Date for your Diary: Sperrin Harriers Awards Dinner on Sat. 13th Nov 2010
Limited to 100 people
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Keith Reid 10k Results
Nigel Davidson, 6th in 38:52
Michael McGlade, 8th in 38:57
Alan Shaw, 10th in 39:21
Paul McLaughlin, 14th in 40:42
Trevor Dallas, 21st in 42:07
Paul Martin, 39th in 45:56
Siobhain McNally, 73rd in 52:35
Wendy Walker, 85th in 56:32
Anne-Marie Heagney, 89th in 1:48:22
Glenn Donnelly, dnf
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Full results:Results of Keith Reid 10k, 04th Sep 2010
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Sperrin News 05th Sep 2010
BELFAST LAGANSIDE 10K
Sperrin Harriers Eamonn Sheehan and Michael Monaghan travelled to Belfast on Sunday to take on the Laganside 10k, there was 669 runners in attendance. They were all lucky as the rain held off for them all to complete the race, the wind didn't but this seemed to help the runners in a way but also worked against them at times. Eamonn ran a great race with a pb time of 41.09 he was positioned 86th place and not far behind was Michael with a time of 42.37 in 114th place. Well done guys.
RUN 'N' THE BANN 5K
Ten Harriers competed in the 5k last Thursday night, they all finished in good times and their results are as followed: Martin McGirr-18.36, Nigel Davidson-18.40, Alan Shaw-18.49, Darren Crozier-19.12, David O'Brien-19.44, Michael Monaghan-19.57, Irwin Speirs-20.12, Trevor Dallas-21.00, Tony O'Neill-22.52 and Siobhain McNally-26.33. Well done to everyone of you and keep up the good times.
RATHLIN 10.8 MILE RUN
Oliver Murphy solely represented the Sperrin Harriers on the Saturday 28th August at Rathlin Island. He completed the 10.8 mile race in 1.25.44 and was placed 70th out 192 competitors. Well done Oliver.
DUNGIVEN 10K
Sperrin Harrier Nigel Davidson and his wife leeona ran the 10k on the Saturday 28th August. Nigel did the club proud by producing a time of 39.13 being positioned 11th place overall and 2nd in the over 35's category. Leeona came 3rd in the open category even tough this was her first race, I am sure we shall be recruiting Leeona as soon as possible.
OTHER RACES
A few club members have competed in the Keith Reid 10k, Draperstown 10k and the Dingle Marathon but their results have not been obtained at the moment so their results will be released next week.
WINTER LEAGUE TRAIL SERIES
Now the Summer League has ended the Winter League will commence on Saturday 30th October and will consist of 6 races that are held each month till Saturday 5th March 2011. The races will be held in three locations just outside the Cookstown area. Further information is available on the club's website and on their facebook page. Everyone is welcome so bring along your mates as well , usually there is mass turn out so better craic for everyone.
BARCELONA HALF MARATHON
The club is organising a trip to the Barcelona Half Marathon, flying out on Friday 11th February 2011 , race Sunday 13th & fly home Monday 14th February 2011. Anyone interested in travelling with the club to the event should contact Francis Purvis or Glenn Donnelly, contact information can be obtained at www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
SPERRIN HARRIERS @ FACEBOOK
The club's launch of a facebook page is a growing success with new fans joining every day, there is plenty of pictures of members in races around the country and also results, fixtures, information and social networking between runners.
TRAINING
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training is held at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday nights at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk
Sperrin News 29th Aug 2010
KAREN QUALIFIES FOR WORLD MOUNTAIN RUNNING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Karen Alexander earlier this month qualified in Co Wicklow to represent Ireland in the forthcoming World Mountain Running Championships. The race will be held in Slovenia being held on the 5th September. This race will be both a physical and mental challenge for Karen as she is used to running both up and down hill. This race is all 5 miles uphill with no down hill element. Karen stated that she preferred the up and down hill races as the down hill parts of the races motivated her to the finish line and she usually picked off quite a few of the competition. The Sperrin Harriers want to wish Karen all the best and thank her representing the club on the international stage.
SLIEVE GALLION 10K (SUMMER LEAGUE
On Thursday 26th August 8 Sperrin Harriers took on the last race of the Summer League. This race started at top of Slieve Gallion near the Communications Mast. The participants then ran 5k down hill followed by the same 5k up hill. This race was not for the faint hearted although the view from the mountain that night did the runners hearts good. Well done to everyone on completing the race. A big thanks to Connor Martin and Trevor Dallas for time keeping, David O'Brien for marshalling the road ahead of the runners and Glenn Donnelly for the refreshments after the race. The results were:
1.GLENN DONNELLY - 42.35
2.KAREN ALEXANDER - 44.05
3.ALAN SHAW - 46.49
4.MARTIN MC GIRR - 48.28
5.MALCOLM BURNSIDE - 53.05
6.PAUL MARTIN - 54.22
7.OLIVER MURPHY - 56.14
8.PATRICIA MC MASTER - 1.02.00
WINTER LEAGUE TRAIL SERIES
Now the Sperrin Harrier's Summer League has ended our Winter League will commence with a 5 miles race on Saturday 30th October at 12 noon at An Craggan. The Winter League consists of 6 races, one held each month varying in distance and location. For further information please download the Winter League flyer from the club's website or our facebook page. This league is open to the public so come along and Run through the seasons with the Sperrin Harriers.
SPERRIN HARRIERS @ FACEBOOK
The club's launch of a facebook page has been a success, with new members joining every day. There are plenty of pictures of our members in races and the latest photos of this years Sperrin Harriers 5m classic race, along with results, fixtures, information and social networking between runners.
BARCELONA HALF MARATHON
The club is to planing on organising a trip to the Barcelona Half Marathon, flying out on Friday 11th February 2011, race Sunday 13th & fly home Monday 14th February 2011. Anyone interested in travelling with the club to the event should contact Francis Purvis or Glenn Donnelly, contact information can be obtained at www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
TRAINING
Sperrin Harriers training is being held at Lough Fea at 6.30pm on Tuesday and Loughry College, Cookstown on Thursday at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training is held at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday nights at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk
Sperrin News 15th Aug 2010
Energia Belfast 24 Hour Race
Between the 6/7th August Sperrin Harrier Bob Davison took part in a crazy challenge of running in the Energia Belfast 24 hour race being staged in the Mary Peters track. It was Ireland’s first world governing body sanctioned 24-hour race. Bob did excellent on his run and ran around the 400 metre track an incredible 371 times that equalled 92.9 miles that placed him 7th out of 18 die hard ultra runners. Bob stated to me he was privileged to run along side with so many great ultra distance runners who all had their own race plans but his was simple as he kept it to a simple slow pace. Well done Bob, and good luck with your next challenge around Lough Neagh.
Sperrin Harriers Summer League
The next race in the Sperrin Harriers Summer League is the one that we have all been talking about. Yes it is time to see what you are made of! On Thursday the 26th August at 7pm we will journey to Slieve Gallion and complete a 10k like no other. We will start at the top of the Mountain near the Communications Mast and run 5k down the hill then turn around and run back up. Are you up of the challenge?
Sperrin Harriers @ Facebook
The Sperrin Harriers have launched a Facebook page where you can find results , pictures, information and general networking and so on… The Sperrin Harriers still have their main website that is: www.sperrinharriers.co.uk
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training is held at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday nights at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 09th Aug 2010
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Results of Classic 5M Road Race on 06th Aug 2010
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Correction
Please note that Anne Paul was 2nd lady in a time of 30:28. Sorry for the mix-up.
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Sperrin News 08th Aug 2010
Sperrin Harriers 5m Classic Road Race
The time had finally come, on Friday 6th August, when over 200 athletes descended onto Loughry College for the Sperrin Harrier's 5th annual Classic 5 Mile Road Race. The course takes place on the roads of Tullywiggan that are challenging for the best of runners but from some strange reason produce good times.
