Author Archives: Michael O'Donoghue

1. OAC ladies donate prize money to local charity Homestart

   June 7, 2016 8:31 am Comments Off on OAC ladies donate prize money to local charity Homestart

   The Orangegrove Ladies came 5th this year in the XC league and were awarded £100 for their valiant efforts. It was decided that we would donate our winnings to a local charity, so on Thursday 19th May, Lisa and I went along to Homestart’s South and East Belfast office to present them with a cheque.

   Homestart is a voluntary organisation whose volunteers help families with young children deal with the challenges they face.

   They were really delighted and as the donation is considered a gift the money is going to be spent on providing activities, which for these children would be considered a rare treat!

2. Weekly Report – May 30-June 5 2016

   June 5, 2016 11:38 pm Comments Off on Weekly Report – May 30-June 5 2016

   ‘Run when you can, walk if you have to, crawl if you must; just never give up’
   –Dean Karnazes

   VITALITY LONDON 10K, 30TH May

   Chris and Nicola Downey represented the club, both achieving personal best times of 39:24 and 56:55 respectively. Well done to both of you.

   The men’s race was won by Andrew Butchart (Central) in a time of 28:28. The women’s race was won by Lily Partridge (Aldershot, Farnham and District) in a time of 33:03. In the wheelchair events, David Weir and Shelly Woods (both Weir Archer) won their respective races in 21:06 and 27:47.

   

   CRAIGAVON LAKES 5K & 10K, 1st June

   The 5K fun run and 10K race followed the picturesque pathways round Craigavon Lakes and City Parks, starting and finishing at the Craigavon Watersports Centre. Iseult Fahy acquitted herself well in the 5K, 28th overall in a time of 23:53 and 7th lady.

   Noel Gallagher won the event in 18:56. Des Fahy also ran well in the 10K finishing 28th overall in a time of 38:44.

   The race was won by Martin Melville in 34:11.

   FAIRHILL 5 MILE RACE, BALLYMENA, 1st June

   Report by Martin O’Brien

   The fantastic four frequented this Fairhill Five Mile Race in a feverish and fervent but fun folly (some other fs may have been muttered in the heat of the moment…). Yes, Gillian, Greg, David and Marty visited the Seven Towers on a very hot Wednesday evening to participate in the 5th Fairhill 5 Mile Race.

   The 7pm start from near the town hall saw us tackle an allegedly flat 2-lap street course, but the real mountain we had to climb however, was the heat. OAC did well in the conditions with hot and smoking performances:

   Martin O’Brien	34:50	PB
   Gillian Logan	35:42	PB
   Greg Calvin	37:36
   David Doey	44:00	PB

   Greg and David have been involved in a lot of races recently whilst waiting for their club vests and have being doing great whereas Gillian put in a superb debut in the OAC vest (Gillian beat you to the vest lads!) after previously racing for Larne AC. Welcome and well done to all.

   Thanks and appreciation go out to Ballymena Runners for super organisation, plentiful and encouraging stewards/volunteers, for the many, many photos available from the Ballymena Runners’ Facebook site and for the post-race spread with loads of sarnies, biscuits, buns and T&C.

   Thanks to NiRunning for the photos.

   

   

   

   HILL & DALE, MILLSTONE MOUNTAIN, 2nd June

   Report by Elizabeth Leitch

   On a beautiful sunny evening , the runners assembled in Donard car park for the start of race 8, they then traversed Donard Forest. Because of a rather scary buzzard who has been pecking fell runners’ heads for the past few years, the course has taken in the Granite trail before ascending Millstone (1300ft).

   There’s then a sharp downhill back down to Donard Forest and through to the finish in Donard Park. Thomas Leitch was 1st OAC finisher in 43:41, 20th place. Next was Darren Marshall (54:13), then MOD in 58:25. Verity Cornford was next in 68:19, followed by Sharon Dickenson (73:19) and then birthday boy Stephen Craig (84:25)

   The OAC Hill and Dalers were supported by Anne Devlin , I hear there was cake and that there may have been birthday drinks in Hugh McCann’s and why not?!! Well done everyone. Next in the series is Hen and Cock.

   Thanks to Jayne Bell/NIMRA and Newcastle AC for the photos.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   FIRMUS SUPER 6, 2nd June

   A couple of our OAC juniors were at Mary Peters Track for Meet 3 of the series, competing in multiple events, well done to them.

   Results:

   Mini Boys	60m Hurdles	Sam Rainey	13.86sec	(8th)
   Mini Boys	Javelin	Sam Rainey	7.67m	(10th)
   U13 Girls	Shot	Bethany Johnston	3.34m	(11th)
   U13 Girls	70m Hurdles	Bethany Johnston	16.84sec	(13th)

   BMC ‘FESTIVAL OF MILES’, 3rd June

   A number of our Orangegrove runners were out at Mary Peters Track on Friday night to test their mettle over the mile distance. Stephen Orr was our fasted miler of the night. Also, with a win, two second places and a third place from five races, it was a good night for OAC.

   Results:

   Race 3	Jim Harris	6:57.23	(2nd place)
   Race 3	George Gribben	7:29.15	(5th place)
   Race 4	Ian Wilson	6:46.11	(2nd place)
   Race 5B	David Fletcher	5:47.60	(1st place)
   Race 5B	Iseult Fahy	6:39.64	(14th place)*
   Race 6A	Stephen Orr	5:14.82	(3rd place)
   Race 6B	Chris Downey	5:23.38	(4th place)
   Race 6B	Des Fahy	5:28.42	(6th place)

   *Iseult Fahy was 6th in the U14 category with her time of 6:39.64.

   Thanks to NiRunning for the photos.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   FALLS PARKRUN #202 (CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP, ROUND 8), 4th June

   The eighth event in the 2016 OAC Club Championship took us to Falls parkrun for a ‘competitive timed run’. Read the full race report here.

   

   

   

   PARKRUN, 4th June

   Members of the club ran at five Belfast parks (including Falls Park) as well as at Bangor, Enniskillen and Portrush. Well done to all for turning up and doing it, especially if you achieved a personal best time, as did the following members:

   Stormont: Ryan Drain (21:30), Glenn Johnston (21:37), Chloe Browne (25:09)
   Portrush: Chris Downey (19:20)

   There was a problem with the Enniskillen results, however, Paul and Lyndsey Tyro finished first male and first female. What a team!

