On Sunday 6th December, St Augustine’s College, Dungarvan hosted the annual Irish age group races. Storm Desmond had left areas of the course very soft and difficult to run through, although the weather itself was fine.
Megan Briggs was the first out for North Down in the girls U13 race. Running at a steady pace Megan progressed through the field right up to the finish line, completing in 54th position and 4th Ulster counter out of 6. Excellent running and only a matter of time before Megan finishes even higher up the field.
Our only other age group entry was Craig McMeechan running in the U17 boys having finished 3rd in the Ulster equivalent a month ago. By now familiar with the names at the front of the race Craig made sure he was in the lead pack from the start. A lone runner involved in a break on the 2nd of 3 laps was tracked down by Craig on the 3rd lap with about 800m to go, he then put in a strong finish to win his first Irish title. Ulster also won the provincial title. A well deserved success given Craig’s dedication to all aspects of his training, and great for NDAC to have another Irish winner in their ranks.
Rachel Gibson was our only other runner on the day, and indeed the only Ulster entry competing in the ladies novice race. In a very fast and competitive field and on a course which was by now even softer, Rachel made sure she was near the front from the start and finished in an excellent 8th place.