Robbie sprints to the finish of Co Down 5KM

Robbie sprints to the finish of Co Down 5KM

19 June 2024

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

This exciting event with an amazing atmosphere aimed to raise funds for Air Ambulance NI, 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, with prizes donated by Downpatrick Racecourse.

The adult 5km races followed, with the first race catering for participants in the 30 minutes and above bracket a new addition to the roster. 

Twenty-six runners graced this section, with Georgia McGonigal securing the top spot in an time of 29:33. 

Kevin Gallagher (unattached) and Keith Duncan (unattached) secured the second and third positions, finishing in 30:03 seconds and 30:30, respectively. 

The second race of the evening’s four races was the 22mins - 30mins category, in this a first for the Co Down 5km there was three pacers, 24 minutes, 26 minutes and 28 minutes with the biggest field of the evening. 

A total of 82 runners took to the line with first over the line Adair Mooney in 21:30 closely followed by Darryl Glennon, East Down AC, along with Jenny Taylor, Scrabo Striders. 

All were within four seconds of each other with many personal bests recorded with help from the pacers.

The highlight of the evening was the elite race, 17mins and under, as participants vied for the title of Co Down champion. Could the course record of 14:40 be broken? 

In a thrilling display of athleticism and determination, Robbie Hagen, of Newcastle AC, emerged victorious in the elite race of the Co Down 5km. 

This triumph marks a significant local double for Hagen, who previously won the prestigious Jimmy’s Ten.

The race was a gripping contest from start to finish, with Hagen facing fierce competition from John Craig of Annadale Striders. 

Craig, who had to sit out last year’s race due to injury, made a strong comeback and was determined to reclaim his status as one of the top contenders.

The two athletes were neck and neck throughout the race, matching each other’s pace with unwavering resolve. 

Spectators were on the edge of their seats as Hagen and Craig remained locked together, each stride bringing them closer to the finish line in a dead heat.

In the final 100 yards, Hagen unleashed a blistering turn of speed, a decisive move that caught Craig off guard. 

With a powerful sprint, Hagen managed to edge ahead, crossing the finishline just moments before Craig in 15:12, with Craig a further two seconds adrift.

Speaking after the race, Hagen expressed his elation at securing the win and completing the local double. 

“It feels incredible to win both Jimmy’s Ten and the Co Down 5km,” he said.

“John pushed me to my limits today, and I couldn’t have asked for a better rival.”

Craig, though narrowly missing out on the top spot, was gracious in defeat and praised Hagen’s performance. 

“Robbie ran an amazing race today. I gave it my all, but his final sprint was exceptional,” he said.

The Co Down 5km continues to be a highlight in the local racing calendar, drawing top talent. This year’s race, with its dramatic finish and high level of competition, will be remembered as one of the most exciting in recent history.

The final 5km 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 Conan O’Doherty (Mid Ulster AC), who looked stronger with each lap and won the race in 17:12. 

Another fiercely competitive race from Luke Wallace (Ballydrain Harriers) secured second place in 17:13, while Gavin Murray (Tafelta AC) finished third in a fantastic time of 17:19. 

First woman on the night was the impressive Dearbhla Cox (Annadale Striders) in 17:21.

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

The Co Down 5km committee would like thank all their sponsors, namely: Tel’s Confectionery, Downpatrick, Down Drains, Murlands Solicitors, Paul Rogan, McGrady Financial, East Down Boxing Club, Credit Union, Mabel’s Ice Cream, Doc’s Fish & Chips, Eurospar Downpatrick, Plus2print, Air Ambulance NI, CM Precision, Gareth Sharvin, Murphy’s Bar & Restaurant, Tel’s Fitness.

Also thank you to those that made things that extra bit special: Andrew Han (race commentator), Gareth Sharvin (photos), Matt Bezzant (photos), Seamus Heath (photos), Maggie Jane’s Disco, Glen Grant (Championchip Ireland), 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.