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  1. Weekly Report, 18-24 JUNE 2018

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    ORANGEGROVE ATHLETIC CLUB WEEKLY REPORT FOR 18-24 JUNE 2018 – Thanks to Martin for compiling.

    They say a week is a long time in politics heck, try a week with Orangegrove! With various training throughout the week; the organisation of a major event in Energia 24; torrential rain to blinding sun; races covering 200ms to 291.15k & as high as 1,080ft; finishing in times from 28:19 secs to 24 hours; from track to Hill & Dale and; with Solstice, the longest day of the year, thrown into the middle of things…it was another eventful and varying week in the Club’s history and one that has enhanced our reputation even further. The main races to be covered this week are:

    Tuesday 19th – NORTH DOWN AC OPEN TRACK & FIELD
    MEETING @ BANGOR SPORTSPLEX

    Wednesday 20th – LISBURN 10K & HALF MARATHON

    Friday 22nd – NIMRA HILL & DALE DRINAHILLY 4.75 MILES
    Saturday 23rd – Various PARKRUNS

    Sat/Sun 23rd/24th – ENERGIA 24 SOLO & RELAY TEAMS

    NORTH DOWN AC OPEN TRACK & FIELD MEETING @ BANGOR SPORTSPLEX
    What a wonderful week of sunshine we have just had…almost! The weather was so bad on Tuesday evening at the Track in Bangor that Ali McConnell nearly turned up on her bike to compliment the swim and run legs! This Jekyll & Hyde weather however was not mirrored by the bright and sunny performances of the women who did participate in the 200 and 800 metre races which form part of OG’s 2018 Club Championship:

    200M Girls (won by Megan Briggs of North Down AC in 28.19)

    Reegan Neill-McKenzie 31.66
    Well done Reegan!

    200M Women (won by Eve Dann of North Down AC in 31.93)

    Harriet Anderson 34.38
    Lisa Fleming 36.27
    Julie McKimm 38.46
    Kim Reynolds 38.85
    Verity Cornford 39.17
    Jill Holland 39.70 (won Race 1)
    Jackie Grant 40.79
    Jenny Powell 41.35
    Judith McCann 41.94
    Adrienne Savage 43.64
    Jean Stone 45.87

    800M Women (won by Catherine Diver of Beechmount Harriers 2:27.50)
    Julie McKimm 3:01.90
    Harriet Anderson 3:04.87
    Lisa Fleming 3:11.78
    Verity Cornford 3:16.22
    Kim Reynolds 3:17.90
    Jill Holland 3:19:59
    Jenny Powell 3:26.98
    Jackie Grant 3:32.04
    Judith McCann 3:33.09
    Adrienne Savage 3:40.38
    Jean Stone 4:50.09

    The women’s races finishing places are interesting as at 1st glance they look very similar but the merit order does change somewhat, illustrating strengths lying more with speed vs stamina. Some great running and very consistent by everybody over the 2 distances with the front 3 of Harriett Anderson, Lisa Fleming & Julie McKimm featuring in both.
    The men were no damp squids either with some lightning (nothing to do with the weather) performances with Rodney Corrigan topping both his race groups, Adam Sykes flying out of the stalls, Steven Gilliland showing a flair for speed, David Fletcher featuring prominently and David Montgomery catching some in the long grass:

    200M Men (won by Adam Hughes of Loughview in 23.61)

    Adam Sykes 24.63
    Steven Gilliland 27.54
    David Fletcher 28.93
    Ian Wilson 29.11
    Andrew Bennett 30.79
    Rodney Corrigan 31.01 (won Race 2)
    David Montgomery 31.17
    Jim Harris 32.11
    George Gribben 33.20
    Dave Gribben 33.24
    Brian Todd 35.12
    Robin Montgomery 37.62
    Reg Sanlon 40.62

    800M Men (won by Nigel McKibbin of Dromore AC in 2:13.90)
    David Montgomery 2:29.06
    Rodney Corrigan 2:32:16
    David Fletcher 2:35.14
    Dave Gribben 2:36.58
    Robin Montgomery 2:46.02
    Andrew Bennett 2:46.16
    Brian Todd 2:53.77
    Stephen Hamilton 2:57.04
    Jim Harris 3:04.79
    Ian Wilson 3:07.11
    Reg Sanlon 3:22.73
    George Gribben 3:24.50

    LISBURN 10K & HALF MARATHON
    I hope the Bangorians above weren’t relying on my promise that the week of Lisburn is always hot and that the evening sun plays havoc with any potential race heroics (PBs!). Yes, usually every year the races at Lisburn on a Wednesday evening are nearly always scorchers and, whilst it was a dramatic change from the previous night…the weather was cooler than normal and despite the sun, contained a breeze at times. Ideal racing weather? I’m unsure but there were some ideal and hot times:

    Lisburn 10k
    Michael Broadhead (24th/1,712) 37:08
    Brian Todd 44:03
    Gerald Harvey 51:31
    Emma McWilliams 55:48
    Marcia Sharkey 56:07
    John Ferris 58:13
    David Doey 58:48
    Lisburn Half Marathon
    Eric Fairfield (35th/1,265) 1:25:31
    David Gribben 1:30:38
    Ryan Kerr 1:37:21
    David Roberts 1:40:08
    Jonathon Weston 1:43:13
    Carolyn Beattie 1:43:13 PB
    Ali McConnell 1:46:28
    Heather Shanks-Miller 1:49:24

    Michael Broadhead, of Paul Pollock’s DreamRunDublin18 and Orangegrove fame, ran a super time along with the consistently formidable Brian Todd in the 10k along with other excellent personal performances in the 10k and HM and Carolyn Beattie sparkling with a HM PB with an excellent time and; with Ryan Kerr setting his stall out with an scintillating and tantalising debut in the vest.

    The 10k race was won by Christopher Madden of City of Lisburn AC and Jessica Craig of North Down AC in 31:35 and 35:51, respectively, whereas; the half marathon was won by Keith Shiels of Foyle Valley in 1:10:26 and Rachel Mitchell in 1:18:50.

    NIMRA HILL & DALE DRINAHILLY 4.75 Miles

    From the proverbial heights of the track to the literal heights of the mountains and specifically Donard Forest in Newcastle for Race 10 of Newcastle AC’s popular Hill & Dale Series.
    This 4.75 mile race in Drinahilly includes 1080ft of ascent and is the last in the series which included some interesting, scenic and challenging locations. The final series placings are now available on the NIMRA website. There was 234 runners in this race and it was won by Tony McCambridge of St Malachys AC in 21:56 and Karen Wilton of Jog Lisburn in 25:07. The brave and hardy Orangegrove contingent with Lisa completing all 10 of the Series!, were:

    Robin Montgomery 30:35
    Verity Cornford 34:48
    Lisa Fleming 37:28 (all 10!)
    David Doey 40:06
    Edwina Ternan 41:36
    Selina Myles 42:45

    ENERGIA 24-HOUR INTERNATIONAL & NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
    The annual Energia 24-hour Race is part of the AAI National Championships and there was also a 24-hr Team Relay, a 12-Hr and a 100Km race and it was held at our very own Victoria Park again over Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June 2018.

    The 24-Hour is a form of ultra marathon, in which a competitor runs as far as they can and is a 1-2-3 podium men and women’s race. Competitors have ‘crews’ to help them in which ever race is chosen and they tend to ‘fuel’ as they go and only take toilet breaks – although they can leave the course for rest periods.
    The men’s world record was set by Greek Yiannis Kouros in Adelaide, Australia at 304km (189 miles) in 1997 and the women’s world record was set by Poland’s Patrycja Bereznowska in Victoria Park, Belfast in 2017 at 260km (162 miles). Eoin Keith currently holds both the men’s Irish track (245kms/ 152 miles, Mary Peters’ Track,Belfast 2013) and the Irish road records (248kms/154 miles, Victoria Park, Belfast 2017); and seventh from Cork’s Ruthann Sheahan in Katowice in 2012 (229km/142 miles).
    With representatives around the world the 24 hour race was won by Cork’s Aidan Hogan covering an amazing distance of 243.880k, beating Eoin Keith by under 5k, and England’s Samantha Amend covering 220.049k. Indeed there were 10 finishers out of 128 who ran over 200k in 24 hours!
    The 12 hour race had 22 finishers and was won by Ger Copeland of Dublin Bay Runners with 115.773k and Fiona Prue of Ballydrain Harriers with 111.933k.