To start the evening off the Sperrin Harriers held their first 5k fun run/walk to promote running for the young and young at heart alike. This 5k course was contained in the grounds of Loughtry College and the Mid-Ulster Sports Arena. We were delighted to see that this Fun Run had a great attendance with over 50 participants completing the course. All participants were awarded a commemorative medal, accompanied with a bottle of water that Asda Cookstown kindly donated to the club. A talented young man, Pearse Loughran, finished the 5k first and has shown great potential. Pearse is the Nephew of friend of the club Erin McDaid of Armagh AC. However Pearse is welcome to break the trend and join Sperrin Harriers when he become 18.
Getting back to the main race of the evening, there quite a few of Northern Ireland's top athletes in attendance. To name a few: Joe McAlister, Stephen Duncan, Jarlath Falls, Delfin Pimentel, Cathy McCourt, Julie Butler, Anne Paul. Our vice chairman, Glenn Donnelly, gave a quick speech at the starting line before filing into the crowd, who at this point were making their final preparations for the 5m which lay ahead. As the starting horn was blown Joe McAlister, Delfin Pimentel, Glenn Donnelly and Cathy McCourt were all seen doing their best to pull away from the 200+ athletes within the first quarter mile of the course. The first male athlete to cross the finish line was; Joe McAlister - 24.40 and following Joe's shadow was Stephen Duncan - 24.46 and then Jarlath Falls - 24.57. The first female to cross the line was; Cathy McCourt - 29.17 followed by Julie Butler - 31.22 and then Pauline McGurren -31.52. Male team results are as followed; 1st Omagh Harriers, 2nd Armagh Ac. Female team results were: 1st Springwell RC, 2nd Sperrin Harriers. Well done to all the participants.
The Sperrin Harriers would like to thank everyone who attended the event. It couldn't have happened without the support of all of the athletes, club members and their partners and families. A big thank you goes out to all who were involved in the registration process, supplying food and drinks for post race buffet, marshals who ensured the participants safety, EMS for providing First Aid Cover, Oliver McCullagh for the finish gantry Triangle Triathlon Club and Maghera Leisure Centre for timing clocks and Derek Cowan for the timing and preparing the results.
A big thank you also to the ANI officials who attended, John Glover, David McKibben, and Tommy & Mrs Welsh
A big thanks has to go out to the sponsors of the races: Cookstown District Council & Mid Ulster Sports Arena Management & Staff, Loughry College for the use of their facilities, Brendan from Corr & Corr Accountants, Darren from Allens Chemists, Purvis Stone Products, Asda (Cookstown), Sportique, Magherafelt, and Sportsworld, Magherafelt..
The Sperrin Harrier's club results in order of finish times are;
Glenn Donnelly 27.07 (PB),
Jonathan Dempsey 29.08,
Mel Hughes 30.00,
Alan Shaw 30.47 (PB),
Martin McGirr 31.00,
Paul McLaughlin 31.11,
Nigel Davidson 31.15,
Ashley Crawford - 31.16,
Irwin Speirs 32.59 (1st vet 60),
Connor Martin 33.02,
Gary Ward 33.39,
Chris McSwiggan 34.20,
Malcolm Burnside 34.43,
Eamonn O'Neill 34.47,
Brendan Corr 34.48,
Artie O'Kane 35.21,
Patrick Quinn 35.45,
Paul Martin 35.48,
Bernie Gribbin 35.52 (1st F.vet 50),
Raymond Thom 36.30,
Joe Curry 37.05,
Kieran Hughes 37.16,
Joanne Larmour 39.27,
Louis Devlin 40.17,
Linda Tomb 40.48 (2nd F.vet 35),
Siobhan McNally 41.52,
Bernie McNally 43.45(1st F.vet 55),
Adele McNally 45.20,
Wendy Walker 45.20,
Anna Marie Heagney 53.05.
Well done everyone and thanks for showing up in such large numbers!
Photos
Pearse Loughran heading the fun run
Some fun runners at Sperrin Harriers 5m Classic
Starting line of the Sperrin Harriers 5m classic
Jarlath Falls Stephen Duncan and Joe McAlister the top 3 finishers
Alexander Ranks 4th Female in the UK
Karen Alexander can return from Dollar, in Scotland, with her head held high. She competed in a British Championship Race where she gained her highest ranking yet in the UK. The 9.4m course over Dollar was very fast and a good course said Karen. The wet and windy weather conditions didn't seem to effect Karen as finished 4th female and 52nd overall with 252 athletes taking part. Well done Karen, keep up the good work and you will keep moving up the UK rankings!
Sperrin Harriers Summer League
The next race in the Sperrin Harriers Summer League is the one that we have all been talking about. Yes its time to see what you're made of! On Thursday the 26th August at 7pm we will journey to Slieve Gallion and complete a 10k like no other. We will start at the top of the Mountain near the Communications Mask and run 5k down hill then turn and run back up. Are you up of the challenge?
Training
There is a light chage to the Sperrin Harriers training this week. It continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays at 6.30pm, but for the next few weeks the Thursday evening training will take place at Davagh Forest Park at 6.30pm meeting at the car park beside Bells Quarry entrance. Training as usual at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 01st Aug 2010
The Marathon Man
When one of our newest members Eamonn Sheehan, returned to training after an injury saying that he had signed up for a Marathon we all thought he was nuts and many of us told him so. Eamonn would consider himself more of a 10k/Half Marathon runner but like most runners the thought of completing a Full Marathon has always been at the back of his mind. The only problem was that the Marathon was 3 weeks away and he had not run more than 13.1 miles. He would not listen to our concerns and kept saying that it was for a good cause and that he would get round if one way or another. Eamonn's brother has Autism and he would join two runners who were running 32 consecutive Marathons for Autism NI.
I'm told that Eamonn coursed through the first 18 miles without a problem. However the waters started get a bit rougher towards mile 22 when Eamonn's feet started to badly blister. He was really starting to struggle to push through the pain threshold when they noticed that the tops of his shoes had started to turn blood red. Most people would have called it a day, but not Eamonn, he was determined to complete. He did the impossible completing the Marathon in 4.18 with 3 weeks training. For the last 200m Eamonn was joined by his Mum, Girlfriend and Brothers. Eamonn was not hospitalised as we though he would have been. No the very next day he was time keeping at the 4m race in Drum Manor and had full use of his legs. Fair play Eamonn you proved us wrong, well done!
Sperrin Harriers Drum Manor 4m Race.
Last Tuesday night, 20 of our members congregated close to Drum Manor Forest Park for the fifth race of the Sperrin Harriers Summer League. Despite the fact that we did not enter the Forest Park this race had varying terrain. Although it is known that this 4 mile course is difficult, the first gentle downward hill tempts runners into considering 6 minute miles. Those thoughts are soon banished after the first few hills. Then it is revealed that these are mere bumps in comparison to the mighty hill which starts when the road turns into a stony lane with patches of grass. This change in terrain itself knocks the runners tempo out. With all the twists and turns and various road surfaces the runner is unaware exactly how high they have climbed until the decent starts. This hill must have been a 60 degree slope, quite difficult for the average runner to handle, but perfect for the Fell Runner in Glen Donnelly who made a good lead on Johnny Dempsey on this long descent.
Glen Donnelly 23.09, Johnny Dempsey 23.23, Conor McCullagh 24.27, Alan Shaw 25.52, Nigel Davidson 26.07, David O'Brien 26.36, Mel Hughes 27.56, Malcolm Burnside 28.05, Eamonn Cushnahan 28.07, Ashley Crawford 28.15, Conor Martin 28.50, Gary Ward 28.54, Bendan Corr 29.28, Paul Martin 30.06, Oli Murphy 32.05, Joanne Larmour 33.31, Siobhan McNally 34.48, Irwin Speirs 37.39, Louise McGoldrick 39.35, Ruth Ruddell was unable to complete the course due to an old injury. Well done everyone and we hope to see you at the last Summer League Race on 26 August which is a 10K hill race on Slieve Gallion. Special thank to Bob Davidson and Eamonn Sheehan for recording the times.
