Belfast Half Marathon

This was the second Belfast Half Marathon in recent years with a completely different course from the inaugural event, going from the Kings Hall in South Belfast all the way to Victoria Park and back. It attracted over 3000 runners and over 20 OAC athletes along with considerable OAC support back at Victoria Park.

The race itself was in almost perfect running conditions without the humidity of the previous year, and the organisation of the event was noticeably improved with frequent water and gel stops. There was a minor hiccup to the event with an accident on the route at the start, but this had no effect on the race other than delaying the start for an hour.

In an event such as this with its large high profile field it would be considered difficult for an athletics club to distinguish itself, but there were several awards and some good placings in the race, particularly for the impressive ladies squad. There were also a large number of PB’s and some first timers.

Joe Craney was first to finish with a time of 1h23m39s, with Paul Woodman 2nd on 1h24m13s. Andy McIntyre finished in 1h29m20s.

Sile Brennan was first OAC lady to finish with a time of 1h30m28s. She was 7th in her age category and set a new ladies club record. Leann Gibson, who was being paced round by John Craig,was second lady with a time of 1h31m48s and Lyndsey Pronger 3rd (1h32m49s)

An event this year wouldn’t be complete without a prize for Brian Todd, who won 3rd in his age category with a time of 1h36m49s. Zdzislaw Malkinski was first in his age category with a time of 1h45m48s

Remaining times were:

Tags: Belfast Half Marathon, Half Marathon