goes out to Lorraine Forsythe who travelled to the dark side and competed in her first Duathlon 2-10-2 in a great time of 1 hour 46 min… I keep threatening to enter one of these and have to get the finger out… very well done Lorraine great to see you back competing again…

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…’

Indian Summer and beetroot bakes

Indian summer and Beetroot bakes…

Growing steadily over the last two years, the Mallusk Harriers representation at the Laganside 10K in 2014 had a grand total of 6 runners in the field, this grew to 34 the following year only to be eclipsed this year with a total of 47 members taking on the new and improved route (imo). The club also had 9 juniors taking part in the kids 1 mile race. This has allowed us to yet again do our annual bus run for the huge 7 mile journey.

The Juniors race was won by the host club’s young Luke Kelly in a blistering time of 5min 46 sec, absolutely fantastic future prospect. First junior to run right to the line was 12 year old Odhran Rafferty in a great time of 7min 6 sec in 22nd place, Jack McCready in 24th place in 7min 8sec. Have to take note, Jack ran a great PB at the Valley 24 hours previously and has already taken his dad’s 5k PB title, next up uncle Martin’s 5k PB, hmmmm… Next over the line in 31st place was 9 year old Aodh Rafferty in a blistering time of 7min 27sec, in 37th place saw Jack’s younger brother Ryan, 9 year old. Ryan notched up a time of 7min 52 smashing running lads, very well done… The first female junior home in the race was 11 year old Niamh McGeown in 8min 3sec, next up saw Christopher Campbell in a time of 8min 31sec, Christopher was followed home closely by our second female junior, Ellen Butler in a great time of 8min 48sec and next home was Joshua Nelson in a time 8min 59sec. The McCready trio was made up of little 6 year old, yep 6 year old Olivia McCready. You may have been forgiven if you thought the occasion would get to her, not a chance… the little Sealstown screamer drove her way through the 100+ juniors and ran right to the line in an absolutely smashing time of 10min 17sec…
Let’s see if the senior members could surpass that performance…

As the temperature raised a little to offer an Indian summer, 47 nervous harriers from Mallusk took to the start line of the new Laganside 10k course.
Quite a few of the 47 runners had just completed our successful couch to 5K programme at the beginning of June, now about to raise the bar a little higher and take on the challenge. Of the 47 members partaking in the race, 17 were about to complete their furthest race distance to date, so forgive me if the results seem to be a little over the place, shall try and make sense of it all…

First of the new recruits to cross the finish line was Laura Smyth in a great time of 58:15, next up was Mum and daughter act of Sarah and Pamela McCafferty, also completing their first 10k in under an hour with a time of 59:13, brilliant running ladies. David Esler was next home in 59:17, followed home by Keith Thompson 65:06, Kelly Forsythe 68:32, Tracey Whittley 69:14, Dermot Boyd 69:15, Michelle Ker 69:17, Deirdre Rafferty 70:21, Anne McCaffrey 71:35, Maeve McGinley 71:36, Alyson Taylor 73:08, Nicola Hunter Boyd 74:20, Elaine Boyd 74:24, Gordon Ward 77:01, Joelene Byrne 77:03 & Nicola McCullough 78:00… absolutely fantastic running folks…!!!

For the remaining 30 runners from Mallusk Harriers to rush to the finish line, the day belonged to the ladies with only the ladies recording personal bests for the distance, obviously the lads wanted to stay out in the sunshine and get their money’s worth and to top up the tan lines…

First Harrier over the line was Danny Donaldson 39:05, not a PB for Danny, but can be forgiven as he completed all the half marathons in the Pure Running series and finished a very credible 4th place. Martin McCourt was next over the line, Martin returning from a long layoff notched up a time of 43:49. Then it began, the first lady over the line and with no surprise, was Susan Thompson, with a new PB of 44:36. Michael McAuley was next home for the lads in 45:06 only to be followed by the next lady with a new PB, Patricia Curistan sailed to the line in 47:36. Brendan McGeown came across the line in 47:44 followed by Gowain McKenna 48:11, Tom Wylie 50:28, Catherine Boyd 51:43, Anna-Marie Barrington 51:43, James Hewitt 52:30, Jennifer Butler 53:00, Paul Skillen 53:14. Next up with a second PB in a week was Nicola Fleck in 53:40, Nikki was also one of our C25K graduates. Ken McAuley was next in 53:46 and followed home by Alex Davidson & Laura Rose in a time of 54:30, the next PB to run right to the line was Gemma Fowler in a time of 57:34. Hilary Faith was next over the line in 61:46, Gillian Bainbridge 62:45, Fidelma McCoppin recorded a new PB in 63:20 under the guidance of Dave Gibson 63:54. Next home saw Leeanne Skillen 64:27, Ian Simpson 64:32, Clare Teer 65:08, Kelly Carlisle 65:56, not to be out done Jennifer McCoppin also managed a PB in 67:21, followed home by Tiffany Donaldson 67:57 & Joanne Haddock 86:41.

We would like to thank everyone in attendance who helped make the day a smashing achievement by all. North Belfast for their hospitality and their many marshalls around the course, and those giving up their time in providing us all with refreshments at the end of the run and raising vital funds for pancreatic cancer. Also to all our own Harriers, many thanks to all who helped to make the day great for all our new members. To paraphrase and put in the great words of one of the new runners, “Brilliant day out. Thanks to everyone who was there and to Jim for organising the club taxi and Ian for the mobile restaurant”.

Earlier that day the club had two members unable to attend the Laganside 10K, only due to the pair taking part in the Stenaline triathlon. Great credit to the two ladies from all at the club, Nuala Muldoon and Lorraine Forsythe. Lorraine produced a great race and completed the course and finished the race where others failed. Nuala ended a great race and finished the race 4th lady overall and second in her age category, smashing stuff ladies, very well done.

24 hours previously we did have a few runners out at the parkruns, results as follows:

Waterworks parkrun – Danny Donaldson 18:30, Patrick J Hamill 24:59, David Mullan 28:10, Catherine Mullan 28:16, Tiffany Donaldson 33:14, Deirdre McCann 37:14 new PB & Fiona Wylie 37:15.

Antrim parkrun – Liam McGowan 21:11, Deborah Ewing 24:07, Cathy McGowan 39:55.

Valley parkrun – Jack McCready 25:56 new PB, Jennifer Butler 26:02, Laura Rose 27:28, Jackie McCreesh 27:47, Debbie Sterritt 33:01, Anne Boyd 36:53, Sharon McAuley 37:51, Mairead O’Hare 39:20, Lorraine Forsythe 55:15

Colin Glen – Alan Ladd 21:04.

Please remember as the days are beginning to become shorter in daylight, please, please, please wear high reflective clothing and lights when possible. Better safe than sorry…..