   Remember to volunteer when you can, because otherwise parkrun would not exist. Contact Gerry at: belfastvictoriahelpers@parkrun.com

   WALLED CITY MARATHON, DERRY, 5th June

   The lovely Kerris Hamilton was the only OAC participant in a race won by Eric Koech (Project Africa) in 2:23:47. She described her race on a very warm day up in the Northwest.

   ‘I started with the 4hr 15min pacers, then, at mile seven I was having zero craic at all. So I just did my own thing and my aim was just to survive. My pasty skin was like meat on a barbeque with factor 50 and I also didn’t get the memo that Derry Marathon is hilly as feck! But the medal is so awesome and heavy, my neck is sore from wearing it…4:40:03… #gladtosurvive’.

   Two marathons since May Day is impressive.

   

   LEINSTER SENIORS & MASTERS, TULLAMORE

   Report by Stephen Orr

   Jim Harris won the M65 400m, time TBC, we left before it was confirmed. I was 3rd in the M40 800m in 2:13.42 sec, decent for a season opener!

   GRAN FONDO GIRO D’ITALIA N.I., 5th June

   This was not a running event, but as Brian Todd, Emma McWilliams and Mark Williamson took part, here is Brian’s report.

   On Sunday Emma McWilliams and Brian Todd swapped their Saturday morning running shoes for their cycling shoes (in Brian’s case they were the same shoes) to take part in the Gran Fondo 58k ‘race’ in the Strangford area, the shorter of the two routes available.

   The Orangegrove pair completed the course in about 2.20.00, which also included a fairly lengthy stop at the Whiterock feed station. Conditions were perfect and the general consensus was that next year they would attempt the longer route or the shorter route again at a faster pace and without a stop.

   The closed roads made it very interesting and allowed for some fast downhill sections and faster cornering than otherwise would have been possible. Nevertheless, great vigilance is necessary while riding in such large numbers.

   

3. Falls parkrun – Club Championship Round 8

   June 4, 2016 11:56 pm Comments Off on Falls parkrun – Club Championship Round 8

   The course consists of an undulating and short first lap, followed by two longer hillier laps. The air felt thinner up at the top of the park, or was I just feeling lightheaded after the effort of getting up there?

   Running downhill past the cemetery, it felt good to be alive and heading for the finish line. First place went to Stuart Kennedy (Beechmount Harriers) in a very impressive time of 17:44.

   Des Fahy was the first Orangegrove runner home and 5th overall in a time of 19:05. Claire Kelleher was the leading Orangegrove female and 39th overall with a time 23:38.

   The juniors were ably represented by Tom Smith (24:41) and Sam Rainey (25:04). Well done to everyone for turning out in record numbers – we impressed Joe McCann!

   Finally, thanks to the Falls Parkrun volunteers for all their hospitality in this their 4th anniversary event.

   Results:

   	Time	Age Grade
   Des Fahy	19:05	75.46%
   Robin Montgomery	19:39	72.69%
   Eric Fairfield	19:46	70.07%
   Timothy Robinson	20:28	69.30%
   Brian Todd	20:56	79.38%
   Stephen Anderson	21:04	68.91%
   Michael O’Donoghue	21:17	64.60%
   Stephen Hamilton	21:40	63.00%
   Mark Williamson	22:35	60.89%
   John Neill	22:50	65.62%
   Andrew Allen	22:57	63.76%
   Ian Millgate	22:58	59.87%
   Ian Grant	23:00	57.68%
   Gerald Harvey	23:18	70.67%
   David Fletcher	23:30	57.66%
   Claire Kelleher	23:38	62.62%
   Rodney Corrigan	23:44	55.55%
   Emma McWilliams	24:04	66.00%
   Jill Holland	24:08	68.65%
   Tom Smith	24:41	57.46%
   Gillian Logan	24:50	TBC
   Andrew McIntyre	24:57	51.84%
   Darren Houston	24:59	56.77%
   Reg Sanlon	25:02	68.24%
   Sam Rainey	25:04	62.97%
   Alan Martin	25:12	61.51%
   Eoghan Rainey	25:16	54.82%
   Lisa Rodham	25:21	58.45%
   Ian Wilson	25:27	57.96%
   Alison Hall-Thompson	25:36	59.77%
   Brian McFarland	25:44	56.87%
   Anna Rankin	25:53	60.33%
   David Doey	25:58	52.18%
   Sharon Corken	26:12	TBC
   Martin Walker	26:18	53.49%
   Paul Gruhn	26:29	49.78%
   Jenny Powell	26:31	57.70%
   George Gribben	26:42	60.61%
   Kerris Hamilton	26:47	56.50%
   Kirsty Buchanan	26:47	55.26%
   Jacqueline Maxwell	26:48	66.67%
   Karen Russell	26:55	56.84%
   Emma Smith	26:56	57.55%
   Trish Magill	26:58	60.07%
   Hilary Bradshaw	27:30	53.82%
   Judith McCann	27:33	55.17%
   Louise Browne	28:16	52.71%
   Sarah Malcolmson	28:20	52.76%
   Melinda Wilkinson	28:45	55.25%
   Beverley Martin	30:14	59.10%
   Neal Killen	32:21	44.51%
   Shona Pryde	33:26	44.47%
   Mairead Napier	33:35	45.56%
   Ian Reid	33:49	41.30%
   Anne Devlin	35:06	49.62%
   Fintan Hurl	36:43	35.91%
   Deborah Killen	37:32	45.20%
   Eoin Woodman	39:14	49.15%

4. Weekly Report – May 24-29 2016

   May 29, 2016 11:59 pm Comments Off on Weekly Report – May 24-29 2016

   Reporting duties started early in the week and are being completed from the Singing Pub near Melmore Head with live music in the background and a day of glorious sunshine and some enjoyable fell running behind me.

   We have had another busy week with club runners taking part in races from 100m to 26miles 385 yards; from city street to forest trail, and coastal path to mountain top (with one going up 840m and back down over a distance of around 5.5 miles – any guesses?).

   JUNIORS

   Parkrun saw some impressive results from our Juniors with Rory Hall-Thompson crossing the line first for Orangegrove at Victoria. Jacob McKittrick and Sam Rainey were not far behind. Tom Smith, a consistent runner at ParkRun with 120 runs under his belt was the next Junior over the line.

