Nice to see that members have been keeping up with parkrunning in 2017, and more importantly, keeping up with the cake.
Jonathan Beattie took 1st place at Carrickfergus on 2nd Sept. He was followed by Ben McCaughran, Paul Daniels, Laura Johnston, Catherine Steele, Trevor Lamb, Gemma Lovell and Kathleen McKeown.
There’s also still a bit of parkrun tourism going on this year, with 8 different NI parkruns being sprinted, ran, jogged, walked and/or crawled by Seapark members this week.
Helen Boyd achieved a course PB of 33:30 at Antrim.
Ronald Simms seized 6th place on his 1st run at Bangor.
Neil Harper and Karen Waring both participated in the Enniskillen parkrun before heading to Heaven via a Stairway later that same day.
Ryan Campbell completed his 1st run at Queens.
Ian Cleland finished in 4th place, while Sara Johnston ran a course PB of 24:46 at Stormont.
Karen McMaster and Richard Hetherington both attended Valley.
Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 25:03) and Gavin Irvine went to Victoria.
While Karen Foster was the lone Seaparker at Waterworks.
09/09/17
First cake of the month
There were three milestones reached on 9th Sept with Phillip Poag and Nicola Irvine both reaching their 100th parkrun each and Bobbie Irvine having the honour of being the first Seaparker to reach 200 parkruns (no official T-shirt for this but I’m sure Bobbie will create one).
William Jenkins was the first Seaparker to finish Carrickfergus parkrun this week. He was followed by Charlie McCormick, Ben McCaughran, Chris McCambridge, Trevor Lamb, Rebecca Tester, Simon Trimble, Phillip Poag (plotting around on his 100th parkrun), Rory Poag, Karen Poag and Michael Oglby.
Phil’s happy to change that red T-Shirt to a black one
While it was off to Colin Glen for Bobbie, Nicola and their posse. Bobbie Irvine was 1st on his 200th parkrun and was followed by Gavin Irvine (with a course PB of 24:40), Lynda Shannon (1st run at Colin Glen), Heather Haggan, Andrew Smyth (1st run at Colin Glen), Nicola Irvine (on her 100th parkrun), Karen McIlroy (1st run at Colin Glen), Julia Lyness (1st run at Colin Glen), Catherine Steele, Neill Harper (with a course PB of 30:03), Karen Waring, Sonja McIlfatrick (1st run at Colin Glen), Donna McKee (1st run at Colin Glen) and Dawn Lyness (1st run at Colin Glen).
The posse at Colin GlenMmmm, cake. Oh, and a few people celebrating running or something
Elsewhere Karen McMaster attended Ormeau, Kelly Miscandlon Portrush and Ronald Simms Wallace. While Jonathan Beattie was 1st over the line with an assisted PB (it says it in the results) with Molly at Valley, being followed by Gillian Bell and Richard Hetherington.
And at Victoria we had Brendan Rice, Matthew McCallan, Ryan Campbell (1st time at Victoria) and Allan Grant.
16/09/17
It was another good week for cake, this time supplied by Neil Harper (and Oska) for his 100th parkrun (whoop, whoop).
Oska doesn’t want to share the cake
Jonathan Beattie achieved an overall PB of 17:51 at Carrickfergus this week, coming in first. He was followed by Ian Cleland, Ben McCaughran, Robert Murray, Matthew McCallan, Lynda Shannon, Sara Johnston, Paul Daniels, Andrew Smyth, Chris McCambridge, Chris McMullan, Philip Poag, Karen Poag, Rebecca Tester, Gary Craig, Karen Waring, Jessica McMullan, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Laura Laverty, Julie Kelly, Neill Harper (on his 100th parkrun), Karen Bell, Lois Bell, Karen McMaster, Allan Grant, Susan Kane and Richard Hetherington.
Time to change another red to black
There was still a bit of tourism going on this week with Helen Boyd finishing her 1st run at Armagh, Barry Coleman going to Ormeau, Kelly Miscandlon visiting Portrush, Gavin Irvine (with a course PB of 28:11) & Bobbie Irvine running at Queens + Ronald Simms returning to Wallace.
23/09/17
Jonathan Beattie was the first Seaparker to finish at Carrickfergus this week. Also attending where William Jenkins, Ben McCaughran, Robert Steele, Gary Craig, Simon Trimble, Kathleen McKeown and Michael Ogilby.
The big one this week was the new Castewellan parkun, making the original 22 parkrun club (that became the 23 parkrun club and then the 24 parkrun club) into the 25 parkrun club. Bobbie Irvine, Neill Harper, Nicola Irvine, Allan Grant, Karen Waring, Karen McMaster, Glenda Murray and Geraldine Kane where in attendance.
The ‘Where’s number 26 going to be?’ group
Some of us still have to do this one.
This was a bit far for some members so Ian Cleland and Sara Johnston (with a course PB of 23:34) returned to Antirm, Barry Coleman went to Ormeau, Lynda Shannon (1st time), Kelly Miscandlon & Andrew Smyth (1st time) braved the beach of Portrush, Julie-Ann Mitchell was at Stormont, Karen Poag & Gillian Bell attended Valley + Colin McCrum & Karen McIlroy (1st time) chose to do their parkruns at Victoria.
30/09/17
Sara’s turn to supply the cake
Yea, it’s another cakerun at Carrick this week. Ian Cleland was 1st over the line at Carrickfergus for the last parkrun of September 2017. He was followed by Ben McCaughran, Brendan Rice, Paul Daniels, Sara Johnston (on her 50th parkrun), Chris McCambridge, Chris McMullan, Kathleen McKeown, Claire Hamilton (with an overall parkrun PB of 26:09), Julie Lyness, Jessica McMullan, Catherine Steele, Trevor Lamb, Laura Laverty, Gary Craig, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Julie Kelly, Susan Kane, Michael Ogilby, Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine and Marie Nicholson.
Sometimes we don’t even need to run for it
Elsewhere Sonja McIlfatrick went to Antrim for the 1st time to witness Donna McKee achieve a course PB of 31:00.
It was also 1st visits for Karen McIlroy (1st time at Citypark), Helen Boyd (1st time at Comber) and Ronald Simms (1st time at Omagh) this week.
While Ryan Campbell and Rebecca Tester (with a course PB of 27:47) ran at Ormeau and Kelly Miscandlon returned to Portrush.
Further afield (in Scotland) two Seaparkers added their names to the Pollok, Glasgow parkrun. Karen Waring and Neill Harper may now be on the list for Pollok but someone else is still the top Seaparker there.
I’m no 1
And finally Colin McCrum achieved a course PB of 24:17 at Roding Valley. Whoop whoop!
For the 2nd year running there was the option to do two different parkruns on New Years Day. Stormont and Valley at 09:30 and Antrim, Ormeau and Waterworks at 11:00.
According to the parkrun website here’s how many people did the double.
Stormont then Waterworks = 156.
Valley then Waterworks = 45.
Stormont then Ormeau = 146.
Valley then Ormeau = 5.
Stormont then Antrim = 17.
Valley then Antrim = 20.
09:30
Paul Daniels completed his 1st run at Stormont. He was followed by Nikita Murray (with a parkrun PB of 25:06), Robert Murray, Gavin Irvine, Bobbie Irvine, Allan Grant, Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 27:27), Rebecca Tester (with a parkrun PB of 27:39), Simon Trimble (with a course PB of 28:24), Julie Kelly, Gary Craig, Glenda Murray, Michael Kane, Trevor Lamb, Geraldine Kane (with a course PB of 32:00) and Alyn McChesney (1st run at Stormont).
While Richard Craig was the first Searparker to finish a tad icy Valley. He was followed by Clive Weatherhead, Julie-Ann Mitchell (with a course PB of 27:43), Philip Poag, Karen Poag, Karen Waring, Aimee Weatherhead, Sara Johnston, Derek Kane and Susan Kane.
11:00
Antrim at 11:00 had Clive Weatherhead, Neill Harper (and Oska), Phillip Poag, Karen Wearing, Karen McMaster, Aimee Weatherhead, Karen Poag, Julie-Ann Mitchell (1st time at Antrim) and Lorraine Ogilby (1st time at Antrim).
Clive WeatherheadClive WeatherheadNeill HarperNeill HarperPhillip PoagPhillip Poag (hopefully) starting a 2017 trend of not being beaten by a kidKaren WearingKaren WearingKaren McMasterAimee Weatherhead and Karen PoagJulie-Ann MitchellJulie-Ann MitchellLorraine OgilbyLorraine Ogilby
While the rest went to Waterworks (no members opted to go to Ormeau).
Some of the Waterworks group
Paul Daniels was the first Seaparker to finish. He was followed by Gavin Irvine, Bobbie Irvine, Janet McCullough (with a course PB of 24:50), Nicola Irvine, Nikita Murray, Robert Murray, Allan Grant, Rebecca Tester (her 2nd PB of the day with a course PB of 28:02), Gary Craig, Julie Kelly, Susan Kane, Trevor Lamb, Derek Kane, Michael Kane, Geraldine Kane, Nicola Dunlop (1st run at Waterworks), Thomas Dunlop (1st run at Waterworks), Alyn McChesney and Glenda Murray.
Everyone at Waterworks
7th January
Ian Cleland was the first member to finish at Carrickfergus in 2017. He was followed by Robert Murray, Ben McCaughran, Paul Daniels, Laura Johnston, Lynda Shannon, Robert Steele, Catherine Steele, Susan Kane, Neill Harper, Emma Pearson, Trevor Lamb, Karen Waring and Richard Hetherington.
