On Wed 20/04/16 Ann McCracken ran the 3K Queens Race Round the River in 15:59, while for the 5K Seapark AC was represented by Charlie McCormick 19:02 PB, Richard Hetherington 19:33 PB, Mark Welsh 21:47, Andy Smyth 23:35, Caroline Salters 23:36, Alison Welsh 25:52 PB, Trevor Lamb 26:21 and Alyn McChesney 30:06.
Charlie McCormick 19:02 PBAlison Welsh 25:52 PB
At the Royal Canal Run in Longford on 23/04/16 Gary Connolly ran the half in 1:51 while Gillian Cordner went with the ultra in a time of 4:41 (33 miles and second lady).
Gillian and Gary at the Royal Canal Run in Longford
Also on 23/04/16 Geraldine Kane 1:05:26 and Michael Kane 1:06:54 participated in the Cormac Run 10K.
On Sun 24/04/16 Ronald Simms 40:21, Phil Magill 50:39 PB, Lynette Magill 52:46 PB and Michelle McKeever 57:15 (first 10K) went to Portadown for the Kernan 10K.
Ronald Simms 40:21, Phil Magill 50:39 PB, Lynette Magill 52:46 PBRonald Simms action shot
While Jonathan Beattie and Richard Hetherington attended the Kirkistown Duathlon, also on 24/04/16.
Jonathan Beattie and Richard Hetherington did a bit of running at least
And the London Marathon on 24/04/16 was attended by Bobbie Irvine 3:13:36, Robert Murray 3:21:42, Neil Harper 4:14:01 PB, Gavin Irvine 4:20:07 and Karen Waring 4:48:03.
The lucky ones that got into London
On Saturday 30/04/16 Seapark AC endurance specialists Gillian Cordner and Gary Connolly travelled to the picturesque Ballyhoura Mountain Trail Marathon, part of the Irish Mountain Trail marathon series. Both athletes performed well on the tough rugged mountain trails and Gillian finished 3rd in her category.
Gillian and Gary at the Ballyhoura Mountain Trail Marathon
Not to be outdone with a trip south of the border, Ronald Simms travelled to Drogheda on Sunday 01/04/16 and took part in the 10K event finishing well up the leaderboard.
More Seapark AC athletes stayed local on Sunday 01/04/16 to take part in the ever popular East Antrim Marathon Series participating in the Half and full marathon disciplines. Following her success in Limerick Gillian Cordner completed another marathon, back to back, and guess what, she did the Belfast marathon on Mayday as well! Seapark ACs Bobbie Irvine also took part in the marathon, again, just a warm up before he ran the Belfast Marathon. Seapark athletes who took part in the half marathon distance were Julie Clyde, who finished 3rd in the ladies race and Phil Magill who was first male athlete for the Club. Other successful Seaparkers were Marie Nicolson and Caroline Mone.
Gillian at EAMSBobbie at EAMS
Following the East Antrim Marathon on 01/04/16 a group of Seaparkers took part in a virtual 3.2 race which was taking part throughout the UK as part of the Help the Heroes Charity, in memory of Capt David Seath who tragically died 3.2 miles from the finish line of last weeks London Marathon.
Lots of great photos where taken by Neill ‘I’m not doing a parkrun unless there’s a half marathon after it’ Harper at Carrickfergus on 2nd April. Ian Cleland, Jonathan Preuss (on his 2nd parkrun and with a parkrun PB of 19:24), Charlie McCormick, Robert Steele (parkrun PB of 21:19), Jonathan Beattie, Gary Craig (course PB of 25:43), Derek Kane (50th parkrun), Sara Johnston (parkrun PB of 27:04), Rebecca Tester (parkrun PB of 27:49), Michael ‘Nessie’ Kane, Jennifer Jackson (on her 3rd parkrun and with a parkrun PB of 29:36), Julie-Ann Mitchell & Emma Pearson all ran the event.
Charlie McCormick at CarrickfergusRobert Steele (parkrun PB of 21:19)Jonathan BeattieGary Craig at CarrickfergusDerek Kane on his 50th parkrunSara Johnston (parkrun PB of 27:04)Rebecca Tester (parkrun PB of 27:49)Julie-Ann MitchellMichael ‘Nessie’ KaneJennifer Jackson on her 3rd parkrun
And since it was Derek Kane’s 50th parkrun there had to be cake.
Mmmm, cake
Not only was this event special for being Derek’s 5oth parkrun it was special for being the first time that Michael Kane has been photographed with both feet of the ground. Ah, you thought I was going to say it was special because Michael Kane actually turned up to a parkrun. Well, there is that.
Evidence that Michael Kane can run with both feet of the ground.
For the tourism we had Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine (1st run there and with a parkrun PB of 26:16) and Karen Waring (course PB of 26:18) at Queens.
Nicola Irvine, Karen Waring and Bobbie Irvine at QueensFinish line for Nicola Irvine and Karen Waring at Queens
Iain Hunter ran his 1st parkrun at Stormont.
Valley was attended by Trevor Lamb (75th parkrun), Alan Poag (1st run at Valley), Karen McMaster (course PB 31:00) & Alyn McChesney (3rd parkrun and 1st at Valley).
Trevor Lamb, Alan Poag, Alyn McChesney and Karen McMaster at Valley
Trevor even ran all the way back to Carrickfergus from Valley (12.4K/7.7 miles) just to get a slice of Derek’s cake.
While at Victoria there was Robert Murray (course PB 20:46) and Glenda Murray.
9th April
On 9th Bobbie Irvine, Charlie McCormick, Richard Hetherington, Nicola Irvine (50th parkrun), Philip Poag, Neill Harper, Julie-Ann Mitchell and Karen Poag attended the home parkrun of Carrickfergus.
Charlie McCormickNeill HarperNicola Irvine’s 50th parkrunMmmm, more cake. FYI Trevor Lamb didn’t get any as he was in Rotterdam that day
There was quite a bit of tourism on the 9th (thanks to the “22 challenge within a challenge” which appears to be to complete the 22 before anyone else). Separkers attended ten (yes, ten) different NI parkruns, including Carrickfergus (plus one in England) on 9th April.
At Antrim parkrun there was Derek Kane (1st run at Antrim) & Alan Poag (1st run at Antirm).