   Aaron McCord was first Orangegrove runner across the line at Stormont.

   NORTH DOWN AC OPEN TRACK & FIELD OPEN MEETING 2

   Tuesday 24th

   This event took place at the Bangor Sportsplex, Old Belfast Road, Bangor and was the second of five meetings comprising a mix of track and field events.

   Orangegrove was represented by: Reegan McKensie in the girls’ u13/u15 100m – 15:68 (3rd in Heat)

   The Seniors were represented by Chris Downey in the 3000m who ran a strong 10:44.

   Meeting 3 is due to take place on 23 June 2016, open to all male & female athletes 13 and over, although younger athletes may guest in any (age allowed) events. Races are graded on PBs and age with electronic timing. Max spike length 6mm. All abilities welcome.

   Entry on the night: £3 per event, £5 for two or more events. For more information see the North Down AC web site or contact: fmarsh.justdoit@hotmail.co.uk

   TARDREE – RACE 2, 2016 FOREST TRAIL SERIES hosted by East Antrim Harriers

   Tuesday 24th

   Following the Orangegrove AC Club Championship outing to Woodburn, Tuesday evening saw race 2 of the series at Tardree Forest between Parkgate and Kells. The race route followed an approximately 3.5mile/5k route dropping into a valley before a large, undulating loop with views of Slemish, the Sperrins and the Antrim Hills before dropping back down into the valley and a sharp climb to the finish.

   Race 1 has obviously been a positive experience for the club as of the 190 runners that had made their way into the Antrim hills for the race 20 were club members. The challenging course and warm night made for a tough race but Sharon McFarland’s photos included a number of smiles. An impressive set of results included a list of age category wins:

   Robin Montgomery	21:54.3
   Michael O’Donoughue	22:23.5
   Trudy Brown	22:41.7	1st F45
   Martin O’Brien	23:21.4
   Greg Calvin	24:24.5
   Claire Kelleher	24:47.3
   Emma McWilliams	24:59.3
   Brian Todd	25:00.3	1st M60
   John Neill	26:01.2
   Jill Holland	26:35.7
   Alan Martin	26:54.7
   Ian Wilson	27:27.5
   Brian McFarland	28:20.2
   Linda Craig	29:02.2	1st F55
   David Doey	29:11.4
   Melinda Wilkinson	29:47.4
   Lisa Fleming	29:48.3
   Stephen Craig	30:57.7
   Beverley Martin	31:55.9
   Ian Reid	37:02.4

   

   

   

   

   

   BANN 10K

   On Wednesday 25 May the 10th Bann 10K race, with Meningitis Now as its chosen charity, took place at Havelock Park, Banbridge.

   Orangegrove was represented by:

   Michael O’Donoghue	42:03	(60th place)
   Sile Brennan	43:08
   Hilary Bradshaw	58:21	PB
   Kirsty Buchanan	58:21

   The race was won by Stephen Duncan in a time of 00:32:52; the first female over the line was Laura Graham with a time of 00:36:47

   BELFAST HILLS 8.8K CHALLENGE

   Saturday 28th

   The race, organised by North Belfast Harriers and supported by Pure Running, offers participants an opportunity to test themselves over the trails of Cave Hill Country Park, taking in the stunning views from Belfast Castle, Bellevue and McArt’s Fort.

   Special congratulations go to Liz Leitch (nee Watt) and Reg Sanlon who both earned age category wins.

   Stephen Anderson	41:30
   Ian Grant	45:53
   Liz Leitch	46:14	1st F40
   Rodney Corrigan	48:56
   Fintan Hurl	51:46
   Sarah Steer	52:46
   Reg Sanlon	53:18	1st M60
   Ian Reid	1:14:14

   The race was won by Paul Burns East Down AC in a time of 00:34:44, with Mary Meade, North Belfast Harriers crossing the line in 39:39.

   There was also a Juniors 2k Cavehill Challenge Race for under-16’s

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   EDINBURGH MARATHON FESTIVAL

   Saturday & Sunday

   The Edinburgh Marathon Festival includes a marathon, relay, half marathon, 10K, 5K and Junior races. The shorter races are based at Holyrood in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano. The marathon is the second largest in the UK and takes advantage of some of Edinburgh’s most iconic landmarks as well as offering picturesque views along the East Lothian coastline. The course is considered to be flat and fast.

   This year our club is represented by Jacqui Maxwell and Julie McKimm, Catherine Fearon and Andy McIntyre.

   The sun was shining, social media has been alive with discussion and the results are in:

   Andy McIntyre continued his great form with a time of 3:04:29 (190th place).

   Julie McKimm made a fantastic marathon debut with a 3:45:21

   Jacqui Maxwell successfully completed what she considered her hardest run ever with a hard earned and well deserved 4:30:41

   Catherine Fearon may need a little encouragement before the next one (as it appears that it may represent her retirement from the marathon distance) but she still managed to do what many have never done and completed the course in 4:40:11; her eyes are now on 4:30. Go Catherine!

   Well done all.

   HILL & DALE DONARD NIMRA

   Saturday 28th (Liz Leitch reporting)

   Slieve Donard Race. This is one of the most famous races in the NI mountain racing calendar. It’s the 7th fixture of the Newcastle AC Hill and Dale Series, a NIMRA championship race and also an IMRA championship event which explains the large field of 208 runners this year. It’s a brutal race of approx 5.2 miles with 2,700 feet of ascent and descent. There are prizes for 1st male ( Newcastle’s Ian Bailey, 4th year in a row, in a course record of 53.40) , 1st lady ( Diane Wilson of Dromore AC, also her 4th victory in a row in 66.53) with the usual age group prizes.

   OAC were represented by chairman Thomas Leitch who finished in 20th place in 66.43. There is a tradition that runners who beat their age to the top win a pint, Thomas was one of the few to achieve this (44.29) but unfortunately he was driving so his prize was unclaimed! The race was very well organised and marshalled. The finish area in front of the Newcastle Centre did resemble a Game of Thrones battle field with bloodied, mud splattered runners lying all over the place, having given their all to the mountain! I was witness to a dislocated finger being very coolly snapped back into place by a local GP who had just finished the race behind the injured party. Another runner suffered a fractured arm and had to be taken off the mountain by Mountain Rescue. The runners were treated to delicious soup and baps in the local pub. The next Hill and Dale race is Millstone on Thursday night. See you there!