While Gavin Irvine, Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 25:54) and Karen McMaster went to Ormeau.
The 1st outing for Karen McMaster’s 100 top
While Mark Welsh partook in his 1st run at Stormont with Alison Welsh (with a course PB of 27:47).
Mark and Alison (or is that Alison and Mark?) WelshAlsion Welsh and her 50 top
While a few others ran at Victoria. Richard Craig was followed by Ronald Simms (1st run at Victoria), Heather Haggan (1st run at Victoria), Gary Craig and Julie-Ann Mitchell (with a course PB of 28:37).
Richard CraigRonald Simms
Plus Gillian Bell went to Valley.
14th January
There were a lot of cancelations on 14th January but a few determined people still managed to find a parkrun to go to.
Rebecca Tester achieved a course PB of 29:49 at Larne.
It’s Rebecca Testers turn to pose with her 50 top
And Gary Craig returned to Ormeau.
But the majority of members (who managed to find a parkrun that was on) went to Victoria’s 300th parkrun. Everyone got a 59:59 time, but at least there was cake. Ian Cleland took 2nd place and was followed by Mark Welsh, Allan Grant, Gavin Irvine, Bobbie Irvine, Alison Welsh and Brendan Rice.
Ian ClelandAlison WelshSeaparkers waiting for cake
21st January
Robert Murray and Cody (with a course PB of 19:40) where the first members (Cody being an honourable member) to finish at Carrickfergus on 21st. They were followed by Richard Criag, William Jenkins, Ben McCaughran, Bobbie Irvine, Paul Daniels, Lynda Shannon, Rory Poag, Nicola Irvine, Philip Poag, Roisin McConnell, Catherine Steele, Glenda Murray, Derek Kane, Susan Kane, Alison Welsh, Michael Kane, Trevor Lamb, Julie Marshall, Geraldine Kane, Brendan Rice, Richard Hetherington & Carol Downey.
While elsewhere Gary Craig was at Ormeau, Ian Cleland, Sara Johnston, Karen Waring & Gillian Bell ran at Valley and outside of NI Gavin Irvine went to St. Andrews.
Gavin Irvine at St. Andrews
28st January
For the last parkrun of January Carrickfergus was attended by Richard Craig (1st place with a course PB of 17:51), Ian Cleland, Jonathan Beattie, Ben McCaughran, Jonathon Bell, Robert Steele, Lynda Shannon, Heather Haggan, Andrew Smyth, Laura Johnston, Gary Craig, Jessica Lyness, Carol Woods, Catherine Steele, Rebecca Tester (with a parkrun PB of 27:24), Neill Harper & Oska, Karen McMaster, Trevor Lamb, Derek Kane and Susan Kane.
Richard CraigIan ClelandJonathan BeattieJonathon BellLynda ShannonAndrew SmythRebecca TesterNeill Harper, Trevor Lamb & Derek KaneKaren McMasterSusan Kane
Antrim was attended by UTV. Seaparkers trying to get on TV included Robert Murray (with a course PB of 20:20), Nikita Murray (with a course PB of 25:11), Allan Grant, Simon Trimble (1st run at Antrim), Glenda Murray, Rory Poag (1st run at Antrim) and Philip Poag.
Robert MurrayNikita MurrayAllan GrantSimon TrimbleRory PoagPhilip Poag
Alison Welsh (with a course PB of 28:08) dragged Mark Welsh to Colin Glen for his first run there.
Mark WelshAlison Welsh
While Bobbie Irvine and Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 25:24) returned to Queens, Brendan Rice ran at Valley for the first time, Alyn McChesney went to Victoria for the first time + over on the mainland Aimee Weatherhead went to Long Eaton for the first time, while Gavin Irvine returned to St Andrews.
Richard Craig listened to my advice in the last parkrun report and gave someone else a chance at being 1st as he came 2nd in the Carrickfergus parkrun on 3rd December.
He was followed by Brendan Rice, Mark Welsh (with a course PB of 20:46), Ben McCaughran, Paul Daniels (with a parkrun PB of 21:27), Janet McCullough, Catherine Steele (with a parkrun PB of 25:56), Allan Grant, Laura Johnston, Karen McIlroy (with a parkrun PB of 27:07), Nikita Murray, Robert Murray, Ruth Hawkins, Alison Welsh, Richard Hetherington, Julie Marshall and Gillian Grant.
Allan Grant ticking another run of the listRobert Murray pacing Nikita MurrayRichard Hetherington taking it slow for onceAlison Welsh getting in another speed workout for her marathon trainingAs as Julie MarshallRuth ‘Speedy’ HawkinsAnd Mark Welsh plodding along
Elsewhere Gary Craig & Ross Gilmore returned to Antrim.
Gary Craig at Antrim
And Derek Kane accompanied Susan Kane to her 1st run at Victoria.
Derek and Susan Kane at Victoria
Plus Colin McCrum attended his 1st run at Armagh, Ann McCracken ran at Ormeau and Ronald Simms went to Wallace.
10th December
The 10th December was another week without a Seaparker in first place at Carrickfergus. William Jenkins was the first club member over the line. He was followed by Robert Murray, Jonathan Beattie, Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Colin McCrum, Catherine Steele, Simon Trimble, Derek Kane, Richard Hetherington, Susan Kane (with a course PB of 29:25), Julie-Ann Mitchell, Neill Harper, Alison Welsh and Julie Marshall.
Robert ‘Billy Wizz’ MurrayBobbie and the WavesSusan Kane PBRichard Hetherington taking it easy againAlison Welsh posing for the 2017 ‘This Girl Can’ campaignOska looking out for some cakeWilliam Jenkins making sure he’s the top Seaparker this weekJonathan Beattie and his beardOne of the Bobbie and the Waves groupiesColin Crum always has time to pose for the camera
Gary Craig and Karen McMaster (with a course PB of 28:54) ran at Antrim.
Gary’s optimistic about the winter weather in NIKaren McMaster showing of her apricot top at Antrim
While Allan Grant was making sure he reaches his 100th parkrun by years end by attending Falls with both Philip Poag & Karen Poag (1st run at Falls).
Richard Craig, Ian Cleland and Sara Johnston (with a course PB of 24:49) returned to Valley.
Karen Waring obtained a season’s best of 25:14 at Victoria.
And further afield Rebecca Tester attended her 1st parkrun at Oxford.
Becki Tester showing of the Seapark brand
19th December
I don’t know what’s going on but the 17th December was another week with Richard Craig not in first place at Carrickfergus. He was the first Seaparker to finish and was followed by Ian Cleland, Jonathan Beattie, William Jenkins, Ben McCaughran, Paul Daniels, Andrew Smyth, Laura Johnston, Karen McIlroy (with a parkrun PB of 26:04), Claire Hamilton, Catherine Steele, Karen Bell (with a parkrun PB of 28:55), Lynda Shannon, Neill Harper, Julie Marshall & Susan Kane.
The rest of the 24 NI parkrun group (+ a few others) attended Rostrevor (as some went on to do the B2R race after). That makes another 7 to complete all 24 NI parkruns this year. Bobbie Irvine was the first Seaparker to finish. Gavin Irvine was next, then came Nikita Murray, Colin McCrum, Allan Grant, Nicola Irvine, Julie Kelly, Derek Kane, Rebecca Tester, Glenda Murray and (the only person to do it twice) Geraldine Kane.
The Rostrevor 2 groupNikita Murray finishing off her 24Bobbie dosn’t have time to wave this weekBecki Teater getting into the festive spirit
Gary Craig, Philip Poag and Karen Poag (with a course PB of 26:25) went to Antrim.
The Poags car selfie 1
While Ann McCracken ran at Ormeau.
And Richard Hetherington achieved a parkrun/overall PB of 19:15 at the original Bushy parkrun.
Richard was in the hunt for 250 tops at Bushy parkrun
Christmas Eve
The very festive Christmas Eve run was sponsored by Carrickfergus Vineyard Church who supplied lots and lots (and lots) of buns (but no cake) for Allan Grants 100th parkrun.
But seriously peeps, Robert Murray was the first Seaparker to finish and he wasn’t in 1st place. Tut Tut. He was followed by Jonathan Beattie, Ben McCaughran, Mark Welsh, Gillian Strudwick, Laura Johnston, Nikita Murray (with a course PB of 26:32), Gavin Irvine, Bobbie Irvine, Lynda Shannon, Catherine Steele, Karen McIlroy, Allan Grant (on his 100th parkrun, finally), Paul Daniels, Alison Welsh, Andrew Smyth, Rebecca Tester, Derek Kane, Neil Harper, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Michael Kane, Trevor Lamb, Nicola Dunlop, Thomas Dunlop, Richard Hetherington, Julie Marshall, Karen Waring, Susan Kane & Glenda Murray.
A not so wise man finishing his 100th parkrunMark Welsh is getting in on this jumping thingTrevor Lamb getting back into the gameOne reindeer and his dogSanta BeattieSanta KaneSanta MurrayAnd Santa HetheringtonMichael FirAnd the Three Wise Men of Carrickfergus
Elsewhere Ian Cleland returned to Valley, Ronald Simms Wallace and Richard Craig Waterworks.
And the Poags (no, not the ones you’re fed up with by Christmas Eve) went to Portobello.
The Poags car selfie 2
Christmas Day
On Christmas Day there was two main local parkruns running.