    100k
    Now to the 100k (which was won by Tim Brownlie of Willowfield) where we had a lot of interest as our very own super hero Darren Houston was to take on 100k, yes that’s right, 100k…in that sun…through the night…100k! An almighty challenge with many different factors to deal with never mind running for 100k but a challenge that Darren has trained for diligently and has applied a lot of focus to so a massive congratulations to him on behalf of Orangegrove for finishing 7th and covering 100k in 15:43:36! A fabulous achievement and…a Club Record!
    Darren Houston 15:43:36

    24-Hour Team Relay
    Orangegrove had 3 Relay teams entered for this and they were comprised as follows:
    OAC A Team: Danny Bradley, Andy McIntyre, Andrew Tees and Heather Flint
    OAC B Team: Dave Gribben, Stephen Anderson, Chris Woods and Gillian Logan
    OAC Ladies Team: Catherine Fearon, Sarah Steer, Kerris Hamilton and Sharon Corken

    As maybe noticed, the A & B Relay Teams were mixed (behind every 3 good men, there’s a better woman!) whereas the sole Ladies’ Team of ensured an overall total of 6 men and women and every one of them stole the show.

    Another enormous challenge but also quite different and how do you train, never mind compete, to take turns at running 2 hours throughout 24 hours?! Do you actually get a proper nap? Can you reawaken your legs to do the same again? Does your brain try and talk you out of it?

    Well, whatever each of you done, you prepared and performed extremely well and inspired everybody who witnessed your awesome efforts and we salute you! Fantastic times by all 3 teams and whilst breaking 2 Club records OAC A Team only went and won the whole thing covering a jaw-dropping 291.501 km/181.130 m in a really exciting race within the 24 hours – superb!!
    OAC B Team whizzed around to cover 266.092 km/165.342 m! and the OAC Ladies made a Club Record for 24 hours Ladies’ time with another super distance achievement of 245.244 k/152.388 m!
    OAC A: 1st 291.501 km/181.130 m New Mixed Team Club Record
    OAC B: 5th 266.092 km/165.342 m Just smashing!
    OAC Ladies: 10th 245.244 k/152.388 m Ladies Race Winners & Ladies Club Record

    I feel it is only just to note that as proud as we are of our representatives & their performances in the 100k and 24-hr Team Relay that they too felt the need to express their thanks to all the support, encouragement, assistance, food and help from volunteering they received.
    Indeed, gleaming from some runners’ post-race discussions, common themes surfaced based upon the physical and mental challenge involved but also of the emotional journey whereas from a supporting viewpoint…inspiration and pride featured prominently. Well done to all involved and who volunteered and a big thank you to our captains, Jill and Stephen; coach Jacqui; gazebo team, support crew, photographers, marshals, and Robin for Relay Race Director.
    PARKRUN

    There were a few firsts experienced by members extending to those long distances but there was also a few first Parkruns at various locations including David Fletcher at Ormeau; David Gilliland & Claire Kelleher at Queens and; Sarah Wilson at Castlewellan. Whereas Shona Pryde hit 100 Parkruns at Victoria; Ali McConnell got a Stormont Parkrun PB and; Luke Gibson achieved a fabulous Senior Parkrun PB of 24:11 at Stormont.
    The following is a link to our Club’s Parkrun performances last weekend and please consider volunteering on the website:
    http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/…

    Thanks to Heather Flint, Stephen Anderson, Brian Todd, Alan Montgomery, Eric Fairfield, Jacqui Maxwell, Sharon McFarland, Lisa Nevin, Darren Houston and Bob Given for their photographs.

  2. Weekly Report, Monday 11th June-Sunday 17th June

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    Complied By Brian Todd

    This is usually a busy time of the year but for some reason this week seems just a little lacking in competitive races. Nevertheless, there was Orangegrove representation at the Dromara 5k on Wednesday evening and there was the usual significant OAC presence at Thursday’s Hill and Dale race in the Mournes. There may well be at least some Orangegrove vests at Carlingford on Sunday for the annual Flagstaff mountain race and there will, of course, be the usual plethora of parkrun PBs on Saturday morning throughout the length and breadth of our province and beyond. Members of the Junior Club will also be in action on Saturday at the Northern Ireland and Ulster U14-U17 Age Group Championships at the Mary Peters Track.

    Brian Todd and Gerald Harvey, two of the oldest but not necessarily the wisest of OAC members, had the idea that they would run a nice easy little 5k race on Wednesday evening, and Dromara (in aid of Cancer Research UK) fitted the bill perfectly, or so it seemed.

    However, down came the rain and with it a fairly significant breeze and lower temperatures than we have been used to lately. Now this part of County Down is drumlin country and most of the significant drumlins in this locality seemed to be brought together to constitute the route of this 5k race. This wasn’t a flat 5k, nor a hilly one; this was an absolutely mountainous 5k. The final half kilometre was, conveniently, downhill to the finish, but by this time most competitors were too knackered to take any advantage from it. Nevertheless, we survived the ordeal and the typical country spread in the village hall, served by homely local ladies, lifted our spirits and was some compensation for our earlier efforts:

    Brian Todd…22.21 (age category winner)
    Gerald Harvey 28.01

    The Dromara 5k was won by Zak Hanna (Newcastle AC) in the remarkable time (for the course) of 16.12 and Susan Smyth of the host club, Dromore AC, was first lady In 19.40.

    Now, Thursday evenings at this time of the year mean only one thing, Hill and Dale, and this year a significant little coterie of Orangegrovers has been making its way south to the Mournes to partake in Hill and Dale masochism.

    This week it was The Meels, taking in Slieve Meelmore (the big Meel) and Slieve Meelbeg (the little Meel). However, if you look at your ordnance survey map of the area carefully you will discover that the small one is actually bigger than the big one by about 25 feet. This is Ireland, remember! The reality is that neither of them are small and they do represent a significant impediment to those foolish enough to attempt to run up them and then down again. The race distance is only about three and a half miles but you will encounter about 1800 feet of height gain in that distance.

    Below is a list of those of our club who were brave enough to be in the Mournes last Thursday evening:

    Robin Montgomery…39.23
    Michael O’Donoghue…47.29
    Verity Cornford…49.58
    Lisa Fleming…53.03
    Edwina Ternan…58.54
    Selina Myles…1.07.07.

    Very well done indeed!

    The Hill and Dale ‘Meels’ race was won by Colm Murtagh (Newcastle AC) in 28.40 and Sarah Graham (Mourne Runners) was first lady in 34.53.

    Members of the Junior Club were in fine fettle at the Northern Ireland and Ulster U14-U17 Age Group Championships at the Mary Peters Track on Saturday, despite the inclement weather.

    In the U17 Boys’ 200m Final, Adam Sykes won gold in 23.24. Aaron McCord won the bronze medal in 23.97. On a different day it would have been silver. Huge PBs for both boys and assured qualification for the All Ireland’s at Tullamore. Very well done indeed.

    Reegan Neill McKenzie was 6th in her tough U16 100m heat in 14.71. Not a PB, but difficult weather conditions undoubtedly played a significant role in this race.

    Rory Carson had a super day out on Saturday, winning the U16 200m race in 23.55 and the U16 100m race in 11.57. Again, easy qualification for the Tullamore All Ireland’s.
    In the U17 100m race Adam Sykes was 2nd in a photo-finish in 11.45. Aaron McCord was 4th in 11.80, Nathan Stewart 5th in 11.82 and Lewis Hamilton 8th in 12.47. All these times were either personal bests or equalled previous personal bests.

