Now that the Christmas Cracker is firmly based in the Castlewellan area after it’s initial launch in Comber in 1985, the hills of Scrabo and Killynether pale into insignificance after the 1000 feet of climbing endured by the 1100+ runners on Tuesday.
Setting off in Castlewellan’s square the race was quickly off road and commenced on a random sequence of forest trails, farmers fields, muddy lanes and a disused section of Great Northern Railway, which was equally sticky with mud. The organisers had advised prior to the race that it had changed from last years’ edition and that there was a sting in the tail this time around. With the GPS’ reading 7.5 miles of the total 8.5, the runners were directed up a climb with seemingly no end to it. So when it did flatten out and actually start descending the relief was palpable, which was greeted with the second sting – a lap of the finishing field, and that was anything but flat.
It seems like the tougher and more varied the race conditions, the more popular it is with the runners. This was no exception as everyone racing, whether in club vests or festive fancy dress thoroughly enjoyed the event. North Down had a large representation of partnerships in the race who kept in tune with the spirit wearing club vests, fancy dress and character dress and with partners from within the club, relations, friends and purpose built duos for the day.
Our sole success of the day was from the combination of Frankie Rea and Les Wilkinson who won the Male 120+ category and finished in an excellent 63rd overall. Our first partnership in was Mark Weir and Jamie Budde who succeeded in finishing in 17th, clocking 59:02, breaking the 1 hour mark which only 22 of 554 partnerships managed.
The signs are good for an equally successful Cracker next year, and with the scenery and variety of underfoot running conditions available there will be no shortage of willing athletes.
On Boxing Day Greencastle Co Tyrone hosted the 31st annual 5 mile road race. With top athletes attending this race it is a very popular event and one which also includes a severe hill towards the end. Michael Stevenson was our only runner in the race and crossed the line in 45:29 to record 557th from the 917 finishers.
Greencastle 5 Miles