The bulk of Seapark members went to Valley. They included Jonathan Beattie (with a course PB of 20:20), Robert Murray (with a course PB of 20:51), Paul Daniels (1st time at Valley), Mark Welsh (with a course PB of 23:06), Clive Weatherhead, Ryan Weatherhead (1st time at Valley), Andrew Smyth (1st time at Valley), Lynda Shannon (1st time at Valley), Nikita Murray (with a course PB of 27:44), Alison Welsh (course PB of 28:10), Aimee Weatherhead (1st time at Valley), Neill Harper (for Oska’s 50th parkrun), Karen Waring, Glenda Murray & Karen McMaster.
Santa McMasterJonathan Beattie going for a PBAs is Mark WelshAnd Alison WelshIs Andy Smyth testing out the course for his next parkrun challenge?Aimee Weatherhead’s first time at ValleyMrs ClauseOska and his humanMrs Clause with a volunteerSantas little helpers Glenda and Nikita MurrayEveryone celebrating Oska’s 50th
While the no PB club went to Waterworks. They where Gavin Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Bobbie Irvine & Gary Craig.
The Irvine’s don’t need any PBs todayNicola is beating Bobbie, it must be ChristmasGary Craig
While further afield the Poags went to Livingston parkrun.
Livingstone parkrun, I presume
New Years Eve
Ian Cleland was the first Seaparker to cross the line for the last parkrun of 2016. He was followed William Jenkins, Ben McCaughran (with a parkrun PB of 20:57), Mark Welsh, Gavin Irvine (with a course PB of 23:18), Nicola Irvine, Julie Lyness (with a parkrun PB of 26:01), Catherine Steele, Lynda Shannon, Philip Poag, Allan Grant, Laura Laverty, Karen Waring, Gary Craig, Julie Kelly, Simon Trimble, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Derek Kane, Susan Kane, Trevor Lamb, Michael Kane, Karen Poag, Glenda Murray, Geraldine Kane, Alyn McChesney, Julie Marshall & Alison Welsh.
Yes, I am training for the London Marathon said Glealdine Kane to Glenda MurrayAlyn McChesneyWho’s idea was it to do a parkrun the day after our 1st marathon said Alison Welsh to Julie MarshallTrevor LambDerek KaneGary CraigJulie KellyGavin IrvineWilliam JenkinsMark ‘no longer the only marathoner in the family’ WelshMichael Kane and Karen PoagDerek ‘I’m going to use this as my profile pic so people think I can beat Ian’ Kane with Ian ClelandSusan KanePhilip Poag, Allan Grant and Karen WerimgSome very happy runnersJulie LynessAnd the two marathon girls who don’t understand the concept of a rest day
Elsewhere Richard Craig took 1st place at Antrim (with a course PB 17:51). Also in attendance where Ronald Simms (course PB 19:33) and Heather Haggan (1st run at Antrim) + Karen McMaster returned to Ormeau, Richard Hetherington Portrush and Rebecca Tester achieved a course PB 29:12 at Valley.
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) finished her 100th parkrun on 15/10/16. Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) finished her 100th parkrun on 29/10/16. Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) finished his 100th parkrun on 29/10/16. Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) finished his 100th parkrun on 24/12/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100.
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
Everyone has now finished the original 22 (and Rostrevor) NI parkruns. Though someone still has to finish Omagh (the 23).
Derek Kane
Completed 02/07/16 and 1st Male Winner.
Glenda Murray
Completed 02/07/16 and 1st Female Winner.
Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Robert Murray and Alan Poag all completed their 22nd parkrun on 13/08/16, Karen Waring completed her 22nd parkrun on 03/09/16, Trevor Lamb and Rebecca Tester completed their 22nd one on 17/09/16, Allan Grant completed his on 24/09/16, Alison Welsh completed hers on 01/10/16, Nikita Murray completed hers on 08/10/16, Michael Kane finished his last one on 05/11/16 + Julie Kelly & Geraldine Kane finished theirs on 19/11/16.
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.
Andy’s parkrun challenge ended on 29th October and the winners where announced at the prize giving dinner on 26th November.
25-29 winners
Ian Cleland & Sara Johnston.
30-34 winner
Simon Trimble.
It appears we don’t have any 30-34 females in Seapark as they are all insisting that they are still only 29.
35-39 winners
Jonathan Beattie & Alison Welsh.
40-44 winners
Trevor Lamb & Gillian Strudwick.
45-49 winners
Charlie McCormick & Karen Waring.
50+
Bobbie Irvine.
No female 50+ winner because if there were it would only have been Bobbie in a skirt.
Everyone had to do Carrickfergus, Larne and one other + volunteer at Carrickergus at least once.
For their third parkrun choice Ian & Sara did Waterworks, Charlie & Jonathan did Valley, Bobbie Cookstown, Gillian Queens, Karen Limavady, Alison Craigavon, Trevor Princes, Liverpool and Simon Amager Felled, Copenhagen.
OIt has been a very successful year for Seapark AC with the club growing to almost 150 members and several members achieving podium places and in some cases winning running events. With the increased number of members the club handicap races have taken on a bigger meaning this year with a lot of rivalry going on throughout the year. This made this year’s prize giving night the biggest since the club was formed 10 years ago in 1996 with almost 100 friends and family attending the event on 26th November.
The club did their traditional 5K, 2.75 mile forest race, 5 mile & 10K races plus this year a 10 mile road race was introduced. In a lot of cases the runners excelled beyond their own and the coach’s expectations to make the very interesting handicap series.
First up for the series was the 5K race with all of the first 3 over all the line being female.
3rd place went to Jessica Lyness, 2nd to Becki Tester and the winner of the race was Nicola Dunlop.
Mark and BeckiMark and NicolaMark, Nicola and shield
Next up was the 2.75 mile Forest Race. This is a lot of members favourite and due to the increased numbers a new course was designed by Bobbie Irvine around Woodburn Reservoir. 3rd over the line was Beth McCormick, 2nd for the first of his podium finishes was Colin McCrum and 1st was Patrick Hughes.
Mark and ColinMark, Patrick and shield
The third race of the series was the much loved 5 miler. Ronald Simms crossed the line in 3rd Place, Colin McCrum took his second 2nd place and 1st over the line was Charlie McCormick.
Mark and 30 10Ks guyMark and Colin againMark, Charlie and shield
The fourth race in the series was the newly introduced 10 mile road race designed by new Head Coach Karen Poag. Runners excelled in this race with a lot of members not having covered this distance before. 3rd over the line for this race was Catherine Steele, 2nd place went to Ian Cleland and Ronald Simms crossed the finish line in 1st place for the second of his podium finishes.
Mark and CatherineMark and IanMark and that other guy again
The fifth and final race in the series returned to one of our traditional events in the form of a 10K. In 3rd place was Marie Nicholson, 2nd place went to Aimee Weatherhead and 1st place went to Rory Poag.
Mark and not AimeeMark and Heather (not Marie or Rory)
Every member who completed all 5 events had the opportunity of taking home the Overall Handicap Series trophy and Plaque. It took great commitment to complete all the events throughout the year, so well done to those who completed all five events.
The 3rd placed Male runner was Jonathan Beattie, 2nd Male was Ronald Simms and the male winner was Richard Craig. Richard not only won the series, but set new records for 4 of the 5 races in the male category.
Mark and JonathanThem two againMark and the new Ian
In the female category, Heather Haggan finished in 3rd place, Caroline Saulters finished in 2nd place and the winner was Elisoa Crawford. Elisoa set the female course record for all 5 events.
The club race winners
Throughout the year a lot of members took part in the training on a regular basis and 2 members were awarded for their dedication. Charlie McCormick and Alison Dunlop topped the list of members who attended most throughout the year.
Mark and AlisonMark, Charlie and a very pink trophy
To reflect the growth of parkrun in Northern Ireland Andy Smyth created a Challenge whereby members had to complete 3 parkruns and volunteer at the local parkrun in Carrickfergus. Ian Cleland and Sara Johnston won the 25-29 category, Simon Trimble won the 30-34 category, Jonathan Beattie and Alison Welsh won the 35-39 category, Trevor Lamb and Gillian Strudwick won the 40-44 category, Charlie McCormick and Karen Waring won the 45-49 category and last but not least Bobbie Irvine won the 50+ category.
The parkrun winners
Well done to all those who completed this increasingly popular challenge.
The Seapark AC Performence of the year Award went to Bobbie Irvine for all the laughing (and a bit of running) he did this year.
Mark and Bobbie
While the Ownies Bar and Bistro Achievemrnt Award went to Ann McCracken for #STC10K.
People who are not MarkMore people who are not Mark
And the Seapark AC Runners’ Runner of 2016 Award (as voted for by members) went to #STC10K cover girl Karen Poag.
Richard Craig made up for the lack of PBs at Carrickfergus on 5th November by taking 1st place, there is that at least.
Richard at Carrickfergus
He was followed by William Jenkins, Jonathan Beattie, Robert Steele, Philp Poag, Catherine Steele, Bobbie Irvine, Susan Kane, Karen McMaster, Neill Harper (and Oska), Julie-Ann Mitchell, Karen Bell and Karen Waring.
Susan KaneNeill Harper and OskaBobbie is trying to beat Becki at this jumping thing
Alison Welsh, Glenda Murray (with a course PB of 31:53) and Carol Downey (1st run on this course) went to Craigavon with Geraldine Kane (1st run at Craigavon) who has now completed 21 of the 23 (so far) NI parkruns this year.
The Craigavon gang
Derek Kane retuned to Larne to help Michael Kane finish his 22/23 (soon to be 24) challenge. It was Michael’s 1st run at Larne.