Ballymoney 5m Road Race
6 of our member took part in the Ballymoney 5 mile Road Race on Friday evening with our own Glen Donnelly finishing 4th overall with a time of 27.39. The Sperrin Harrier Results are as follows: Glen Donnelly 27.39, Alvin Taylor 30.51, Alan Shaw 31.23, Irwin Speirs 33.42, Adele McNally 44.22 and Bernadette McNally 44.25.
Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic
This is it! The Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic Road Race takes place this Friday (6th August) at 7.30pm. The race starts as always at Loughry College with parking available at both the College and at Mid Ulster Sports Arena. All are welcome to take part and this year we are also organising a Fun Run for beginners and children which will be within the Loughry campus and Mid Ulster Sports Arena grounds. The Fun Run starts at 6.30pm and all entrants will receive an engraved medal. For more information and a downloadable entry form, log on to www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 25th July 2010
Karen
Karen Alexander took part in a Half Marathon over the tops of Dublin Mountains. It was her intention to use this event as a warm up of Dollar at the end of July. Karen finished 9th overall and was placed 1st female with over 200 entrants taking part. Her time was 1.34.07 and was 16 minutes in front of the next fastest female. After the pressure of the international events Karen said that it was a pleasure just to go out at a relaxed pace and enjoy the event. Well done Karen and good luck at Dollar.
Portaferry 10m
Ashley Crawford took 5 seconds of his new personal best time for a 10 miler at the Portaferry 10 mile road race last Tuesday evening. He said the course was hilly but obviously nothing that he couldn't handle. Ashley was placed 38th with a time of 66.50 with 282 taking part. Well done Ashley, keep shaving seconds of your PB's.
Brackaghreilly 5M
David O'Brien made the short journey to Maghera to run the Brackaghreilly 5 mile road race. He produced a time of 32.10. Well done Davey, that's another race under the belt!
Cookstown Half Marathon
The air was still and warm as the Sperrin Harrier athletes lined up at the start line of the Cookstown Half Marathon at Mid Ulster Sports Arena. This event is well organised and well marshalled but for some reason this year all our athletes' times where down. The down hill fast start leading into a series of hills may have a bigger effect on our legs than first thought. Mel Hughes found himself feeling comfortable in 10th place, 1 mile into the race, leading the Sperrin Harriers pack. Mel had been feeling unwell during the week at training and this illness made a comeback at the 2 mile marker. Mel managed to complete the race but his time was badly effected. The Sperrin Harrier results are as follows: David O'Brien 1.28.17, Mel Hughes 1.30.20, Irwin Speirs 1.34.23 and Adrian McCreesh 1.36.53. Well done lads!
Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic
There are only 2 weeks to go to the Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic Road Race which will take place on Friday 6th August at 7.30pm. The race starts as always at Loughry College with parking available at both at the College and at Mid Ulster Sports Arena. All are welcome to take part and this year we are also organising a Fun Run for beginners and children which will be within the Loughry campus and Mid Ulster Sports Arena grounds. The Fun Run starts at 6.30pm and all entrants will receive an engraved medal. For more information and a downloadable entry form, log on to www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Summer League
The next race in the Sperrin Harrier's Summer League is a 4mile race in Drum Manor Forest on 27th July starting at 7pm. Log onto the Sperrin Harrier website for more information.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 18th July 2010
Coleraine 10K
While most of us were lighting our BBQ's over the 12th week, five Sperrin Harriers took part in the Coleraine 10k. It was said that the course appeared to be flat although it had a slight incline over a large extent of it. This type of hill which is unclear where it starts and ends can be both mentally & physically draining. It won't be too long before Jonathan Dempsey who produced a time of 37.05 to be placed 18th will be in the much coveted sub 37 minutes slot. The Sperrin Harriers results are:- Jonathan Dempsey 37:05, Alan Shaw 39:20, Paul McLaughlin 39:54, David O'Brien 40:59 and Siobhan McNally 54:38.
Summer League
The next race in the Sperrin Harrier's Summer League is a 4 mile race in Drum Manor Forest on 27th July starting at 7pm. This race takes place on the roads around the forest park and is quite a hilly course. It would be greatly appreciated if all members would make an effort to attend the last few of the Summer League races. For full listing of the Summer League log onto the Sperrin Harrier website for more information.
Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic
There are only 3 weeks to go to the Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic Road Race which will take place on Friday 6th August at 7.30pm. The race starts as always at Loughry College with parking available at both at the College and at Mid Ulster Sports Arena. All are welcome to take part and this year we are also organising a Fun Run for beginners and children which will be within the Loughry campus and Mid Ulster Sports Arena grounds. For more information and a downloadable entry form, log on to www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 11th July 2010
Alexander's Triumphant Return from Bulgaria
Karen Alexander formed part of the Irish team which took part in the 9th European Mountain Running Championships in Sapareva Banya, Bulgaria. The race was around 5.5 miles in distance, with moderate terrain similar to a very hilly trail run, but when facing the top athletes in Europe the course would have been the least of Karen's concerns. Each country in Europe provided 4 of the best females, making 62 senior female competitors in all.
The race was very fast from the outset, with temperatures of 27ºC and 80% humidity. Due to these conditions Karen found herself having to walk up hills that she normally would have run up easily. Several athletes did not finish, literally collapsing on the course. Karen said that the race was broadcast live on TV and much like the average runner seeing a crowd she sped up when coming into view of the camera. Its ok Karen, we all do it!
The winner was a French Athlete with a time of 39.23. Karen completed in a time of 43.33 and was placed 35th but at the end she was unsure of her position and therefore did not give that final push, but there were literally only seconds between Karen and the 29th finisher. In such a large field of world class athletes Karen was surprised to finish in front of fellow Irish team member Sharon Bird who qualified ahead of her in Wicklow. Karen said that the female Irish team worked well together, encouraging each other along the way. Although she was disappointed with her ranking and hoped to finish in the top half of the field, she was the first Irish female to finish and was the highest ranked Irish female in European Championships since 2004. On behalf of the Sperrin Harriers we would like to thank Karen for representing not only Ireland but the club and congratulate her on her excellent result.
Karen has a full calendar of challenges lined up over the rest of the Summer. After her 5th position in the UK Inter-County Championships last May Karen is now looking forward to competing against the same athletes in the British Championship Race. The course is 9 miles in distance and takes place in early September in Scotland (Dollar). Before which the Irish trials for the Word Uphill Only Championship takes place on 7th August in Wicklow, then in September The World Uphill Only Championships take place in Slovenia. The Sperrin Harriers wish Karen all the best in qualifying for the Irish team once more.
Sperrin Harrier's 8m Rainey Old Boy's Race
31 athletes took part in the 4th race of the Sperrin Harriers Summer League which was an 8 mile Road Race starting from Rainey Old Boy's Rugby Club, Magherfelt. We were delighted to see a large number of the runners from the Ladies Training, some of whom have become members of the club, taking part on the night. Traditionally this race is 4 miles long, but this year we decided to give the option of an additional lap. In the past the course was said to be fast with two long slow hills and good straights. However the pleasant hills on the first lap turned into mountains second time round. The conditions were slightly warm, but not enough to blame for a poor time despite Eamonn Cushnahans' attempts. We would like to thank the race marshals for sacrificing their run for our safety. We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Rainey Old Boy's Rugby Club for the use of their facilities and the post race BBQ.
The results of the 4 miles (1 lap) race are: Karen O'Kane 28:28, Patricia McMaster 31:33, Joanne Larmour 31:45, Paula Eastwood 32:20, Rhoda Finlay 32:28, Siobhain McNally 33:18, Bernadette McNally 35:43, Wendy Walker 36:52, Anne-Marie McElhinney 39:42, Claire Deighan 43:46, Claire McNally 44:31, Martina McLarnon 46:13 &Fiona Doyle 46:13.
The results of the 8 miles (2 lap) race are: Glenn Donnelly 46:13, Johnny Dempsey 48:06, Niall Higgins 49:56, Alan Shaw 51:06, Davy O'Brien 51:24, Alvin Taylor 51:45, Francis Stewart 55:01, Irwin Speirs 55:31, Trevor Dallas 55:37, Artie O'Kane 56:56, Chris McSwiggan 57:07, Malcolm Burnside 57:49, Eamonn Cushnahan 59:00, Conor Martin 59:16, Gary Ward 59:16, Eamonn Sheehan 1:00:50, Paul Martin 1:01:54 & Oliver Murphy 1:03:19.