Stop, look and listen

It’s been a while and I am very sure I will leave someone or some race out, sincere apologies before I get in to the report, shall try my best to keep it short, however I am sure there will be a story along the way somewhere…
Excuses : – dog ate my pencil and I had to wait for Mrs S to buy the kids the school goodies before I could nick a pencil…
Truth : – Plain lazy, sorz…

13/08/2016

First up, well done to David Mullan on running the race, ‘Thank God that’s over and never again’, otherwise known as the Lurig Challenge Mountain Race.

Waterworks parkrun – Patrick Hamill 24:55, Deirdre Lavery 33:42, Cathy McGowan 40:43.

Belfast Victoria parkrun – Robbie Gould 19:49, Fidelma McCoppin 29:24, Jennifer McCoppin 32:16, Fiona Wylie 33:32, Rosalind Stitt 34:55.

Falls parkrun – Susan Thompson no recorded time

Antrim parkrun – Laura Rose 25:24, Deborah Ewing 26:38, Elaine Kennedy 26:57, Tina Steele 27:01, Ellen Butler 33:50, Jennifer Butler 33:54.

Valley parkrun – Martin McCourt 21:30, Nuala Muldoon 23:41, Jack McCready 26:43, Martin McCready 26:46, Paul Skillen 26:46, Jackie McCreesh 30:05, Alyson Taylor 31:02, Tom Wylie 31:03, Debbie Sterritt 33:16, Joelene Byrne 33:23, Anne McCaffrey 33:47, Sharon McAuley 38:00, Mairead O’ Hare 39:21.

Tandragee 10k – As part of the Novosco 10k running series 5 almost ever present runners travelled to Armagh to take on the Tandragee run. First for the Harriers to cross the line was Jennifer Butler 50:31, followed by Jim Hewitt 51:40, Laura Rose 53:22, Anna-Marie Barrington 54:09, Joanne Haddock 82:24.

20/08/2016

Waterworks parkrun – Robbie Gould 20:37, Anna-Marie Barrington 27:47, Darren Linton 29:26, Anne Marie Craig 33:45, Fiona Wylie 35:02

Belfast Victoria parkrun – Ellen Butler 35:12, Laura Rose 35:13

Falls parkrun – Susan Thompson 22:20

Ormeau parkrun – Dermot Boyd 33:04 and Anne Boyd 35:55

Antrim parkrun – Tina Steele 26:21, Fidelma McCoppin 30:10, Jennifer McCoppin 33:37, Rosalind Stitt 35:25

Carrickfergus parkrun – Ben Davidson 27:57, Alyson Taylor 30:14

Valley parkrun – Liam McGowan 22:13, Nuala Muldoon 24:00, Martin McCready 25:42, Karen Jamison 27:11, Gemma Fowler 27:44, Neil McCready 29:08, Jackie McCreesh 29:35, Clare Teer 30:12, Michelle Ker 31:02, Kelly Forsythe 31:02, Tom Wylie 31:03, Joelene Byrne 33:39, Mairead OHare 39:57, Cathy McGowan 41:25

26/08/2016

Portrush 5mile road race – Susan Thompson 34:55 & Deborah Ewing 39:02

Given a choice some of the folk travelled to the Silent Valley for the annual Dambusters 10k and Half Marathon, a race becoming an ever popular event in the calendar with 5 of our runners taking on the 10k race and 6 runners taking on the half marathon.

First over the line in the 10k race was Noel Bloomfield in a time of 52:34, followed by Jennifer Butler 52:40,Patrick J Hamill 52:50, Leeanne Skillen 64:16, Laura Campbell 66:01. The 6 half marathon runners were led home by Danny Donaldson 1:30:59, Danny finished in a highly respectable 7th place overall and completed all the half marathons in the running series, extremely well done…!! Next home was Neil Campbell 1:47:08, Darren Taggart 1:57:07, Catherine Boyd 1:57:36, Elaine Kennedy 2:06:37, Tiffany Donaldson (nee McAllister) 2:33:19, smashing running by all, well done folks…

27/08/2016

Waterworks parkrun – Danny Donaldson 18:45, Robert Gould 21:35, Jack McCready 25:51, Laura Rose 25:54, Patrick J Hamill 25:56, Noel Bloomfield 29:00, Laura Campbell 29:00, Jennifer Butler 29:01, Lisa Marie White 30:35, Dermot Boyd 32:10, Roseann McGeown 32:52, Brendan McGeown 32:54, Christopher Campbell 34:28, Ellen Butler 34:49, Paul Skillen 35:30, Anne Boyd 36:12, Deirdre Lavery 36:13, Mairead O’Hare 37:42, Tiffany Donaldson 46:18.

Belfast Victoria parkrun – Gordon Ward 31:46.

Portrush parkrun – Susan Thompson 23:09, Deborah Ewing 25:04, Elaine Kennedy 26:34, Kelly Forsythe 29:28, Michelle Ker 29:32

Cross Flatts parkrun – Alan Ladd 20:22

Valley parkrun – Nuala Muldoon 24:13, Debbie Sterritt 32:46, Sharon McAuley 37:43, Kelly Forsythe 40:18

Stormont parkrun – Fidelma McCoppin 31:13 , Jennifer McCoppin 32:51, Fiona Wylie 35:30

Colin Glen parkrun – Patricia Curistan 24:33

29/08/16

On to the Sunday crew, where from a spectators point of view and I am sure the sentiment is also echoed by all at our club, how great a road race Seapark AC put on for all the competitors and spectators alike… 17 runners from Mallusk headed over the old Carrick road to take on the 10K race in the sunshine. Some a little more used to the distance than others, however we did have a few of the recent C25K graduates taking on the distance for the very first time, and didn’t they put in a smashing shift. Extremely well done to Martine Murphy 65:47, Katrina Murphy 66:14, Anne Marie Craig 68:18, now no time to rest on your laurels time to move on to the next one… The remainder of the field was made up of the following runners from the club; Susan Thompson 44:16, Deborah Ewing 47:59, Darren Taggart 48:27, James Hewitt 49:46, Anna-Marie Barrington 50:24, Tina Steele 53:30, Louise Keenan 50:35, Patrick J Hamill 53:47, Laura Rose 54:11, Nicola Fleck 54:20, Jennifer Butler 55:34, Ian Simpson 62:15, Clare Teer 62:30, Leeanne Skillen 62:41.

Remember folks even if your dressed in very bright orange clothing and a car signals to turn right and moves into the right hand lane and almost turns into the road, take heed of the green cross code as there are some drivers set on taking us runners out…..

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…’

So much for the Summer, we are off…

So much for the summer…

We may not have the sunniest weather like that of the Mediterranean up here in Mallusk, however it certainly hasn’t prevented the lads and lassies heading out for the races.