You’re nearly finished the challenge Michael ?Cupcakes for everyone for Michael’s 23 NI parkrun challangeBless him, Michael dosn’t know yet that there will be a 24th NI parkrun starting soon (he found out stright after)
Richard Hetherington enjoyed the fresh autumn air at Valley.
Stay frosty people
And Ronald Simms returned to familiar ground by going to Wallace.
Ronald Simms at Wallace
Elsewhere Ian Cleland was 1st on his 1st appearance at Falls, Alan Poag turned his 22 challenge into 23 by attending Omagh for the first time, Colin McCrum went back to Queens while Brendan Rice and Ann McCracken both ran at Victoria.
12th November
Seapark took over the volunteering duties at Carrickfergus parkrun on 12th with every position being filled by a Seaparker.
It appears professional photographer wasn’t one of the roles this week
William Jenkins was the first Seaparker to finish and was followed by Jonathan Beattie, Ben McCaughran, Chris Hogg, Paul Daniels, Catherine Steele, Colin McCrum, Richard Hetherington, Karen McIlroy (with a parkrun PB of 28:17), Claire Hamilton and Simon Trimble.
Susan Kane & Geraldine Kane both attended their 1st run each at Bangor.
Geraldine and Susan at BangorGeraldine Kane before the dark times (AKA before the marathon training)Susan can hid form the photographer but not from me
Bobbie Irvine, Allan Grant, Nicola Irvine and Derek Kane all went to Omagh for the 1st time each, turning their 22 parkrun challenges into 23.
Another four people to reach the 23 NI parkrun challengeDerek Kane’s Omagh action shotNicola Irvine’s action shot
Elsewhere Richard Craig attended his 1st run at Ormeau, while at Queens there was Ian Cleland (1st run at Queens) & Sarah Johnston (with a parkrun PB of 24:29).
19th November
Richard Craig took another 1st place position at Carrickfergus on 19th November.
Richard give someone else a chance please
He was followed by Chris Hogg, Jonathan Beattie, Emily Smiley (parkrun PB of 25:09), Catherine Steele, Allan Grant, Derek Kane & Susan Kane.
Forrest Gump
The 19th was the date that the Team Blue/Pink ‘original’ 22 parkrun challenge came to an end with Robert Murray attending his 2nd run at Derry for the boys (to run on behalf of Mark Welsh who pulled out of the challenge earlier in the year).
Robert Murry made the long trip to Derry on his own to make sure the boys didn’t lose the challangeRobert’s Derry acton shot
While the girls finished in Armagh. Michael Kane (with a course PB of 31:51) accompanied both Julie Kelly and Geraldine Kane who where finishing the original 22 challenge. It was the first time at Armagh for both girls.
Julie and Geraldine with Micahel the traiter at Armagh
This was also the week of the Valley mannequin challenge. If you haven’t seen the video yet then stop what you’re doing and watch it now.
Ian Cleland was the first Seaparker home and he was followed by Richard Hetherington, Bobbie Irvine, Philip Poag (with a course PB of 25:55), Karen Poag and Karen McMaster.
Seaparks own version of Westworld
Elsewhere Karen Wearing attended Antrim + William Jenkins achieved a parkrun PB on his 1st run at Victoria. He was followed by Gary Craig and Brendan Rice. Then Ronald Simms returned to Wallace. While further afield Paul Daniels attended Cassiobury parkrun.
Bur not to be outdone Mark Welsh and Alison Welsh attended Crissy Field parkrun in San Francisco.
Some would say the US a long way to go for a parkrunMark with some bridge in the backgroudAlison wan’t happy that she had to remove her sunglasses
26th November
Just to be different Richard Craig took the 1st place spot at Carrickfergus. He was followed by Ian Cleland, Jonathan Beattie, Ben McCaughran (with a parkrun PB of 21:14), Robert Steel, William Jenkins, Colin McCrum, Sara Johnston, Catherine Steele, Claire Hamilton, Derek Kane, Karen McIlroy (parkrun PB of 28:04), Julie Lyness, Rebecca Tester (on her 50th parkrun), Gillian Strudwick, Neill Harper, Brendan Rice and Susan Kane.
Becki’s 50th parkrunIt wouldn’t be a parkrun report without some cake
The 22 parkrun challenge (that then became the 23 parkrun challenge) has now become (you’ve guessed it) the 24 parkrun challenge. Rostrevor parkrun started on 26th November.
The start of NI’s newest parkrun
Attending the very first event (and thus becoming the first people to do all 24 NI parkruns) where Robert Murray, Karen Waring, Alison Welsh, Alan Poag, Michael Kane, Trevor Lamb and Geraldine Kane.
Mark Welsh also attended.
The magnificent seven (and Mark) at the gateway to NarniaLittle did Geraldine know at this time that she would be crowned Queen of the London Marathon ballot
While that was going on Gary Craig achieved a course PB of 25:02 at Queens, Philip Poag and Karen Poag (with a course PB of 27:04) returned to Valley, Ann McCracken went to Victoria and Karen McMaster attended her 1st run at Newcastle (Upon Tyne).
Karen at Newcastle
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) ran her 100th parkrun on 15/10/16. Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) ran her 100th parkrun on 29/10/16. Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) also ran his 100th parkrun on 29/10/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 96 parkruns as off 26/11/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100.
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
Everyone has now finished the original 22 NI parkruns. Though a few still have to finish Omagh (the 23) and Rostrevor (the 24).
Derek Kane
Completed 02/07/16 and 1st Male Winner.
Glenda Murray
Completed 02/07/16 and 1st Female Winner.
Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Robert Murray and Alan Poag all completed their 22nd parkrun on 13/08/16, Karen Waring completed her 22nd parkrun on 03/09/16, Trevor Lamb and Rebecca Tester completed their 22nd one on 17/09/16, Allan Grant completed his on 24/09/16, Alison Welsh completed hers on 01/10/16, Nikita Murray completed hers on 08/10/16, Michael Kane finished his last one on 05/11/16 + Julie Kelly & Geraldine Kane finished theirs on 19/11/16.
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.
Andy’s parkrun challenge ended on 29th October and the winners where announced at the prize giving dinner on 26th November.
25-29 winners
Ian Cleland & Sara Johnston.
30-34 winner
Simon Trimble.
It appears we don’t have any 30-34 females in Seapark as they are all insisting that they are still only 29.
35-39 winners
Jonathan Beattie & Alison Welsh.
40-44 winners
Trevor Lamb & Gillian Strudwick.
45-49 winners
Charlie McCormick & Karen Waring.
50+
Bobbie Irvine.
No female 50+ winner because if there were it would only have been Bobbie in a skirt.
The Andy’s parkrun challenge winners
Everyone had to do Carrickfergus, Larne and one other + volunteer at Carrickergus at least once.
For their third parkrun choice Ian & Sara did Waterworks, Charlie & Jonathan did Valley, Bobbie Cookstown, Gillian Queens, Karen Limavady, Alison Craigavon, Trevor Princes, Liverpool and Simon Amager Felled, Copenhagen.
No first place finishers for Searpark at Carrickfergus this week. Jonathan Beattie was the first Seaparker to finish in a pitiful 6 position. He was followed by Bobbie Irvine, Laura Johnston (with her 1st ever parkrun), Nicola Irvine (course PB of 25:42), Jessica Lyness (parkrun PB of 26:10), Julie Lyness (parkrun PB of 26:31), Catherine Steele, Gary Craig & Julie-Ann Mitchell.
Richard Craig attended his 1st run at Antrim (with 2nd place) while Rebecca Tester achieved a course PB of 29:05.
Becki at AntrimAntrim parkrun used this as their cover photo
Another member of the 22 challenge finished today at Craigavon. Alison Welsh on her 1st run at Craigavon got a parkrun PB of 26:31. Not to be outdone Mark Welsh, also on his 1st run at Craigavon, got a parkrun PB of 20:47 & Allan Grant ran a course PB of 24:21.
I wonder how many NI parkruns Alison has done?Mark makes a guest appearance at a parkrun
Trevor Lamb returned to Falls with Michael Kane & Geraldine Kane (1st run at Falls).
Falls selfie
At least someone got a 1st place finish this week. Robert Murray took 1st place at Stormont while equalling his parkrun PB of 19:43. Nikita Murray & Glenda Murray also attended.
Waiting at the start of StormontRobert was 1st at StormontIs Glenda beating Robert?
Ian Cleland came 2nd at Waterworks (not 1st, boo!) with a course PB of 18:52. Also in attendance where Paul Daniels (1st run at Waterworks), Patrick Hughes (course PB of 23:30) & Sara Johnston (parkrun PB of 24:39).
Ian Cleland at WaterworksPatrick Hughes at Waterworks
Elsewhere there was Richard Hetherington at Limavady, Julie Kelly on her 1st run at Ormeau, Karen McMaster + Clive Weatherhead (1st time) at Valley & Gillian Strudwick (with a parkrun PB of 23:02) at Victoria.
8th October
It was back to a Seaparker finishing in first place at Carrickfergus on 8th with Ian Cleland taking the podium spot. Following him where Charlie McCormick, William Jenkins, Robert Murray (with a course PB of 19:56), Jonathan Beattie, Bobbie Irvine, Rory Poag (parkrun PB of 24:58), Nikita Murray (1st run at Carrickfergus and finishing her 22 challenge), Julie-Ann Mitchell, Glenda Murray & Toma Gerasimaite.
Trevor Lamb returned to Portrush to help the remaining participants of the 22 group tick another parkrun off their lists. He was the first Seaparker to finish (not often he can say that) and was followed by Julie Kelly (1st run at Portrush), Michael Kane (1st run at Portrush) & Geraldine Kane (1st run at Portrush).