The next race in the Sperrin Harrier's Summer League is a 4 mile race in Drum Manor Forest on 27th July starting at 7pm. Log on to the Sperrin Harrier website for more information.
Greyabbey 10K
Sperrin Harrier's two most dedicated racers Davy O'Brien and Ashley Crawford took part in the Greyabbey 10K on Friday the 9th July. The 2 lap course was hilly but this didn't deter these two racing machines. Davy produced a time of 38.55 and was placed 2nd within the Over 45 category, while Ashely produced a time of 39.36. We done lads and keep up the racing!
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 06th July 2010
Summer League, Magherafelt Results
1 lap, 4 miles
Karen O'Kane, 28:28
Patricia McMaster, 31:33
Joanne Larmour, 31:45
Paula Eastwood, 32:20
Rhoda Finlay, 32:28
Siobhain McNally, 33:18
Bernadette McNally, 35:43
Wendy Walker, 36:52
Anne-Marie McElhinney, 39:42
Claire Deighan, 43:46
Claire McNally, 44:31
Martina McLarnon, 46:13
Fiona Doyle, 46:13
2 laps, 8 miles
Glenn Donnelly, 46:13
Johnny Dempsey, 48:06
Niall Higgins, 49:56
Alan Shaw, 51:06
Davy O'Brien, 51:24
Alvin Taylor, 51:45
Francis Stewart, 55:01
Irwin Speirs, 55:31
Trevor Dallas, 55:37
Artie O'Kane, 56:56
Chris McSwiggan, 57:07
Malcolm Burnside, 57:49
Eamonn Cushnahan, 59:00
Conor Martin, 59:16
Gary Ward, 59:16
Eamonn Sheehan, 1:00:50
Paul Martin, 1:01:54
Oliver Murphy, 1:03:19
Sperrin News 04th July 2010
Half Marathon Series Halfway Rankings
Sperrin Harriers Nevin McLarnon and Ashley Crawford are both in a very impressive 10th position within their categories at the halfway rankings in the Athletic NI ChampionChip Ireland Half Marathon Series. Off the seven Half Marathons in the Series the first 4 races in Omagh, Larne, Newry and Lisburn have already taken place. Nevin has completed the Newry and Lisburn half Marathons in the Male Over 40 category with a total time of 2.26.55. Ashley completed the Omagh and Larne Half Marathons in the Male Open category with a total time of 2.58.05. Past member and friend of the Club Delfim Pimentel is second in the Male Over 40 category. Good luck to all taking part in the up and coming Half Marathons!
Carndonagh-Atlanfish 5k
Eamon O’Neill was the only Sperrin Harrier among the 179 competitors taking part in the fifth race of the Furey Insurances 5K series. The race took place in Carndonagh-Atlanfish and Eamon came 77th with a time of 21.09.
Strabane 10k
Three of the Sperrin Harriers made the journey to Strabane to compete in the 10K Road Race on Saturday 3rd July. 251 competitors took part and finishing times ranged from the winning 31.21 run by Stephen Duncan to the last lady crossing the line with a time of 75.32. Paul McLaughlin came in 34th with a time of 39.50, Ashley Crawford was not far behind and was placed 38th with a time of 40.08 and Brian Bradley ranked 53rd with a time of 41.28. Congratulations lads, keep up the good running!
Ards Half Marathon
Six Sperrin athletes took part in the Ards Half Marathon on Friday the 2nd July. Some of our members consider this to be the most difficult of the half marathon series due to the hilly course, the hot conditions and strong breezes on the night added to its difficulty. However this did not deter our own Irwin Spiers from being placed 1st in the Over 60’s category. The Sperrin Harriers results are as follows Nevin McLernan 1.24.59, Davy O`Brien 1.27.55, Alvin Taylor 1.28.34, Philip Doyle 1.28.58, Irwin Spiers 1.31.47 and Francis Stewart 1.40.19. Well done lads only two more races left in the series.
Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic
There are only 5 weeks to go to the Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic Road Race which will take place on Friday 6th August at 7.30pm. The race starts as always at Loughry College with parking available at both at the College and at Mid Ulster Sports Arena. All are welcome to take part and this year we are also organising a Fun Run for beginners and children which will be within the Loughery campus and Mid Ulster Sports Arena grounds. For more information and a downloadable entry form, log on to www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 27th June 2010
Queen of the Hill & Dales
Karen Alexander is no doubt relieved that the Hill and Dales Series is over for another year. For those who are unfamiliar with how this series works, there are 11 races held every Thursday evening, from April to June. The best six results count towards the overall series winners. Karen took a bit of a risk, as she only ran six races in the series. This meant that she had to win all of the races to secure the female winner title. Karen had won her first five races and Alwyn Shannon had won the five races which Karen did not take part in. This would be the first time that these two athletes had met in the Hill and Dales and it was going to be a battle for the title. The final race was held in Tollymore and was a distance of 4 miles. Unexpectedly Sharon Bird turned up for what was her first ever Hill and Dales race. After her victory on Sunday, at the European Trials, she decided to get a training session in prior to Bulgaria. Little did she know that Karen had to come first lady to secure her title. Karen had resigned herself to the fact that Sharon would win as she finished 30 seconds in front of her on Sunday past at the European Trials.
Doubt and fear where creeping into Karen’s mind at the starting line. Alwyn had a strong start while the first two miles of Karen’s race were frustrating, as she was stuck on narrow trails unable to pass other competitors and going much slower than she wanted to. At the two mile marker the trails widened and Karen passed Alwyn but was starting to really panic as this was only a four mile race and wasn’t sure if she had enough time to catch Sharon. However, much to her surprise she passed Sharon within 1 mile of the finish. This gave her a boost and she wasn’t going to give it away now after all her effort! With Sharon on her heels Karen crossed that finish line in a time of 33.05 with Sharon 11 seconds behind her. Karen finished in 18th place overall with 201 competitors taking part. Karen and Sharon have become close over the last few weeks while taking part in the European Trial and are both looking forward to representing Ireland in two weeks time.
Lisburn Half Marathon Result
Martin McGirr produced a time of 1.35.18 at the Lisburn Half Marathon last week. Martin is taking part in a fair amount of races this year including the Belfast Marathon and a number of Half Marathons. Keep up the good work Martin and don’t for get to get the red vest on!
The next race in the Summer League
The next race in the Sperrin Harrier’s Summer League takes place on Tuesday 06th July at 7pm, starting at Hatrick Park, Rainey Old Boy’s, Magherfelt. This course has been very popular with our members over the years and this year it is to be 8 miles in length which will be two laps of the normal course. As always there will be a BBQ afterwards subject to approval by organisers. We hope to see a strong showing on the night and for more information please visit the website.
Taylor & Speirs In The Prizes At Jude Gallagher Memorial Round The Bridges 10 Mile Road Race
On Thursday 24 June 8 Sperrin Harriers athletes travelled to Limavady to take part in the Jude Gallagher Memorial Round the Bridges 10 Mile Road Race. This race is a firm favourite with the club due to the very flat, fast course and on Thursday evening conditions for racing were near perfect with the sun beginning to drop, helping to kill the intense heat earlier that day. The race produced some fantastic battles namely between Jonathan Dempsey, more accustomed to racing on a bicycle and taking part in his first 10 mile road race and Mel Hughes, who is beginning to find his form of old once again. Both men set off hard from the start and it was Jonathan who came out on top crossing the finish line in a time of 62.24 with Mel not far behind finishing in 63.42. Another great battle was also taking part a little further down the field with David O'Brien and Alvin Taylor. David set off hard from the beginning as he usually does with Alvin just behind. During the race they traded places a few times before David opened a lead that looked to be good enough to take him to the finish line ahead of his team mate. Alvin though had other ideas and kept David in his sights and with just 800 meters to go tapped into the very last of his energy reserves to power past David crossing the line in a time of 64.32. This supurb result saw Alvin win the Vet 50 category on the night. David finished close behind in a time of 64.56. The next Harrier to cross the finish line was Irwin Speirs. Irwin has been training hard over the past few months and has been rewarded by winning the Vet 60 category in a number of races and Thursday night was no different. Despite a reoccurring injury deciding to flare up at the 8 mile mark, Irwin managed to battle on and win the Vet 60 category in a time of 67.02. The next three Harriers to cross the finish line were Artie O'Kane 73.02, Francis Stewart 75.26 and Gary Ward 77.09. Well done to all those whp took part.