This week’s racing for the Mallusk Harriers began on a fine Monday evening, a short distance up the road to Broughshane for the 10k and 5k road race, where the Harriers had 2 runners in the 10k and 1 in the 5k. David Mullan and Darren Taggart returned home in 50:02 and 50:03 respectively. Alan Ladd took on the 5k and returned home in 14th place in a great time of 20:13. Smashing running lads, very well done…

Next event for the week took place on Wednesday evening at the Crawfordsburn 5k trail race, with 5 Harriers taking on the course. First over the line in 26th place was Patrick McGuckin in a time of 21:02. Next to cross were Clare Teer and Ian Simpson in 32:37, the pair were followed home by Father and daughter Dermot and Catherine Boyd in a great time 35:22.

Parkruns for Saturday 6th August 2016:
Waterworks parkrun – Danny Donaldson 19:25, Matthew Cromie 19 :34 with another new 5K PB, Robbie Gould 21:22, Robert Gould 22:04, Patrick J Hamill 25:30, Lisa Marie White 30:15 new PB, Tiffany McAllister 33:32 and Fiona Wylie 35:06.

Belfast Victoria – James Hewitt 24:32, Jack McCready 25:32, Anna-Marie Barrington 26:29, Ryan McCready 33:03, Neil McCready 33:05

Queens – Darren Linton 28:39

Valley – 100th parkrun and a second birthday and a host of Mallusk Harriers running, not to mention a few of our very own athletes collecting accolades for the their running in the last year…
Neil Campbell crossed the line first for the Harriers in 3rd place overall in a time of 20:02, and with a new course PB. Neil was followed by second lady home overall Susan Thompson 22:10. Next over the line in 18th place and also needing to finish in 18th place to ensure his overall point’s position, was Mr ‘pointy elbows’ Alex Davidson in a time of 22:23, extremely well done Alex. Brendan McGeown crossed the line in 24:00. Next up was overall 3rd place female for the year, Nuala Muldoon in a time of 24:08. Laura Rose was next in 26:50, Nikki Fleck 27:18, Karen Jamison 28:02 and Ciaran Skillen 28:38. Next home was the overall female junior winner Chloe Davidson 29:29. Massive well done to Nuala and Chloe and also Jackie McCreesh who secured 2nd place overall in the ladies standings, smashing work ladies. Clare Teer & Ian Simpson 31:05, Leeanne Skillen 32:21, Debbie Sterritt 32:38, Tom Wylie 32:39, Marianna McBride 32:44, Jennifer McCoppin 33:59, Ellen Butler 37:31, Rosalind Stitt 38:37, Anne Boyd 38:46, Mairead OHare 39:45, Maili Skillen 40:36 with little Maili completing her 10th parkrun and can now lay claim to her milestone t-shirt, Paul Skillen 40:39, Lorraine Ann Forsythe 43:59 and finally tail running Fidelma McCoppin 50:34.

The usual suspects missing from the parkruns at the Valley or indeed elsewhere, could be found up at the Kells & Connor Half Marathon or further afield at the Dublin Rock ‘n’ Roll 5k…

Continuing his great running was Alan Ladd up at the Kells half, Alan finished 11th overall in a time of 1:37:16, great to see you back in good form sir… second home for the Harriers, also getting back to good form was Michael McAuley in 30th place in a time of 1:45:02. Michael was followed home by the ladies from the club, first Deborah Ewing home in 1:57:56 and next with perfect pacing was Elaine Kennedy in a time of 1:59:59 and our final Harrier to cross the line was Tina Steele in 2:06:32. Smashing running folks, great to see you all putting the club vest about.

The rocky road to Dublin…
A few from the club were not content to run just the Rock ‘n’ Roll half Marathon, just like sailors lured by the call of the Siren, they had to take on the 5k event in a very warm, sunny Phoenix Park on Saturday. Alan Kerr finished in a time of 27:23, followed by Jennifer Butler 28:21, Noel Bloomfield 28:21, and Catherine & David Mullan 31:50 & 31:56, all collecting the extra bling.

The next day the folks were accompanied by Patrick McGuckin and Patricia Curistan for all to race the Half Marathon.
First home for the Harriers was little Patricia Curistan, Patricia notched herself a new PB for the distance in a time of 1:48:33, very well done, those hills sessions paying off… next home was Patrick McGuckin in a time of 1:51:48 as he accompanied his better half to the finish line. Alan Kerr returned in 1:55:38, followed by Jennifer Butler & Noel Bloomfield crossing the line in 1:59:10. The final pairing of husband and wife duo from the club, The Mullans (who last year dressed up in KISS outfits which earned them a few tweets from the band) were joined by many fellow rockers, as they ‘rolled’ their way through the course stopping to strum and drum at every bandstand and partake in every watering hole. Although time was irrelevant to them, David and Catherine Mullan managed to nip home under the 3 hour mark.

Sunday saw the return of the annual Subway 5K where a hearty crowd of harriers, made their way around Ormeau Park in the fabulous family event. Well done to all who participated.

The final shout out for this week’s running goes to Uncle travelling matt (Martin)… totally blown off course, Martin McCready found himself lining up at Erris parkrun on the Saturday morning. Yes Erris parkrun, County Mayo, the most westerly parkrun in Europe. Martin had a great run finishing second in a time 21:57. Martin claimed he would have won the race only he wasn’t too sure of the race route and not known for his swimming, there was no way he was ending up in the Atlantic Ocean.

The morning after the night before and recovering from a few pints of the black stuff, Martin decided to stop off for a bottle of Lucozade only to find himself in Ballinameen, Co. Roscommon in the midst of a 10k race… the lad did well finishing 4th in a time of 44:20… very well done matey…!!!

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…’

Best laid plans and all that…

Sometimes a little can be a lot…

The return to Friday night running is always a good thing and certainly suits many folk. With two options, one at the Giants Trail race hosted by Dub runners, the other at the 5 mile Milk run in Ballymoney hosted by Springwell AC. Elaine Kennedy and Darren Linton managed to miss the worst of the traffic jams and make it to Dame Mary Peters track to take on the 10k and both recording very respectable times, Elaine in 55:24 and Darren in 63:42, very well done both of you.

