Almac Races
Three Ballymena runners plus one four legged Ecos park runner took part in the Almac 5k/10k run held at the Craigavon balancing lakes.
Conditions were quite warm but with a reasonably strong wind for the over 1000 participants in both races.
The 5k race which was run over the Craigavon park run course was first and Michael Scott and Sable finished in a time of 28.44.
In the 10k race Jamie Scott finished 4th in a time of 35 44 a new PB and Derek Dougan had a time of 48 22 in line with his hoped for time on this slightly undulating course.
Thanks to Almac for organising the event which was enjoyable and also raised money for the Northern Ireland Children's hospice.
Sable, Michael and Jamie
Duncan does Donard!
The Slieve Donard Classic Ireland's oldest mountain race, held uninterrupted since 1945.
This year marked its 80th anniversary! This iconic race also doubled as the next event in the Irish Mountain Running Championships.
Only one Ballymena Runner toed the line this year – Duncan Millar. Reverting to its traditional starting point outside the Newcastle Centre on the promenade, the race then takes the traditional Glen River path to the summit of Donard (2,796 ft / 850 m).
A rough descent then follows off the open mountain to the quarry at the top of Donard Forest. At this point, the route choice is entirely up to each individual, and it’s always a hot topic of discussion both before and after the race!
Duncan gave it his all over the 10k course, finishing in 88 mins and 97th out of 180 runners.
Thank you to Newcastle Athletic Club for putting on such a fantastic event. Well done to all involved – and especially to Duncan!
Duncan at Donard