Dromore 10k
Two Sperrin Harriers athletes, Paul McLaughlin & Ashley Crawford took part in the Dromore 10k road race. Both athletes had great runs with Paul finishing in 14th place overall in a time of 39.53 with Ashley close on his heals finishing just 5 places behind in 19th place crossing the line in a time 40.25
Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic Road Race
The 5th Sperrin Harriers 5 Mile Classic Road Race will take place on Friday 06 August starting at 7.30pm with the venue once again being Loughty Campus. This race has a fantastic reputation with a fast course, excellent competitor goodie bag, post race buffet and all round friendly welcome for all runners and this year promises to be no different. This year the club will donate £1 from every entry to the Charis Intergrated Cancer Care Charity located at Lough Fea. Entry forms for the race can be downloaded from the club website www.sperrinharriers.co.uk
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 20th June 2010
Bush 100 5K Road Race
On Tuesday the 15th June the Sperrin Harriers third race of their summer league took place on the Bush 100 Motor Cycle course. It was one lap of the course which measured 5K. This is a new event in the Sperrin Harriers Summer League calendar, one which we hope will grow in popularity with our members. We would like to thank the organisers of the Bush 100 Motor Cycle Race for inviting us to race on their course and hope that we can make this an annual event.
The results are as follows:
Johnny Dempsey, 18:15
Mel Hughes, 19:09
Alan Shaw, 19:42
Paul McLaughlin, 19:46
Ashley Crawford, 19:47
Rodney Young, 20.22
David OBrien, 20:28
Brian Bradley, 20:30
Trevor Dallas, 21:20
Gary Ward, 21:58
Tony ONeill, 22:38
Robert Ballantine, 28:04
Ruth Ruddell, 34:48
Well done to all who took part and thanks to Brendan Corr for recording the times.
Lisburn Half Marathon
Five of our athletes took part in the Lisburn Half Marathon on Wednesday 16th June. This race is one of the largest half marathons in the North, with 1200 competitors taking part. Its course produce good times despite the climbs and monotonous dual carriageway stretches. The Sperrin Harriers results are as follows: Nevin Mclarnon 1.21.38, Philip Doyle 1.26.26, David O`Brien 1.27.33, Alvin Taylor 1.30.21 and Monica Mullin 1.56.35. Malcolm Burnside completed the 10k event in 44.51 which placed him 176 with over 1600 taking part. Congratulation to all the Sperrin Harriers to took part in the races at Lisburn last Wednesday evening.
Karen Alexander for European Championship
Karen Alexander finished as second female in the European Trials which where held in Wicklow last week. Karen said that the 4 mile trail was very runnable, with easy terrain, great conditions and knowing the course from last years World trials help a lot. Her time was 32.12 and was 23 seconds behind Sharon Bird who was the first female. Karen has automatic qualified for the Irish team for the European championships which is to be held on the 4th July in Bulgaria. Good luck Karen we know you will do us proud.
Sperrin Harriers, Stand up and be counted
Can we ask all members, when racing, to wear their Sperrin Harriers vest and note the club name on the appropriate part of the race registration form. This will aid us in locating our members in the race results and in the field. Thank you for your co-operation.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Summer League - Bush 5k change of date
Please note that the Bush 5k will now take place on Tues 15th June at 7:30pm, followed by a BBQ
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Sperrin News 13th June 2010
Mourne Mountain Ultra Marathon
Even just saying the words Mountain Ultra Marathon hurts. It may not be for everyone, but Bob Davidson and Joe Curry are obviously cut from a different cloth. The 52 mile course was from Killbroney Park to Newcastle and back. For those who are unfamiliar with the area it holds some of the hardest climbs and terrain within the Mourne Mountains. The course took the competitors through wooded trails, shingle climbs and descents, with some sections that were unrunable. In places boulders obstructed the path and there were sections that runners were climbing on all fours. To complete an Ultra-run event is a great achievement, never mind over this kind of terrain.
Their results are as follows: Bob Davidson 10 Hours and Joe Curry 12 Hours 52 Minutes. Well done lads you have done the Sperrin Harriers proud!
Annaghmore 10k
Davey O’Brien is certainly on his way back to full fitness, when he was placed first in his Over 45 category at the Annaghmore 10K. Davey said it was very hilly but he still managed to produce a time of 40.27. We expect it won’t be long now until Davey is back to his normal 37min 10K’s. Keep up the training Davey!
Congratulations to Patricia McMaster who completed the Genullin 10K, her time is unavailable at present.
Enniskillen 10k
Ashley Crawford has added the Enniskillen 10k to the long list of races which he has taken part in this year. Ashley’s time was 38.55 and was placed 28th overall. All Ashley’s racing seems to be benefiting his running greatly, with him shaving off time with each race which he completes.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 06th June 2010
Bush 100.
The next race of the Sperrin Harriers Summer League is a 5K road race on the Bush 100 course on 15 June 2010. The race is to start at 7.30pm at Ballynakelly Working Mens Club. There will be a barbeque afterwards and, if the fine weather holds, it should be a pleasant and unique training race for competitors and spectators alike. All Sperrin Harriers members are encouraged to attend and support this race in its first year. We would like to thank the organisers of the Bush 100 for inviting us to take part in this event and we hope that this is the start of a lasting association between our clubs.
Newry Half & Full Marathon
Seven of our members took part in the Newry Half Marathon on Bank Holiday Monday & one completed the full Marathon. The competitors told us that there were strong head winds for the last 13 miles of the full Marathon which would not have been pleasant. The Sperrin Harrier results are as follows:
Nevin McLarnon 1.26.08,
Philip Doyle 1.29.04,
Ashley Crawford 1.30.30,
David O'Brien 1.32.57,
Martin McGirr 1.38.14,
Paula Eastwood 1.56.30 and
Joanne Bell 1.56.30.
Raymond Thom completed the full Marathon in 03.50.47.
Craigavon Lakes 10K
Two of the Sperrin Harriers took part in the Craigavon Lakes 10K. This race is renowned for producing PB’s. The course consists of two laps of one of the lakes which has no hills to speak of but does undulate over its length. The Sperrin Harrier results are as follows: Alan Shaw 39.06 Trevor Dallas 42.19.
The mighty Speirs does it again
Again two of the Sperrin Harriers athletes competed in the Carrickfergus 10k on Sunday. Irwin Speirs was placed Second in the over 60’s category and described the race as two laps with a tough hill. Their results are as follows: Irwin Speirs 39.57 and Ashley Crawford, 40.20. Congratulations to them both with a special word of congratulations to Ashley who is doing a serious amount of racing this year over every distance from full Marathons to 5K’s. Keep up the racing!
Five down one to go for Alexander
Karen described the 3.5 mile race over Hen and Rocky Mountains in the Mournes as ideal conditions with two tough ascents and a tricky descent. Although Karen doesn’t feel suited to short distance racing, she is still winning each week in her category. What worked to her advantage was the fast, gentle start along a path which allowed her to get ahead before the first climb. Despite her success Karen is finding these races a bit short and sharp, still preferring the endurance type races. Karen finished in 37.49 which made her 17th overall and the 1st female with 161 competitors completing. Keep up the good work Karen, can’t wait to see what you are capable of over a distance which you feel is more suited to you, you are doing such great times on distance you don’t feel comfortable with.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 30th May 2010
While Francis Stewart was in Edinburgh for the Marathon last weekend he bumped into the running legend Liz Yelling, who was the official starter for the race, and couldn’t help asking for a photo.