Trevor ‘1st Seaparker home’ LambJulie KellyYou can see Trevor waiting at the finish line. Just sayingMichael Kane is beginning to wonder why he came up with the 22 challengeGeraldine Kane at Portrush
Elsewhere in NI Gary Craig & Ann McCracken attended Ormeau, Susan Kane went on her 1st run at Valley, while Gillian Bell got a course PB of 34:12 at the same parkrun + Brendan Rice & Colin McCrum returned to Victoria.
Further afield Philip Poag & Karen Poag both participated in their 1st run each at Marlay.
The Poags car selfie.
15th October
The Race to 100 had its first finisher this week with Karen McMaster at Carrickfergus (yea!)
Richard Craig was first over the line at Carrickfergus on 15th October. He was followed by William Jenkins, Bobbie Irvine, Allan Grant, Laura Johsnston (2nd parkrun with a PB of 24:53), Colin McCrum, Jessica Lyness (10th parkrun and everyone a PB, 25:53 this week), Catherine Steele, Simon Trimble, Karen McMaster (on her 100th parkrun) & Julie-Ann Mitchell.
Someone didn’t mention to anyone it was her 100th parkrun. It was Karen McMaster. Congrats.
Charlie McCormick and Susan Kane both ran their 1st run each at Larne.
Charlie McCormick showing of his 50 top at LarneAs is new 50 member Susan Kane
The 22 challenge became 23 with Seapark attending week 2 of the new Omagh course for the first time.
Rober Murray set the Seapark time to beat at Omagh
Robert Murray took 3rd place with a parkrun PB of 19:29 & Mark Welsh was 6th with a parkrun PB of 20:35. Then came Karen Waring, Nikita Murray (with a parkrun PB of 26:27), Neill Harper and Oska (who was the 1st dog to finish), Alison Welsh, Michael Kane (who beat Trevor Lamb by one second), Trevor Lamb (who didn’t beat Michael Kane), Glenda Murray & Geraldine Kane.
Oska just came to Omagh for the cake1st dog over the line. Oska’s wondering “When am I getting my own barcode?”
Elsewhere Julie Kelly completed her 1st run at Limavady, Ann McCracken returned to Ormeau, Rory Poag attended Valley for the first time with Karen Poag & Phillip Poag + Gary Craig went to Waterworks.
22nd October
Alison Welsh made sure Carrickfergus parkrun knew it was her 50th parkrun
Richard Craig took the podium spot at Carrickfergus on 22nd October with a course PB of 17:56. He was followed by William Jenkins, Jonathon Bell, Bobbie Irvine, Charlie McCormick, Laura Johnston, Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 25:30), Alison Welsh (with a parkrun PB of 26:21 on her 50th parkrun), Catherine Steele, Karen Poag, Derek Kane, Trevor Lamb, Chloe Anderson, Neill Harper (and Oska) & Elise Park (with a course PB of 35:52).
That’s a nice cakeDosen’t Alison look good for 50. What?! 50 parkruns, Oh.
Julie Kelly attended her 1st run at Antrim with a parkrun PB of 26:42.
Julie Kelly getting another parkrun of the challenge at Antrim
Ronald Simms was the 1st finisher on his 1st appearance at Colin Glen.
‘Taking it easy’ still results in a 1st place finish for Ronald Simms at Colin Glen
A few excited Seaparkers attended Larne for Andy’s parkrun challenge. Robert Murray was the first Seaparker to finish (with a course PB of 20:23) and he was followed by Jonathan Beattie (1st run at Larne), Colin McCrum, Simon Trimble (with a course PB of 28:36) & Karen McMaster (1st run at Larne).
The guys at Larne just found out about the cake at Carrickfergus
Rebecca Tester turned her 22 parkrun challenge into 23 by attending Omagh for the 1st time.
Rebecca Tester just can’t wait until the 24th parkrun starts (wherever that may be)
The third Seaparker of the week to obtain a 1st place finish was Ian Cleland at Stormont (with a course PB of 19:05).
Ian Cleland made it to 88 and ended up back in a time when the world was black and white.
Elsewhere Robert Steele did his 1st run at Portrush. Queens was attended by Gillian Strudwick (1st run at Queens with a parkrun PB of 22:48), Andrew Smyth (1st run at Queens) & Gary Craig. Gillian Bell achieved a course PB of 33:07 at Valley, while Allan Grant did the same (course PB of 24:14) at Waterworks.
29th October
Carrickfergus parkrun on the 29th October was the event everyone had been waiting for all year, but that was most likely due to the fact they knew there would be cake. That said, it was the 100th parkrun each for both Glenda Murray and Trevor Lamb + it was the big five-o for Karen Poag (again I mean parkruns, not age). Both Glenda and Trevor took a wee dander around the three lap course to make everyone wait for the cake.
Whoop whoop, a 50 cake for Karen PoagAnd a 100 one for Glenda Murray and Trevor LambPutting the Seapark tent to good use
The Pink Flamingo aka Ian Cleland was 1st over the line and was followed by William Jenkins (with a parkrun PB of 19:31 – He must really wanted to catch that flamingo), Mark Welsh, Charlie McCormick, Paul Daniels (with a parkrun PB of 21:45), Bobbie Irvine, Jonathon Bell, Allan Grant, The Red Queen aka Sara Johnston (with a course PB of 25:10), Laura Johnson, one of the Witches of Shaftesbury Park aka Gillian Strudwick, Catherine Steele, Claire Hamilton (with a parkrun PB of 26:59), Nikita Murray (with a course PB of 27:33), a mindless zombie aka Robert Murray, Derek Kane, the Human Baker aka Karen Poag (on her 50th parkrun), Rory Poag, the only S Club 7 fan left aka Philip Poag, Karen McIlroy (with a parkrun PB of 28:29), Simon Trimble, Alison Welsh, the second Witch of Shaftesbury Park (but is she the good Witch of the North or the evil Witch of the East?) aka Julie-Ann Mitchell, Susan Kane (with a course PB of 29:33), Kara Zor-El aka Kara Danvers aka Supergirl aka Rebecca Tester, Karen Bell, Richard Hetherington, the Dread Pirate Roberts aka Oska with Neill Harper, a zombie cheerleader aka Karen McMaster, Nicola Dunlop, Thomas Dunlop, Gillian Bell, Mario aka Murrio aka Glenda Murray (on her 100th parkrun), Luigi aka Lamigi aka Trevor Lamb (on his 100th parkrun) and Darth Vader aka Karen Waring.
This flamingo ain’t playing any croquetI heard Sara Johnson bites the heads of jelly babiesRobert’s more likely to be in The Running Dead than that other showThough that would be more like Karen McMaster’s speedDarth Vader’s about to hit me for that commentIt’s Murrio and Lamigi being chased by the DarthGillian is ‘flying’ around the courseIt’s the Dread Pirate Roberts and his trusty sidekick NeillBecki knew that if she started to fly around the course she wouldn’t get a parkrun creditAnother Mario? Must be Wario with the Human Baker and the last S Club 7 fan
Colin McCrum and Nicola Irvine missed out on the cake by going to Stormont.
Colin’s beginning to see that if he had Facebook he would know where all the cake would be
Richard Craig got a parkrun PB of 17:22 on his 1st run at Victoria while Gary Craig and Brendan Rice also attended.
Gary Craig at Waterworks
Elsewhere Ronald Simms went to Falls for the first time while Ann McCracken returned to Ormeau.
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) finished her 100th parkrun on 15/10/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) finished her 100th parkrun on 29/10/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) finished his 100th parkrun on 29/10/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 94 parkruns as off 29/10/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100.
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
Team Blue for the boys and Team Pink for the girls.
As of 29/10/16 there are 10 parkruns left to the end of the year (if you count Christmas Day).
12 people have finished the original 22 (with 7 on 23 thanks to Omagh).
Derek Kane finished his 22nd parkrun 02/07/16
1st Male Winner.
Glenda Murray finished her 22nd parkrun 02/07/16
1st Female Winner.
Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Robert Murray and Alan Poag all completed their 22nd parkrun on 13/08/16.
Karen Waring completed her 22nd parkrun on 03/09/16.
Trevor Lamb and Rebecca Tester completed theirs on 17/09/16.
Allan Grant completed his on 24/09/16.
Alison Welsh completed hers on 01/10/16.
Nikita Murray finished hers on 08/10/16.
Team Blue (the rest for Mark) – 1 left as of 29/10/16.
Michael Kane – 1 left as of 29/10/16.
Julie Kelly – 1 left as of 29/10/16.
Geraldine Kane – 3 left as of 29/10/16.
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 with nice waxed legs. You know that the suffering of others will make you feel better so dig deep.
It’s now complete. Between 26/03/16-29/10/16 participants had 32 weeks to complete three different parkruns, plus volunteer at Carrickfergus (and wear a hi viz vest) at least once. The parkruns included Carrickfergus, Larne and the third one was any of the participants own choosing. Age grade percentage will decide the winner. Results to be confirmed.
This month we had a Seaparker finish in first place at every Carrickfergus parkrun.
Richard Craig was 1st to finish on 3rd September. He was followed by Charlie McCormick, William Jenkins, Paul Daniels, Gavin Irvine, Robert Steele, Emily Smiley, Colin McCrum, Catherine Steele & Karen McMaster.
Four people finished their 22 NI parkrun challenge this month, the first of which was Karen Waring at Larne.
Photographic evidence that Karen Waring finished the 22 challenge.
