A Midsummer Nights Race

Contrary to fears that the 2012 Ards 5 Mile Challenge would be the last proved unfounded as the event was reborn on Friday evening, now under the wing of the Ards Lions Club and with a new midsummer date. Strong swirling winds made the undulating course challenging but the majority were finished before the very heavy shower came. Evergreen Gerry Coy was the first North Down runner home in 3^rd place and 1^st vet in 30:44 min, behind Michael Stewart of Dromore and Ryan Andrews of Ballydrain. Gillian Burns made it a double for Dromore in the ladies race with Nikki Heywood 4^th lady and the first North Down girl.

There were half a dozen or North Down runners in the field with Club Captains John McGarvey and Sarah Benton both survivors of the Larne Half Marathon two days before. Darren McKee, David McMeechan and Jill Aicken were all well placed in what is always an enjoyable event.

Results:  Ards Lions 5m Challenge 2013 Results