From Spud Runs to Wales – Ballydrain Harriers Report

Ballydrain Harriers at the Glenariff Mountain Race

With running events being called off around the country, Ballydrain Harriers were fortunate to have had representatives at three different events this past weekend. Thirteen members travelled to the scenic Glens of Antrim for the NIMRA Glenariff Mountain Race – otherwise known as the Spud Run. The 6-mile race saw competitors leave the Glenariff Community Centre and follow the Ulster Way, covering road, trail and open mountain.

Claire Ingram, William Alexander and Andrew Wallace tackle the descent at Glenariff

The route took the runners on the 1200-foot climb up the mountain where they turned and ran straight back down – the slippery conditions underfoot proving difficult for remaining upright! It was a superb day out for the Ballydrain contingent with medals galore. Jared Martin finished 1st in the Junior men’s category as well as placing 4th overall. Alison Stocks was on the podium yet again taking 3rd in the women’s race. Wendy Purdon had a fantastic race and managed to take 1st place in the F50 category.

1st Junior, Jared Martin, and his spuds

Ballydrain ladies took first place in the ladies’ team event following brilliant performances by Alison Stocks, Claire Ingram and Christina McConnell. Well done to all our mountain runners and congratulations to all the prize winners.

Debbie Matchett travelled to North Wales to represent Ballydrain in the British Masters Cross Country Championships. The challenging course covered 6km of fields, hills, ditches, streams and plenty of mud. Debbie came home in 27:12 to claim the Bronze medal in the women’s F50 category. Congratulations Debbie.

Debbie Matchett splashes her way to bronze and the British Masters XC

The East Antrim Marathon Series continued along the Lough shore in Jordanstown. The Stormathon was held on Saturday with the St Patrick’s day event on Sunday. Catherine Miskelly was the sole Ballydrain member at the Stormathon race. While there was some wind and rain on the day, it wasn’t quite the storm of previous years. Catherine ran the marathon in a time of 4:24:37 to finish up a first female on the day. Well done Catherine.

Following current Government advise with regard to Covid-19, Ballydrain Harriers have taken the difficult decision to temporarily suspend all club training and activities until further notice. Please check the Ballydrain Harriers facebook page for updates as information becomes available.

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