   

   

   

   BALLYCLARE MAYFAIR RACE – 10K

   Saturday 28th

   The Ballyclare Mayfair Race, organised by the County Antrim Harriers, includes a 10K and 5K race starting at the Rugby Club.

   Being part of Orangegrove has many benefits. As Neal commented on Facebook:
   Orangegrove is a great club as typified today by Karen Russell and Hilary Bradshaw .They did the 5k at Ballyclaire (and set PBs). They then waited for Deborah Killen and me to finish the 10k. i was cheered on my them at 9k mark and i just knew they would run in with Deborah and give her that extra bit of encouragement. Thank you. Such encouragement and active support means an awful lot.

   I have heard that it was a brilliant event, well organised and with great support. Karen reported an amazing spread afterwards. While running gets us out there, it’s sometimes the experience around the running that helps keep us going back out.

   The times:

   5K	Karen Russell	26:29
   5K	Hilary Bradshaw	26:40
   10K	Neal Killen	1:06:26
   10K	Deborah Killen	1:19:42

   Well done everyone.

   PARKRUN

   Saturday 28th

   The Juniors saw significant achievements as mentioned above.

   Des Fahy was running over in Donegal. This outing saw Des representing Orangegrove in an old country estate in Falcarragh on a beautiful morning, crossing the line in first place with a time of 19:21. Des reported that the venue is well worth a visit – I was almost running there myself on Saturday and will try to make it some time over the summer.

   Consolidated results can be found at http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=17953&eventdate=2016-05-28

   NEWRY CITY MARATHON

   Sunday 29th

   Now in its ninth year, the Newry City Marathon consists of a Marathon, Wheelchair Marathon, Half Marathon, 10 Mile Walk, 10K Run & Fun Run – a substantial event!

   The Newry Canal opened in 1742 and ran for 18 miles to Lough Neagh.
   to link the Tyrone coalfields (via Lough Neagh and the River Bann) to the Irish Sea at Carlingford Lough. It was the first summit level canal to be built in Ireland or Great Britain, and pre-dated the more famous Bridgewater Canal by nearly thirty years and Sankey Brook by fifteen years.

   The traditional route takes the direction of Newry Towpath heading north toward Scarva and returns to the towpath taking in Canal Quay and Merchants Quay, where some surviving 18th and 19th century warehouses still line the canal, before finishing at Newry Credit Union on Hill Street.

   I haven’t heard anything about the day but the published results revealed the following:

   Eric Fairfield	1:27:57
   Robin Montgomery	1:33:36
   Darren Houston	1:38:47
   Anne Moore	1:40:50
   Carolyn Beattie	1:45:56
   Johnny Weston	1.45.57
   Emma McWilliams	1:59:29
   Brian Todd	1.59.29
   Trish Magill	2:07:13

   

   

   

   

   WESTMINSTER MILE

   Sunday 29th

   The Vitality Westminster Mile is held on one of the most iconic miles in the world, starting on The Mall and finishing in front of Buckingham Palace. The event includes a series of races throughout the day and runners will be seeded according to predicted finish time, so entrants will be running with people of a similar standard. There are races for families, adults & vets, juniors, elite athletes, and wheelchair users.

   In 2015, the theme of saluting the legends of British middle-distance running celebrated the 30th anniversary of Steve Cram’s world mile record of 3:46.32, which still stands as the European and British record.

   In 2016 it’s Chris, Nicola and Alex Downey’s turn, and they were good runs –
   Chris ran a great 5:30. Nicola escorted Alex round in about 9:30.

   

   

   

   ---

   Well, I’m glad of the coffee, but the coffee is finished, it’s late and the music stopped some time ago; I had better get this posted before I get locked in!

5. Weekly Report – May 9-15 2016

   May 15, 2016 10:01 pm Comments Off on Weekly Report – May 9-15 2016

   The temperature and the racing season is heating up and the races are starting to come thick and fast (I’ve been called thick more times than I’ve been called fast!). The following are the featured races on their respective days but we’ll start with the future…the Juniors:

   ORANGEGROVE AC JUNIORS

   Primary School Track Competition at Bangor Sportsplex on Wednesday @ 7pm

   The following young athletes competed for both Orangegrove and their Schools:
   Olivia Chandler P5 600m Bronze Medal
   Jacob McKittrick P6 600m Silver
   Ryan Drain P6 Long Jump Silver
   Matthew Sykes P7 Long Jump Bronze
   Alice Browne P7 Discus

   The word on the street (I’m trying to act hip and cool like them) is that the Juniors all contributed and performed fantastically well. Thank you Alice, Matthew, Ryan, Jacob and Olivia for representing the club so well.

   County Down Districts on Thursday

   Where I was an ‘epic fail’ at trying to act cool there Aaron and Adam were epic successes and are the real deal…check this out:

   Aaron McCord – Bronze Medal – jump in 4:68m
   Adam Sykes – Gold Medal – CoDown Champions 4x100m relays 52.02 seconds

   Brilliant guys, congratulations and well done on what I believe was quite a long day and thanks also to your coaches. A photo of the gold medal is hopefully attached to this report (the closest I’ll ever get to a gold medal!).
   Adam and Aaron have both been selected to compete at the Ulster Schools Championships at Antrim Forum this Saturday after their performances so all the best from all the members of Orangegrove AC.

   WOODBURN FOREST 3.1 MILE TRAIL RACE

   East Antrim Harriers AC have presented their 12th series of Summer Trail Races with Woodburn Forest being the 1st and 4th of this series and, Tardree Forest (3.5 miles) and Ballyboley Forest (4 miles) being the 2nd and 3rd.

   This 1st race of this trail series was held on a beautiful Tuesday evening based in Woodburn Presbyterian Church just outside Carrickfergus.

   Read the full race report here.

   

   

   

   Hill and Dale Series, Race 5 – Rocky

   (by Elizabeth Leitch)

   8 OAC mountain goats (and cheer leader Liz) made the journey on Wednesday to Leitrim Lodge for Race 5 of this Series efficiently organised by Newcastle AC. Rocky is a 4.25 mile mountain race with 1600 feet of climbing. It was a glorious evening, nearly too hot for climbing but great for the supporters and photographers!