Best laid plans, and all that…

Martin McCready had afforded himself an early finish from work to prepare for Friday evening’s race in Ballymoney, to travel to the race with club mates Paul Skillen and Neil Campbell and to meet Tom Wylie up at the race. As the clock ticked on, from the original meeting time of 5:45pm the lads managed to make it through the traffic around 6:40pm and were the last folk to register for the race at 7:26pm, phew just making it and no more, unfortunately for Tom, no such luck, he didn’t make it up the road in time.
Oh yes the race… both the lads with no time for a warm up just took to the line and pushed through the 5mile course in great time. Martin recorded a time of 34:57, 40 seconds better than last years’ time, however just missing out on PB time for the 5 mile run. Paul crossed the line in 38:48 and scraped a new 5 mile PB for his efforts. A smashing race with a great community spirit, well organised and marshalled by Springwell, very well done guys and gals… However the highlight of the evening belonged to a Ballymena Runners gentleman who rescued the lads from a long trek home… As Paul and Martin scoffed the last of the fifteens (may I add they were the size of bricks and it did take some time) Neil went out to his car to settle his two kids and charge his phone, only to drain the battery in his motor… fear not, as a helping hand from Harry, a kind gentleman from Ballymena luckily had a set of leads to spark the battery back to life… extremely grateful and many thanks to Harry…!!!

Parkruns for Saturday 30th July 2016:

Waterworks parkrun – Danny Donaldson 18:40, Matthew Cromie 19 :48 with a new 5K PB, Patrick J Hamill 24:52, Anna Marie Barrington 27:12, Tom Wylie 29:55, Maeve Mc Ginley 30:12, Tiffany McAllister 32:37, Fiona Wylie 35:09, Darcia Turner 35:42, Elizabeth Peeples 38:53, Dorothy Ramsey 44:56.

Antrim – Robbie Gould 20:15 new Antrim 5K PB, Robert Gould Snr 22:02, Deborah Ewing 25:23, Tina Steele 26:53, Jennifer McCoppin 33:33, Rosalind Stitt 35:35.

Valley – Alan Ladd 20:32, Neil Campbell 20:52, Alex Davidson 22:37, Nuala Muldoon 23:39, Karen Jamison 27:53, Grandpa Simpson 30:28, Dermot Boyd 33:03, Christopher Campbell 37:26, Anne Boyd 39:19, Lorraine Forsythe Tail running 45:37.

Belfast Victoria – Matthew Lavery 23:00, Paul Skillen 24:28 new Victoria 5K PB, Laura Rose 25:41, Jennifer Butler 26:33 new Victoria 5K PB, Duncan Baxter26:33, Sarah McAuley 27:25, Sean Lavery 28:53, Noel Bloomfield 28:58, Laura Campbell 29:01, Maili Skillen 38:49, Leeanne Skillen 38:42.

Carrickfergus – Nikki Fleck 26:42, Martin McCready 26:43, Marianna McBride 32:31.

Wallace Park – Elaine Kennedy new Wallace Park 5K PB 26:06.

An early rise for some but not for Michael McAuley, Michael made his way to the Sunrise 5k and produced a great 4th place finish in a time 21:47. If only you hadn’t stopped to stare at the local wildlife in the early morning sunrise (that being the wildlife returning home from the night before…) extremely well done Michael…

The final three runners of the weekend travelled to Cookstown to take on a tough half marathon. The effervescent pair who have competed in most, if not all of the half marathon series, Danny Donaldson and Tiffany McAllister where accompanied by new club member Christian Spies. Danny was first of the trio to make it right to the line in a fantastic time of 1:27 followed by Chris in a smashing time 1:38, great running gents… although run of the day had to belong to Tiffany with yet another half marathon PB in a smashing time of 2:18, absolutely brilliant stuff Tiff, long may it continue…

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 close encounter of the running kind…

How quickly the weeks pass whilst you are in full holiday mode, but here it goes…

The opening race over the holiday period, began with the NI Duathlon race at Victoria Park with the inaugural 5k race on the 12th July, the club had 1 member with Nuala Muldoon completing the race in 23:46, well done Nuala…

Next up on the 15th July was the annual Sea to Sky 10k in Newcastle Co. Down where the club loaned 6 runners to Slieve Donard Mountain. First home for the harriers was Noel Bloomfield returning in 57:49, followed by Dave Gibson 58:46, Catherine Boyd 58:48, Elaine Kennedy 59:33, Jennifer Butler 64:06 and Laura Campbell 70:28.

Parkruns for Saturday 16th July 2016:
Waterworks parkrun – Danny Donaldson 19:05, Matthew Cromie 20:52, James Hewitt 23:44 new PB, Patrick J Hamill 26:07, Tiffany McAllister 28:58 new PB, Dorothy Ramsey 39:33
Antrim – Tom Wylie 28:00, Martin McCready 28:04, Kelly Forsythe 30:31
Valley – Collecting first place home was our very own Neil Campbell in a time of 20:27 next home in 5th place after collecting 3rd in his age category in a 10k race in New York was Alan Ladd returning in 21:24. Matthew Lavery 23:03, 2nd lady home, Nuala Muldoon 24:01, Louise Keenan 25:31, Paul Skillen 25:41 completing his 50th parkrun, Ben Davidson 26:37, Noel Bloomfield 26:41, Laura Rose 27:39, Sarah McAuley 27:53 new PB, Jackie McCreesh 27:59, Keith Thompson 28:12 new PB, Lisa Hamilton 28:25 new PB, Jennifer Butler 29:08, Fidelma McCoppin 30:40, Chloe Davidson 32:04, Jennifer Mc Coppin new PB 34:24, Deirdre Lavery 34:37 new PB, Tail runner – Lorraine Ann Forsythe 52:21.
Larne – Sarah Dinsmore 27:51.

Across the pond, of course whilst on holidays in Florida, there’s only one thing that is a must and that is to do the Clermont Waterfront parkrun. The club’s Brendan and Roseann Mc Geown took on the 5k run, Benny retuning in 24: 45 and Roseann in 36:22, very well done folks hope you enjoyed the rest of the holidays.

Tuesday 19th saw the Portaferry 10mile road race and relay, where the club had Matthew Cromie and Michael McAuley taking on the relay. Earlier that day the run for the lads was put in jeopardy when Matthew was taken off his bike by a motorist, luckily no harm done to Matthew but the bike came off worse. Race they must, with a flip of the coin Michael ran the first leg with Matthew bringing the vest home. The lads put in a stirling performance and finished in 2nd place of the relay places in a time of 71mins, very well done lads…

Parkruns for 23rd July 2016:
Waterworks parkrun – Matthew Cromie 20:49, Susan Thompson 21:13, Big ‘gentleman Jim’ Hewitt running his 50th parkrun in 23:39 and notching up a new PB, Patrick J Hamill 25:04, Laura Rose 27:27, Jennifer Butler 28:48, Noel Bloomfield 28:49, Alan Magee 29:20, Alyson Taylor 30:13, Maeve McGinley 30:39, Laura Hutcheson-Magee 32:42, Emma Thompson 36:41, Julie Fittis 38:29, Joanne Haddock 39:02, Maili Skillen 40:03, Leeanne Skillen 40:04
Belfast Victoria parkrun – Robert Gould 21:58, Robbie Gould 26:41, Jennifer McCoppin 44:23, Rosalind Stitt 44:24.
Falls parkrun – David Mullan 26:00.
Larne – Sarah Dinsmore 25:54.
Carrickfergus parkrun – Ben Davidson 30:14, Chloe Davidson 30:14 and Dermot Boyd 33:06.
Valley parkrun – Alex Davidson 22:13, Patricia Curistan 23:20, Nuala Muldoon 23:39, Sarah McCafferty 29:13, Pamela McCafferty 29:16, Tom Wylie 37:46, Fidelma McCoppin 48:25.