Derek Kane action shot at Antrim
While Ecos was attended by Robert Murray (1st run at Ecos with a parkrun PB of 20:36), Karen Waring (1st run at Ecos) and Glenda Murray (1st run at Ecos).
Robert Murray at EcosKaren Waring at EcosGlenda Murray at Ecos
Ormeau had Seaparkers Mark Welsh (1st run at Ormeau), Alison Welsh (1st run at Ormeau with a parkrun PB of 27:09) & Ann McCracken (PB for Ormeau with 28:06).
Mark and Alison Welsh at OrmeauAlison Welsh action shot (includes sunglasses)
While Gareth Hamil and Colin McCrum attended Victoria.
Five other members held the flag for Seapark (when are we going to get real Seapark flags?) at parkrun events. Ronald Simms at Citypark, Gary Craig at Queens (1st run at Queens), Allan Grant at Valley, Rebecca Tester at Colin Glen (1st run at Colin Glen) and Marie Nicholson at Waterworks.
Allan Grant with his nephew at Valley
While over in England Gavin Irvine took part in the Hull parkrun.
16th April.
Jonathan Beattie, Richard Hetherington, Lynda Shannon,Danielle Hamilton (1st ever parkrun), Beverley Kernoghan (parkrun PB of30:24), Susan Kane (course PB of 30:59) and Brendan Rice all attended Carrickfergus on 16th.
Bobbie Irvine, Neill ‘I’m getting used to the idea of just doing a parkrun without a race after it’ Harper (1st run here) and Nicola Irvine (course PB of 28:34) all went to Comber for a sneaky parkrun prior to Bobbie and Nicola doing the B2R Castle Ward 10K. Jimmy Olsen didn’t run Castle Ward but took lots of kick ass photos instead.
Neill Harper, Nicola Irvine and Bobbie Irvine at Comber’s 100th eventBobbie Irvine trying to get to Castle WardNeill ‘Battle Cry’ Harper at ComberNicola ‘another course PB’ Irvine at Comber
For those that didn’t attend Castle Ward there was Antrim (Alyn McChesney on his 1st run there), Colin Glen (Karen Waring on her 1st run there), Ormeau (Ann McCracken), Stormont (Iain Hunter with a course PB of 20:21, Alan Poag on his 1st run there, Gary Craig on his 1st run there & Julie Kelly, also on her 1st run there & with a parkrun PB of 27:57), Valley (Robert Murray with course PB of 21:26, Karen McMaster & Glenda Murray), Waterworks (Derek Kane for his 1st time there) and Hull (Gavin Irvine).
Alan Poag at StormontKaren McMaster, Robert Murray and Glenda Murray at Valley
23th April
It was another good turnout for Carrickfergus parkrun on 23rd April.
Ian Cleland was the first Seaparker home and he was followed by Richard Hetherington, Robert Steel, Gillian Strudwick (with a parkrun PB of 23:26), Andrew Smyth (with a course PB of 24:10), Julie-Ann Mitchell, Jonathan Beattie and Colin McCrum.
Gillian Strudwick (with a parkrun PB of 23:26)Andrew Smyth (with a course PB of 24:10)
Six other NI parkruns where attended by Seapark on 23rd April. Derek Kane was the first member of the 22 group to go to Falls this year (1st run at Falls), Ann McCracken and Karen McMaster went to Ormeau, Ronald Simms ran at Wallace, Nicola Irvine completed her 1st run at Valley and Waterworks was attended by both Alison Welsh and Alyn McChesney (1st run at Waterworks).
The first members of the 22 group to attempt Larne for Andy’s parkrun challenge where Allan Grant and Trevor Lamb. Yes, I know Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Glenda Murray and Robert Murray did the Larne parkrun course on 19th March, but it was the week before Andy’s parkrun challenge started so they’ll have to do it again for it to be counted for Andy’s challenge. Phil Mone was the 1st Seaparker at Larne (1st run at Larne and with a parkrun PB of 22:24) and he was followed by Allan ‘Shoelaces’ Grant (with a course PB of 25:58) and Trevor Lamb (also with a course PB of 26:40). This is the 2nd time Trevor has done Larne. The 1st time (prior to joining Seapark) he got his slowest time for a parkrun with 31:24, so Seapark training must be working.
Allan ‘Shoelaces’ Grant, Trevor Lamb and Phil Mone at LarneThee guys are in there somewhere
Three of the five London marathons attended a parkrun in London the day before the marathon. At Burgess we had Gavin Irvine (1st run at Burgess) and Bobbie Irvine (1st run at Burgess), while Southwark was attended by Robert Murray (1st run at Southwark) plus someone who didn’t want to miss out on a parkrun, Glenda Murray (1st run at Southwark).
Gavin Irvine and Bobbie Irvine at BurgessRobert and Glenda Murray at Southwark
30th April
On the last Saturday of April at Carrickfergus we had the latest Jog graduation. In attendance where William Jenkins, Jonathan Preuss, Allan Grant, Sara Johnston, Danielle Hamilton, Karen McMaster, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Beverley Kenoghan, Laura Laverty, Toma Gerasimaite and Karen Waring.
Allan Grant at CarrickfergusSara JohnstonKaren McMasterKaren Waring
Jonathan Beattie, Mark Welsh and Alison Welsh made the short journey to Valley.
Jonathan Beattie, Mark Welsh and Alison Welsh at Valley
Alan Poag (1st run at the course), Derek Kane (1st run at the course) and Alyn McChesney (1st run at the course) followed in the footsteps of giants and went to Larne.
Alan Poag and Derek Kane at Larne
Ann McCracken returned to Ormeau, Robert and Glenda Murray both went to Craigavon (1st time for each of them), while Julie Kelly and Michael Kane travelled to Bangor for their 1st run each at Ward Park.
Neither Michael Kane or Julie Kelly can believe that Michael’s doing another parkrun
Not one to miss out on a parkrun Trevor Lamb attended Princes parkrun in Liverpool and achieved a time 25:33. This is Trevor’s 4th fastest 5K time and fastest in the last 7 months. It is noteworthy that the park was one mile away from where Trevor once lived and yet this was his first time to this park. Though he could have told you where all the bars where back then.