   First home for Orangegrove was Chairman Thomas Leitch, 16th place, 37:48 in his first race of this year’s series. Next was Darren Marshall with 46:19, then Michael O’Donoghue in 46:38. Junior coach Eoghan Rainey was next in 56:34, closely followed by Verity Cornford. Next Sharon Dickenson finished in 64.42, Judith Dalzell in 67:54 and Stephen Craig finished in 68:43. The race was won by Newcastle AC’s Barry McConville in 33:22 whereas the First Lady was Dromore’s Diane Wilson with 38:29.

   Next week is LoughShannagh which is 5 miles and 1700 feet of ascent…..all welcome!!!!!

   

   

   

   LES JONES 10K

   On Friday 13 May 2016, nearly three hundred athletes descended on the Mary Peters Track in Belfast for the annual Les Jones Memorial 10k, an event hosted by Athletics NI and sponsored by ChampionChip Ireland.

   Read the full race report here.

   

   

   

    

   DOWNPATRICK LIONS 3 LAKES CHARITY RACE

   (by Sarah Malcolmson)

   For the last 3 years, the Downpatrick Lions Club has organised the 3 Lakes Race to raise money for their designated charity. This year’s race, which was in aid of the Downs Syndrome Association and supported by East Down AC, took place on Saturday 14 May, starting and finishing at the idyllic setting of the Lakeside Inn on the shores of the Ballydugan Lake. There were two options: a Fun Run over 7k or a 15k for the more experienced runners.

   Enticed by Joe Quinn’s description of the route as “all road, good surfaces, scenic and generally flat”, three Orangegrove ladies set out on a gloriously sunny morning to take part in an event that surpassed all of their (reasonably high) expectations! All three chose the 15k route, which took them along the peaceful country roads around the Ballydugan, Magheralagan and Loughinisland lakes. In addition to the shimmering beauty of the lakes, they were treated to panoramic views of the majestic Mourne Mountains.

   The event was superbly organised, with ample parking, seamless registration, plenty of marshalls, distance markers at every kilometre and light refreshments at the end. The experience is best summed up in the words of Jenny Powell: “Definitely my best run this year. Here’s to more like it!”.

   A total of sixty-nine runners took part in the 15k, which was won by Brendan Teer (00:51:59) and Niamh Kellett (01:03:41), both of East Down AC. Sixty-three runners took part in the 7k Fun Run.

   Alison Hall-Thompson	1:25:32
   Jenny Powell	1:25:32
   Sarah Malcolmson	1:30:32

   

   STRABANE – LIFFORD HALF MARATHON

   On Sunday 15 May well over one thousand athletes took to the start line of the annual Strabane to Lifford Half Marathon, organised by Strabane District Council and the relatively newly amalgamated Lifford-Strabane AC. The race started in Northern Ireland (in Strabane) and took competitors over the border to Lifford in Ireland.

   In an interesting race, all of the pre-race favourites played a major part in proceedings, but it was two Project Africa Athletics men who stole the headlines. Eric Koech and Dan Tanui took second and third place respectively at the Belfast City Marathon earlier this month, but on this occasion, things were different.

   Dan looked sharp over the shorter distance as sealed victory in 1:06:09 (1st place), with Eric following in 1:07:22 (2nd place). Previous winner of the event, local hero Stephen Duncan (Omagh Harriers), followed up his win at the recent Killyclogher 10k with a 3rd place finish in 1:09:47.

   In the ladies race Natasha Adams (Letterkenny AC) excelled in the absence of friend and club mate Ann-Marie McGlynn. The Northern Ireland international looked in top form as she broke the tape in 1:15:21, which not only saw her take 1st place in the ladies race, but 9th place overall. Outgoing Champion Claire McGuigan may not have retained her title, but ran well to take 2nd place in 1:25:51, ahead of the consistent Gemma McGinty (Foyle Valley AC), who followed in 1:32:37 for 3rd place.

   Regarding Orangegrove, I can say that the consistently impressive Des Fahy gained 44th place with a time of 1:26:52 at a pace of 4:07 km/h and that Michael O’Donoghue, Darren Marshall and Sharon Dickenson all popped up again to run another race in the same week. Recent recruits Greg Calvin and David Doey also joined in the joy (or pain!) of this half marathon. Times:

   44th	Des Fahy	1:26:52
   267th	Michael O’Donoghue	1:42:27
   313th	Darren Marshall	1:44:31
   378th	Greg Calvin	1:47:39
   580th	Sharon Dickenson	1:57:48
   728th	David Doey	2:04:29

   5k was won by Paul Barbour of Omagh Harriers in 16:49

   

   

   UPCOMING FIXTURES

   Ulster Schools Championships (Juniors)
   Ballybeen 5k
   Annaghmore 5/10
   Wilkies 5 mile
   Albertville 4 mile
   Runher 5/10
   Hill n dale
   Jengana
   One World Run.

   THE BUFFDATE

   (Update about the Buffs)

   A very limited, special and select crew have qualified for the CCB (Club Championship Buff) award after taking part in the 1st 7 out of 7 races nominated in the CCC (Club Championship Calendar). The lucky people who are now officially ‘buffed’ are:
   Alison Hall-Thompson, Catherine Fearon, Jenny Powell, Andy McIntyre, Gerald Harvey, Ian Grant, Marty O’Brien, Reg Sanlon and the male Captain, Robin Montgomery.

   THE MOD SHOW

   Yes, from next week we are thinking of having a report-writer solely dedicated to Michael O’Donoghue’s running exploits after racing in Woodburn, Rocky, Les Jones, Falls Parkrun and Strabane this week… the rumours that he turned up with a fake ID to run the 4x100m relay in Schools competition on Wednesday are unfounded. Only joking Michael… we are all impressed with your appetite for the sport and proud that you are an OG member.

   PARKRUN

   Thomas celebrated his birthday with a 1st position in Armagh Parkrun whereas Robin led a recce party to the Falls Parkrun on Saturday before we travel there for a Club Championship Race on 4 June (photo attached) and finished 2nd himself.

   Stormont showed that the future is the youth when they took charge on the hill with PBs galore. No walks about walks here (or talks about talks!), it was all-out sprinting from Rory and Benjamin Hall-Thompson, Ryan Drain and Chloe Browne. Aaron McCord chose to be in Opposition and opted for Victoria Park but also got a PB.