Maghera 10K
As always the Sperrin Harrier athletes showed great support at the Maghera 10k with 15 individuals and 2 teams entering. It was a fine evening, thankfully the weather was not as extreme as it has been recently. There was a cool breeze which, although was refreshing, acted against the runners at a time. The course is renowned by runners for giving good times, many perform their personal bests during this race. Although the route has a fair few rises and falls, with a monster of a hill at the 8K point. Runners on the night felt the second half of the figure eight course, ending at the front of the Leisure Centre, was faster than the first half.
The Sperrin Harrier Results are as follows: Damien Galvin 35.52, Mel Hughes 38.35, Alan Shaw 38.37, Matin McGerr 38.47, Eamonn Cushnahan 39.05, Gabriel Muldoon 39.08, Paul McLaughlin 39.42, Rodney Young 40.06, Raymond Ferguson 41.00, Davy O’Brien 41.05, Michael Monaghan 42.35, Trevor Dallas 43.17, Raymond Thom 43.17, Malcolm Burnside 44.09 and Brendan Corr 45.16. Congratulation to John O’Neill, son of club member Eamonn, who finished in 43.15.
The Sperrin Harriers Team which was made up on the night by Damien, Mel, Alan, Martin and Eamonn where placed second to the Omagh Harriers team.
The Club hope to enter future races in teams, Sperrin Harriers members should register interest via email or directly to a committee member. It is assumed that the teams will be assembled according to the athletes last race time. Club Members are encouraged to regularly check their email accounts for updates on races and club issues.
3rd Local Finisher prize was picked up by Rodney Young on the night. Rodney has qualified to represent Ireland in the World Duathalon Championships in Edinburgh in early September in the 40-44 age group. This event will see him run 10K, then cycle 40K and finally run an additional 5K over the one of the toughest courses in the UK. Congratulations to Rodney for qualifying and good luck in the event!
Bush 100.
We have received confirmation that road race on the Bush 100 course will now take place on Tuesday 15/06/10 at 7.30pm and will be 5K in distance. The race will take place at the same time as a Vintage Tractor Rally and the starting point will be disclosed in next weeks press release. There will be a barbeque afterwards and, if the fine weather holds, it should be a pleasant and unique training race for competitors and spectators alike. All Sperrin Harriers members are encouraged to attend and support this race in it first year. We would like to thank the organisers of the Bush 100 for inviting us to take part in this event and we hope that this is the start of a lasting association between our clubs.
Karen Hill & Dales winning streak continues.
She did it again! Karen finished first female and 30th over all with 184 competing in the Hill and Dales race over Meelmore Meelbeg with a time of 34.40. Karen prefers a longer distance race, but describes the course as a runable 3 miles, and nevertheless still finished first. Karen has now won 4 of the Hill and Dales races and needs to complete 6 to finish the series. Congratulations to Karen for doing so well to date and we wish her all the best in the rest of the series.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Maghera 10k Preliminary Results
Damien Galvin, 7th, 35:52
Mel Hughes, 18th, 38:35
Alan Shaw, 19th, 38:37
Martin McGirr, 20th, 38:47
Eamonn Cushnahan, 23rd, 39:05
Gabriel Muldoon, 25th, 39:08
Paul McLaughlin, 29th, 39:42
Rodney Young, 32nd, 40:06
Raymond Ferguson, 43rd 41:00
Davy O'Brien, 41:05
Michael Monaghan, 57th, 42:35
Raymond Thom, 65th, 43:17
Trevor Dallas, 66th, 43:17
Malcolm Burnside, 73rd, 44:09
Karen O'Kane, 83rd, 44:46
Brendan Corr, 89th, 45:12
Teresa Hastings, 140th, 48:40
Bernadette McNally, 199th, 55:39
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Please let me know if I have left anyone out.
Results are on ANI website
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John O'Neill, son of club member Eamonn finished in 43:15
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Rodney Young picked up a 3rd Local Finisher prize
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Sperrin Harriers A Team picked up 2nd team prize, behind Omagh Harriers. (Damien, Mel, Alan, Martin, & Eamonn)
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Maghera 10k Team Entries
NB: Please advise Club Secretary if you intend to run in Maghera 10k on Tues 25th May 2010.
Email:harraghy@utvinternet.com
Phone / Text: 077 7575 7260
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Sperrin News 23rd May 2010
Karen goes swimming with the big fish
Karen Alexander crossed the Irish Sea to see how she fared against the big fish in the British Intercounties Championships. This fell race attracts the best female fell runners from all across the UK and as expected Karen did us proud. The Lletty Fell Race (Wales) is also part of the UKA mountain running challenge and has a total climb of 2900 feet over 9 miles. The hot weather was not isolated to the North of Ireland over the past weekend, the Welsh Hills also got a scorching.
Karen said that the course was very runnable but it was very hot. Karen was only 2 minutes behind the winning female, coming in an impressive 5th even after experiencing a heavy fall. The first 6 females all beat the course record of 1.31.00 with Karen running 1.28.18.
Ballymena Ecos 5m
The blistering heat over the weekend didn’t put off the Sperrin Harrier Athletes and the other 250 participants from taking part in the Ecos 5m Road Race. With the road tar bubbling under their feet two of the clubs long standing and most decorated runners where placed in their age group categories.
Raymond Ferguson who is not long back since completing the London Marathon was placed 3rd in this over 50’s category and Irwin Speirs was placed 1st in the over 60’s category.
The Sperrin Harrier Results are as follows:
Allen Shaw 31.34,
Raymond Ferguson 32.15,
Ashley Crawford 32.44,
Irwin Speirs 32.50,
Davy O’Brien 33.27,
Tony O’Neill 36.15.
Congratulations to you all and hope you had sunscreen on!
Edinburgh Marathon
Our own Francis Stewart completed the Edinburgh Marathon in the hottest four hours of last Sunday. The race started at 10am which meant that Francis was running during the four hottest hours of the day and the water stations every three miles didn’t help much as the water was warm. Francis said that when he saw so many runners collapsing around him he dropped his pace and stop racing and concentrated on completing. Well done Francis for undertaking the Marathon on such a warm day, it will be an experience you will never forget.
Bush 100.
The next race in the Sperrin Harriers Summer League calendar (for which we are still awaiting confirmation from the organisers) is a 10K road race on the Bush 100 course on Thursday 10/06/10 at 7pm. This is the first time the Sperrin Harriers have been invited by the organisers of the Bush 100 to run this course and we would hope to see a large turn out. Please log onto the Sperrin Harriers website for full details on the Summer League and to download the flyer.
Summer League 2010
Sperrin Harriers Summer League Leaflet
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Inform your Club
It would be most appreciated if all club members would contact the Press Release Officer and inform him when you are racing and your results. Text, call or email Eamonn Cushnahan on 07809570206, eamonncush@gmail.com. Full contact details are available on the website sperrinharriers.co.uk. Thanks to all who are already doing so.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual
at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm,
at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and
Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm.
Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along.
For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 16th May 2010
Summer League 5k Track Race
It was a crisp summer evening; the track was a hive of activity. Glen Donnelly was taking the Ladies through their paces at the Ladies training session, as a small group of runners warmed up for the event. Some of the Ladies training regulars joined in race and were most welcome. The 18 competitors made their way to the starting line to begin the 12.5 laps of the 400m tartan track.
Eamonn Cushnahan took off at what he later described as a silly pace which he was unsure he would able to sustain, followed by Davy O’Brien and Malcolm Burnside. Davy was running strongly and demonstrated that he is well on this way to full fitness after his recent injury. Eamonn managed to hold his original pace and built a strong lead on the last few laps to finish first. Nigel Davidson, Malcolm Burnside and new member Eamonn Sheehan battled it out over the last few laps with Eamonn narrowly winning with a 9 second lead.
Some of the female runners have made great progress over the last few weeks with one of them taking massive 8 minutes of her last 5K time.
