Race Over The Glens 2018:

Newcastle AC’s Zak Hanna and Ballymena Runners’ Gillian Wasson were crowned King and Queen of the Glens as Ballymena Runners hosted the 23rd annual running of the traditional Race Over The Glens Trail Race in Glenariff Forest Park in County Antrim.

Hundreds of athletes turned out, most hoping to kick off the new year the right way – therefore, throughout the field, everyone had their own hopes and expectations. However, at the front, only a victory would do, and it was 2017 Champion Zak Hanna who claimed top honours.  Following on from his podium place at the Castlewellan Christmas Cracker at the weekend, Zak led the field home in 32:11 (1st place).  Just like twelve months ago, it was Mark McKinstry (North Belfast Harriers) who secured 2nd place; Mark recorded 32:15 for the revised 5.2 mile course.  Mourne Runners’ trail expert Timmy Johnston took a well-deserved 3rd place in 33:07.

In the ladies race, the host club celebrated victory with their own Gillian Wasson producing a fine performance to seal top spot in 39:38 (1st place).  Last years winner, Shileen O’Kane (Lagan Valley AC), ran well to take 2nd place in 40:19.  County Antrim Harriers’ ever improving Jana Ross notched up another podium place when recording 41:20 for 3rd place.

Podium Places:

Top 3 Men:  1st Zak Hanna (Newcastle AC) – 32:11, 2nd Mark McKinstry (North Belfast Harriers) – 32:15, 3rd Timmy Johnston (Mourne Runners) – 33:07

Top 3 Ladies:  1st Gillian Wasson (Ballymena Runners) – 39:38, 2nd Shileen O’Kane (Lagan Valley AC) -40:19, 3rd Jana Ross (County Antrim Harriers) – 41:20

Full Results:  Race Over The Glens 2018 Results