Trevor Lamb in Liverpool
Race to 100
It’s getting really really close.
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) is at 79 parkruns as off 30/04/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 77 parkruns as off 30/04/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) is at 77 parkruns as off 30/04/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) is at 77 parkruns as off 30/04/16.
#Raceto100
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
We now have 18 confirmed participants for the 22 NI parkrun challenge as Nicola Irvine has joined Seapark AC and the 22 challenge.
As of 30/04/16 there are 36 parkruns left to the end of the year (if you count Christmas Day). Plenty of time to do all 22.
Derek Kane (14) Antrim, Carrickfergus, Comber, Ecos, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Geraldine Kane (5)
Ecos, Queens, Valley, Victoria & Wallace.
Michael Kane (5)
Bangor, Carrickfergus, Ecos, Victoria & Wallace.
Mark Welsh (5)
Bangor, Ecos, Ormeau, Valley & Victoria.
Colin McCrum (3)
Antrim, Carrickfergus & Victoria.
Megan Kane (0)
Carol Woods (0)
The two charities are Brainwaves NI and Macmillian Cancer Support. Remember that if each of the two charities reaches the £2500 target then Michael Kane and Trevor Lamb will get their legs waxed and then run a 10K with nice waxed legs. You know that the suffering of others will make you feel better so dig deep.
March saw the return of Andy’s parkrun challenge. Between 26/03/16-29/10/16 participants have 32 weeks to complete three different parkruns, plus volunteer at Carrickfergus at least once. The parkruns are Carrickfergus, Larne and the third one will be any of the participants own choosing. Age grade percentage will decide the winner.
Trevor Lamb completed his ninth marathon on 10/04/16 in Rotterdam in a time of 4:56:23.
Race face for Trevor Lamb
He got a nice shiny medal for his trouble.
Shiny medal
While on the same day Seaparker Alyn McChesney completed the Manchester Marathon in 5:49:40.
31 Seapark AC members took part in the Titanic 10K, which was also on 10/04/16. Ian Cleland was the first club member home with 37:42. Nine achieved a PB. Elisoa Crawford 41:05, Jonathon Bell 45:29, Phil Mone 45:54, Gillian Strudwick 47:40, Andrew Smyth 49:18, Julie Clyde 49:37, Julie Marshall 57:41, Karen McMaster 1:01:20 and Geraldine Kane 1:02:31. Geraldine’s time last year was 1:10:11. Plus for Chloe Anderson it was her first ever 10K race with 1:02:39.
We’ve seen enough photos of Ian Cleland so here’s one of Caroline Salters, Gillian Strudwick and Becki Tester at the Titanic 10K having a laugh instead
Over 300 runners attended the Ballymena Belles 5 Mile Road Race on 12/04/16 and of course Seapark AC was there. Julie Clyde 40:55, Josephine McAlister 47:04, Rebecca Tester 47:26, Alyson Sangster 48:49 and Karen McMaster 49:53 all ran the 5 mile course.
The girls at the Ballymena Belles
Gillian Cordner was the 1st lady home at the EAMS marathon on 14/04/16 with a time of 3:51.
Gillian Cordner at EAMS
At the Born 2 Run Castle Ward challenge on 16/04/16 Seapark AC had 7 people do the 10K and 15 do the half marathon, plus Philip Poag did the 10K walk.
Everyone who walked and/or ran at Castle Ward
The 10K was ran by Bobbie Irvine 44:39, Trevor Lamb 59:14, Carol Woods 1:00:29, Nicola Irivne 1:01:44, Jenny Robinson 1:04:20, Geraldine Kane 1:12:25 & Carol Downey 1:22:03.
The Seaparkers who got to Castle Ward in time for the photo
While the half marathon was ran by Ian Cleland 1:32:04, Philip Mone 1:51:37, Mark Welsh 2:02:19, Gary Connolly 2:07:15, Gillian Cordner 2:07:15, Karen Poag 2:12:20, Julie Clyde 2:18:17, Karen Hanson 2:25:30, Jacqui Coghlan 2:26:31, Alison Welsh 2:26:32, Sara Johnston 2:26:33, Josephine McAlister 2:32:00, Becki Tester 2:49:13, Caroline Mone 2:49:46 and Helena Perry 2:59:20.
And on 17/04/16 Ruth Hawkins completed the Armagh 10K in 50:36.
Seaparkers were all over the UK & Ireland + mainland Europe over the last few weeks.
Gillian Cordner and Gary Connolly travelled to Wicklow to take park in the Vartry 100. Despite challenging conditions Gillian completed the 100 mile event in 20 hrs 57 mins and was 3rd lady home with a PB by approximately 2 hrs 47 mins. Gary ran the 50K event in 5 hrs 58 mins.
Gillian Cordner and Gary Connolly at the Vartry 100
In the Mussenden 10K on 26/03/16 in Castlerock Clive Weatherhead was the 1st Seaparker home, and 9th overall, with 41:26. He was followed by Brendan Rice 42:15, Richard Hetherington 42:52, Aimee Weatherhead 55:03 and Susan Kane 1:10:19.
The Mussenden 10K crowd
In the Omagh half marathon on 26/03/16 Charlie McCormick finished in 1:28:50 and was followed by Robert Murray 1:33:26 (PB) and Gillian Strudwick 1:46:13.
Charlie McCormick, Gillian Strudwick and Robert Murray PB at Omagh
Neill Harper and Trevor Lamb travelled to Cardiff for the IAAF/Cardiff University Half Marathon Championships that took place on 26/03/16. Mo Farah may have come 3rd but Neill Harper was 4929th with 1:54:22 while Trevor Lamb was 7232nd with 2:04:34. Technically, since it was an IAAF official race, these are their world rankings.
Some dudes at the Cardiff ExpoSmug face Neill post raceThe T1000 at the IAAF/Cardiff University Half Marathon Championships
In a slightly different challenge Ian Cleland completed in the NI Sprint Duathlon in Belfast comprising a 2 mile run, 10 mile cycle and another 2 mile run. Ian completed the course in 1:01.