    Ronan McPeake was 9th overall in the U15 boys’ 800m race.
    Very well done indeed to all in the Junior Club at this level, athletes and coaches. Grateful thanks to Gillian Sykes for the information. Gillian’s full report can be accessed by following the link below.

    https://www.facebook.com/178977125630382/posts/909139945947426/

    Sunday saw one of the most important events in the Northern Ireland Mountain Running (NIMRA) calendar, the annual race from Flagstaff Hill in the Cooley Mountains to Slieve Foye and the beautiful village of Carlingford on the shores of Carlingford Lough below. The route is about eleven miles long with over 3000 feet of climb. If you are very quick it will take you about 1 hour 30. If you are a normal human being it could take you up to four hours, more if the mist descends. This is country I know well. I used to smuggle a little contraband in those hills as a youngster in the 1950s. Back then the idea of runners running through them would have seemed ridiculous.

    Over fifty runners were involved this year and very well done indeed to OAC representative, Andrew Tees, who completed the course in an impressive 2.19.28 to finish in 16th place.

    The Flagstaff to Carlingford Mountain Race was won by Seamus Lynch (Newcastle AC) in 1.47.00 and Esther Dickson (Newry AC) was first lady in 2.08.25.

    Parkrun continues to inspire and motivate week after week. Even the most unlikely of athletes are attracted by the simplicity of the whole affair, the friendships it forges, the social interaction it allows and the attainable targets which it presents. This week 39 club members ran parkrun somewhere.

    The following Orangegrovers deserve particular mention; the in-form Lyndsey Tyro was first lady finisher at Victoria Park in a personal best time of 19.07.

    Also at Victoria Park, Jake Dalzell (JM15-17) ran a personal best time of 23.17.

    David Montgomery was the fastest Orangegrove finisher at Victoria Park in 18.48 (8th).

    At Stormont parkrun Martin Walker recorded a personal best time of 27.17. David Gribben was second finisher at Comber parkrun in 19.53.

    There was a fair amount of parkrun tourism this weekend. David Gilliland was at Ashton Court (Bristol) parkrun in 25.49, Catherine Fearon was at Gladstone parkrun (London) in 28.38 and David Fletcher was at Hilly Fields parkrun (London) in 21.15.

    ‘No volunteers; no parkrun’. The famous words still ring true. If you do value parkrun, well then do something occasionally to keep the ship afloat and off the rocks. A volunteering roll to suit your experience and personality will be found for you. Start the process by emailing Gerry Ward, the Run Director, at belfastvictoriahelpers@parkrun.com.

     

  3. WEEKLY REPORT – 4th JUNE 2018 TO 10th JUNE 2018

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    The continuing period of good weather meant most local races were run in warm conditions and there was no shortage of different types of races for Orangegrove members to take part in.

    FAIRHILL 5 MILE, BALLYMENA

    The ever popular 5 mile race was run in warm conditions on Wednesday night. The course is two laps and is pretty flat so good times are a possibility. However the heat may have slowed a few down. The spread afterwards was certainly worth the run around the County Antrim town. The race was won by the North Belfast Harriers duo of Mark McKinstry (25:14) and Gladys Ganiel (28:52). Times for Orangegrove participants are below.

    Pos Name Time
    91 Michael O’Donoghue 00:34:29
    100 Martin O’Brien 00:35:19
    106 Brain Todd 00:35:28
    112 David Roberts 00:35:53
    117 Gillian Logan 00:36:09

    325 David Doey 00:47:04

    HILL AND DALE RACE 8 LOUGHSHANNAGH

    The Hill and Dale series continued on Thursday night with probably the most difficult race which takes in 4 tops- Carn, Doan, Loughshannagh and Ott. Maybe this would explain a slightly smaller Orangegrove turn out but a magnificent seven rose to the challenge with a number of excellent performances noted. Seamus Lynch (Newcastle AC) and Esther Dickson (Newry AC) continued their dominance of the series. There are two races left and a number of Orangegrove members have already completed the series (minimum six races). Race 9 is this Thursday with the final race being next Friday (22nd June)
    Pos Name Time
    16 Andrew Tees 00:47:54
    91 Robin Montgomery 00:57:57
    165 Michael O’Donoghue 01:10:33
    184 Edwina Ternan 01:17:33
    191 Sarah Steer 01:20:01
    198 Lisa Fleming 01:24:27
    Selina Myles

    26 EXTREME MOURNE WAY RUNNING FESTIVAL

    Unlike last year when a spectacular storm ripped through the Mournes the night before the event, participants were greeted with blue skies and very warm conditions. The marathon starts in Donard Park and makes its way roughly along the Ulster Way whilst the Half Marathon starts near Ott Track and the 10k starts near Leitrim Lodge with all races finishing in Kilbroney Park, Rostrevor. Heather Shanks-Miller braved the full marathon and finished in a fine time of 5:40:13. Four adventurers took on the half marathon course and times are below. Congratulations to Andrew Tees on his sixth place finish.

    Name Time
    Andrew Tees 1:34:21
    Robin Montgomery 1:44:48
    Sarah Steer 2:03:39
    Steven Gilliland 2:12:18

    FROG (FUN RUN OF THE GLENS)
    The ironically named Fun Run Of The Glens was held on Saturday with a number of cycling events and running events taking place to raise money for Cancer Focus. In near perfect conditions Marcia Sharkey was the sole Orangegrove representative and she completed the 10 mile race in an admirable time of 1:55:51.

    STUNNERZ N RUNNERZ

    Verity Cornford was conspicuous by her absence at the latest Hill and Dale race bit she was obviously saving herself for an assault on the Stunnerz n Runnerz race in Magherafelt. Verity finished in a fantastic 17th place (39:02) in a race won by Julie Murphy of Lagan Valley AC in 32:46.

    FIELDS OF LIFE 5k, STORMONT

    This is the third year of this race and it offers a 5k and 10k option of a run around the Stormont grounds. The sting in the tail is the run up the main hill which you have to do twice if doing the 10k race. There was Orangegrove representation in the 5k race with John Ferris finishing in 31:13 in a race won by Peter Moffett (18:36) and Catherine O’Connor (20:03)

    MAN v HORSE
    The event began in June 1980 following a chat over a pint (or three) in the back bar of the Neuadd Arms Hotel. The then Landlord, Gordon Green, overheard two men discussing the relative merits of men and horses running over mountainous terrain. The enterprising Gordon, never one to miss an opportunity to promote Llanwrtyd Wells and improve business at his hotel, decided to put it to the test. And so began Green Events and its first, longest standing and now internationally acclaimed event, Man v Horse. I’m sure it is no surprise that Michael O’Donoghue took up this challenge and to date there are no results available.

    PARKRUN

    There was Orangegrove representation at seven parkruns on Saturday with the biggest turnout at Victoria Park. Michael Broadhead’s training with Paul Pollock is paying off as he secured a PB with 17:30. Paul Pollock was first finisher in 15:45. Ben Magee was a first timer at Queen’s as was Kimberley Reynolds at Portrush. Clare Kelleher and Ronan McPeake had PBs at Ormeau and Lisa Fleming joined the PB club at Castlewellan. Team Tyro were on their travels again as they were in Co Cork and Bere Island parkrun. Lyndsey was first lady finisher and Paul celebrated his 200th parkrun by finishing fourth, no doubt pushing a pram. A consolidated club report can be found by clicking below:
    http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/…

     

     

     

  4. Club Report 28th May – 3rd June, 2018

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    Written by Gerald

    Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must’ (Dean Karnazes).

    FORESTSIDE 5K CHALLENGE SERIES, DAY 1, 30th May 2018.