The results are as follows: Eamonn Cushnahan 18:40, Davy O’Brien 19:30, Eamonn Sheehan 20:25, Nigel Davidson 20:34, Malcolm Burnside 20:49, Karen O’Kane 21:25, Brendan Corr 21:33, Brenda McDonnell 22:41, Patricia McMaster 24:15, Linda Tomb 24:32, Rhoda Finlay 25:00, Oliver Murphy 25:51, Bernadette McNally 26:19, Adele McNally 27:06, Wendy Walker 27:31, Tara Bradley 30:25, Clare Toner 30:31, Ruth Ruddell 32:57.
Congratulations and thanks to all participants and organisers.
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Apologies to Anthonly O’Neill, whose time was wrongly reported last week. Tony’s official chip time was 3.33.22 which was a Personal Best. We would like to extend our congratulations to Tony and expect another PB within the year!
Lavey 10K
On Sunday 9th May six of our Sperrin Harrier Athletes took part in the Lavey 10K race. We are pleased to report that half of our representation were Lady members who are regular attendes at the Wednesday night Ladies training sessions.The Sperrin Harrier results are as follows:
Davey O’Brien 40.30,
Paul McLaughlin 41.40,
Brendan Corr 46.20,
Patrica McMaster 51.10,
Linda Tomb 51.40,
Monica Mullin 52.10.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Summer League 2010
Sperrin Harriers Summer League Leaflet
Ladies Training
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Sperrin News 12th May 2010
Summer League, 5k, Meadowbank Track, Wednesday, 12th May 2010
Results
Eamonn Cushnahan, 18:40
Davy O’Brien, 19:30
Eamonn Sheehan, 20:25
Nigel Davidson, 20:34
Malcolm Burnside, 20:49
Karen O’Kane, 21:25
Brendan Corr, 21:33
Brenda McDonnell, 22:41
Patricia McMaster, 24:15
Linda Tomb, 24:32
Rhoda Finlay, 25:00
Oliver Murphy, 25:51
Bernadette McNally, 26:19
Adele McNally, 27:06
Wendy Walker, 27:31
Tara Bradley, 30:25
Clare Toner, 30:31
Ruth Ruddell, 32:57
Treadmill Gait Analysis at Sportique, Broad St., Magherafelt
Friday 14th May from 2pm to 8pm
Specialist from Asics will be there
Sperrin News 09th May 2010
Belfast City Marathon
All the early morning runs, evening runs, lunch time runs, weekend long runs, fair weather runs, the not so fair weather runs, tempo runs, club runs and solitary runs are now over. The miles have been counted each and every week and it all paid off for the Sperrin Harrier Athletes who ran in the Belfast City Marathon. The results of our members are as follows: Ashley Crawford 3.24.25, Gary Ward 3.30.09, Connor Martin 3.36.03, Raymond Thom 3.45.31, Paula Eastwood 3.49.57, Paul Martin 3.49.57, Christopher McSwiggan 3.52.21, Anthony O’Neill 4.05.38, Michael Monaghan 4.10.20. The results of past members and friends of the club are: Delfim Pimentel 2.34.47, Donal Gallagher 2.48.04 and Francisco Silva 3.53.09.
Karen Alexander took a group of kids from Magherafelt High to the Fun Run of the Belfast City Marathon. Whilst it was not a competitive event there were over 1500 fun runners of all ages taking part and one future Sperrin Harriers member shone through. Matthew Wenlock who is a nephew of Sperrin Harriers Member Rodney Young, completed the 2.7miles well within 20 minutes to be placed 4th overall. Matthew as always was kitted out in Sperrin Harrier colours and did well to impress one of Sperrin Harriers star runners Karen Alexander who said “I am so proud of him. He is a star junior of Sperrin Harriers now and in the future will do very well”. 2nd and 3rd places also went to representatives of Magherafelt High, who were all running in aid of Habitat for Humanity. Well done to Michaela Johnston for also completing the race, she has been going regularly to the Ladies Training Sessions on Wednesday nights.
3 out of 3 ain’t bad
Karen’s winning streak continues at the Hill and Dales Series. On Thursday night past Karen was the 1st female and 30th overall with a time of 36.42 at the Moughanmore Deer’s Meadow. This is Karen’s 3rd Hill and Dales race and the 3rd of which that she has finished as first female.
Lavey 10K
A number of our members took part in the Lavey 10k along with some of the Female runners who take part in out Ladies training on Wednesday nights. Full details in next weeks press release.
From the ‘Town’ to the ‘Port’
Bob Davidson completed a 43 mile run from Cookstown to Portrush in 6 hrs 8 min for R.T. Autoparts charities, of which there are four. Bob was 1 of 500 who took part in this event. What makes Bob's accomplishment more special than the others, was the fact that the other 499 participants where on bicycles. Yes Bob was the only runner in the event which only adds to his achievement. When Bob finished he said that he didn’t realise how hilly it was from the Town to the Port. The distance would have been my biggest concern. Congratulations Bob you did Sperrin Harriers and R.T. Autopart proud and all in the aid of charity.
Due to a clerical error Michael McGlade was referred to as a ‘past member’ in past press releases regarding the London Marathon. Michael is a full member of the Sperrin Harriers and we extend our sincerest apologies for this oversight.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 02nd May 2010
Sperrin Harriers Summer League 5K Track Race, Meadowbank Arena, Magherafelt
The Summer League Continues
The Sperrin Harriers Summer League continues with a 5K track race on Wednesday 12 May at 7.30pm. This race takes place on Meadowbank Sports Arena’s tartan track. Let’s hope that these first class facilities produce some first class times. We hope that track will be a mass of red vests and that our members take advantage of this unique training race.
Dinner Dance
Send your glad rags to the drycleaners as Sperrin Harriers Annual Dinner Dance is back. Yes this Winter the Sperrin Harriers will congregate in the Greenvale Hotel Cookstown, eat, drink and embarrass themselves on the dance floor. I expect Francis Purvis is taking his white John Travolta Suit out of moth balls in preparation for the night. There will be a prize giving on the night and full details will be available at www.sperrinharriers.co.uk in due course.
Ladies Training
The Ladies Training at Meadowbank Sports Arena, organised by the Sperrin Harriers, is going from strength to strength. A member of the Club is always present to administer the progressionary training programme. The participants are split into three groups: Beginners (walkers/joggers), Intermediate (joggers/runners) and Advanced (runners/sprinters). These unique female training sessions can accommodate for all abilities, so if you’re interested, please come along to the running track this Wednesday night at 7.30pm, with a completed questionnaire which is available on www.sperrinharriers.co.uk. There are no expectations, no stress, no pressure just guidance and first class facilities.
Training
Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along. For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 25th Apr 2010
Sperrin Harriers Run London Marathon
The Sperrin Harrier Summer League.
The Sperrin Harriers Summer League began last Wednesday evening with 20 athletes running two laps of the Cookstown 100 course. As the runners were warming up, the place was alive with people putting the final touches to the course, in preparation for the Motorcycle race on the following Saturday. Each of the runners had their own agenda. For some it was playful rivalry or competitiveness, others had inner battles to contend with, trying to achieve a personal best or beat last years time. This was the first time some of the harriers had run this course and around each corner and over each hill brought a surprise.
This year the Cookstown and District Motor Cycle Club (Road Racing Section) had organised some extra measures to increase the runner’s safety. The 4.2 mile course was stewarded and one of the clubs motorcycles led the race. Damien Galvan was at the front from the outset and was hot on the heels of the motorbike. At one point it was as though he was trying to nick a lift off the back of the bike. Damien did his best but was narrowly beaten by the motorcyclist. Sadly for the biker his time was not counted as he is not a member of the Sperrin Harriers. The results are: Damien Galvin 24.09, Jonathan Dempsey 25.07, Mel Hughes 26.02, Connor McCullough 26.12, Karen Alexander 26.14, Steven Kennedy 26.44, Eamonn Cushnahan 26.45, Paul McLaughlin 27.48, Rodney Young 27.58, Connor Martin 28.32, Oliver McCullagh 28.32, Davy O’Brien 28.57, Eamonn Sheehan 29.30, Gary Ward 29.42, Tommy Harraghy 29.45, Tony O’Neill 30.04, Brendan Corr 32.10, Paul Martin 32.14, Paula Eastwood 34.25 and Joanne Bell 37.00.