Gillian Strudwick was the first Seaparker to finish (with a course PB of 23:45). After her came Andrew Smyth (course PB of 25:02), Karen Waring (who finished the 22 challenge with a course PB of 27:41), Nikita Murray (1st run at Larne), Trevor Lamb, Alison Welsh (course PB of 29:45), Neill Harper (and Oska), Glenda Murray & Geraldine Kane (1st run at Larne).
At Limavady there was Richard Hetherington (with a parkrun PB of 19:26) and Allan Grant (1st run at Limavady).
Richard and Allan at Limavady.
Philip Poag got a course PB of 25:58 at Valley. Also in attendance where Julie-Ann Mitchell (1st run at Valley ) and Karen Poag.
Will Julie-Ann like this photo?Philip Poag running at his second home.
Bobbie Irvine and Nicola Irvine (course PB of 25:57) attended Portobello, Edinburgh.
Checking they have their barcodes.Bobbie out for a stroll (while everyone else is running).I hope Bobbie’s lapped that kid (who’s walking).Someone’s in the zone.Strike a pose.
Elsewhere Rebecca Tester attended her first run at Derry, Gary Craig went to Queens, Brendan Rice ran at Victoria while at Wallace there was Ronald Simms and Julie Kelly (1st run at Wallace).
10th September
Ian Cleland was 1st to finish at Carrickfergus on 10th. Following him where William Jenkins, Robert Murray (course PB of 19:57), Jonathon Bell, Paul Daniels, Jennifer Jackson, Derek Kane, Colin McCrum, Karen McMaster, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Lindsay Roberts (parkrun PB of 30:49) and Toma Gerasimaite.
Four members of the 22 challenge got lost on the way to Carrickfergus and ended up in Citypark, Craigavon. Not really sure how that happened.
Four happy members of Team Blue at Citypark, Craigavon.
Allan Grant (1st run at Craigavon) was the first Seaparker to finish. Then came Alan Poag, Trevor Lamb (1st run at Craigavon) and Michael Kane (1st run at Craigavon).
And at Derry there was Nikita Murray (1st run at Derry), Glenda Murray (course PB of 29:59), Geraldine Kane (1st run at Derry) & Julie Kelly (1st run at Derry).
The girls at Derry.Geraldine, Julie and Nikita at Derry. I’m sure at least one of them should be resting.
At Larne there was Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 27:06) and Neill Harper.
It’s Larne this week for Bobbie Irvine.Bobbie likes slow runners, they make him look good.Making Bobbie look good since…Nicola thought they said Rum!Neill gives the Larne parkrun the thumbs up.That’s not what they mean by photo finish Neill.
Richard Hetherington and Rebecca Tester both attended their first run each at Valley.
Becki at the Valley arch.
Elsewhere Alison Welsh attended her 1st run at Colin Glen and the day before the Great North Run Karen Waring did her 1st run at Newcastle Upon Tyne. Also Kate Delaney attended her 1st run at Portrush and Brendan Rice got a parkrun PB of 19:43 on his 99th parkrun, which was at Victoria.
17th September
It was William Jenkins turn to finish 1st at Carrickfergus on 17th. He was followed by Paul Daniels (parkrun PB of 22:05), Chris Hogg, Patrick Hughes, Emily Smiley (1st lady and parkrun PB of 25:12), Julie-Ann Mitchell, Jonathan Beattie, Bobbie Irvine, Susan Kane (course PB of 29:43), Beverley Kernoghan (parkrun PB of 29:49) & Julie Marshal.
Andy Smyth and Karen Magill made the parkrun Facebook page this month.
Robert Murray and Alison Welsh attended Antrim.
Robert realised early that he needed to wear sunglasses if he was going to run with Alison.
While Trevor Lamb informed Colin Glen that he was coming to finish his 22 with them.
Trevor and Derek at the finish of Colin Glen parkrun.
Derek Kane was the first Seaparker to finish at Colin Glen. He was followed by Karen Waring, Trevor Lamb (finished the 22 challenge with his 1st run at Colin Glen), Julie Kelly (1st run at Colin Glen), Michael Kane (1st run at Colin Glen), Carol Downey (1st time at Colin Glen) and Geraldine Kane (1st time at Colin Glen).
Pre running (aka walking fast) Colin Glen.
Brendan Rice completed his 100th parkrun with his 1st run at Derry.
Brendan at his 100th parkrun.
While Allan Grant attended his 1st run at Falls.
Allan getting another one of the list at Falls.
And at Wallace there was Ronald Simms (and the 3rd person to finish the 22 challenge this month) Rebecca Tester, with her 1st run at Wallace.
Becki finished her 22 challenge at Wallace.
At Valley there was Richard Hetherington (with a course PB of 20:22) and Gillian Bell (1st run at Valley). While Gary Craig attended Victoria and Nikita Murray ran for the first time at Waterworks with Glenda Murray & Karen McMaster.
24th September
Richard Craig was 1st over the line at Carrickfergus for the last parkrun of September. He was followed by William Jenkins, Heather Haggan, Catherine Steele, Julie Lyness and Julie-Ann Mitchell.
It was Alan Grant’s turn to finished the 22 challenge with his 1st run at Armagh. Michael Kane was there as his support.
Allan and Michael looking happy that Allan has finished his 22 challenge at the not so flat Armagh.
The Murrays bumped into a happy volunteer at Wallace. The first Seaparker to finish was Robert Murray and he was followed by Nikita Murray (1st run at Wallace) and Glenda Murray (with a course PB of 29:11).
Seapark at Wallace.
Elsewhere Kate Delaney attended her 1st run at Larne, Karen McMaster went to Ormeau, Patrick Hughes achieved a course PB of 24:28 at Valley, Colin McCrum returned to Victoria and Gary Craig ran again at Waterworks.
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) is at 98 parkruns as off 24/09/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) is at 96 parkruns as off 24/09/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) is at 95 parkruns as off 24/09/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 90 parkruns as off 24/09/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100.
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
Team Blue for the boys and Team Pink for the girls.
As of 24/09/16 there are 15 parkruns left to the end of the year (if you count Christmas Day).
Derek Kane
1st Male Winner.
Glenda Murray
1st Female Winner.
Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Robert Murray and Alan Poag all completed their 22nd parkrun on 13/08/16, Karen Waring completed her 22nd parkrun on 03/09/16, Trevor Lamb and Rebecca Tester completed their 22nd one on 17/09/16 & Allan Grant completed his on 24/09/16.
Alison Welsh – 1 left as of 24/09/16.
Team Blue (the rest for Mark) – 2 left as of 24/09/16.
Michael Kane – 3 left as of 24/09/16.
Geraldine Kane – 5 left as of 24/09/16.
Julie Kelly – 5 left as of 24/09/16.
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.
Between 26/03/16-29/10/16 participants have 32 weeks to complete three different parkruns, plus volunteer at Carrickfergus (and wear a hi viz vest) 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.
It was another busy month with Seapark eating cake all over the place.
At Carrickfergus on 6th August there were Jonathon Bell, Janet McCullough, Jennifer Jackson (with a parkrun PB of 25:17), Catherine Steele, Julie-Ann Mitchell & Toma Gerasimaite.
Comber was attended by Robert Murray (1st run at Comber), Alan Poag (1st run at Comber), Nikita Murray (1st run at Comber), Glenda Murray (with a course PB of 30:00), Geradline Kane (1st run at Comber) & Carol Downey (1st run at Comber).
Robert Murray speeding up to get to the cake.Almost there.Leave some for me, said Alan Poag.We want some, shouted Glenda and Nikita Murray.Don’t forget about me, gasped Geraldine Kane.At last, the timed run is over.Next time we’ll go straight to the shops and buy some.
Julie Kelly attended her 1st run at Cookstown.
It’s not a catwalk Julie Kelly.
While Allan Grant attended his 1st run at Enniskillen.
Allan Grant has been hit with the Joker gas.
Elsewhere Ian Cleland achieved a course PB of 19:56 at Larne, Richard Hetherington went to Limavady, while Ann McCracken & Karen McMaster both returned to Queens.
Valley had its 100th run and their 2nd anniversary cakerun on 6th Aug. Everyone in attendance said they knew nothing about the cake. I believe that. Richard Craig was the 1st one across the new finish line. He was followed by Charlie McCormick, William Jenkins (with a course PB of 20:26), Philip Poag, Karen Poag (with a course PB of 27:46), Trevor Lamb and Michael Kane (1st run at Valley).
Richard Craig was first over the line at the 100th Valley parkrun.Someone thought it was a good idea to make Charlie McCormick a pacer.William Jenkins.Philip Poag.Karen Poag loving this fab course.Trevor Lamb wondering why he’s doing this. Oh yes, that’s right. Cake.Someone told Michael Kane the arch looked like pi(e). He was disappointed.
While at Waterworks there was Gary Craig, Colin McCrum, Derek Kane, Rebecca Tester (1st run at Waterworks) and Susan Kane (1st run at Waterworks).
The three amigos went to Waterstown the weekend of the Dublin Rock n Roll half. Gavin Irvine, Bobbie Irvine and Neill Harper all attended Waterstown for the first time each.
I just can’t remember which one’s Bodie and which one’s Doyle.Is this who they’re after? He look’s the type.
13th August
William Jenkins was the 1st Seaparker home at Carrickfergus on 13th. He was followed by Ian Cleland, Brendan Rice, Jennifer Jackson, Emily Smiley (with a parkrun PB of 25:32) & Julie-Ann Mitchell.
Four people finished their 22 parkrun challenge this week.