    For some it was not a walk in the park on Wednesday at Ormeau. Though it was very warm, the clock was ticking and there was hard running to be done on a course that included all of the upslopes of the parkrun route plus a few more (30m of ascent). The summer series has been devised by Glenn Grant of ChampionChip Ireland with sponsorship from Forestside Shopping Centre and good prize money is on offer – Liz Robinson won £100 for the best age graded performance of the day, 22:07, 80.86% and Conor McMullan won a total of £90 for the fastest time of the day and the second best age graded performance, 17:39, 79.93%.
    Orangegrove AC runners were there of course, David Montgomery being fastest and 2nd overall out of 137 runners, in 19:12. Des Fahy was 4th in 19:21. Jacqui Maxwell was 28th in 24:43 and Gerald Harvey was 29th in 24:59.

    LAGAN VALLEY AC FIRMUS FAB 5, Day 3, 31st May, 2018.

    The OAC juniors ran very well at MPT to post a number of podium finishes:

    U11 Girls 100m, Heat 2, Sarah Van Der Linden won in 15.44 seconds;
    U13 Boys Mile, Jacob McKittrick won in 5 minutes 27.03 seconds;
    U17 Mens, 100m, Aaron McCord was second in 11.95 seconds;
    U11 Girls, 100m, Heat 1, Katie McKittrick was third in 16.40 seconds;
    U15 Boys Mile, Ronan McPeake was third in 5 minutes 22.46 seconds.

    HILL & DALE SERIES, RACE 7, MILLSTONE MOUNTAIN, 31st May, 2018.

    It was a warm and humid night down in the Mournes, but at least there was shade along the forest trails. Andrew Tees ran well to finish first OAC male in 42:16, 11th overall out of 241 runners. Verity Cornford was first OAC female to finish in 1:01:30, 175th overall. The race was won by Seamus Lynch (Newcastle AC) in 36:38 and first lady was Esther Dickson (Newry AC) in 43:32, 18th overall.

    OAC Results: Andrew Tees, 42:16; Robin Montgomery, 51:49; Michael O’Donoghue, 56:29; Verity Cornford, 1:01:30; Edwina Ternan, 1:08:19; Lisa Fleming, 1:08:25; David Doey, 1:13:12; Judith Dalzell, 1:22:13; Selina Myles, 1:25:52.

    TAKING THE TOWER 10K, Friday 1st June, 2018. [Report by Brian Todd]

    It is always good to get your main weekend run over and done with on the Friday evening, leaving you the rest of the weekend to luxuriate, or recover as it was in this case. This was a lovely and very well organized little race in support of Action Cancer. However, it was not one for the faint-hearted. As the name suggests that magnificent volcanic extrusion we all know and love as Scrabo, overlooking Newtownards and Strangford Lough below, was very much in contention!

    The race began and finished in Killynether Wood and the course took in many of those lovely little roads that those of us familiar with the Ards Half Marathon know so well. However, what goes down must come up again and the final three miles involved a lot of up. Parts of it were un-runnable in true Hill and Dale style. A nice little touch was the jazz band that played beautifully as we struggled to the summit of the hill for our circuit of Scrabo Tower before the very fast descent to the finish back in the semi-darkness of Killynether Wood. What a lovely way to spend a Friday evening! Temperatures were high, the rain stayed away and the crash of thunder in the west added to the atmosphere.

    Thanks to Michael Barton of Seal Training Fitness, Newtownards, and all at Action Cancer and, in particular, the many volunteers, for a great and innovative multi-terrain race. Hopefully this one will be on the calendar for many years to come. Nice medal too! Times reflect the difficulty of the gradients in many places: Brian Todd, 50.49 (27/138). Taking of the Tower 10K was won by Glen Taylor (Ballydrain Harriers) in 37.51 and Amanda Perry (Ballydrain Harriers) was first lady in 45.17.

    ALL-IRELAND SCHOOLS ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS, 2nd June, 2018. [Report by Gillian Sykes]

    Our Ulster Schools medallists made the long 3.5hr trip to Tullamore on Saturday for the All-Ireland Schools Athletics Finals…..and what a day…! Amazing competitors didn’t stop Rory Carson from bringing home a Bronze Medal in 100m Junior Boys….and a Silver in 200m Junior Boys…..PB’s of 11.51 and 23.48 were squeezed out of Rory in what were incredibly tight races. Fantastic racing as always from Rory.

    The end of a long day waiting and watching saw the turn of Adam Sykes, Nathan Stewart and Lewis Hamilton in their Inter Boys School 4 x 100m Relay team. This turned out to be a record breaking race seeing Mercy Mount Hawk (Tralee) smashing the Inter Boys Irish Schools Record. The Orangegrove boys ran the race of their lives to bring the baton home safely in 5th place….in a PB time of 45.24….smashing their target of 46 sec that they had set earlier in the season. Not at all disappointed in this position as they will surely be back next year, as their whole team is a year young in this age group. Such a fantastic experience for this young team.

    The future is bright for the Junior Sprinters in Orangegrove.

    PARKRUN, 2nd June, 2018.

    This week there was a good turnout of OAC runners at Belfast Victoria Park and Stormont. Reg Sanlon was at Comber. Lisa Fleming was at Portrush. Furthest travelled was Catherine Fearon at Gladstone Park, London. Well done to the two runners who achieved a personal best time: Danny Bradley, 18:48 (Belfast Victoria Park) and Jake Dalzell, 22:08 (Ormeau Park). Brian Mc Farland and Ben Magee were first timers at Carrickfergus.
    Remember to help out at least three times a year by contacting Gerry Ward at: belfastvictoriahelpers@parkrun.com

    SSE AIRTRICITY WALLED CITY MARATHON, 3rd June, 2018.

    David Gribben and Michael O’Donoghue were on the start line at the Everglades Hotel on the Prehen Road. David reached the finish in Guildhall Square in 3:29:43, 155th out of 1036 and Michael in 4:11:10, 467th. The race was won by Dan Tanui (Project Africa) in 2:19:44. Running her first marathon and finishing first lady was Heather Noone (unattached) in 3:05:33, 46th overall.

    Photos by Gerald Harvey, Brian Todd, Michael O’Donoghue, Gillian Sykes & Newcastle AC

  5. Club Report 21st – 27th May by Michael O’Donoghue and Brian Todd

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    Hill and Dale Race 6 – Moughanmore – 24th May

    By the looks of it a long-term replacement for the beloved Hen & Cock race, I’ve started to warm to Moughanmore.

    This year it was comparatively dry and the grass wasn’t as thick as in previous years, meaning a relatively smooth course to negotiate. Though we were still treated to a boggy section near the finish which caught out many of the unwary.

    The course itself is an out and back route over Pigeon Rock followed by the bigger challenge of reaching the summit of Moughanmore and returning to the start. There was a good 1500 ft of climbing to be done in the race, and 9 OAC athletes were up to the challenge, and 239 runners in total.

    The times were:

    Andrew Tees 37.32
    Robin Montgomery 46.33
    Michael O’Donoghue 50.59
    Verity Cornford 53.29
    Edwina Ternan 58.39
    Lisa Fleming 1.00.37
    David Doey 1.02.08
    Judith Dalzell 1.09.47
    Selina Myles 1.15.58

    Runher Coastal Challenge – Friday 25th May

    Always a popular event, it has gone from strength with over 1000 ladies in the race. This year they added a half marathon option to the races along the North Down coast.
    We had 2 girld from the club doing the 10k race and their times were:

    Ali McConnell 48.36
    Kimberley Reynolds 52.30

    The winner was Amanda Perry (Ballydrain) with a time of 39.39

    Ballyclare 10k – Saturday 26th May
    By Brian Todd

    A coterie of Orangegrove members made their way to Ballyclare on Saturday morning for the annual May Fair Races, all running in the 10k race. It was a warm and sunny day but the otherwise perfect conditions were a little affected by a stiff breeze that never seemed to favour the runner.

