Mallusk Harriers ‘Mathieson Cup XC’ 2018:
On Sunday 11th February 2018, Newtownabbey based Mallusk Harriers hosted the Mathieson Cup XC, an event named after well-known and highly respected local volunteer Mags Mathieson, at the City of Belfast Playing Fields in Mallusk.
The venue has played host to some major cross country events over the years, attracting the likes of Steve Ovett, Steve Cram, Brendan Foster and Paula Radcliffe, but today, it was two of Northern Ireland’s top cross country runners who excelled.
Pre-race favourites Mark McKinstry (North Belfast Harriers) and Jessica Craig (North Down AC) led the way in the premier senior races. In the Men’s 4 mile race, Mark made his intention clear from the off, moving forward and taking the race on, eventually winning in 24:57 (1st place). Talented Derry Tack Club athlete Conan McCaughey crossed the line in 25:34 to claim 2nd place, before North Belfast Harriers’ John Black recorded 26:15 for 3rd place.
In the ladies race, Jessica Craig looked a class apart as she relentlessly covered the 3 mile distance in 22:35 (1st place), well over a minute clear of any challenge. Northern Ireland Masters international Tracey Atkinson (Albertville Harriers) followed in 23:58 for 2nd place, while Lagan Valley AC’s Jenny Finlay impressed with a 24:37 finish for 3rd place. In the Vet60+ Men’s event, Eric Montgomery (Lagan Valley AC) won in 25:35 (1st place).
In the team event, Mallusk Harriers won the men’s top prize, while Albertville Harriers topped the ladies standings and picked up the Mathieson Cup shield.
Full Results: The Mathieson Cup 2018 Results