   Others of note were a wee hometown PB for Chris Downey (19:23) on his 8th appearance whilst Nicola Downey (27:29), made a debut on that course: Colin Sykes was in Southwick, Greg Calvin was running again in Portrush and Mark Williamson was at St Helen’s for the 7th time.

   The following is a link to the consolidated parkrun list of Orangegrove runners: http://www.parkrun.com/results/consolidatedclub/?clubNum=17953&eventdate=2016-05-14

   If you want to give a little back to your local parkrun or be part of a bigger team, please consider volunteering by contacting Gerry on belfastvictoriahelpers@parkrun.com.

   

   

   

6. Les Jones Memorial 10k

   May 13, 2016 11:50 pm Comments Off on Les Jones Memorial 10k

   Nearly three hundred athletes descended on the Mary Peters Track in Belfast for the annual Les Jones Memorial 10k, an event hosted by Athletics NI and sponsored by ChampionChip Ireland.

   The race was also the fourth event in the ongoing Novosco 10k Grand Prix, a new age graded Series which is in its inaugural year. The 6.2 mile course started and finished on the track and took in the roads, paths and trails in close by Minnowburn, Shaws Bridge and Lagan Towpath area.

   North Belfast Harriers man Philip Goss finished 1st, over a minute clear of his nearest rival in 33:57, whereas, in the ladies race, North Down AC’s Northern Ireland XC international Jodi Smith put in an impressive showing to secure top spot in 39:30.

   This was another lovely evening and a good OG turnout with the ever-humble Andy McIntyre getting close to a 10k PB with his fabulous time of 36:42 finishing in 11th place.

   This is the closest I have got to looking like an athlete…standing close to Andy at the start of a race and having started and finished on the Mary Peters Track! A really good experience for those who haven’t tried it…keep the well-organised Les Jones 10k in mind next year.

   The OG ladies were really impressive on Friday too with Lyndsey being the 4th lady behind a very strong top 3 and Antra and Anne flying home with Linda ensuring a dynamic and stylish finish (reminiscent of Sharon’s at Woodburn!). The OG times were:

   Andy McIntrye	36:42
   Robin Montgomery	40:10
   Michael O’Donoghue	41:51
   Lyndsey Tyro	42:05
   Martin O’Brien	43:44
   Antra Balcuna	45:01
   Anne Moore	45:57
   Graeme Bennett	46:11
   Stephen Thompson	48:21
   Reg Sanlon	51:26
   Ian Wilson	51:56
   George Gribben	54:42
   David Doey	55:22
   Linda Craig	56:13

   Thanks to Robin again for post-race refreshments, collecting the rubbish and for lending us some warm clothes when the temperature dropped!

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

7. EAH Forest Series: Woodburn – Club Championship Round 7

   May 12, 2016 11:42 pm Comments Off on EAH Forest Series: Woodburn – Club Championship Round 7

   East Antrim Harriers AC have presented their 12th series of Summer Trail Races with Woodburn Forest being the 1st and 4th of this series and, Tardree Forest (3.5 miles) and Ballyboley Forest (4 miles) being the 2nd and 3rd.

   This 1st race of this trail series was held on a beautiful Tuesday evening based in Woodburn Presbyterian Church just outside Carrickfergus. The omens were good (because I didn’t get lost), the sun was shining, the forest looked mighty but splendid and the course was varied, challenging, twisty, hilly, enjoyable and topped off with the highlight of a life-embracing run across the top of, and in between, 2 reservoirs glistening in the evening sun (I think I sweated a reservoir).

   A similarly picturesque collection of Orangegrove species turned up to fly around this forest, a total of 48 in fact!

   8	Andrew McIntyre	18:27
   27	Eric Fairfield	19:57
   29	Robin Montgomery	19:59
   44	Timothy Robinson	20:51
   47	Michael O’Donoghue	21:03
   52	Darren Houston	21:24
   58	Stephen Anderson	21:36
   61	Trudy Brown	21:50	(3rd Lady)
   68	Mark Williamson	22:01
   72	Martin O’Brien	22:23
   75	Ian Grant	22:42
   81	Andrew Allen	23:00
   84	Stephen Hamilton	23:05
   107	Greg Calvin	24:11
   109	Claire Kelleher	24:15
   112	Emma McWilliams	24:25
   115	Gerald Harvey	24:33
   121	John Neill	24:47
   135	Jill Holland	25:14
   144	Reg Sanlon	25:36
   150	Ian Millgate	25:50
   151	Heather Shanks-Miller	25:52
   158	Alan Martin	26:04
   159	Fintan Hurl	26:05
   167	Ian Wilson	26:29
   171	Alison Hall-Thompson	26:35
   175	Jenny Powell	26:49
   180	Brian McFarland	26:54
   191	Anna Rankin	27:21
   192	Paul Gruhn	27:29
   196	Adrian Sproule	27:38
   202	David Doey	27:52
   209	Sarah Malcolmson	28:16
   210	Martin Walker	28:17
   218	Catherine Fearon	28:33
   228	Sarah Steer	28:56
   229	Stephen Craig	29:02
   234	Melinda Wilkinson	29:07
   235	Karen Russell	29:08
   236	Hillary Bradshaw	29:09
   237	Judith McCann	29:10
   238	George Gribben	29:11
   251	Beverley Martin	31:07
   255	Sharon McFarland	31:25
   276	Ian Reid	34:52
   277	Neal Killen	34:57
   302	Deborah Killen	40:37

   You would nearly think that this was the 7th race in the Club Championship and that the mystical prize of a freshly-designed OG Buff was on offer for those that have completed 7 races!

   The race was won by Matthew Hewitt in 17:38 and the 1st lady was Kerry Bamber in 20:14 with our own Trudy Brown finishing as 3rd lady (1st in Age Cat) in 21:50. Well done Trudy and to Andy McIntyre who finished 8th in 18:27 and also to Eric Fairfield in 19:57 and Robin Montgomery in 19:59. Gerald Harvey also achieved a 1st in Age Cat. There were too many super individual OG performances to mention.

   This was a super turnout from the club with many highlights ranging from the weather, the course, those performing well after recent marathoning exploits, to Robin’s food van (I’d love to see Robin turn up with a Robin Reliant & try the same again!) but especially those who gave a trail race a try for the 1st time and to the support throughout and at the Orangegrove finishing tunnel.