    The route was far from flat and it was certainly not a personal best course. Nevertheless, the grass and hedgerows were lush and the countryside looked its very best. The 10k started in the extensive grounds of Ballyclare Rugby Club before following a roughly rectangular route encompassing the town centre, the Rashee Road, Cogry Road, Rectory Road, Station Road (Doagh), Doagh village, Ballyclare Road and back to the rugby club. The 5k runners turned right in the town centre rather than following the Rashee Road.

    Well done to County Antrim Harriers for a very well organized and executed event. The post-race hospitality was exceptional and the welcome to all was very warm indeed. In addition, all of us who were running were very appreciative of the support we received from Ali McConnell and Steven Gilliland.

    The following times were achieved by Orangegrove runners:

    Eric Fairfield…40.25
    Michael Gribben…41.05
    Brian Todd…45.21
    Gerald Harvey…53.05

    The 10k race was won by Mark McKinstry (NBH) in 33.06 and Gladys Ganiel (NBH) was first lady in 37.02. The 5k race was won by Aaron Callaghan (East Cast AC) in 17.54 and Jana Ross (County Antrim Harriers) was first lady in 20.34.

    EAMS/PWC Challenge – Saturday 26th May

    This was an inaugural event. A collaboration between EAMS who are always on the lookout for establishing new events and PWC who engaged their community manager to support the race.

    The route consisted of running up from the front gates of the estate up to Lord Carson’s statue and back down multiple times.

    As is common with EAMS events there were a number of distance choices present with the majority doing the marathon. There was also a 6 hour challenge for the truly committed. If you just wanted the superb medal all you had to do is do the lap once. For the majority of people in the event to do the marathon we would have to do 24 and a bit laps. This would work out as incorporating about 2300 feet of climbing, not far off the equivalent of climbing Slieve Donard.

    Just over 80 athletes entered the race, with the majority after another marathon to tick off, with 13 running the whole 6 hour ultra, and a few there to pick up the superb medal. Some did 1 lap which was the only requirement to get the medal!
    I did 25 laps in a time of 5.52.31 and didn’t feel like running another 8 minutes of that hill to make it the 6 hour event and was happy with the marathon!

    Irish Milers Club Grand Prix – MPT – Saturday 26th May

    There was quite a lot of hype about this track event which had a variety of distances on offer ranging from 100 metres up to 3000 metres. Media coverage focused on whether the 4 minute mile barrier could be broken, which wasn’t on this occasion.
    Stephen Orr was the sole OAC representative at the event and completed the 800m race in an impressive 2.08.11.

    Newry Merchants Half Marathon – Sunday 27th May

    Another inaugural event organised by Newry City Runners. It takes the place of the old event on the calendar and inherits the place on the Pure Running Half Marathon Series.
    The route started at The Quays shopping centre heading towards Warrenpoint along the coast and back, which would be a slightly flatter and faster route then the traditional Newry Half Marathon route which made use of the canal paths.

    Some great times from our participating athletes with the following results:

    David Montgomery 1.30.00
    Robin Montgomery 1.32.46
    Edwina Ternan 1.35.02
    Ryan Kerr 1.38.15
    Jonny Weston 1.34.20
    Steven Gilliland 1.43.17

    The winner was Eamonn White (North Belfast Harriers) in 1.12.50 and first lady was Sinead Murtagh (Newcastle AC) 1.25.33

    Simplyhealth Manchester Great Run – Sunday 27th May

    Brian Todd was Orangegrove’s sole representative in Sunday’s Great Manchester Run, although he plumped for the half-marathon event rather than the 10k race in which there were over 20’000 runners! The half marathon route was a roughly east-west one with the two football stadia at each extremity, the Etihad and Old Trafford. The second half of the half-marathon route mirrored the 10k route. Conditions were hot to say the least and the course offered very little in the way of shelter. However, the vast enthusiastic crowd and the general razzamatazz eased the pain a bit.

    #The race started in Portland Street and finished in Deansgate beside the Beetham Tower (the Hilton). Brian finished in 1.42.39 (493/4810) which was a bit disappointing after a very good first eight miles during which he was ahead of the 1.35 pacer. Nevertheless, the MV65-69 category was won with eight minutes to spare.

    The half-marathon was won by Craig Pilsbury in 1.13.58. Carly Needham was first lady in 1.19.30. The 10k race was won Mo Farah in 28.27 and Tirunesh Dibaba was first lady in 31.08.

    Edinburgh Marathon – Sunday 27th May

    An event which bills itself as one of the fastest marathons in the UK, it has some good grounds for this claim. Starting on the edge of Princes Street it immediately heads East of the city downhill and passes seaside locations on the way to Musselburgh racecourse. There’s a bit of looping in the course and across the different events there’s a total of some 30000 runners, but it is well organised and good for quick times.

    Lyndsey Tyro had a superb run in the event with a time of 3.05.45, beating her own PB by over 3 minutes and setting a new ladies marathon club record. This means that both the male and female marathon club records have now been beaten in this spring marathon season. Onwards to autumn!

    Parkrun
    This week we had representatives at Ecos Ballymena, Portrush, Enniskillen, Armagh, Vogrie in Scotland, and the World Heritage site of Fountains Abbey in North Yorkshire.
    A consolidated club report is available at http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/…

     

  6. Club Report 14th – 20th May

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    There has been plenty of action in the past week, as spring marathons are out of the way, the evenings are getting longer and the race calendar gets busy. Featured races this week are Hill and Dale and the Les Jones Memorial 10K.

    –

    The fifth race in the series, Rocky is (in my personal opinion) the best of the Hill and Dale courses, having a good blend of trails, open mountain terrain and technical descents.
    With the majority of the hill climbing being dealt with early in the race along a long stoney track, the runners are delivered onto the open hilltops in one of the most scenic areas of the Mournes, and it was a perfect evening for the views with clear skies and sunshine. Once the first top of Altnataggart is achieved, a very runnable course leads through the summit rocks of Pierce’s Castle then across to Tornamrock before dropping down to the col ahead of the final leg-sapping climb to the top of Rocky Mountain (404m). From there it is a steep technical descent back to the track where the finish line beckons only 400m beyond.

    The race was won by a pair of Newcastle AC athletes in Seamus Lynch (30.22) and Mari Troeng (39.23).

    There was a good turnout by OAC (and friends), possibly owing to curiosity, coercion or just the fine weather, but it was great to see! Well done to all who turned out and completed this challenging course! Results as follows:

    Andrew Tees 36.09 16th/260
    Robin Montgomery 46.19
    Michael O’Donoghue 50.37
    Colin Simpson 54.08
    Verity Cornford 55.22
    Sarah Steer 56.10
    Lisa Fleming 58.18
    Edwina Ternan 58.43
    David Doey 1.00.53
    Hannah MacLeod 1:05:39

    Organised by Athletics NI, in memory of former athlete, and chairman of the organisation, Les Jones, this 10k is always a popular event in the summer race calendar. 2018 was no exception, with all 400 places being filled prior to race day, meaning no on-the-night entry and leaving at least one OAC athlete scrambling to find an unused entry.

    The course takes the runners out of Mary Peters track and onto the Upper Malone Road then along the Lagan towpath. At Shaw’s Bridge the route leaves the towpath and turns up the much feared and talked-about hill to Malone House. The athletes must then recover themselves to stay the course for another mile or so through Queen’s playing fields before crossing the finish line on the familiar surface of the Mary Peters Track.

    The race was won by Queen’s University athlete Vincent McKenna in 34.54 and the first lady home was North Down’s Jessica Craig in 37.25.

     

    A small group of Orangegrovers made it along for this Friday night race in the May sunshine. Their results were as follows:

    David Gribben 40.14 31st/351
    Michael O’Donoghue 42.42
    Robin Montgomery 43.05
    Jacqui Maxwell 51.33
    George Gribben 56.14
    Marcia Sharkey 56.41

    …

    Brian Todd and Emma McWilliams competed in the Ballybeen 5k, running together to finish with a time of 25.33.