Friday 22nd saw the Dalriada 5k and 10k race in Glenarm and the club had 3 runners taking on both runs. Club junior, Jack McCready ran right to the line in a great time of 27:11, very well done wee man…!!! On to the 10k, with Jack’s ‘great’ uncle Martin McCready returning in 46:08 in 24th place, Martin was outdone by his close friend Patrick McGuckin, Patrick finished in 12th place in 42:30… did I say ex-best friend, running off and leaving your mate to fend for himself, tut tut…

The Dervock 10k and half marathon ran on the 23rd July with the club having 6 runners taking on 10k and half Marathon and the lads and lassies returning with some smashing times, for what is a tough testing course. Darren Taggart and Catherine completed the 10k, with Darren in 50:59 and Cat going home in 54:15, great running folks…
On to the half … Danny has been competing in every half marathon in the series and has been putting in some absolutely smashing times, Dervock run was no different… Danny returned in overall 15th place in a time of 1hr 27mins, cracking run Danny very well done sir…!!! Deborah Ewing arrived home in 1hr 58, followed by Elaine Kennedy in 2 hrs and 21 seconds and Tina Steele came home in 2hrs 11mins.

On Sunday the club were extremely proud to be asked to help volunteer and marshal, by race organiser and club member Nuala Muldoon in a cracking 10k run with a bit of difference all in aid of the charity Action on Hearing Loss. First up the 2k race and fun run, the club had two club juniors running alongside Louise Ladd and little 2 year old Aaron Ladd joining in, indeed young Aaron showing his dad Alan he is soon to have some competition. Ellen Butler came home in 6th place. Ellen was followed by Maili Skillen in 11th place, smashing stuff ladies and young Aaron…

In the 10k, 6 members braved the climb for the scenic views with Alan Ladd coming across the line for the Harriers in 47:26, closely followed Mathew Cromie 48:00, Michael McAuley 48:33, Susan Thompson 51:14, Sarah McAuley 65:17, Duncan Baxter 71:03 and Laura Campbell 73:04, absolutely great running folks.

The final shout out for the week goes to Darren Taggart and Cat Boyd… With the Dervock 10k not hard enough, both club members took on the Blood, Sweat and Tears 10k in the mud, well each to their own I say…

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…’

No one gets left behind, not even bikes…

Where to begin…

A few weeks have passed without acknowledging the achievements from many of the Mallusk Harrier runners, so here it goes…

Best to start with the parkrun events…

At the Waterworks 11/06/16:
Danny Donaldson 18:52, Matthew Lavery 22:09, James Hewitt 24:13, Patrick J Hamill 25:03, Dave McComiskey 29:11 & Tiffany McAllister 31:21.

At Victoria 11/06/16:
Dave Gibson 22:01 (new course PB) & Gillian Bainbridge 28:29.

At Ecos Ballymena 11/06/16:
Deborah Ewing 24:25 & Tina Steele 26:57.

At Carrickfergus 11/06/16:
Marianna McBride 33:00.

At the Valley 11/06/16:
Alex Davidson 20:25, Brendan McGeown 23:02, Catherine Boyd 25:51, Louise Keenan 26:17, Nuala Lyttle 35:25, Noel Bloomfield 35:30, Jennifer McCoppin 41:00, Rosalind Stitt 43:04.

At the Waterworks 18/06/16:
Danny Donaldson 19:02, Matthew Lavery 20:43, Robert Gould 21:28, Patrick McGuckin 21:53, Patrick J Hamill 25:14, James Hewitt 25:31, Jolene O’Donnell 28:08, Sean Lavery 29:31, Martine Murphy 31:24, Tiffany McAllister 32:10 & Joanne Haddock 41:10.

At the Valley 18/06/16:
Neil Campbell 20:07 (new course PB), Susan Thompson 22:17 (1st Lady), Martin McCourt 23:08, Brendan McGeown 23:12, Tom Wylie 25:02, Louise Keenan 26:03, Elaine Kennedy 26:23 (new course PB), Chloe Davidson 27:57, Christopher Campbell 30:13(new course PB), Ben Davidson 30:31, Nuala Lyttle 34:01, Noel Bloomfield 34:36, Rosalind Stitt 37:31 & Jennifer Butler 37:37.

At Stormont 18/06/16:
Martin McCready 25:20 & Duncan Baxter 26:44

At Victoria 18/06/16:
Darren Linton 39:07

Oh by the way there were also plenty of races to include for the past few weeks, starting with the choice of events on Saturday 11th June.
Joanne Haddock was the only Harrier to travel to Enniskillen for the 10k and recorded a very notable time of 87:31 on a hilly hot course.
For plenty of our other lady Harriers (self acclaimed, Harrietes) there was the Stunnerz N’ Runnerz 5 mile Road Race. Leading the charge home for Mallusk and very fresh from her parkrun hours earlier was, Deborah Ewing. Deborah finished in 27th place and in a great time of 38:22 and was closely followed by her ever improving sidekick Tina Steele in a time 42:59. Next saw the sister act of Jennifer Butler 43:10 and Laura Rose 46:22. Clare Teer was next home for the Harriers in 46:57 followed by Kelly Carlisle 49:51, Leeanne Skillen 53:03 and Jolene Byrne competing in her first race just a week after graduating from the C2 5K in a great time of 53:18.

A little mile or two down the road allowed for further running from the Mallusk Harriers, well a few miles in the Mourne Way Marathon event.
The club had 3 competing in the full marathon and two folk competing in the Half marathon. Certainly a race not for the faint hearted and if you have trained on or dislike any type of hills or obstacles, well just give the run a miss and come back stronger the next time round.
The three harriers in the full Marathon completed and returned safely home, all bones in check, a big Harrier very well done to Nuala Muldoon, Michael McAuley and competing in his very first Marathon Martin McCourt…!!!
The two folk running in the half marathon decided at the last minute ‘why not’ and gave it a bash. Neil Campbell came home in 25th place in 1:48:57 and Elaine Kennedy returned in 2:22:49, extremely well done Neil and Elaine…!!!