Sperrin Harriers would like to thank Cookstown and District Motor Cycle Club (Road Racing Section), for their hospitality and wish them all the best in the Cookstown 100 Motorcycle Race.
Cooley Legends Half Marathon
The Sperrin Harriers own Legend and the coolest female runner in town, Karen Alexander, took part in the first ever Cooley Legends Half Marathon on Saturday past. This race was 13.1 miles over Slieve Foy in Carlingford, County Louth. Karen said that it was not too steep, but more than her would have liked to have been on the road. With 154 entrants in the field, Karen came 5th overall and was the 1st female to finish in a time of 1.33.29, the next female was 11 minutes behind her. Karen would recommend this race to anyone who wants to have a go at some off road running. This statement sounds like a nice Sunday stroll in the Mourne Mountains. This is not the case, only the most extreme and craziest runners should take up this recommendation, as this race was a Mountain Half Marathon and the words Mountain and Marathon should never be seen beside each other.
Race Over the Glens
Alan Shaw took part in the Race Over the Glens on Saturday 17th April. Alan did the impressive time of 41.09 and was placed 19th overall with 66 competitors in the field.
London Marathon
More than 36,000 people finished the London Marathon on Sunday. Adding to this impressive statistic was Sperrin Harriers own Raymond Ferguson, Alvin Taylor and past club member Michael McGlade. Being no strangers to this event, it was not surprising that all three completed and clocked up these impressive times: Raymond Ferguson 3.36.39, Alvin Taylor 3.11.23 and Michael McGlade 2.56.19. Congratulations and thanks are extended to these three gentlemen for enduring the 26.2 miles of the London streets, wearing Sperrin Harriers colours. No doubt training for Dublin is underway, that is if they aren’t crazy enough to be running Belfast next week!
Belfast City Marathon
Good luck to all the Sperrin Harriers taking part in the Belfast City Marathon next Monday, we look forward to hearing more successful results for the club
.Training
Between marathons and the Summer League, Sperrin Harriers training continues as usual
at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm,
at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and
Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm.
Anyone interested in joining our training sessions please contact a committee member and come along.
For full club details log onto www.sperrinharriers.co.uk
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Sperrin News 18th Apr 2010
The Sperrin Harrier Summer League begins this week.
The Sperrin Harriers own Summer League begins this Wednesday evening (21-04-10) at 7pm at Braeside Bar, Orritor Road, Cookstown. The first race is hosted by Cookstown and District Motor Cycle Club (Road Racing Section), who generously provide a post race BBQ. The race is 4 miles in length, which is 2 laps of the Cookstown 100 course. The League is for Sperrin Harriers members and comprises of 6 races, varying in distance, location and terrain. The second race is a 5k track race at Meadowbank Sports Arena on Wednesday 12/05/10 at 7.30pm. All members are encouraged to attend and full details are available on the Sperrin Harriers website.
Two out of two, for Alexander.
Yes, Karen did it again, finishing the second race of the Hill and Dales Series in 41.39min. After setting a new female course record in the first race of this series, she was again placed as 1st female and 26th overall, with 213 competing. The race took place through the trails of Tollymore Forest Park and was 5.6 miles of climbs, descents, twists and turns. Karen said that it was perfect trail running, in perfect conditions. Let’s hope that the third race is as idyllic for Karen and her winning streak continues.
Norn Ironman.
25K, 5 laps, 30 hills, 45º gradients, Toddsleap said it was muddy marvellous, it was muddy mental! Three of Sperrin Harriers athletes made the journey to Toddsleap Activity Centre Ballygawley, on Sunday Morning, to support, friend of the Club, Steven Kennedy. Steven was heavily involved in organising this endurance race known as Norn Ironman. The 25K course was made up of 5 laps of the most punishing terrain thinkable. The event was to be an eliminator, with a percentage of the runners culled at the end of each lap. The unforgiving terrain removed the need for this, as the competitors needed little encouragement to stop, with only 20 of the 100 plus participants completing the course.
The race began as it meant to go on, with an uphill struggle followed by a series of massive climbs and descents. Our own Glen Donnelly, who is no stranger to the hills, completed the course and was impressively placed 6th. Mel Hughes and Eamonn Cushnahan also took part in this event, so if they are not at training this Tuesday, you know why. Its not easy being a Norn Ironman and it hurt like hell!
Training
Training continues at Loughry College, Cookstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm, at Rainey RFC, Magherafelt on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 6.30pm and Ladies training at Meadowbank Track on Wednesday night at 7.30pm. The Ladies Training is proving to be very successful and new runners/joggers are always welcome. Anyone interested in joining in on any of our training session please contact any committee member and come along.
For full Club details log on to www.sperrinharriers.co.uk
Sperrin News 11th Apr 2010
Easter Victory for Galvin, Alexander in the Hills & Speirs shows us how its done at the TQ10K
On Easter Monday morning, the 10K Mid Ulster Mini Marathon was won by our own Damian Galvin, with a time of 35.23 minutes, closely followed by a friend of the Club and past member, Delfin Pimental.
Damian took the lead at the start, closely followed by Delfin. Both athletes were hungry for first place and where not going to willingly accept second. Over the first 5 miles of the course they battled it out, both taking the lead for a time. Delfin gained a substantial lead at the 5 mile marker, but Damien managed to close the gap on a descent and kept this pace to finish 7 seconds in front of Delfin.
One of our newest members, Ashley Crawford, also took part in this race and must be commended for coming ninth overall with a time of 40.56 minutes.
Sperrin Harriers own golden girl, Karen Alexander, competed in the first race of the Hill and Dales series, which took place in Castlewellen Forest Park. Karen was the first female to cross the finish line in 37.42mins and finished 15th overall, with 180 competitors taking part. Sperrin Harriers would like to wish Karen all the best in the Hill and Dales series.
The sun was high in the sky, as the Sperrin Harriers athletes tried to stay cool, while warming up for the TQ10K. None looked cooler than our own Irwin Speirs, who was tricked out in his usual racing kit and sporting a stylish pair of sunglasses. The race began and Irwin was at the front of the Sperrin pack from the outset. Ashley Crawford, Eamonn Cushnahan and Connor Martin pushed their hardest just to keep Speirs in their sights for the first 8K. Eamonn made a break for it with less than 2k to go and passed both Ashley and Irwin. Irwin taught the Sperrin youth a lesson on that sunny Sunday afternoon, although I suspect it was not his intention. Youth is not enough when you are up against talent and experience.
The result of the Sperrin Harriers athletes that competed in the TQ10K are as follows:
Eamonn Cushnahan 39.25, Irwin Speirs 40.01, Ashley Crawford 40.23, Paul McLaughlin 40.46, Connor Martin 41.33, Paul Martin 45.03 and Paula Eastwood 48.08.
Training continues
Cookstown: Tue & Thur @ Loughry College @ 6.30pm
Magherafelt : Tue & Thur @ Rainey Rugby Football Club @ 6.30pm
Magherafelt (Ladies): Wed @ Meadowbank Track @ 7.30pm
New runners/joggers are always welcome to join in training sessions without the need to become a member. Why not contact any committee member and come along. For full Club details log on to www.sperrinharriers.co.uk.
Sperrin News 09th Apr 2010
Congratulations to Karen Alexander who won last night's Hill and Dale Race
Karen was entered under Newcastle AC.
Karen, under advice, had applied for membership of Newcastle AC on the understanding that an athlete could have dual membership whereby an athlete could join a club specialising in mountain running and at the same time could remain a member of existing club for road and cross country. A.N.I. have initially stated that this is not possible. However on further investigation there is a rule in the UK Athletics Rule Book, which allows an athlete to be a First Claim Member of one club and a Second Claim Member of another club, which appears to allow for this situation. We await clarification on this.
In the meantime Karen will continue to run all races as a Sperrin Harrier.
"I am still, and always will, be a true Sperrin!", says Karen.
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