    Darren Houston continued his preparation for the Energia 24 100k (and his recovery from a broken toe) to complete a very impressive 50k in Victoria Park on Friday morning. Well done Darren, keep up the training! Thanks to all who turned out on Friday to keep him company!

    Tom Smith was in competition at the latest NI Duathlon event at Kirkistown on Saturday, completing a 3 mile run, 15 mile cycle and another 3 mile run in an impressive time of 1:38:30. Great going Tom!

    Catherine Fearon and Andy McIntyre warmed up for the royal wedding by running the Hyde Park 10k on Saturday morning. Andy came home in 36.16 and Catherine finished in 54.26. Andy’s time was enough to secure a podium spot in 3rd place, great stuff Andy!

    Brian Todd was in action again at the Great Manchester Run on Sunday, competing in the half marathon event. Once again showing his class to win his age category prize with a time of 1:42:39, despite suffering from the warm conditions and missing out on his target of finishing in under 1:40. Congrats Brian, no doubt that sub-1:40 is coming!

    A number of the Orangegrove AC Juniors were in action for the Ulster Schools Championships at the Antrim Forum. Loads of great performances, lots of potential shown for the future, and a heap of medals!!

    Check out Gillian’s full report here:
    https://www.facebook.com/OACJUNIORS/posts/888988401295914

    At Parkrun…

    Beyond Victoria Park, the club had participants in parkruns in Ormeau, Stormont, Bangor, Portrush, Waterworks and Heaton.

    Special mention for Ronan McPeake who broke the 20-minute barrier at Victoria Park with a new parkrun PB of 19.59.

    Consolidated club report here:
    http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/…

    Photo credits for H&D to The Inspirational Runner, and Les Jones photos from AthleticsNI website, others just nicked from FB.

  7. Club Report 7th – 13th MAY 2018

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    ORANGEGROVE ATHLETIC CLUB’S WEEKLY RACE REPORT 7 – 13 MAY 2018

    By Martin O’Brien

    This active week includes:
    Monday 7 May – Belfast City Marathon
    Wednesday 9 May – Orangegrove Minis – Bangor
    Thursday 10 May – Orangegrove Juniors – District A
    Friday 11 May – Termoneeny 10K
    Saturday 12 May – Atlas 3 Lakes, Slieve Donard Mountain Race, Parkruns and Orangegrove Juniors – District B
    Sunday 13 May – Strabane/Lifford Half Marathon

    2018 DEEP RIVER ROCK BELFAST CITY MARATHON

    This year’s Deep RiverRock Belfast City Marathon again commenced at Belfast City Hall and finished at Ormeau Park, covering a lot of areas and meeting a lot of support along the way and Mencap Northern Ireland was once again the official charity partner.
    There were five events that took place on the day (involving 17,000) which included the full marathon, a team relay, 8 mile walk, the fun run and the wheelchair race but we’ll just cover the big ‘un if you don’t mind (or this marathon report could turn into an Ultra).
    The morning bode well with an almost cold pre-race temperature which transformed into ideal conditions before becoming a little too sunny and hot to be ideal for club mates who have been mostly used to training in colder temperatures. Indeed, the soaring temperature was matched by some hot and scintillating PB (Eric, Dave & Heather), 1st time (Kimberley) and little time between last marathon (Pauline), marathon runs!
    The attached photos tell their own story with the colours, atmosphere, smiles, frowns, determinations and success.

    The race was won by Eric Koech and Caroline Jepchirchir in 2:18:18 and 2:41:22 respectively and our Club was proudly and ably represented by:

    Eric Fairfield 3:09:49 PB 99th
    David Gribben 3:19:05 PB 159th
    David Montgomery 3:39:39 375th
    Danny Bradley 3:40:21 388th
    Pauline Bayliss 3:42:29 443rd
    Heather Flint 3:48:45 PB 532nd
    Alison McConnell 3:49:47 558th
    Kerris Hamilton 4;07:18 872nd
    Sharon Corken 4:10:54 952nd
    Kimberley Reynolds 4:22:14 1145th
    Jason Lanyon 4:56:44 1651st

    A very well done to everybody who completed this extremely challenging distance and also to the fabulous and (in)famous OG support who yet again excelled. From Robin volunteering to the gazebo-erectors, gear-gatherers, food & drink suppliers, cake/bun-makers and very vocal supporters, well done.

    Congrats also to the Orangegrove Relay teams who finished 12th and 451st out of 1,415 mixed teams and please note, if you endured this year and remember the pain and heat then read no further but for those of you who are concerned about the reports of the Marathon not being staged next year…Belfast City Marathon said: “…we can report that following a meeting with senior police we are confident we can reach a suitable agreement around future policing of the marathon.” Let’s hope the route/day change happens too!
    And BCM-wise, finally, as a club we’d like to express our condolences to the family and friends of Stephen Heaney.

    ORANGEGROVE MINIS – BANGOR – Report by Gillian Sykes

    Fantastic night at Bangor for the Orangegrove Minis.
    Ben Sykes P5 Boys
    Silver 🥈 Discus
    Gold 🥇 80m Sprints
    Sarah Van Der Linde P6 Girls
    Gold 🥇 80m Sprints
    Silver 🥈 Long Jump
    Katie McKittrick P6 Girls
    Bronze 🥉 600m
    Bronze 🥉 Long Jump

    There were also fantastic performances from Isaac and Martha Orr.

    ORANGEGROVE JUNIORS– DISTRICT A – Report by Gillian Sykes

    Wow wow wow……District A Ulster Schools athletics….1st – 3rd yr…..What a day.

    Fantastic performances from all our Juniors.

    Rory Carson yr3
    Gold medal 🥇 100m Sprints
    Gold medal 🥇 200m Sprints
    Gold medal 🥇 4x100m relay
    Matthew Sykes yr2
    Gold medal 🥇 100m Sprints
    Silver medal 🥈 4x100m relay
    Patrick Willis yr1
    Gold medal 🥇 4x100m relay
    Molly Elliott yr3
    Bronze Medal 🥉 4x100m relay

    Also fantastic performances from….
    Reegan in sprints
    Molly in sprints and Long Jump
    Mia in Shot
    Ronan in 800m
    Jacob in 800m (who was sooo close to a medal position)
    Further details on the full results to follow as soon as they are published.
    All medalists through to Ulster Schools Finals on Saturday 19th May.

    Super proud

    Every one of them is a super star in my eyes

    TERMONEENY 10K

    An interesting story: 1 year ago Tommy Hughes ran the 9th Termoneeny 10k, but about 10,000 days ago he was lining up with John Treacy to run for Ireland in the men’s marathon at the Barcelona Olympics. Despite winning the 1991 Dublin Marathon, it took a remarkable personal best time of 2:13.59 in the Marrakesh Marathon just months before the games to secure his place on the plane to the Catalan capital.

    Hughes’ feats in the Moroccan city stands as the 12th fastest time for the marathon recorded by any Irish man. Little wonder then that he is regarded as a hero of local athletics.
    On Friday Hughes’ local club in Termoneeny celebrated their own milestone with the hosting of their 10th annual 10k event.

    An idea tossed around between Patrick Farren and Brendan O’Kane gave birth to the 1st annual Termoneeny 10k, held on 10 May 2009, and the inaugural event made £400 profit, which was split in two and used to found a running club and a cycling club.

    Competing at the Olympic Games is a truly remarkable pinnacle in any athlete’s life but for Tommy Hughes, the story doesn’t stop there. His sheer desire, willing and enjoyment of running has given his involvement in the sport a longevity that perhaps even eclipses all of his other achievements. Leaving full time athletics following the 1992 Olympics, Hughes has run over 50 marathons, at times up to 5 in a year, and in 2013 hit the headlines when, aged 53, he triumphed at the Walled City event in Derry with a time of 2:30.32 – a full 29 years after his first victory on the course. In a tribute befitting the man and the occasion, the club unveiled a new trophy for the tenth Termoneeny 10k.