Alan Poag finished his 22 challenge with his 1st run at Enniskillen. He had the company of Neill Harper (with a course PB of 25:29) and Yumi Aoki (on her 1st run at Enniskillen).
Alan Poag finishing his 22 at Enniskillen.
Robert Murray finished his 22 with his 1st run at Ormeau. He was followed by Trevor Lamb, Nikita Murray (on her 1st run at Ormeau) and Glenda Murray.
Robert Murray went to Ormeau to finish his 22.
Bobbie Irvine & Nicola Irvine (with course PB of 27:11) finished their 22nd different NI parkrun of 2016 at Portrush. Also in attendance where Gavin Irvine (1st run at Portrush), Derek Kane and Susan Kane (1st run at Portrush).
Bobbie and Nicola Irvine finished their 22 together at Portrush. Isn’t that sweet.The Irvines.The guys at Portush.Gavin Irvine is getting in on the being beaten by a kid action.The “I’ve finished my 22” pose.Derek Kane and the “I’ve already won the 22 challenge” pose.Susan Kane and the “I may finish the 22” pose.
Elsewhere Julie Kelly attended her 1st run at Craigavon.
Julie Kelly matching her shoes and top again.
Mark Welsh, Karen Waring & Alison Welsh went for their first 1st run each at Derry.
The very senic Derry parkrun.
Rebecca Tester achieved a course PB of 29:10 at Stormont.
Rebecca Tester cutting across the grass.
Also Karen Poag & PhiIp Poag returned to Valley, Colin McCrum went back to Victoria, Ronald Simms was at Wallace and Gary Craig attended Waterworks.
20th August
Richard Craig was the first Seaparker at Carrickfergus on 20th. He was followed by William Jenkins, Richard Hetherington, Jonathan Beattie, Julie-Ann Michell, Karen Poag, Toma Gerasimaite (with a parkrun PB of 32:12) and Lindsay Roberts (1st parkrun ever).
Eight other parkruns where attended by Seapark this week.
Antrim: Trevor Lamb, Derek Kane & Susan Kane (1st run at Antrim).
The trio at Antrim.
Colin Glen: Gavin Irvine (1st run at Colin Glen) & Nicola Irvine (2st lady home with a course PB of 27:14). Ecos, Ballymena: Allan Grant (1st run at Ballymena). Larne: Sara Johnston (with a course PB of 26:43). Ormeau: Gary Craig & Ann McCracken. Portrush: Rebecca Tester (1st run at Portrush). Wallace, Lisburn: Ronald Simms. Valley: Karen McMaster.
27th August
14 Seaparkers attended Carrickfergus for the last parkrun in August. Richard Craig was 1st over the line (again). Others in attendance included Charlie McCormick, William Jenkins, Richard Hetherington, Colin McCrum, Catherine Steele, Paul Daniels, Julie Ann Mitchell, Bobbie Irvine, Neill Harper, Toma Gerasmaite, Robert Steele, Elise Park (with a parkrun PB of 39:42) and Gavin Irvine.
Like every other week this year Seapark was represented at various parkruns around NI.
Andrew Smyth achieved a course PB of 25:44 at Larne.
Andrew Smyth getting around to doing his own challenge at Larne.
Limavady had two Seapark achievements this week. Karen Waring was 1st lady home on her first run at Limavady, while Susan Kane ran her 50th parkrun. Derek Kane was also there, wearing his 22 parkrun winning t-shirt.
50th parkrun for Sussn Kane and 1st lady for Karen Wearing.The “Oh, am I the First Lady to finish” pose.The “I think I’ve already done this parkrun this year” pose.The “where’s the cake” pose.
Mark Welsh and Alison Welsh both attended Portrush for the first time, the night after the Portrush 5 mile race. Rebecca Tester attended her 1st run at Queens. While Karen McMaster attended Valley. And Brendan Rice achieved course PB of 19:56 at Victoria.
The last bit of cake was ate at the 1st anniversary Stormont cakerun.
The start of the Stormont cakerun.
Robert Murray achieved a course PB of 20:10 (he must have really wanted to get a slice of cake). He was followed by Trevor Lamb, Michael Kane (1st run at Stormont), Nikita Murray (1st run at Stormont), Glenda Murray and Geraldine Kane (1st run at Stormont). Michael caught up with Trevor at the 4K mark, but Trevor wasn’t having any of it.
Someone get Robert some sunglasses.
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) is at 94 parkruns as off 27/08/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) is at 92 parkruns as off 27/08/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) is at 92 parkruns as off 27/08/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 86 parkruns as off 27/08/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100.
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
Team Blue for the boys and Team Pink for the girls.
As of 27/08/16 there are 19 parkruns left to the end of the year (if you count Christmas Day).
Derek Kane
Completed and 1st Make Winner.
Glenda Murray
Completed and 1st Female Winner.
Bobbie Irvine, Nicola Irvine, Robert Murray and Alan Poag all completed their 22nd parkrun on 13/08/16.
Karen Waring – 1 left as of 27/08/16.
Trevor Lamb – 2 left as of 27/08/16.
Rebecca Tester – 3 left as of 27/08/16.
Allan Grant – 4 left as of 27/08/16.
Alison Welsh – 4 left as of 27/08/16.
Michael Kane – 6 left as of 27/08/16.
Team Blue (the rest for Mark) – 6 left as of 27/08/16.
Geraldine Kane – 8 left as of 27/08/16.
Julie Kelly – 8 left as of 27/08/16.
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.
https://www.justgiving.com/teams/seapark
Official hashtag #AllNIparkruns2016.
Andy’s parkrun challenge 2016
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 (and wear a hi viz vest) 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.
There were three parkrun PBs at Carrickfergus on 2nd with Thomas Dunlop (24:10), Heather Haggan (24:19) and Nicola Dunlop (30:29). Others in attendance included Richard Craig, Jonathan Preuss, William Jenkins, Ryan Weatherhead, Jonathon Bell, Colin McCrum, Julie-Ann Mitchell, Allan Grant, Neill Harper and Karen Waring.
Allan Grant even completed the course with his arm in plaster. I can’t decide if that shows determination or stupidity? Hmmm.
The big event of the week (if not the month or even the year) was the Glenda Murray vs. Derek Kane showdown for the 22 challenge finish.
Derek Kane completed his 22nd different NI parkrun of 2016 at a very wet Derry City. He was accompanied by Trevor Lamb (1st run at Derry), Alan Poag (1st run at Derry), Michael Kane (1st run at Derry) and Susan Kane (with a course PB 30:18).
The ‘We bring our own cake’ group at Derry’s cakerunTrevor Lamb at DerryAlan Poag at DerryDerek Kane finishing his 22nd different NI parkrun of 2016 at DerryMichael Kane at Derry
While Glenda Murray attended Cookstown for her 22nd different NI parkrun in 2016. Alas, even the bad weather didn’t deter her from finishing.
Glenda Murray also had cake and a nice wee t-shirt for finishing the 22 challenge first
Also in attendance where Robert Murray (1st run at Cookstown), Nikita Murray (1st run at Cookstown), Alison Welsh (1st run at Cookstown), Geraldine Kane (1st run at Cookstown) and Lorraine Ogilby (with a parkrun PB of 31:39).
The ‘we also bring our own cake’ group at Cookstown. Glenda’s showing off her t-shirtWhat is it with Seaparkers being overtaken by kids?Don’t we look cool when the kid’s out of shot
Nicola Irvine was 1st Lady home (while achieving a parkrun PB of 24:44) at Limavady. Bobbie Irvine was also in attendance to cheer her on.
Limavady Selfie
Elsewhere in NI Gary Craig attended his first run at Victoria and Ronald Simms returned to Wallace.
Look for a hat and it’ll be Simmsy
Karen McMaster attended the infamous Highbury Fields parkrun in London for the first time. It’s infamous for being one of the few parkruns with five laps. You can get lapped twice if you’re not fast enough (three if you’re me).
However, the prize for parkurn tourist goes to Ian Cleland and Sara Johnston for attending the Clermont Waterfront in the USA. Both attended for the 1st time and Ian took 2nd place.
Ian and Sara in the USA
9th July
Richard Craig took the top spot at Carrickfergus on 9th. He was followed by William Jenkins, Jonathan Beattie, Jonathon Bell, Robert Steele, Thomas Dunlop (with a parkrun PB of 23:22), Catherine Steele (with a parkrun PB of 26:14), Colin McCrum, Jacqui Coghlan, Derek Kane, Marie Nicholson, Susan Kane and Neill Harper.
The main bulk of the 22 group went to K2, sorry Armagh. You know it’s a hard one when Bobbie Irvine says it tough.
You can tell this is the before picture at Armagh as everyone’s smiling
Bobbie Irvine was the first Seaparker over the line and was followed by Nicole Irvine (with a course PB of 25:01), Trevor Lamb (1st run at Armagh), Alan Poag (1st run at Armagh), Karen Waring (1st run at Armagh), Mark Welsh (1st run at Armagh and running under protest) and Alison Welsh (1st run at Armagh). It may have been at this point that Mark ‘Weak Link’ Welsh decided to drop out of the NI 22 parkrun challenge. More on that later.
A splinter 22 group went to Bangor. They included Robert Murray (1st run at Bangor), Nikita Murray (1st run at Bangor) and Glenda Murray (with a course PB 31:48).
Rebecca Tester attended her 1st run at Comber while Julie Kelly did the same at Larne. Both adding another notch to their 22 parkrun challenges.