Ian Cleland at the NI Sprint Duathlon
On Easter Monday 10 Seaparkers took part in the Whitehead 5 mile road race. Ian Cleland was the first Seaparker to finish with a time of 30:35. He was followed by Bobbie Irvine 32:41, Alanah McCombe 35:26, Jonathon Bell 36:45, Lynda Shannon 37:13, Andrew Smith 39:37, Jennifer Jackson 41:35, Allan Grant 42:44, Rosin McConnell 44:07 and Sarah Johnston 45:41.
That dude again, this time at Whitehead
On Sunday the 03/04/16 a number of Seaparkers competed in the latest EAMS event. Official times haven’t been released as yet but Alison Welsh was the 2nd lady home for the half marathon in around 2:08. While in the full marathon Seapark was represented by Charlie McCormick 3:26:46 (PB), Brendan Rice 3:52:04, Gilliam Studwick 3:54 (PB), Gillian Cordner 3:59:25 and Karen Waring 5:15.
Alison Welsh was the 2nd lady home for the EAMS half marathonCharlie McCormick PB at the latest EAMSGilliam Studwick PB
Just up the road at Hazelbank at the same time was the 2nd annual Rabbit Run 5K. Gun times are only available. The 5K was attended by Bobbie Irvine 20:31 (6th place finisher), Julie Clyde 25:32, Philip Magill 26:58, Trevor Lamb 27:17, Laura Laverty 28:24, Rebecca Tester 28:25, Lynette Magill 29:06, Josephine McAlister 30:16, Beverley Kernoghan 32:54 and Helena Perry 33:43.
It’s wabbit season at the Rabbit Run 5KTrevor Lamb and Philip Magill
Also on 03/04/16 was the latest RunHer 10K at Delamont. Competing in it where Elisoa Crawford who was 4th overall with 44:31, Jennifer Jackson 56:16, Carol Woods 59:11, Jacqui Coghlan 1:00:21, Julie Kelly 1:03:31, Karen Hanson 1:04:01, Julie Marshall 1:07:44, Nicola Dhunlop 1:08:30, Geraldine Kane 1:17:20 and Carol Downey 1:20:30.
RunHer 10K gang
And if that wasn’t enough the Waggy Races 5K at Larchfield was also on Sunday 03/04/16. Four Seaparkers attended the event with their K-9 companions. Robert Murray with Cody took 6th place overall with 23:38 and they were followed by Neill Harper with Oska 27:57, Julie-Ann and Harry Mitchell with Sparky 36:17 and Glenda Murray with Bazil 46:25.
Robert Murray and CodyNeill Harper and OskaJulie-Ann & Harry Mitchell and SparkyGlenda Murray and Bazil
A bit further afield Karen Poag 1:57:32 and Philip Poag 2:07:01 attended the Berlin Half Marathon on 03/04/16.
Karen Poag at the Berlin Half MarathonPhilip Poag at the Berlin Half Marathon
It was a good weekend for getting a PB on 5th March. Carrickfergus was attended by Charlie McCormick, Robert Steele, Jonathan Beattie, Jonathon Bell PB (course PB of 22:10), Lynda Shannon (1st lady home), Gareth Hamill, Patrick Hughes PB (parkrun PB of 23:54), Neill Harper, Alyson Sangster PB (parkrun PB of 30:03), Alyn McChesney PB (parkrun PB of 31:21), Julie-Ann Mitchell and Jennifer Jackson PB (parkrun PB of 35:58).
Seapark went on tour to Victoria on the 5th March. Mark Welsh PB (course PB of 22:00) was the first Seaparker home and was followed by Bobbie Irvine, Ruth ‘Overtake me at your own peril’ Hawkins, Trevor Lamb, Derek Kane (1st run at Victoria), Karen Waring, Alison Welsh, Rebecca Tester (1st run at Victoria), Alan Poag, Julie Kelly (1st run at Victoria), Michael ‘Sprint Finish’ Kane (1st run at Victoria), Geraldine Kane (1st run at Victoria) and Carol Downey (1st run at Victoria).
The gang at VictoriaRuth ‘Laser Beam Eyes’ Hawkins at the Victoria finish line
The only other bit of parkrun tourism on 5th was by Ann McCracken who was the sole Seaparker at Ormeau.
Ann McCracken at Ormeau
12th March
It was another weekend of PBs on 12th March. Carrickfergus was attended by Gareth Hamill, Neill Harper, Clive Gray, Karen McMaster PB (course PB of 29:22), Julie-Ann Mitchell and Phillip Poag.
There was a 22 parkrun group outing to Ecos that was attended by Derek Kane (1st run at Ecos), Trevor Lamb (1st run at Ecos), Alan Poag, Geraldine Kane PB (1st run at Ecos + a parkrun PB of 30:27), Michael Kane (1st run at Ecos) and Susan Kane (1st run at Ecos). Now Geraldine’s PB was a whopping 48 seconds faster than her last PB. On the one hand that’s a a huge improvement, on the other it’s 47 missed opportunties for other PBs.
Derek Kane, Alan Poag, Susan Kane, Michael Kane, Geraldine Kane and Trevor Lamb at Ecos
The other 22 group members didn’t attend Ecos as some had already done it for the challenge (showing how competitive they are in the process). Instead Rebecca Tester went to Armagh for her 1st time (being the first member of the 22 parkrun group to complete it this year), Allan Grant attended Cookstown for his 1st time (again, the first member of the 22 parkrun group to complete it his year) and Karen Waring PB went to Waterworks (obtaining a course PB of 26:38). Another member of the 22 group, Bobbie Irvine PB, went to Wallace (achieving a course PB of 20:41). He was accompanied by Ronald Simms PB, who obtained a parkrun PB of 19:29.
Rebecca Tester plus one at ArmaghAllan Grant at CookstownTop Ronald Simms and bottom Bobbie Irvine with his better half at Wallace
Robert Steel PB went to Victoria, obtaining a parkrun PB of 21:23. While at Ormeau we had Gary Craig, Ann McCracken PB (course PB of 28:22) and Ross Gilmore PB (course PB of 32:57).
And over on the mainland Gavin Irvine made his 10th appearance at Hull parkrun.
19th March
It was the weekend of the Larne Half and with 48 Seaparkers attending that event there wasn’t much park running going on for most, but Jonathan Beattie kept the Seapark AC banner going at Carrickfergus with his 49th parkrun (and 41st at Carrickfergus).