8. Weekly Report – May 3-8 2016

   May 8, 2016 11:59 pm Comments Off on Weekly Report – May 3-8 2016

   After a recent busy period for the club (and its reporters) and the club members’ successes in London and Belfast Marathons, the days since Belfast Marathon have been a little quieter.

   Orangegrove Athletics Club Juniors

   Despite itching to get out there the Juniors had a quiet racing week too but this hasn’t stopped them in their training, which has now moved outside to the running track, and building up for their next event being held at Bangor on Wednesday 11 May.

   Yes, the recent endurance training, including throwing medicine balls (yikes!), can only assist those taking part in the Primary School Track Competition at Bangor Sportsplex commencing at 7pm and hosted by North Down AC. Full details can be located at northdownac.co.uk/open-tf-meets

   All the best on Wednesday to the future of the club.

   NIMRA Annalong Horseshoe Mountain Race

   From plenty of energetic sprightly young athletes to our energetic, sprightly and talented seniors….yes, Thomas Leitch and Michael O’Donoghue took part in this Mountain Race and if any Junior, or Senior, wanted to improve or pick up extra tips, then there’s no better than this Horseshoe Two.

   Set in the Mournes on Saturday 7 May this is a 13.1 Mile course with an elevation of 1,371m (gulp!) and you have to abide by a strict minimum equipment requirement. Going by the photos in the warmth of my comfy seat in my home the weather looked tough going in parts as I’m sure those steep climbs were.

   Thomas and Michael started in Rourke’s Park and didn’t need any horseshoe luck to negotiate and conquer the 5 assigned summits Chimney, Commedagh, Cove, Lamagan and Binnian before finishing in Dunneywater. I need the dunney even thinking about it!

   Well done Thomas and Michael for illustrating again what lengths (and heights) you can take your bodies to with the right preparation, training and, no doubt, determination. Their finishing details were:

   15th	Thomas Leitch	2:42:34
   55th	Michael O’Donoghue	3:35:26

   

   

   

   

   

   

   Killyclogher 10k Race

   Also on Saturday Graeme Bennett decided to scale different heights and entered The Killyclogher 10K Road Run. This, together with a 5K Fun Run and Walk, has become one of the most popular in the year’s calendar of Road Runs. An attractive flat course, chipped timing, good stewarding and warm hospitality have ensured that runners keep coming back as well as new runners taking part each year. This was run as a Personal Best (PB) Course with chipped timing and T-shirt for the first 200 entrants.

   

   This was organised by Killyclogher St. Mary’s GAC just outside Omagh in County Tyrone on Saturday 7 May in wet conditions (but plenty of smiling faces) and Graeme scored with a lovely:

   Graeme Bennett

   42:41

   6:50 min/mile

   Victoria Parkrun’s 5th Birthday

   Now we all know that (Victoria) Parkrun means something different to everybody but what we all share in common is a positive view, some kind of journey, hopefully an improvement in times at some stage, the opening of doors to either new friendships or new types/distances of races and the love of….buns (and chocolate brownies especially)! Yes, there was no doubt even more buns on show on Saturday for an extra special day…the 5th birthday of Victoria Parkrun. Happy Birthday!

   The special day was made even more special by the attendance of Pam Browne, the president of Athletics NI, who presented the following prizes:

   Parkrunner of the year – Cathy Fraser
   Volunteers of the year – Carole Bell, Imelda McConnell, Jim Harris & Darren Moan.
   Annual ladies’points – 1st Hannah Macleod, 2nd Ashleigh Collim, 3rd Jenny Black.
   Annual men’s points – 1st Chris Moren, 2nd David Proctor, 3rd Thomas Carson.

   Well done to all the winners and sincere thanks to everyone who volunteered at any stage, to all those who have contributed in various other ways, to those who helped cater and provide the lovely cakes and buns and, for the photos.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   Parkrun

   With the focus being at Victoria Parkrun on 7 May then it suited that there was a huge majority and turnout of Orangegrove club members who took part.

   Those itchy Juniors legs were let loose and PBs were attained by Jacob McKittrick 19:49 (fantastic!), Jake Dalzell 25:40 and, Andrew Corken 27:31. Well done lads and if you are looking some spare cash I could do with some professional pacing. Not to let the Juniors steal all the limelight both Karen Russell 27:18 and Catherine Lavery 28:56 achieved fabulous PBs aswell. Super stuff girls.

   Obviously hearing all the roars and shouts (and scoffing!) all the way over in Cape Town, South Africa, our own Lisa Rodham decided to get stuck into the Greenpoint Parkrun and ran it in 27:29. Happy hols from OG Lisa.

   At Stormont Parkrun Andrew Allen 21:53, Ryan Drain (another impressive Junior performance) 22:31 and Gerald Harvey 23:07 all earned Stormont PBs. The Orangegrove Consolidated Parkrun Report can be found here.

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   Fixtures

   The Juniors are in Bangor on Wednesday.

   The Seniors have the 7th Club Championship Race of the season on Tuesday 10 May at Woodburn Forest (3 mile) whereas the Les Jones 10k is on Friday night starting and ending at Mary Peters Track.

   If you want to give a little back to your local parkrun or are injured but want to remain involved or want to meet some special people (volunteers) or want to experience a different perspective please consider volunteering by contacting Gerry on belfastvictoriahelpers@parkrun.com.

9. Weekend Report – April 24th

   April 24, 2016 11:59 pm Comments Off on Weekend Report – April 24th

   ATHLETICS NI GRADED MEETING, MARY PETERS TRACK

   Sprinters were in action last Tuesday night. The first race of the night was the women’s 100m and competing for OAC were Sophia Campbell and Lucy Armstrong who finished 3rd and 4th respectively with times of 13.68 and 13.89 seconds. The race was won by Megan Marrs (City of Lisburn AC) in 12.06 seconds.

   In the men’s senior 100m, George Gribben (masters athlete) ran an excellent time of 15.36 seconds in only his second competitive event. The race was won by Craig Newall (BAAC) in 11.36 seconds. Track running is not easy as I have found to my cost, so well done. [Thanks to Alan Martin for his report].

