Co Down 5K races prove to be a massive success

Co Down 5K races prove to be a massive success

2 August 2023

THE streets of Downpatrick town centre came alive with the thundering of footsteps as participants of all ages took part in the MB McGrady Co Down 5K races on Friday. 

This exciting event with an amazing atmosphere was part of the Downtime Summerfest and aimed to raise funds for the Forget Me Not Trust, Bereaved Parents Liaison Group, a noble cause that has touched the hearts of many.

The festivities commenced with fun-filled kids’ races, sponsored by Mabel’s Ice Cream Parlour. 

Children ranging from one to ten years-old showed their enthusiasm, sprinting from St Patrick’s Square in the county town. Their youthful energy set the tone for the night’s races.

The adult 5K races followed, with the first race catering for participants in the 22 minutes and above bracket. 

Over 100 runners graced this section, with Donald Smith from North Down AC securing the top spot in an impressive time of 21 minutes and 36 seconds. 

James Hamill (Unattached) and Ryan Teggart (Unattached) secured the second and third positions, finishing in 21 minutes 49 seconds and 21 minutes 59 seconds, respectively. 

In the women’s category, local girl Deirdre Weatherall (EDAC) claimed victory, clocking in at 21 minutes and 49 seconds. Jenny Taylor (Scarbo Striders) and Willow Farrington (Scarbo Striders) took the second and third positions with times of 22 minutes and 22 minutes 5 seconds, respectively.

The highlight of the evening was the elite race for 17 minutes and under, vied for the title of Co Down champion. 

Could the course record of 14 minutes 40 seconds be broken? 

Kieran Kelly, a determined ex-international athlete from Dublin-based club Raheny Shamrocks AC, showcased his dominance, leading from start to finish to complete the 5K course in a remarkable time of 14 minutes and 59 seconds. 

Newcastle native Patrick Sheridan (Unattached), who was the recent winner of the Comber 10K, gave his all to keep up with Kelly but had to settle for second place, finishing in 15 minutes and 13 seconds. 

Patrick McNiff (Newcastle AC), the consistent performer who was  second in 2022, claimed third place in 15 minutes and 19 seconds.

In the women’s elite race, the competition drew only two participants, and 14 year-old Emer McKee, aged group world record holder from Willowfield Harriers, proved her mettle by claiming victory in a time of 16 minutes and 53 seconds. 

Local girl Catherine O’Connor of East Down AC displayed a valiant effort, finishing as the runner-up in 17 minutes and six seconds.

The final 5K race featured runners in the 17 to 22 minutes bracket, with many local club participants eager to achieve personal bests on the flat and fast course. 

The men’s race saw a phenomenal performance by 15 year-old Luke O’Doherty (Mid Ulster AC), who looked stronger with each lap and won the race comfortably in 16 minutes and 52 seconds. 

Alan Ladd (Mallusk Harriers) secured second place in 17 minutes and 20 seconds, while Fearghal Ward (Omagh Harriers) finished third in a fantastic time of 17 minutes and 26 seconds.

The women’s 17 to 22 minutes race witnessed a thrilling competition between Caroline MacNabb (EDAC) and Joanne Mills (Newcastle AC). 

Caroline displayed immense determination, maintaining a blistering pace throughout the 7.5 laps. 

Although Joanne kept the gap tight, she couldn’t quite catch up, and Caroline crossed the finish line in 17 minutes and 59 seconds, securing first place. 

Joanne Mills finished as the runner-up, completing the race in 18 minutes and 18 seconds. Laura Maguire (Gorbally Runners) put up a strong effort, earning third place in a commendable time of 19 minutes and nine seconds.

After the exhilarating races, runners headed to Doc’s Fish & Chips to enjoy their complementary burgers and reflect on the night’s performances. 

Additionally, a charity draw with fabulous prizes was held, further contributing to the evening’s charitable endeavours.

The MB McGrady Co Down 5K was not only a feast of running but also a heartwarming event that brought the community together to support the Forget Me Not Trust, Bereaved Parents Liaison Group.

The dedication of participants and the spirit of competition united with a noble cause, making it a memorable and impactful night for everyone involved.

The Co Down 5K committee would like thank all of their sponsors, who included: MB McGrady Chartered Accountants, DSC Cars, Doc’s Fish & Chips, Innovate Van Conversions, Gareth Sharvin, Tel’s Confectionary, Murland’s Solicitors, Mullan Gallagher Dental, Cosy Roof, Pretty Please, Lecale Lettings, East Coast Seafoods, Mabel’s Ice-Cream Parlour, Finnebrogue Woods, CM Precision, The Mill at Ballydugan, Murphy’s Bar & Restaurant, Mac’s Competitions and Plus2Print.

Also thank you to those that made things that extra bit special: Andrew Han (race commentator), Gareth Sharvin (photos), Greg Cunningham (photos), Matt Bezzant (photos) Maggie Jane’s Disco, Glen Grant (Championchip Ireland), Conhuir McKee (video), Peter Bohill (lead bike). 

Without the above it would be hard to put on a quality event with such a broad range of participants in the centre of Downpatrick.