Three members of the Larne Cheer Squad, and three others who ran the Larne Half after, attended the Larne parkrun. The Cheer Squad members where Robert Murray PB (course PB of 22:06), Ruth Hawkins (1st run at Larne) and Glenda Murray. While the three not so wise men who ran 4km to the Larne parkrun, 5km for the parkrun itself, another 4km back to the Larne Half Marathon start and then the half itself (34.1 km/21.2 miles total) were Bobbie Irvine, Gavin Irvine PB (course PB of 27:02 for his 75th parkrun) and Neil Harper (1st run at Larne).
Clockwise. Main group with Robert Murray and Bobbie Irvine, Gavin Irvine, Ruth Hawkins, Glenda Murray & William Wallace (being beat by Jog’s Nicola Irvine)
Ormeau was attended by Derek Kane (1st run at Ormeau), Ann McCracken and Susan Kane (1st run at Ormeau). While Gary Craig and Julie Kelly PB (achieving a parkrun PB of 28:08) attended their 1st run each at Ecos. Elsewhere Alan ‘Magnus Magnusson’ Poag returned to the scene of the crime and completed the full Queens course for the first time.
Derek Kane and Susan Kane at OrmeauMasterminds Magnus Magnusson at Queens
26th March
The last Carrickfergus parkrun of March 2016 was attended by Jonathan Beattie (on his 5oth parkrun. The red t-shirts are coming, the red t-shirts are coming), Allan Grant (who is now in the VM50-54 category), Gareth Hamill, Robert Steele, Clive Gray PB (with a parkrun PB of 27:10), Andrew Smyth and Karen McMaster (on her 75th parkrun).
The 22 group is starting to fracture as everyone is trying to get in as many different parkruns as they can. The main group went to the Bangor cakerun, with Mark Welsh PB (course PB of 22:41) being the first Seaparker home. He was followed by Ruth Hawkins (1st run at Bangor), Karen Waring, Alan Poag (1st run at Bangor), Alison Welsh, Rebecca Tester (1st run at Bangor) and Glenda Murray (1st run at Bangor).
Mark Welsh, Karen Waring, Alan Poag, Glenda Murray, Ruth Hawkins and Alison Welsh at the Bangor cakerunRebecca Tester and chum with Seapark AC alumni Tony Barclay at the Bangor cakerun
Other members of the 22 group went to Citypark, Limavady and Waterworks. Citypark, Craigavon was attended by Bobbie Irvine (being the first member of the 22 parkrun group to complete it this year), Gavin Irvine (1st run at Citypark) and Elise Park (1st run at Citypark). While Derek Kane (again, the first member of the 22 parkrun group to complete it this year), made his 4th appearance at Limavady and at Waterworks we had Gary Craig PB (course PB of 26:01) and Julie Kelly (1st run at Waterworks).
The Irvine clan at CraigavonFirst Seaparker at Limavady Derek Kane
While that was going on Iain Hunter attended his 1st run at Comber and at the second cakerun of the week (Ecos) was attended by Sara Johnston PB (1st run at Ecos with a parkrun PB of 27:05) and Marie Nicholson (1st run at Ecos).
In Wales Neill Harper and Trevor Lamb made their 1st appearance each at the Cardiff parkrun prior to the IAAF/Cardiff University half marathon later that same day (at least it didn’t start to 2:10 pm).
Neill Harper and Trevor Lamb at the Cardiff parkrun (AKA half marathon warmup)
It appears that Neill can no longer do a half marathon on its on, instead he has to run to a parkrun (3.2km in this instance), do the parkrun and then run back (3.5km back, detour) before doing the half (32.8 km/20.3 miles total). Trevor on the other hand wasn’t so mad and walked 3.5km to the parkrun, ran the parkrun, walked 3.5km back and then ran the half (only 26.1 km/16.2 miles total).
Neil Harper beating a pram and a dog at CardiffTrevor Lamb racing some kids (again) at Cardiff
Race to 100
Oh, it’s getting really close. Only 3 parkruns between them.
Karen McMaster PB (AKA Team Chair) is at 75 parkruns as off 26/03/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 74 parkruns as off 26/03/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) is at 74 parkruns as off 26/03/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) is at 72 parkruns as off 26/03/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
We now have 17 confirmed participants for the 22 NI parkrun as Mark Walsh has jointed the challenge. As of 26th March it looks like this.
Bobbie Irvine PB (12) Antrim, Carrickfergus, Citypark, Comber, Ecos, Larne, Ormeau, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks. Allan Grant (10) Antrim, Carrickfergus, Comber, Cookstown, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks. Derek Kane (10) Carrickfergus, Comber, Ecos, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria & Wallace. Trevor Lamb (10) Antrim, Carrickfergus, Comber, Ecos, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks. Glenda Murray (10) Antrim, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Comber, Larne, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Wallace & Waterworks. Karen Waring PB (10) Antrim, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Comber, Ormeau, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks. Alan Poag (7) Bangor, Carrickfergus, Ecos, Queens, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks. Robert Murray PB (6) Carrickfergus, Antrim, Larne, Queens, Wallace & Waterworks. Rebecca Tester (6) Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Ecos & Victoria. Alison Welsh (6) Bangor, Carrickfergus, Ecos, Queens, Stormont & Victoria Geraldine Kane PB (5) Queens, Ecos, Valley, Victoria & Wallace. Julie Kelly PB (5) Queens, Ecos, Valley, Victoria & Waterworks. Michael Kane (3) Ecos, Victoria & Wallace. Mark Welsh PB (3) Bangor, Ecos & Victoria. Colin McCrum (2) Antrim & Carrickfergus. Megan Kane (0) N/A Carol Woods (0) N/A
The two charities are Brainwaves NI and Macmillian Cancer Support. Remember that if each of the two charities reaches the £2500 target then Michael Kane and Trevor Lamb will get their legs waxed and then run a 10K with nice waxed legs. You know that the suffering of others will make you feel better so dig deep.
March saw the return of Andy’s parkrun challenge. Between 26/03/16-29/10/16 participants have 32 weeks to complete three different parkruns, plus volunteer at Carrickfergus at least once. The parkruns are Carrickfergus, Larne and the third one will be any of the participants own choosing. Age grade percentage will decide the winner.