   NORTH DOWN AC, MINIS COMPETITION

   Sam Rainey, Jacob McKittrick, Olivia Chandler and Matthew Sykes competed at the North Down AC track event in Bangor. Fantastic, gutsy, performances from everyone on the night and they brought home some bling.

   Olivia, silver medal in P5 600m. Jacob, silver medal in P6 600m. Matthew, silver medal in P7 Long Jump (3.90m). Matthew, bronze medal in P7 60m Sprint. This is a great event and we would love to see some more kids at the next one.

   [Thanks to Gillian Sykes for this report.]

   QUEEN’S ROUND THE RIVER 3/5K

   Fifty five Orangegrove runners made it to the start line and did indeed fill the lens with orange. The start was timed by digital watch on the sound of the horn, so those starting at the back were at a definite disadvantage. The first mat at the finish displayed the names of the runners for the commentator, but it foxed the race leader who stopped there rather than at the correct second timing mat, losing valuable seconds. The third mat was for backup timing. Therefore, you should always run hard to the final mat.

   Read the full race report and results here

   

   

   

   

   

   

   HILL & DALE RACE 2, TOLLYMORE

   The race was run over the old monument course which crosses the Shimna River twice within Tollymore Forest Park and takes in the Mournes Way and the higher mountainside, with a trademark uphill finishing stretch.

   This scenic course is approximately 7K in length with 293m of ascent. Well done to all six members who took part. The race was won by Zak Hanna (Newcastle AC) in a time of 30:28 and first lady home was Gillian Wasson (Ballymena Runners) in a time of 36:10.

   Results:

   Michael O’Donoghue	41:20
   Darren Marshall	43:25
   Eoghan Rainey	50:09
   Sharon Dickenson	53:39
   Judith Dalzell	1:00:46
   Stephen Craig	1:00:52

   ROYAL CANAL HALF MARATHON, LONGFORD

   The half marathon distance comprised four laps of a flat 5.2K course, centred on the Royal Canal.

   Andy McIntyre was there to represent the club, which he did excellently, with a personal best time of 1:21:03 for second place. His first lap was under 21 minutes and his next three laps were all under 20 minutes.

   The race was won by James Treanor in 1:16:29 and the first female to finish was Eileen Donohoe in 1:40:15.

   PARKRUN (23rd April 2016)

   After the uproar over the Bristol parkrun recently, I am glad to say that council authorities here appear to be supportive of the parkrun ethos and long may that continue. Orangegrove runners were all over the country last Saturday – Antrim, Belfast, Bangor, Portrush, Edinburgh, Northampton and London (Finsbury & Mile End).

   Well done to all who ran especially those who achieved a PB :
   Colin Glen: Reg Sanlon, 26:01; Ormeau Park: Kirsty Buchanan, 25:55; Northampton: Catherine Lavery, 29:05; Stormont: Ryan Drain, 22:54; Judith McCann, 26:30; Karen Russell, 27:48; Victoria Park: Jonathan Weston, 20:14; Anna Rankin, 25:48.

   Remember to support parkrun by volunteering when you can. Contact: belfastvictoriahelpers@parkrun.com

   

   

   

   36TH LONDON MARATHON

   British astronaut, Tim Peake, started the race from the International Space Station and ran a marathon on treadmill in 3:35:21. Back on Earth nearly forty thousand people took part in the race, among them was Stephen Anderson who appeared on BBC TV looking composed at Cutty Sark.

   Read the full race report and results here

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   KIRKISTOWN SPRINT DUATHLON

   In the unavoidable absence of Emma McWilliams and Antra Balcuna, the only OAC representation at today’s sprint duathlon at Kirkistown Motor Racing Circuit was from Brian Todd and Michael O’Donoghue. Sprint duathlon involves an initial two mile run, followed by a ten mile bike ride, followed by a final two mile run. There are strict rules regarding what one can do and not do in the transition area, where the race can be won or lost.

   Sprint duathlon is easier said than done, particularly when the wind is blowing into your face at 15mph for half of every 2 mile lap, affecting the bike ride considerably. Conditions today were at least dry and sunny, but that wind was a problem and enervating to say the least. Brian Todd finished the race in 1:01:25 (19/29) and Michael in 00:56:11 (10/29). However Michael seems to have miscalculated the bike ride and completed only eight miles instead of ten, although the timing mats did not notice. So, keep it quiet! Shhhhh!

   Sprint duathlon is dominated by cyclists who can run a bit. It is unusual to come to it, as we do, as runners. We tend to make a lot of ground on the run, but lose it dramatically on the bike ride, not helped by the fact that some of the cycles in use are at the very upper end of the price range. Nevertheless, great fun and it certainly adds an extra dimension to the sometimes tedious activity of just running. If anybody else would like to give it a go, contact Brian. [Thanks to Brian Todd for his report].

   

   

   Photography: @BelfastRunning, Anne Devlin, Catherine Lavery, Elizabeth Leitch, Jayne Bell, Robin Montgomery, Brian Todd, OAC Juniors.

10. Virgin Money London Marathon

    11:23 pm Comments Off on Virgin Money London Marathon

    “Now bid me run and I will strive for things impossible”

    – William Shakespeare

    British astronaut, Tim Peake, started the race from the International Space Station and ran a marathon on treadmill in 3:35:21. Back on Earth nearly forty thousand people took part in the race, among them was Stephen Anderson who appeared on BBC TV looking composed at Cutty Sark.

    First male club member to finish was Thomas Leitch in 3:01:17. First female club member home was Lyndsey Tyro in 3:08:59.

    The men’s elite race was won by E. Kipchoge in 2:03:05, a course record and 8 seconds off the world record, which goes to prove that seconds count, even in a very long race. The women’s elite race was won by J. Sumgong in 2:22:58, despite a heavy fall. One competitor died during the race, at the tragically early age of 31.

    Results:

    Thomas Leitch	3:01:17
    Lyndsey Tyro	3:08:59	PB
    Paul Tyro	3:11:27	PB
    Robin Montgomery	3:18:06
    Stephen Anderson	3:37:17	PB
    Andrew Allen	3:43:04
    Chris Downey	3:45:03
    Zdzislaw Malkinski	3:59:05
    Trish Magill	4:07:33
    Alan Montgomery	4:57:49

    This was great running, well done to you all.

    Thanks to Elizabeth Leitch for the photos.