It is becoming a tradition now that the first cross country of the season immediately follows the Bangor 10K, which is traditionally in September. So we literally transition from road racing to cross country in one weekend.
This didn’t deter a respectable number of North Down runners making the trip to Armagh for the McElmeel Cup. The ladies were led home by Julie Wilson who returned in 34th spot which was good enough for an age category win. A great result for Julie following her 2ndplace age award the day before at Bangor.
Abby Andrews wasn’t far behind in 37th and picked up 2nd age category prize on the way while Glynnis Boyle and June McMinn came in on 48th and 49th places, not surprisingly June claiming the age win. Sarah Gibson returned in 60th position followed by Wendy Neely, 65th and Jenny Keery 76th.
James Budde was first ND athlete home in the men’s race finishing 14th closely followed by Gareth Watton in 18th. Daniel Dines 24th and Francis Marsh 29th completed the counters for the men’s team which collectively placed them 3rd on the day. Francis once again taking the age win.
Chris Moran fought for every place as he finished in 30th spot and Dennis Scott completed in 36th not far behind, Jason McMinn taking 41st position. Alasdair Mair, 58th and Steven Donegan 66th provided ample back up. Nick Anderson was next in 78th with Tom Agnew finishing 2 spots further back in 80th. Tim Cooke completed the ND team when he finished in 90th place.
Well done to all our athletes, many of whom had raced the day before and made the effort to get the numbers out for the club at the start of this year’s cross country league.
In the Masters race Terry Eakin won his age category and finished in a healthy 6th place overall.
There was a variety of junior races before the senior event where we had successful results. Ben Acheson and Ethan Isles came 2nd and 3rd in the boys U18 race while young Robin Anderson won the U9 race.
Lucy Cheatley and Mac Eager also competed in the U18 race. Medals were also won by Lara Cheatley in the U11 event while another of the Seaton family, young Daly medalled in the boys U9 race.
