Scrabo Striders Clock Strong Performances

Despite the unpredictable nature of the early summer weather, with sunshine one minute and rain the next, the longer daylight hours have afforded the Scrabo Striders Running Club ample opportunity to take part in races across Northern Ireland this past week. From fast-paced 5k events to gruelling half marathons and the ever-popular parkruns, the Striders were out in force, demonstrating grit, determination, and an unrelenting commitment to improvement.

The racing action began midweek with the second round of the ever-popular Willie’s 5 x 5k Series, held along the picturesque Newry Canal Towpath. Known for its flat and fast surface, the out-and-back route attracts runners from across the province, with proceeds going to the Evora Hospice. Scrabo Strider Harry McCready was the sole representative from the club but made his mark in emphatic fashion, clocking a personal best (PB) time of 19:38. Not only was this a new PB for McCready, but it was also his first sub-20-minute 5k, an important milestone in any runner’s development and a clear sign that the young athlete is one to watch in the months and years ahead.

Later in the week, attention turned to one of the highlights of the local racing calendar, the Ards Half Marathon. Now in its 16th year, the event drew over 500 runners to the town of Newtownards on a humid and muggy Friday evening. Among them were more than 50 runners from the Scrabo Striders, eager to put their training to the test over the challenging 21.1km course.

The route started at the Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex and wound through the town centre before climbing the Scrabo Road hill and continuing past Killynether to the circuit’s highest point. From there, runners were rewarded with a mix of rolling country roads through Ballyrainey and Unicarval towards Comber, before tackling the long stretch out the Newtownards carriageway. A final climb up the Moate Road returned runners to Scrabo Road, culminating in a welcome downhill run to the finish line outside the Leisure Centre.

At the front of the pack, it was Christopher Dean of Willowfield Harriers who claimed the overall win with an impressive 1:16:37, followed closely by Dale Murray 1:17:08 and Rudy Mayne 1:17:26. In the women’s race, Leann Gibson of Victoria Park and Connswater led the way in 1:29:06, with Fiona McQuillan 1:34:30 and Amanda Perry 1:35:20 completing the podium.

Among the Scrabo Striders, there was no shortage of standout performances. Former club captain Andy Haylett led the charge, finishing in 1:26:26 and achieving a new course personal best (CPB). Hot on his heels was Matt Bell in 1:26:44, also a CPB, followed by Gary Lyttle, with a new half marathon PB of 1:30:53.

In the women’s contingent, Sarah Johnston was the first female Strider home in 1:48:44 CPB, narrowly ahead of Rebecca Robinson 1:49:10 CPB, and Alison Busby 1:49:19 PB. In total, an incredible 17 Scrabo Striders achieved either a personal or course best on the night, a testament to their hard work and preparation.

Congratulations to Mark Halus 1:44:34 CPB, Craig Simpson 1:50:37 CPB, Michael Williams 1:58:54 CPB, Naomi Magowan 2:05:13 CPB, Karen Farrelly 2:06:41 PB, Alyson Graham 2:10:52 PB, Chris Edwards 2:12:46 PB, Joanna Gallagher 2:17:38 CPB, Jasmine Holden 2:24:23 CPB, and Nicola Forsythe 2:29:13 CPB.

As is customary, the weekend parkruns saw strong attendance from the club across multiple locations. The most popular venue was Comber parkrun, with 17 Striders taking part. Remarkably, Michael Warke, running less than 24 hours after tackling the Ards Half Marathon, still managed a CPB of 20:48. Congratulations also to Sharon Murdoch on completing her 25th parkrun, a key milestone for any dedicated parkrunner.

A group of nine Striders ventured to Knockbracken Reservoir parkrun, taking part in the event’s 172nd and final edition. With its three-lap, mostly flat course at Let’s Go Hydro, the venue has been a favourite over the years. A new location is expected to launch later this summer, much to the anticipation of regulars.

At Stormont parkrun, Elijah Ferguson impressed with a CPB of 25:31, while Andy Scase claimed a PB of 27:03 at Bangor.

In terms of tourism, Michael Burgess sampled the newly launched Christie parkrun, and Maxine and Maddie Dynes travelled to Ardgillan parkrun in Ireland. Set against the stunning backdrop of Ardgillan Castle, the course features two scenic woodland loops and a final uphill finish—perfect for a challenge with a view.

On Sunday, the Juniors shone at Comber Junior parkrun, the club’s best-attended junior event with 14 young runners taking part. Harry McCready, fresh off his 5k PB, recorded a new junior parkrun PB of 7:33, finishing second just one second behind Caitlyn Dickenson. Heath Farrington came in third at 8:36, with Keara Simpson continuing her fine form in 9:14 as the second female. Olly Simpson also impressed with a CPB of 9:56.

A special mention must go to Maddie Dynes, who completed her 50th junior parkrun in 10:29, earning the coveted Ultra wristband and giving Striders of all ages a reason to celebrate, cake included!

Elsewhere in the junior events, Toby Heywood was the lone Strider at Victoria Junior parkrun, where he earned a PB of 8:32 on his debut at the course. At Bangor Junior parkrun, Lyla McNamara flew the flag for the club, finishing in 12:23.

Rounding out the week’s action, Colin Campbell went the full distance at the Run Armagh Marathon, starting early and completing the scenic four-lap course around the historic mall in a strong 5:13:15. His solo effort epitomised the spirit of the Striders - resilient, committed, and always willing to go the extra mile.

As the summer running calendar continues to gather pace, the Scrabo Striders are proving they have both the strength and the stamina to take on whatever the season throws their way. Rain or shine, they’re out on the roads, paths, and trails, chasing personal bests and enjoying the camaraderie of the running community.

By Chris Edwards