Over to Lisburn 10k & half marathon on Wednesday 15th June where the club had 8 members running in the 10k and 4 running in the half marathon.
The 10k results as follows:
Brendan McGeown 47:21, James Hewitt 51:58, Elaine Kennedy 54:37, Laura Rose 55:39, Jennifer Butler 55:39, Brian Mc Donald 56:14, Laura Campbell 1:03:15 & Joanne Haddock 01:24:41.
The four runners who took on the half marathon certainly didn’t hold back and left nothing on the course, a very well done to Danny Donaldson who finished in 81st place and continued in good form in the half marathon series in a time of 01:32:40. Next up was Susan ‘The machine’ Thompson, where Susan finished 4th in her age category in a smashing time of 01:38:52, the wee woman is hot on your heels Danny…!!! Next home was Ian Simpson 2:21:27 and Tiffany McAllister 2:30:39 smashing running Ian and Tiff very well done to all…!!!

Phew almost there… If it wasn’t for that mountain goat McAuley, I would be finished… Of course Michael loves a great challenge and has featured heavily in the Hill and Dales series of running. Fresh from his Mourne marathon 5 days earlier, Michael took on Hill & Dale Series – Race 10 ‘The Meels’ and returned home in 37th place in a time of 40:20 for the climb… All joking aside, extremely well done…!!!

Sorry, almost done with the running, as Nuala Muldoon and David Mullan took on the EAMS Knockathon half marathon event with Nuala returning 2nd lady overall and David returning in 2:13.

I hope I haven’t missed any runs, however I am sure I may have, apologies for that as it hasnt been intentional…

The final shout for the day goes to the Harriers who have taken to a little bit of biking over the summer months, Barry Macauley, Tom Wylie, Martin McCourt, Neil McCready and Paul Skillen all travelled to Portadown for the 40 mile round trip to Newry and back along the canal.
The day started well, a little rain sprinkled the cars as the lads headed off from Mallusk along the M1. Paul had taken to the cycling to ease the aging joints and has quietly enjoyed clocking up speeds of nearly 40mph heading downhill along the Boghill road, however nothing could have prepared him as he watched his bike come of the bike rack and travel around 60+mph back down the M1, thankfully no other cars collided with the bike and strangely the bike escaped with scuffs and tears…. On to the cycle, ‘Things couldn’t get any worse, could it…?’
The heavens opened and the downpour continued, not a chance would this put the lads off, on they went with the first pit stop recorded at Scarva with no fighting taking place, just scone eating and coffee drinking lads. Pushing on, the gents got the Newry in no time and with a quick turn round were homeward bound wet and cold.
A few miles back, Tom hit the wall, nope he literary hit a wall. Trying to maneuver around a cattle gate and quickly connected with the adjoining wall…. ‘Things couldn’t get any worse, could they..?’
Moving on and with 13 mile to run, Barry got a flat tyre…. ‘Things couldn’t get any worse, could they..?’
Finally finished the cycle, a smashing run all the same… ‘Things couldn’t get any worse, could they…?’

The final journey home the bike came off the rack again, thankfully the lock kept it on the car and Neil caught it in good time and pulled on to the hard shoulder and fixed the rack yet again… ‘Things couldn’t get any worse, could they…?’
A few miles up the M1 Neil’s nerve’s got the better of him, he had enough. Off came the bikes and the bike rack and into the back of the car they went, Martin must have thought he was the bionic man with the amount of metal around him. And relax, I kid you not a sigh of relief came over the car.

‘Things couldn’t get any worse, could they…?’ – well, yes of course they could, Martin received a call from Barry, who was stranded along the M2 as his car had run out of petrol… The end…!!

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…’

So much for the Summer…

So much for the weekend…

There may be a limited number of races over the holiday period, but no matter ‘have race, will travel’.

Parkruns for Saturday 9th July 2016:
Waterworks parkrun – Danny Donaldson 18:31, Patrick J Hamill 25:12, Tiffany McAllister 30:03, Anne Marie Craig 36:00, Elizabeth Peeples 38:53
Belfast Victoria – Susan Thompson 21:06, Matthew Lavery 22:15, Brian ’the prodigal runner’ McDonald 23:35, Sean Lavery 28:34, Gordon Ward 29:52, Jennifer McCoppin 36:40, Rosalind Stitt 36:45
Up at the Antrim parkrun –Catherine Boyd completed her first run at Antrim in 25:07, although more concerning was, she brought her parents to take on the Castle grounds, only to run off and leave them. However Dermot Boyd returned in 32:39 and Anne Boyd 36:12, very well done to Dermot and Anne, as for Cat she will be on bread and water for the next few weeks, tut tut… Ben Davidson (27:49) was ushered over the line by Martin McCready 27:52, although Ben told us, he couldn’t understand Marty’s joke so just pushed on to the finish. Chloe Davidson returned in 31:48 & Dawn Dubois 41:20
Valley – Patrick McGuckin 20:52, Neil Campbell 21:57, first lady over the line Nuala Muldoon 24:36, Paul Skillen 27:20, Noel Bloomfield 27:25, Jackie McCreesh 27:38, Laura Rose 27:42, Jennifer Butler 27:46, Sarah McAuley 27:55 with a new PB, Lisa Hamilton 29:15 with a new PB, Lauren Whitehouse 31:42 with a new PB, Maeve McGinley 33:20 with a new PB, Marianna McBride 33:23 with a new PB and tail running was Lorraine Forsythe 54:20.
The last of our members taking on the Queens parkrun was Elaine Kennedy who returned home in 26:08.
Very well done to all taking on the parkruns over the weekend, more importantly though a shoutout to those who took on the volunteering roles. Without the volunteers none of us can take part in these events, please try and volunteer at least 3 times per year…

On Wednesday the club had just the one member take on the North coast 10k, Louise Keenan came across the finish line in a highly respectable 62nd place in a time of 51:58 , very well done Louise…

On to Sunday, where the Skillen clan packed up and travelled to Sligo ‘Ponsa’ for a short break, not before spying a run in Ardboe… well it was kind of on the way (luckily Lee-anne’s geography isn’t great…). A great event and something for everyone, the Great Rossa Run offered a charity walk, a 5km, a 10km and a half marathon. Paul Skillen took on the 10k race, accompanied by Michael McAuley and Martin McCready who both took on the half marathon. Paul crossed the line in 54:10 and felt he didn’t do the course justice, so will just have to come back next year for the challenge. Both Michael & Martin ran a great race in the half. With just over a mile left to race, Martin spied Michael in his sights and pushed on up the hill to the finish encouraged by a fellow athlete from Co. Antrim Harriers Stephen Semple. The exuberance on Martin’s face at the finish could have been bottled and sold; the lad was delighted to notch up a new personal best for the half marathon in a time of 1:39:42 in 40th place. Michael, probably found the course far too flat for his liking, certainly after his Hill and Dale & Spelga mountain runs, however Michael wasn’t too far behind and crossed the line in 1:40:13 in 46th place.

