THE running community came together in Newcastle at the weekend to celebrate their sport at The People’s Running Awards Northern Ireland.
The awards evening was organised by Clare McAvoy and her sister, Laura Brennan.
Speaking at the event Clare said: “We wanted to do something for the running community that we think deserves to be recognised.
“We have used our own time voluntarily and our resources to make this evening possible.
“Thanks to you all for travelling far and wide to be here this evening and for making this all possible!
“We’ve created this event for you. You have nominated your fellow runners and we have read many inspiring stories!
“We’ve received hundreds of messages showcasing your appreciation for your club mates and thank you for making tonight’s awards possible!
“Tonight we want to highlight your achievements, you the runners, from the legends of the running clubs to the most improved, from the most inspiring runners to those who make the training all worthwhile by coaching us and inspiring us.”
The winners of the awards were:
Voluntary Contribution to Running – Marina and Eamon McGurran, Team Runwell.
Most Improved Runner of the Year – Sherene Masterson, Wednesday Night Runners.
Youth Runner of the Year – Amy Brolly.
Best Male Marathon Runner of the Year – Karl O’Neill, Acorns AC.
Best Female Marathon Runner of the Year – Nuala McNally, Carryduff Running Club.
Most Inspirational Male Runner of the Year – Mark Jameson, Portadown Running Club.
Most Inspirational Female Runner of the Year – Patricia Brown – Newry City Runners.
Inspirational Male Coach of the Year – Niall Bell, Keep Er Lit.
Inspirational Female Coach of the Year – Siobhan Grant, Newcastle AC.
Best Male Trail Runner of the Year – Keith Johnston, Armagh AC.
Best Ultra Female Runner of the Year – Laura Grimes, Jog Moira.
Best Ultra Male Runner of the Year – Wayne McGuigan – Slieve Gullion Runners.
Female Park Runner of the Year – Hilary Dalzell, Saintfield Striders.
Male Park Runner of the Year – Mark Gardiner, Ballycastle Runners AC.
Female Runner of the Year – Aimee Mullin, Galbally Runners.
Male Runner of the Year – Gareth King, Portadown Running Club.
Outstanding Contribution to Fundraising – Janine Burns and Karen McElroy, Newry City Runners.
Best Use of Social Media (running) – Kevin Gallagher, The Active Runner Magazine.
Legend Runner of the Year – Carol McMenamin, Murlough AC.
People’s Club of the Year – Saintfield Striders.
In the current issue there is a story about Saintfield’s incredible success.