    Now, where were we, oh yes…our own very heroes, Michael and Verity, who are arguably more famous than Tommy for their experience in such a wide variation of running events. In a race won by Keith Shiels of Foyle Valley in 32:07 and Gemma McDonald of Ballycastle AC in 39:11 (by the way Tommy’s son finished 2nd Male), the OG duo performed fabulously as such:

    Michael O’Donoghue 42:52 60th
    Verity Cornford 47:39 47:39

    ATLAS 3 LAKES CHALLENGE 7K & 15K – Report by Gerald Harvey

    Brian Todd and Gerald Harvey ran the 15K route, through some stunning lakeland scenery. The waters of the three lakes (Ballydugan, Magheralagan and Loughlinisland) sparkled in the strong spring sunshine. It might have been a tad warm, but there was a cooling southerly breeze and adequate water stations.

    It was all in aid of charity (Down’s Syndrome Association and Parkinson’s NI) and organised by Downpatrick Lions Club, with the help of Joe Quinn (East Down AC) and Phoenix Gas sponsored the event.

    Before the race, a minute of silence was held for the runner, Stephen Heaney, who died at the Belfast Marathon.

    OAC Results: Brian Todd, 1:09:10 (19th overall); Gerald Harvey, 1:25:19 (52nd overall).
    Winner: Brendan Guiney (Beechmount Harriers), 53:48.

    First lady: Karen Wilton (Jog Lisburn Running Club), 57:38 (3rd overall).

    In the 7K race, Thomas Carson (Willowfield) came first in 25:32 and first lady was Amy Bulman (Willowfield) in 26:16 (2nd overall).

    SLIEVE DONARD MOUNTAIN RACE

    This classic mountain race was part of the Northern Ireland Mountain Running Association (NIMRA) Championship and also part of the Irish Mountain Running Association (IMRA) Championship and over 200 took part in the 73rd annual Slieve Donard Mountain Race on Saturday.

    Our sole representative, Sarah Steer, started the annual Slieve Donard race at 2 pm on the main street in front of the Newcastle Centre, as per the usual start but this year the race finished on a football field in Donard Park making (about 5.8 miles later) for a more relaxed environment for both competitors and spectators. The route also changes out on the mountain, with a checkpoint at the Saddle on the way the way to the 852-meter summit. On the descent, checkpoints must be visited at the Quarry and the first bridge on the Glen River.

    Interestingly, whilst the Slieve Donard race route has changed over the years this is the first time the route will not be “out-and-back” for 20 years, earlier being via the Bloody Bridge. Of course, for a number of years there was free route choice on the open mountain; however, the majority of runners opted for the shortest and most direct route via the Black Stairs. This means that this year runners will not be able to gauge their race position against their peers coming off the summit and navigation skills may be required if the cloud is low.
    Seamus Lynch (Newcastle AC), in 55:14, and Shileen O’Kane (Lagan Valley AC), in 1:12:20 won this race and well done to Sarah who defeated the mountain in:
    Sarah Steer 2:06:54

    ORANGEGROVE JUNIORS – DISTRICT B
    2 more Ulster Schools Medals for our Juniors in District B this time.
    Sean Silver Medal 🥈 in Long Jump
    Erin Bronze Medal 🥉 in 100m Hurdles

    STRABANE/LIFFORD HALF MARATHON
    The 5th Strabane Lifford Half Marathon returned on Sunday with an exciting new route.
    The cross border event, organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council in conjunction with Lifford Strabane AC started in Melvin Sports Complex, Strabane and appeared to be a fabulous event with 942 runners taking to the start line in a sell-out event.
    Runners were greeted by a wall of music and great commentary by Gary Stitt and the atmosphere was alleged to be electric at the start. Indeed, our own lightning spark and, sole representative, or leading light, was David Doey who amped up the power, provided the voltage and conducted the following fine performance:

    David Doey 2:10:06 762nd

    The race was won by Gerard Gallagher of Finn Valley AC in 1:13:41 and Claire McGuigan in 1:22:08.

    PARKRUN
    David Montgomery pulled off an Ormeau Parkrun PB in 18:55 and Lyndsey Tyro was 1st female home at Stormont and with a Stormont Parkrun PB of 19:21 whilst Catherine Fearon was very close to a PB at Gladstone Parkrun on her 3rd visit there. The remaining results can be located here:
    http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/…

    Also, it was lovely to see Cruse Bereavement Care receive the cheque from the Neil Killen Shield winner Adrienne Savage at Victoria Parkrun and with Deborah in attendance.
    Thanks to Gerald Harvey, Brian Todd, Alan Montgomery, U105, Lisa Nevin, Chris Woods, Darren Houston, Judith McCann and Jason Lanyon for the photographs and please consider volunteering at Parkrun.

  8. Club Report 30th APRIL – 6th May 2018

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    With the Belfast Half Marathon falling on Bank Holiday Monday, 7th May, 2018, there was a dearth of weekend activity to fill my pages. Nevertheless, parkrun continued as usual and there were seven year anniversary celebrations at Victoria park on a beautiful sunny Saturday morning. However, there was some weekday activity and Friday evening brought the NiRunning Mile 2018 at the Mary Peters Track which just happened to be an OAC Club Championship event. Thursday evening saw the OAC mountain men and ladies in the Mournes for Round 4 of this year’s Hill and Dale Series, the one-way trek to the summit of Binnian. The OAC youngsters were also at it this week, and very successfully too, at the Ulster Schools District A meeting at the Mary Peters Track. On Thursday there was at least one OAC junior medal awarded at the Firmus track meeting, also at the Mary Peters Track. Now, brevity is the order of the day and what follows is my attempt to be as brief and to the point as it is possible to be!

    The Ulster Secondary Schools’ District A (Co. Down) intermediate and senior athletics meeting was held at the Mary Peters Tracks on Thursday 2nd May. It turned out to be a very successful afternoon for a group of our younger OAC athletes performing for their various schools. Well done to Aaron McCord who won a silver medal in the intermediate boys’ 100m hurdles. Ruby Baxter won a bronze medal in the senior girls’ 200m while Adam Sykes won gold in the intermediate boys 100m. Nathan Stewart won silver in the intermediate boys 100m. In the 4×100 relay event Lewis Hamilton, Nathan Stewart and Adam Sykes and a non OAC team mate won gold for the third year running. Very well done indeed! In the long jump and triple jump events Klint Depayso showed promise despite an ankle injury. Leo McMillan was unfortunate not to make the intermediate 100m final in which Aaron McCord just narrowly missed being placed. Aaron McCord and Oscar Wilson were members of the Wellington College intermediate 4×100 relay team which led the race for a time before a baton fumble ended their efforts.

    All in all, a super day for the coaches and athletes of the junior club. Tip of the iceberg I suspect!

    An additional well done to Aaron McCord who won a silver medal in the Under 17 200m race at the recent Firmus meeting at the Mary Peters Track.
    Round 4 of the Hill and Dale Series enticed our mountain runners to Slieve Binnian this week. This is a spectacular race, if it is a race at all. The athletes gather on the Head Road above Annalong and then assault Binnian via a track in the vicinity of Crocknaroe and the Cross Water River.

    The distance is only about two miles but the height rise in the distance is over 2000 feet. So, it is not one for the faint hearted or the sane. The views from the top of Binnian can be spectacular but the evening turned out to be a dull one with low cloud cover which even made navigation difficult at times. Soft ground conditions did not help.

    Very well done indeed to the following members of OAC who rose (very literally) to the challenge. The OAC contingent was led home by Verity Cornford in the following times:

    Verity Cornford…36.52
    Michael O’Donoghue…37.21
    Lisa Fleming…44.06
    Stephen Craig…47.52
    Judith Dalzell…48.06
    Selina Myles…48.51

    The race was won by Zac Hanna (Newcastle AC) in 21.24 and Martsje Hell (North Belfast Harriers) was first lady in 27.00.

