Murlough AC descended on Kilclief Ben Dearg GAC on Saturday for what turned out to be a fantastic 5K and 10K event.
Thirty-one members of Murlough AC made the trip to Kilclief to support the second running of the local races.
Glorious sunshine, beautiful scenery along a brilliant course and fantastic camaraderie helped make up for the blistering heat. The high temperatures certainly did not prevent some outstanding performances across the board.
First lady home in the 10K was Murlough AC’s own Niamh O’Connell in an outstanding time of 44:02, finishing 18th overall.
Rebecca Wyglendacz also enjoyed a tremendous run, finishing as the club’s second lady home in 48:49.
First Murlough AC man home was John Barr in an excellent 50:28, with Nathan McComiskey second home, earning himself a 10K personal best of 51:28.
The club also celebrated a number of category placings in the 10K. Joanne McCollam finished third in her category, Annie McCartan was fifth, Anne McCormick, Margaret Rowntree and Marcella Brogan finished first, fourth and fifth respectively in their categories, Fiona Barr claimed first place in her category and Marty Rawlinson finished third.
A special mention also goes to Peter King, who bettered last year’s course time by an astonishing 15 minutes and 23 seconds.
The 5K also produced excellent results. Natalie McAuley was the club’s first lady home, fifth overall and third in her category in 25:17.
Shaun Doherty was the first Murlough AC man across the finish line in 27:43.
Brenda Doran and Catherine Doran secured fourth and fifth in their respective categories, Denise McAlarney finished sixth in her category and Julia Cairns claimed third in hers.
A special thanks goes to everyone involved at Kilclief Ben Dearg GAC. The organisers, marshals and volunteers ensured the event ran smoothly, while the hospitality and camaraderie shown throughout the morning were first class. The post-race barbecue and refreshments provided the perfect finish to a fantastic day.
Congratulations to everyone involved in delivering another successful event, and well done to all of Murlough AC’s 5K and 10K runners for representing the club with pride.
The countdown is on for the GR8 Dundrum Run 2026.
Entries open on Friday, 17 July, at 10am for the event, which takes place on Saturday, 17 October, with a 12 noon start.
Participants can choose between the 8.4-mile or 3.5-mile route, making it suitable for those chasing a personal best, running with friends or simply taking on a new challenge.
Runners are encouraged to set a reminder, be ready when entries open and spread the word among club mates, training partners and fellow runners.
