CIARA Laverty and Brenda Doran travelled to the Cooley Peninsula on Saturday to take part in the Cooley Coast Run hosted by Kickhams GFC. With the sun shining and a fantastic atmosphere throughout the day, both runners enjoyed the event despite facing a strong headwind along the coast. Brenda completed the 10k, while Ciara took part in the 5k event. Both agreed it was a brilliant event and said they would take part again, especially with such a unique and impressive medal waiting at the finish line.
Fiona takes on Run the Runways 10k
Flying the flag on Friday evening for Murlough AC was Fiona Barr, who took part in the Run the Runways 10k race. This is Scrabo Striders’ annual event, featuring a children’s mile, 5k, and 10k races, taking place at the Ulster Flying Club in Newtownards. With large numbers of participants in all three races and a cheerful atmosphere, participants took on laps of the airport runways, facing headwinds and a cooling breeze. Fiona was delighted with her time and concluded the evening with chocolate cake, a catch-up with friends, and a magnificent sunset over Scrabo Tower. Thanks to Scrabo Striders for their warm welcome, hospitality, and a successful event.
Marathon achievements galore
Joanne McCollam, Lynette Killen, Rebecca Wyglendacz, Declan McCormick, Paul Gallagher, Noel Cunningham, Lisa Cunningham, Rose Mackin, Conor McPolin, Katrina Williams, and Paula Earley all completed the recent Belfast Marathon. There were marathon debuts for Lynette Killen and Rebecca Wyglendacz, and personal bests for Paul Gallagher, Lisa Cunningham, and Noel Cunningham.
It was an impressive double for Conor McPolin, who completed both the Manchester and Belfast marathons, while it was Declan McCormick’s second marathon in less than two weeks, after completing the Boston Marathon on 20 April. Declan led the club’s charge in Boston, completing his 36th marathon in an impressive 3:18. He was joined by Ciaran Poland, who has been running since 2022, and crossed the line in 3:59 to secure his coveted World Marathon Majors Six Star finisher status.
Ciaran’s wife, Charisse Poland, showed remarkable determination to finish in 4:52, also earning her Six Star medal while fundraising for Belfast Samaritans, an organisation she volunteers for. There was also an impressive performance from Claire O’Rourke, who completed the London Marathon.