Also on holiday in Blackpool, Duncan Baxter and Kelly Carlisle took on the summer 10k. Duncan traded in his ever present red baseball cap for a kiss me quick hat and returned in 58:46, Kelly collected a stick of Blackpool rock and ran right to the line in a time of 66:40… very well done, enjoy the rest of your hols’…!!!

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…’

Nearly there…

Back to the running, well almost…

Beginning with the weekly parkrun events, the Mallusk Harriers had 60 plus runners attending numerous events over the last two weeks, although more importantly had many out and about in volunteering roles. Just a kind reminder, without the humble volunteer giving some time back into the events, there would be no such great events. This is something that the club prides itself on, when it comes to volunteering in running events. Therefore a short note to all our members in the coming weeks, if you can help out at any of your local events please pitch in wherever possible, it shall be greatly appreciated.

Parkruns for Saturday 25th June 2016:
Waterworks parkrun – James Hewitt 24:30, Patrick Hamill 24:49, Patrick McGuckin 26:34, Deirdre Lavery 34:19, Joanne Haddock 38:44, Sean Lavery 51:55
Belfast Victoria – Danny Donaldson 19:20, Tiffany McAllister 36:03, Rosalind Stitt 42:28, Marion Harrison 42:52.
Lisburn – Darren Linton 30:24
Antrim – Martin McCready 21:22 new course PB, Tom Wylie 23:21, Noel Bloomfield 25:12 new course PB, Jennifer Butler 25:38 new course PB, Paul Skillen 26:13, Ciaran Skillen 26:13 new course PB, Chloe Davidson 27:05, Elaine Kennedy 27:28, Laura Rose 32:53, Gordon Ward 32:59, Susan Thompson 33:00, Deborah Ewing 35:34, Tina Steele 35:34.
Carrickfergus – Marianna McBride 32:16.
Valley – Alex Davidson 20:39, Neil Campbell 21:15, Robert Gould 22:15, Patricia Curistan 23:50, Jackie McCreesh 28:09, Nuala Lyttle 34:31, Darcia Turner 34:56
–————
Parkruns for Saturday 2nd July 2016:
Belfast Victoria – Jennifer McCoppin 34:07, Rosalind Stitt 35:38.
Colin Glen – Darren Linton 32:11.
Lisburn – Elaine Kennedy 27:55.
Carrickfergus – First lady home; Susan Thompson 21:21, Gordon Ward 31:16, Tina Steele 37:01.
Valley – Alex Davidson 20:27, Robert Gould 21:57, Martin McCready 22:01, first lady home; Nuala Muldoon 24:01, Louise Keenan 26:48, Robbie Gould 27:47, Noel Bloomfield 27:48, Jennifer Butler 27:51, Jackie McCreesh 28:20, Fidelma McCoppin 30:46, Rebekah Morrison 31:19 new course PB, Gemma Fowler 31:19 new course PB, Laura Campbell 31:58 new course PB, Maeve McGinley 34:29, Christopher Campbell 34:29, Marianna McBride 35:30
Waterworks – Danny Donaldson 18:56, Mathew Lavery 22:37, James Hewitt 24:24, Patrick J Hamill 26:03, Tiffany McAllister 31:01 Deirdre Lavery 33:50.

The first of the race events took place on a nice Friday evening of the 24th June down in Newtownards. The club had the effervescent couple to the half marathon series, Tiffany McAllister and Danny Donaldson. On the ‘nice’ tough course, Tiffany certainly wasn’t deterred and returned with a new personal best for herself in the half marathon distance by 4 minutes, returning in a time of 2:20:33. Absolutely smashing Tiff, very well done we are pleased to see you have stuck it out and put in fantastic training to begin to smash your goals. Tiffany’s other half Danny continued in the same vain that has taken him through all the other half marathons in great shape. Danny notched up a 50th place finish in a great time of 1:28:05, brilliant stuff Danny.

Next race up was the Fields for Life 10k, where Ian Simpson flew the flag for the Harriers in the 10k race; Ian came home in a time of 65:20. Very well done sir, another one under the belt and on to the next one.

Tuesday 28th June saw the conclusion of the East Antrim Harrier forest trail series with the 4mile trail run at Woodburn Forest. The club had 16 members taking on the trails and returning in great times for many, special mention goes out to Sarah McAuley, Sarah was competing in her first race following her graduation from the couch to 5k programme, although she does have a wee bit to go to keep up with her other half Michael. First home for the Harriers was Alex Davidson in a time 29:48, next home was the young lady who not only managed to complete the series, but also collected herself top spot in her age category – Susan Thompson, Susan returned in 31:50. Another young lady making giant strides in her training and running events, Deborah Ewing finished in 35:17, well done Debs keep up the great running. Alan Kerr was next home in 37:10, followed by Sarah McAuley & Jennifer Butler in a time of 42:57. Tina Steele returned in 43:16, followed by Darren Linton in 49:45

On to the next one…
Michael ‘Roads are for driving on, Mountains are for running up’ McAuley took on the Spelga Skyline Mountain Race. Michael raced home in 20th place in a cracking time of 3:28:54. Smashing running buddy…!!!

The final race of the last two weeks, the Comber 10k hosted by Ballydrain Harriers where 8 Mallusk Harriers accompanied the other 500 runners to take on the new flatter, faster course. Top marks to Ballydrain and their band of volunteers for putting on a fantastic event, from registration, to the fantastic course support, even the little downpour for cooling us down right through to the fantastic spread at the end, greatly enjoyed and appreciated by us Mallusk Harriers, well done Lads and Lassies. First Harrier home was Paul Skillen in a time of 51:07, followed by Elaine Kennedy in a time of 53:25. Next up was Jennifer Butler 55:16 managing just to nip home in front of her wee sister Laura Rose in 55:29. Mr Simpson got yet another 10k under his belt returning in 62:55, followed by Duncan Baxter 64:12, however Duncan did have the added disadvantage of wearing an under armour, a t-shirt, a woolly jumper, a club vest and a rain jacket along with the extra 2 stone carried as the downpour kicked in, I’m sure (as you said) ‘you did stay warm’. Our final two across the line for the Harriers were Kelly Carlisle 65:43 and Joanne Haddock 84:16, great work ladies and gents, now on to the next one.
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 mars a day…

Burning the candle at both ends is certainly something that comes to mind or even all work, rest and play without a Mars bar in sight, perhaps maybe all work and no, rest or play. Again apologies for the delay in delivering the club reports over the last few weeks… well here it goes, brief and hopefully to the point…

Parkruns for Saturday 14th May 2016:
Waterworks parkrun: Danny Donaldson 18:36, Patrick J Hamill 24:12, James Hewitt 25:36, Tiffany McAllister 30:02.
Belfast Victoria: Jennifer McCoppin 34:42, Rosalind Stitt 38:22, Kelly Bell 39:10
Ormeau: Martin McCready 23:18
Antrim: Robert Gould 21:39, Susan Thompson 22:09, Deborah Ewing 24:04, Tina Steele 25:39, Elaine Kennedy 25:39.
Carrickfergus: Catherine Boyd 24:37.
Valley: Neil Campbell 20:22, Alex Davidson 20:26. First lady Patricia Curistan 23:19, Brendan McGeown 23:37, Nuala Muldoon 24:06, Tom Wylie 24:40, Anna-Marie Barrington 27:01, Noel Bloomfield 27:01, Ben Davidson 28:24, Chloe Davidson 28:24, Darren Linton 32:58, Lorraine Forsythe 45:03
Colin Glen: Alan Ladd 20:54

On Thursday 19th May crazy mountain goat Michael McAuley took part in the H & D Loughshannagh (Race 6) and recorded an impressive time of 56:44.