Richard Hetherington was the first Seaparker home for the Craic 10K in Belfast on St. Patricks Day with 42:23. He was soon followed by Gillian Cordner (1st Seapark AC lady home) who had a time of 43:59. Other members in attendance where Gary Connolly (45:28), Patrick Hughes (49:17), Colin McCrum (49:24), Neil Harper (50:21), Ruth Hawkins (50:58), Trevor Lamb (55:03), Carol Woods (55:14), Jenny Robinson (55:46), Rory Poag, on his 1st 10K (58:12), Karen Poag (58:12), Rebecca Tester (58:48), Alyson Sangster (59:04), Ann McCracken (1:00:19), Susan Kane (1:07:26), Caoimhe Rice (1:07:39) and Brendan Rice (1:07:40).
Richard Hetherington was the 1st Seaparker to finish at the Craic 10K
The big race of the week was the Larne Half Marathon on Saturday with forty eight Seaparkers attending this event.
Not everyone make it in the photo. Some where still running back from the Larne parkrun
There were so many Seaparkers that they had their own cheer squad to keep them motivated.
Cheer Squad ACRuth Hawkins being a diva
Twenty members achieved a PB for the half marathon distance. They were Charlie McCormick (1:28:09), Robert Steele (1:38:22), Mark Welsh (1:38:23), Gillian Strudwick (1:44:55), Phillip Mone (1:46:54), Julie Clyde (1:52:42), Julie-Ann Mitchell (1:55:14), Jacqui Coghlan (2:02:39), Jennifer Jackson (2:03:53), Sarah Rea (2:03:55), Philip Magill (2:04:47), Alison Welsh (2:05:35), Lynette Magill (2:06:50), Karen Hanson (2:10:26), Josephine McAlister (2:11:55), Rebecca Tester (2:16:18), Karen McMaster (2:29:13), Beverley Kernoghan (2:31:52), Caroline Mone (2:34:26) and Helena Perry (2:35:12). Three more got a PB for the course. Ian Cleland (1:26:11), Karen Poag (1:52:20) and Trevor Lamb (2:04:28). Plus for another five it was their 1st half marathon. Thomas Dunlop (2:08:36), Laura Laverty (2:13:05), Alison Dunlop (2:17:32), Julie Marshall (2:18:48) and Lauren Scott (2:36:20).
Ian Cleland was 1st Seaparker home at LarneElmer Fudd was 2nd Seaparker over the line at LarneElisoa Crawford was 3rd Seaparker (and 1st lady) home at LarneBrendan Rice was the 4th Seaparker to finish at Larne
Full results are as follows.
Ian Cleland (1:26:11, PB for the course), Charlie McCormick (1:28:09 PB), Elisoa Crawford (1:31:30), Brendan Rice (1:32:41), Johnny Preuss (1:33:21), Gillian Cordner (1:35:02), Robert Steele (1:38:22 PB), Mark Welsh (1:38:23 PB), Caroline Salters (1:43:09), Gillian Strudwick (1:44:55 PB), Patrick Hughes (1:45:26), Phillip Mone (1:46:54 PB), Gareth Hamill (1:46:55), Jonathon Bell (1:47:35), Karen Poag (1:52:20, PB for the course), Julie Clyde (1:52:42 PB), Colin McCrum (1:54:24), Andrew Smyth (1:54:53), Julie-Ann Mitchell (1:55:14 PB), Wesley Wallace (1:56:57), Allan Grant (1:59:01), Gavin Irvine (1:59:43), Bobbie Irvine (1:59:44), Aimee Weatherhead (2:01:14), Jacqui Coghlan (2:02:39 PB), Karen Waring (2:02:55), Jennifer Jackson (2:03:53 PB), Sarah Rea (2:03:55 PB), Trevor Lamb (2:04:28, PB for the course), Philip Magill (2:04:47 PB), Neill Harper (2:05:06), Alison Welsh (2:05:35 PB), Lynette Magill (2:06:50 PB), Thomas Dunlop (2:08:36, 1st half marathon), Karen Hanson (2:10:26 PB), Josephine McAlister (2:11:55 PB), Laura Laverty (2:13:05, 1st half marathon), Heather Lown (2:14:43), Rebecca Tester (2:16:18 PB), Alison Dunlop (2:17:32, 1st half marathon), Sara Johnston (2:18:15), Julie Marshall (2:18:48, 1st half marathon), Marie Nicolson (2:20:02), Karen McMaster (2:29:13 PB), Beverley Kernoghan (2:31:52 PB), Caroline Mone (2:34:26 PB), Helena Perry (2:35:12 PB) and Lauren Scott (2:36:20, 1st half marathon).
Course PB for Karen Poag at LarnePBs for both Philip Magill and Lynette Magill at Larne
On Sunday 20/03/16 Josephine McAlister achieved another PB, this time for 5K (29:15) at the Jog Belfast 5K Run in Ormeau Park. Also in attendance where Alyn McChesney (29:05), Karen Poag (30:01), Neill Harper (30:01) and Helena Perry (33:51).
Gillian Cordner and Gary Connolly both did the 6 mile Sports Relief Run in Newtownabbey. Gillian completed it in 42 mins while Gary did his in 46 mins.
While Ian Hunter came 1st (out of 238) in the Muck It Ireland 5K with a time of 22:25.
Saturday 5th March 2016 was a busy day with four races attended by members.
Two Seaparkers completed the SSE Airtricity 10 mile race in the Walled City. Philip Poag completed it in 1:27:22 while Karen Poag ran it in 1:28:37.
Karen and Philip Poag at the SSE Airtricity 10 mile race
Gary Craig did the very steep Gaelforce mountain 12K run in Connemara in a time of 2:45:11 (the first place winner completed it in 1:57:03). There were four peaks to climb at 324m, 574m, 556m and 550m.
The Slieve Gullion Mountain Race was attended by Chris Livingston, who completed it in 42:19.
While over in the USA Robert Murray ran the Woodlands marathon in Texas with a PB of 3:28:35 and Glenda Murray finished the half in 2:24:51.