    A beautiful balmy Friday evening at the Mary Peters Track provided ideal conditions for this year’s NiRunning mile event, run in conjunction with the British Milers Club. This year there was added OAC interest by the fact that the event also constituted one of our Club Championship rounds. So, there was plenty of orange on display in and around MPT. Essentially competitors elect to run in a race which suits their pace. When the gun sounds you run four laps of the track as hard as you can to achieve your result. Sounds easy. It is not! I personally remember last year staggering about the place uncertain about who I was or what I was doing there for some time after finishing. As the evening progresses the pace increases and it ends with a showdown involving the elite men.

    The following results were attained by OAC runners:

    Stephen Orr, 4.55.06, Des Fahy, 5.31.84, David Fletcher, 5.37.03, Chris Woods, 5.37.85, Robin Montgomery, 5.39.47, Tom Smith, 5.54.36, Stephen Hamilton, 5.56.05, Martin O’Brien…5.57.11, Michael O’Donoghue, 5.57.48, Edwina Ternan, 6.04.50, Stephen Anderson, 6.06.00, Julie McKimm, 6.17.42, Rachel Woodman, 6.18.43, Gillian Logan, 6.21.19, Isaac Orr, 6.34.17, Ian Wilson, 6.42.25, Reg Sanlon, 6.55.19, Jacqueline Maxwell, 6.56.64, Lisa Fleming,7.01.12, Jenny Powell, 7.07.58, Martha Orr, 7.15.65, Judith McCann, 7.15.92, George Gribben, 7.16.25, Adrienne Savage, 7.25.87, Jackie Grant , 7.37.44, John Ferris, 7.48.24, Sharon McFarland, 7.49.86, Anne Devlin, 8.19.71.

    Very well done indeed to all who toed the line, in particular Stephen, Isaac and Martha Orr for their spectacular performances on the night and for turning it into a family affair!
    Incidentally, the fastest mile of the night was achieved by James Trainer (North Belfast Harriers) in 4.35.79.

    And some great news just in from Prague in the Czech Republic where Andy McIntyre and Catherine Fearon were running in the Volkswagon Prague Marathon. It would appear that Andy scorched around the course in the amazing time of 2.50.59 to set a new Orangegrove club record for the distance. Very well done indeed!

    Catherine also completed the distance in the much more sensible time of 4.34.20. Very well done indeed to both Andy and Catherine. Your Club is very proud of what you have achieved this weekend!

    There were seventh anniversary celebrations at Victoria Park parkrun on Saturday morning in almost perfect running conditions.

    Michael Broadhead, running as part of the Paul Pollock Dream Run Dublin 2018 team, was first OAC finisher in fourth place in a personal best time of 18.02. Very well done indeed!

    While most OAC members were at Victoria one or two others were at Wallace, Ormeau and Stormont. At Wallace, Brian McFarland (28.42), Sharon McFarland (32.13) and Ben Magee (30.38) were first timers. At Ormeau Jacob McKittrick (JM11-14) was fourth finisher in 19.38.

    Don’t forget the volunteering bit. Just email Gerry Ward at belfastvictoriahelpers@parkrun.com and a little job will come your way before you have had time to say no!

    I understand that no Club report appeared for the period 23rd- 29th April. Below are some results which deserve not to go unreported (especially mine!)

    Hill and Dale….Slieve Martin (Thursday 26th April)
    Andrew Tees…39.52 (22/274)
    Verity Cornford…56.48
    Lisa Fleming…1.01.55
    Selina Myles…1.20.13
    Scrabo Striders Run the Runway 10k (Friday 27th April)
    David Gribben…40.15 (9/276)
    Scrabo Striders Run the Runway 5k (Friday 27th April)
    Ross Robinson…19.40
    David Fletcher…20.40
    Steven Gilliland…21.30
    DKIT 10K (Dundalk) Wednesday 25th April.
    Brian Todd…44.32


    Best of luck to all those running in the Deep River Rock Belfast Marathon on Bank Holiday Monday.

  9. Club Report 16th APRIL 2018 TO 22nd APRIL 2018

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    Club Report 16th APRIL 2018 TO 22nd APRIL 2018

    HILL AND DALE TOLLYMORE CC RACE 6
    On a lovely sunny evening 25 OACers made the journey to the outskirts of the Mourne Mountains to take part in the 6th race of the Club Championship. It was the second race in the Hill and Dale Series hosted by Newcastle AC. Starting at the monument, runners dropped down to the river and then took the most direct route to the highest point of the forest. If this lung busting ascent wasn’t enough the route then went out on to the open hill where one final climb awaited. It was called the “Hill with no name” although I reckon it was called a few names by those attempting to run up it. It was then a speedy descent back through the forest before one final short sharp climb to the finish. Unfortunately the timing system used by Newcastle AC failed but thanks to chairman Robin Montgomery a list of finishing order for Orangegrove AC and times (some approximate) was compiled and these are below.

    Name Race Time
    Andrew Tees 00:36:35
    Michael Broadhead 00:39:05
    Chris Woods 00:43:21
    Robin Montgomery 00:44:53
    Michael O’Donoghue 00:45:27
    Stephen Hamilton 00:46:17
    Brian Todd 00:49:05
    Verity Cornford 00:50:24
    Andrew Bennett 00:54:45
    Lisa Fleming 00:58:00
    Gerald Harvey 00:58:43
    Jacqueline Maxwell 01:00:20
    Reg Sanlon 01:01:13
    David Doey 01:01:35
    Harriet Anderson 01:01:50
    Judith McCann 01:02:04
    Brian McFarland 01:02:10
    Anna Rankin 01:02:21
    Ben Magee 01:04:50
    Ian Wilson 01:06:00
    Jackie Grant 01:08:49
    Adrienne Savage 01:08:50
    Selina Myles 01:10:00
    Anne Devlin 01:11:00
    Stephen Craig 01:11:01

     

    BALLYNAHINCH LIONS LIONS 10K

    Saturday saw the annual Ballynahinch 10k which is two laps around the Co Down town. Starting in the centre, the route makes its way out the Newcastle Road before a climb up towards Montalto Estate. Then through the estate before a descent back into the town. Two intrepid OACers took up the challenge in a field of 131 with Andy McIntyre finishing fifth in a time of 36-11 and Stephen Gilliland placed 48th in a time of 48-08. Ben Branagh (St Malachy’s AC) and Jessica Craig (North Down AC) took the honours.

    LONDON MARATHON

    I’m sure many of us were tuned to the TV and had the London Marathon App downloaded following our Magnificent Seven as they ran around London in record breaking temperatures. The feat of running a marathon has to be admired at the best of times but it was plain to see how difficult conditions were so full credit to everyone who completed the marathon. A fantastic support crew were on hand to cheer each of the seven on and no doubt there was plenty of celebrating afterwards. Times for these magnificent seven were as follows

    Lyndsey Tyro 3:17:25
    Julie McKimm 3:45:58
    Gillian Logan 3:49:38
    Edwina Ternan 3:53:38
    Colin Simpson 3:54:17
    Pauline Bayliss 3:55:03
    Stephen Anderson 4:29:11

     

     

     

    PARKRUN
    There were 29 eager parkrunners on Saturday with Brian McFarland and Ben Magee being first timers at Waterworks. Ross Robinson was a first timer at Victoria Park. Claire Kelleher achieved a great PB at Ormeau. It was great to see Ian Reid back running as he made his debut at Comber. Melinda Wilkinson ran her 150th parkrun at Stormont. Tourism was led by Antra Balcuna at Heaton and Catherine Fearon was a first timer at Gladstone parkrun. Lyndsey Tyro warmed up for London marathon with a run around Victoria Dock parkrun with husband Paul.
    A full consolidated club report can be found below

    http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=17953