Whilst on Friday 20th May, 15 of our folk travelled the short distance to Belfast Docks to take on the Albertville 4 mile road race: – Danny Donaldson 23:55, Alex Davidson 25:42, Robert Gould 28:15, Martin McCready 28:30, Sarah Dinsmore 32:06, Laura Rose 33:06, Elaine Kennedy 33:11, Jennifer Butler 33:26, Duncan Baxter 33:43, Ian Simpson & Clare Teer 37:14, Leeanne & Paul Skillen 38:29, Tiffany McAllister 38:54, Kelly Carlisle 40:04.

Also on Friday evening was the Runher 10k coastal event with Deborah Ewing leading the charge home in a time of 48:47, Catherine Boyd 50:26, Gillian Bainbridge 57:42, Fidelma McCoppin 66:39, Lauren Whitehouse 66:44, apologies for anyone I may have missed, a little difficult to decipher from the results page.
Parkruns for Saturday 21st May 2016:
Falls: Susan Thompson 22:34.
Antrim: Robbie Gould 21:24, Robert Gould 21:44, Elaine Kennedy 26:36
Armagh: Martin McCready 23:31
Valley: Alex Davidson 21:10, First Lady, Nuala Muldoon 24:11, Louise Keenan 26:54, Laura Rose 27:24, Paul Skillen 27:44, Chloe Davidson 28:20, Ben Davidson 28:45, Tom Wylie 29:09, Fidelma McCoppin 31:41, Ian Simpson 34:29, Jennifer McCoppin 34:50, Erin Teer 44:16, Clare Teer 44:17, Lorraine Forsythe 45:38.
Waterworks: Danny Donaldson 18:48, Patrick McGuckin 19:43, Patrick J Hamill 24:52, James Hewitt 25:10, Tiffany McAllister 31:06.

The second of the East Antrim Harriers Forest Trail Series took place in Tardree Forest on Tuesday with 11 of the Mallusk Harriers taking to the trail with club juniors leading the charge home with, Jason McCone 23:01, Robbie Gould 23:04, Susan Thompson 24:30, Deborah Ewing 26:25, Alan Kerr 28:00, Elaine Kennedy 28:21, Tina Steele 29:35, Dean Finlay 30:18, Gillian Bainbridge 31:04, Janet Grew 31:33, Carol Leckie 31:34.

Mid-week running on Wednesday 25th, allowed for 4 Harriers to travel to Banbridge for the Bann 10k with the old hand Jim Hewitt leading the way home with a time of 52:59, closely followed by Jennifer Butler 53:02, Elaine Kennedy 53:04 and Joanne Haddock 84:54.

Saturday the 28th May threw up a division in the Mallusk Harriers with some happy to take on the local parkruns, the Pure Running Belfast Hill 8.8k hosted by North Belfast Harriers and the Mayfair 10k hosted by Co. Antrim Harriers.

Valley park saw Alex Davidson return in overall third place and clock up a new PB for the course in a time of 20:10. Next over the line for the Harriers were Alex’s 2 youngsters, Ben returned 28:01 and Chloe in 28:12. The fourth Harrier home Tom Wylie, was providing a supporting role, for the first of the Run Newtownabbey graduates, Nikki Fleck 28:19. Smashing achievement Nikki very well done…!!

Up at the Antrim parkrun some PBs for the course were notched up by Robbie Gould 20:24, Robert Gould 21:05, Mark Hay 25:53, Julie Tully 29:25 & Dawn Dubois 39:24.
Whilst over at the Waterworks: Patrick Hamill 24:22, Bethany Finlay 26:15. New club member Neil McCready 27:28 and Gillian Bainbridge 28:18.

Meanwhile just up that wee hill from the waterworks, the Harriers had 3 mountain goats and Nuala taking part in the Belfast hills 8.8k mountain trail run and with some notable runs to boot. First over the line for the Harriers was Paddy ‘McGinty’s Goat’ McGuckin in a great 17th place finish in a time of 38:17. Patrick was closely followed home by Neil ‘The highlander’ Campbell also in an impressive 21st place and time of 39:43. Next over the line was the youngest of the 3 gents, Alan ‘The Kid’ Ladd in 25th place in 40:42. The final Harrier to cross the line was Nuala Muldoon in a smashing time of 45 mins and 4th lady overall. Smashing running by all…!!!

Up the road in Ballyclare we had 15 Harriers take part in the 10k race and 4 runners take part in the 5k road race hosted by Co. Antrim Harriers. I must start by commending the outstanding hospitality from the Co. Antrim Harriers, absolutely first class from start to finish. Personally I for one am in great favour in participating in club hosted races, the support today during the race was totally exceptional, shown in abundance today by CAH by all their members and the local community. A great course, a great tee-shirt, a great goodie bag, a medal, a fantastic spread (always a favourite of mine) and I haven’t even mentioned the marshals and support around the course. We would all have to travel a good distance to meet with great hospitality provided today, however I am sure we would like to live up to the expectation and to have your runners attend our very own club race on the 12th August. Top marks Co. Antrim Harriers…!!

So on to the running… First home in the 5 k run was Jennifer McCoppin in a new PB of 32:02, followed by Darcia Turner in 32:02, Rosalind Stitt 41:46 and Marion Harrison 42:09, smashing running ladies, keep ‘er lit… The first Harrier to break the tape in the 10k was Deborah Ewing in a great time 49:25, Noel Bloomfield 50:47, Louise Keenan 51:45, Catherine Boyd 51:43, Paul Skillen 51:44, Michael McFarlane 53:14, Elaine Kennedy 53:23, Janet Grew 53:38, Tina Steele 54:22, Jennifer Butler 54:42, Ian Simpson 59:37, Clare Teer 59:48, Leeanne Skillen 66:37, Kelly Carlisle 67:08, Duncan Baxter 67:08.

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…’