Robert Murray and Glenda Murray in the USA
Quite a few members of Seapark AC attended Jimmy’s 10K on 13th March. Charlie McCormick was the first Seaparker home with a chip time of 39:56. He was followed by Ronald Simms (41:04), Brendan Rice (PB of 41:47), Clive Weatherhead (42:08), Mark Welsh (45:42), Caroline Salters (46:58), Neill Harper (49:48), Andrew Smyth (50:07), Karen Poag (51:37), Beth McCormick (52:50), Aimee Weatherhead (53:38), Alison Welsh (54:38), Phil Poag (56:29), Trevor Lamb (56:33), Roisin McConnell (56:41), Karen McMaster (1:04:32), Carol Downey (1:10:32 – A six minute improvement on last years time), Geraldine Kane (1:17:54) and Michael Kane (1:18:11).
Charlie McCormick at Jimmy’s 10K
A few more Seapark members took part in the local EAMS race on 13th March. Ian Cleland was the first male home for the half marathon with 1:30:47, while Gillian Cordner was first lady over the line with 1:45, also for the half marathon. Also in attandance where Gary Connolly (1:53 for the half) and Bobbie Irvine (4:11 for the full marathon).
1st male home at EAMS half Ian Cleland1st lady home for the EAMS half Gillian Cordner
It was Carrickfergus’s 100th parkrun plus their 2nd anniversary cakerun on 6th. The theme was pairs and quite a few people took the opportunity to play dress up (any excuse for some). There was Team Dick Dastardly, Team 118, Team Disney, Team Alice, Team Peckham, Team Potato Head, Team Mario Bros, Team MIB, Team Seapark and what can only be described as Team Red/Blue WTF (At least they were wearing Seapark colours).
Team Peckham, Team Mario, Team Seapark, Team Disney, Team 118, Team WTF, Team Potato Head
Robert Murray, Jonathan Beattie, Bobbie Irvine, Charlie McCormick, Ruth Hawkins, Trevor Lamb, Derek Kane, Karen Poag, Angela McCormick, Alan Poag, Glenda Murray, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Philip ‘50th parkrun’ Poag, Beverley Kernoghan, Sara Johnston, Ian Cleland and Neill Harper where all in attendance for this milestone event.
Team Peckham member Philip Poag’s 50th parkrun
While that was going on Richard Hetherington attended Portrush for the first time, Clive Weatherhead made his 7th appearance at Wallace, plus Ronald Simms (on his 3rd parkrun and 1st at Antrim), Karen Waring, Karen McMaster, Becki Tester and Colin McCrum (who was beaten to the finish line by his son Connor) used Antrim parkrun as a warm-up for the 1st Antrim B2R 10K.
Karen Waring, Becki Tester, Karen McMaster, Ronald Simms, Colin McCrum + cheering squad Mark and Alison Welsh at Antrim
Back over in Never Never Land Gavin Irvine returned to the Peter Pan parkrun for the 2nd time, achieving a course PB of 23:10.
13th February
Attending the 101th Carrickfergus event were Ryan Weatherhead, Iain Hunter, Colin McCrum, Gareth Hamill, Derek Kane, Philip Poag & Brendan Rice.
Gareth Hamill and Derek Kane with some happy to be there volunteers, including Angela McCormick
The 22 NI parkrun crowd took advance of the cake on offer @ Waterworks (thanks to parkrun Jim’s 250th parkrun) and added another notch to the list of their ever increasing events attended so far this year. Robert Murray was the first Seaparker home (with a PB for Waterworks), and was followed by Bobbie Irvine (saving his energy for the Last One Standing event the following weekend, and we all know by now how that turned out), Allan Grant, Trevor Lamb, Alan Poag, Glenda Murray and Julie-Ann Mitchell (who was also beaten to the finish line by her son Harry’s sprint finish).
Julie-Ann Mitchell with Harry, Alan Poag, Trevor Lamb, Robert Murray with Bobbie Irvine behind him, Allan Grant and Glenda Murray at WaterworksTrevor Lamb with more than one piece of cake
Further afield, but still in NI, Ronald Simms attended Citypark, Craigavon for the 1st time and achieved an overall PB for parkrun (19:04), while Gary Craig ran Ormeau and Marie Nicholson went to Larne for the first time (testing the course out before Andy’s parkrun challenge starts next month).
Marie Nicholson and Seapark alumni Vivien Davidson at Larne parkrun
It’s a pity no Seaparker did a parkrun in Scotland on 13th because we had participants in the North and South of Ireland, England and Wales. Richard Hetherington went to his 2nd timed run at the original parkrun (Bushy park), Gavin Irvine used some more pixie dust to get to the Peter Pan parkrun, Neill Harper was representing Seapark AC at the first Dolgellau parkrun and Becki Tester achieved an overall parkrun PB of 28:15 on her 25th parkrun, and first appearance, at Dundalk. Sorry Becki, but it’s not going to count towards your NI parkrun challenge.
Richard Hetherington at Bushy parkrun, EnglandNeill Harper at the first Dolgellau parkrun, WalesBecki Tester at Dundalk, Ireland
20th February
It was another good turnout for Carrickfergus parkrun on 20th February. Charlie McCormick was the first Seaparker home again (yawn) and was followed by Jonathan Beattie, Patrick Hughes (1st run at Carrickfergus), Gareth Hamill, Jenny Robinson, Philip Poag, Neill ‘I really kept it quite about my 50th parkrun outing’ Harper, Alyson Sangster (new parkrun PB of 30:35), Brendan Rice and Julie-Ann Mitchell.
The 22 Group went to Wallace, Lisburn. Robert Murray took 10th place (obtaining an overall 5K PB of 20:59) and even had time for some tea and cake before the 2nd Seaparker (Allan Grant) crossed the finish line (yes, with his barcode). They were followed by Derek Kane, Karen Waring, Trevor Lamb, Alan Poag, Michael Kane (a new member to the Michael Kane 22 NI parkrun 2016 challenge), Ruth Hawkins, who (would you Adam and Eve it) was beat to the finish line by her son Ethan, Glenda Murray and Geraldine Kane.
The 22 parkrun gang at Michael Kane’s first parkrun of 2016 at Wallace
If that wasn’t enough Becki Tester partook in her 1st run at Ecos, Ballymena, Gary Craig made another trip to Ormeau, Karen McMaster returned to Valley (achieving a Valley PB for 31:56) for the first time since their inaugural run many moons ago, and Ian Cleland & Sara Johnston (also getting ahead of Andy’s parkrun challenge) went to Larne.
Ian got a course PB for Larne with 20:12. That now makes Ian the top Seaparker at Larne, stealing the top spot from Bobbie Irvine (with a time of 20:58). That sound you hear is Bobbie running down to the Larne parkrun course for a short 126 hour warm-up before he does the Larne parkrun.
Becki Tester at Ecos
27th February
It was the latest Jog Graduation at Carrickfergus on 27th February. The parkrun was attended by Brendan Rice, Robert Steele (with a new parkrun PB of 21:42. Robert’s old PB was still 21:42, but at the much more flat Victoria), Jonathon Bell, Gillian Strudwick (with a parkrun PB of 23:28), Bobbie Irvine, Neill Harper, Karen Waring and unknown runner/s.
Unknown runner and Neill Harper at Carrickfergus
It was off to the 4th Anniversary run at Queens (#BaconButtyRun) for Allan Grant, Derek Kane, Trevor Lamb and Alan Poag. It was a bit like Thunderdome as four men started but only three men finished. Alan Poag either ran out too fast at the start, doesn’t understand the concept of laps (there was two, not one) or was just trying to be nice to Michael Kane by letting him catch up with the 22 challenge (as Michael’s only did one parkrun so far this year). The jury’s still out, but after running an 8:45 mile (his fastest in a while) Alan stopped after the first lap. Don’t worry folks, he was still well enough to eat the post run bacon butty straight after.
It was the first time at Queens for Allan Grant and Derek Kane (who just overtook Trevor Lamb at the last second) while Trevor Lamb managed to get a PB for the Queens course (26:03).
Allan Grant, Trevor Lamb, Alan Poag and Derek Kane at Queens
Four other Seaparkers went to Ecos (#NoBaconButtyRun). Mark Welsh (1st time at Ecos), Richard Hetherington (2nd time at Ecos), Alison Welsh (1st time at Ecos) and Karen McMaster (1st time at Ecos) all participated. Richard and Karen even used it as a warm-up for the ABO Wind NI Raceview 10K. That’s the second time this month that Karen’s used a parkrun as a warm-up for a race. The Larne half is coming up so I wonder if she’ll continue the trend?
Mark Welsh, Richard Hetherington, Alison Welsh and Karen McMaster at Ecos
I’m not aware of any children beating their parents this week, but if I’m wrong feel free to laugh at said parents to their faces. I do know that Gary Craig returned to Ormeau (with a new parkrun PB of 24:19), Iain Hunter went to Bangor (1st run at Bangor), Patrick Hughes attended Valley and Gavin Irvine went back to Hull.
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) is at 73 parkruns as off 27/02/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 72 parkruns as off 27/02/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) is at 71 parkruns as off 27/02/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) is at 70 parkruns as off 27/02/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
We now have 16 confirmed participants (though two have yet to start) for the 22 NI parkrun challenge as Colin ‘No Facebook’ McCrum has now joined. At the start of the month Bobbie Irvine and Glenda Murray where in the lead with 6 different parkruns each (Wait!! This is a race? Well no, but how else should I measure it?) while our leader Michael Kane was yet to start.Now the leaderboard looks a bit different. As of 27th February it looks like this.
The two charities are Brainwaves NI and Macmillian Cancer Support. Remember that if each of the two charities reaches the £2500 target then Michael Kane and Trevor Lamb will get their legs waxed and then run a 10K with nice waxed legs. You know that the suffering of others will make you feel better so dig deep.
March will see the return of Andy’s parkrun challenge, but remember it won’t start until 26/03/16. The rules are the same as last year but the courses are different. Between 26/03/16-29/10/16 participants will have 32 weeks to complete three different parkruns, plus volunteer at Carrickfergus at least once. The parkruns will be Carrickfergus, Larne and the third one will be any of the participants own choosing. Age grade percentage will decide the winner. So for most of us that means that the challenge will be stopping all the really fast runners from doing parkruns between 26/03/16-29/10/16.
Elisoa Crawford was third lady home overall at Born2Run’s Castlewellan 10K on 27/02/16 with a chip time of 42:54. Also in attendance where Ronald Simms (40:06), Gillian Cordner (44:29), Gary Connolly (47:48), Jennie Haggan (50:47), Colin McCrum (52:16), Becki Tester (59:38) and Marie Nicholson (1:01:43).
Elisoa Crawford at the Castlewellan B2R 10K
Richard Hetherington was the first Seaparker home at the ABO Wind NI Raceview 10K on 27/02/16 with a time of 45:40. First lady home for Seapark AC was Lynda Shannon with 49:23. They were followed by Thomas Dunlop (56:10), Jenny Robinson (56:34) and Karen McMaster (1:08:22).
Richard Hetherington at the ABO Wind NI Raceview 10K
Sunday 28/02/16 brought the Resolution Run 10K to Belfast. First Seaparker over the line was Ruth Hawkins with 55:39. She was followed by Trevor Lamb (59:22), Julie Marshall (1:04:13), Jacqui Coghlan (1:04:13), Micahel Kane (1:11:00), Geraldine Kane (1:11:00) and Carol Downey (1:14:06).
Bobbie ‘Duracell Battery’ Irvine at the Last One Standing Ultra
Ronald Simms represented Seapark AC at the Omagh CBS 10K on 20/02/16 with a time of 40:05. He was 18th out of a field of 183 runners.
The Last One Standing Ultra at Castle Ward was the main event of the weekend. It started with 104 athletes at 12pm on Saturday 20/02/16. They had 1 hour to complete a 4.2 mile route every hour on the hour until there was only one person, well, left standing. Seapark AC had two athletes taking part. Gillian Cordner finished after completing 12 * 4.2 mile laps (50.4 miles) while Bobbie Irvine finished in 1st place after 30 * 4.2 mile laps (126 miles) after second place winner Pat Staunton exceeded the hour limit (1:01:35) for lap 29. Go Seapark.