Julie Kelly and her hair breezing though Larne
Richard Hetherington returned to Portrush and Brendan Rice gave Victoria another try.
And over on the mainland Allan Grant tried his first Gateshead parkrun.
Allan ‘Gotta kept the parkrunning up’ Grant at Gateshead
16th
It was Ian Cleland’s turn to take the 1st spot at Carrickfergus on 16th. He was followed by Charlie McCormick, Brendan Rice (with a course PB 20:03), William Jenkins, Robert Steele, Andrew Smyth, Carol Woods, Julie-Ann Mitchell and Julie Marshall.
Charlie McCormick showing of his 50th parkrun t-shirtBrendan Rice with a course PB at CarrickfergusWilliam Jenkins at CarrickfergusAndrew Smyth at Carrickfergus
11 other NI parkruns where attended by Seapark AC on 16th.
Antrim – Nikita Murray (1st run at Antrim), Glenda Murray, Michael Kane (1st run at Antrim) and Geraldine Kane (1st run at Antrim).
Michael ‘Don’t call me Robert Murray’ Kane’s not going to let that kid overtake him.Glenda ‘There’s no way I’m taken a break until I get to 100’ Murray at Antrim
Colin Glen – Bobbie Irvine, Philip Poag (1st run at Colin Glen), Karen Poag (1st run at Colin Glen) and Nicola Irvine (1st run at Colin Glen).
Bobbie Irvine found the only downhill spot at Colin GlenPhilip Poag at Colin GlenKaren Poag and Rory Poag at Colin GlenNicola ‘Now I’ve did the same amount of NI parkruns this year as Bobbie’ Irvine
Cookstown – Karen Waring (1st run at Cookstown).
Karen ‘I need a throne to sit on after that’ Waring at Cookstown
Limavady – Rebecca Tester (1st run at Limavady), Derek Kane and Susan Kane.
The Limavady gangDerek Kane with his 22 winners t-shirt and Beccki TesterSusan Kane at Limavady
Stormont – Robert Murray (with a course PB of 20:22).
Robert ‘Of course I’m going to get a course PB as the only other time I’ve done this was when I was pacing Trevor’ Murray at StormontRobert ‘At least there’s no kids about’ Murray again at Stormont
Bangor – Allan Grant.
Falls – Gary Craig (1st run at Falls) and Julie Kelly (1st run at Falls with a parkrun PB of 27:47).
Ormeau – Alan Poag (1st run at Ormeau) and Karen McMaster.
Valley – Alyn McChesney.
Victoria – Ann McCracken.
Waterworks 300th parkrun – Richard Craig, Heather Haggan and Trevor Lamb.
We might have got another two but Patrick Hughes went to Killarney (1st run at Killarney) and Colin McCrum went to Castlebar (1st run at Castlebar).
23rd
Richard Craig took the top spot for the second time this month at Carrickfergus on 23rd. He was followed by Bobbie Irvine, Jonathon Bell, Philip Poag, Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 25:58), Karen Waring (with a course PB of 26:23 on her 50th parkrun), Karen Poag, Carol Woods, Marie Nicholson, Karen McMaster, Neill Harper, Geraldine Kane (with a course PB of 31:37) and Carol Downey (who’s been tapering for this timed run all year).
Karen Poag is smiling because she slipped some beetroot in the cakeNeill Harper is showing of his new topA nice wee t-shirt for Karen WaringKaren ‘The faster I run, the faster I can get to the cake’ WarningKaren’s confusing the cake with an ex boyfriendAction shot of Karen Waring at her 50th parkrun
It was Robert Murray’s 100th parkrun on 23rd so a group of Seaparkers went to Cookstown to support him.
The Murrays at Cookstown again (and yes, they brought their own cake again)
Robert Murray was the first Seaparker home (with a course PB of 19:44 on his 100th parkrun) and he was followed by Alan Poag (1st run at Cookstown), Trevor Lamb (1st run at Cookstown), Nikita Murray (with a course PB of 28:23), Rebecca Tester (1st run at Cookstown), Glenda Murray (with a course PB of 29:02) and Michael Kane (1st run at Cookstown and mocked by a sheep as he went around the course). The sheep went Ha Ha (there’s no way it was Ba Ba) every time Michael passed it.
Michael’s still having nightmares about the sheepThe Cookstown group at Robert’s 100th parkrun
Elsewhere Allan Grant took a trip to Derry, Richard Hetherington attended Portrush, William Jenkins went to Valley, Alison Welsh completed her 1st timed run at Wallace and Colin McCrum returned to the Gunpower parkrun. I wanted to say ‘with a bang’ for that one but unfortunately Colin didn’t even get a course PB so I can’t.
Alison ‘I don’t need Mark, just my sunglasses’ Welsh at Wallace
30th July.
It was the first Seapark AC 10 mile handicap at 10:00 so not much parkrunning was going on, but a few still attended a parkrun.
Bobbie Irvine messed up his 10 mile handicap by being the first Seaparker home at Carrickfergus parkurn. He was followed by Allan Grant, Ruth Hawkins, Danielle Hamilton, Karen McMaster and Toma Gerasimaite (with a parkrun PB of 33:52).
Three members of the 22 club went to Queens. Trevor Lamb, Michael Kane (1st run at Queens) & Glenda Murray. Nikita Murray (1st run at Queens) also attended.
Queens selfie group
Michael had Trevor in his sights for the first 3K, however he wasted that much energy trying to overtake him that by the 3K point he was spent. He never caught up with him in the end and he was thinking it’s just a pity that a parkruns weren’t 3K. All I’m going to say is that he can always try a junior parkrun.
While another two members of the 22 club went to Limavady. Derek Kane and Alan Poag (1st run at Limavady). Susan Kane was also in attendance.
The Limavady group
And finally for the month Kate Delaney went to Antrim for the 1st time while Ann McCracken attended Victoria.
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) is at 91 parkruns as off 30/07/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) is at 89 parkruns as off 30/07/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) is at 88 parkruns as off 30/07/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 84 parkruns as off 30/07/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100.
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
Team Blue for the boys and Team Pink for the girls.
Unfortunately Mark Welsh had to drop out of the 22 parkrun challenge for materialistic reasons. It seems that overtime is more important than parkrun. Tut tut. To avoid an automatic forfeit by Team Blue it was decided by both parties that the remaining members of Team Blue will need to complete the rest of Mark’s parkuns. Only one can be counted per week, and only if said person has already completed it themselves for their own challenge.
Robert Murray completed the first of these by doing Cookstown on 23/07/16 and Trevor Lamb did the second by doing Queens on 30/07/16.
As of 30/07/16 there are 23 parkruns left to the end of the year (if you count Christmas Day).
Team Blue
Derek Finished, Bobbie 1, Robert 2, Trevor 2, Alan 2, Allan 6, Michael 8 and Mark (to be completed by the rest of Team Blue) 10 = 31.
Team Pink
Glenda Finished, Nicola 1, Karen 3, Alison 6, Rebecca 7, Julie 10 and Geraldine 10 = 37.
Derek Kane (22)
Completed and 1st Make Winner.
Glenda Murray (22)
Completed and 1st Female Winner.
Bobbie Irvine (21)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Cookstown, Citypark, Colin Glen, Comber, Derry, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Nicola Irvine (21)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Citypark, Colin Glen, Comber, Cookstown, Derry, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Robert Murray (20)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Cookstown, Craigavon, Derry, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Alan Poag (20)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Cookstown, Craigavon, Derry, Ecos, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Ormeau, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Karen Waring (19)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Comber, Cookstown, Craigavon, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Ormeau, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Allan Grant (16)
Antrim, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Comber, Cookstown, Derry, Larne, Ormeau, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Alison Welsh (16) Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Comber, Cookstown, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Rebecca Tester (15)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Comber, Cookstown, Craigavon, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Ormeau & Victoria.
Michael Kane (14) Antrim, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Comber, Cookstown,Derry, Ecos, Enniskillen, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Geraldine Kane (12) Antrim, Carrickfergus, Cookstown, Ecos, Enniskillen, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Julie Kelly (12)
Bangor, Carrickergus, Comber, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria & Waterworks.
Team Blue AKA Mark Welsh (12) Armagh (Mark’s last one), Bangor, Comber, Cookstown (Robert), Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens (Trevor), Valley & Victoria.
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 (and wear a hi viz vest) 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.
At Carrickfergus on 4th June we had William Jenkins, Ian Cleland, Elisoa Crawford (1st lady home), Jonathan Beattie, Robert Steele, Sara Johnston (with a parkrun PB of 26:08), Julie Marshall (1st parkrun ever), Catherine Steele (parkrun PB of 26:21), Karen McMaster and Julie-Ann Mitchell.
It was the Derry Marathon on the 5th so a few went down to do the parkrun on the 4th. Everyone got course PBs so whoop whoop to them. 1st Seaparker home was Bobbie Irvine (with a course PB of 19:12). He was quickly followed by Clive Weatherhead (with a course PB of 20:01), Ryan Weatherhead (with a course PB of 20:11) and Nicola Irvine (with a course PB of 25:12).
The Derry group
Mark Welsh and Alison Welsh went to the sunglasses free zone of Limavady for the 1st time each. Alison had posed for various photo ops but for some reason Limavady parkrun only published the non sunglasses shot of Mark on their Facebook page.
Mark Welsh without the shades
Trevor Lamb had suggested that everyone head to Portrush for their 200th event but when no one could see the cake at the start he was nearly lynched by the rest of the group.
Angry cake mob
Luckily for him there were two cakes (and oranges).
First Seapaker home was Robert Murray (1st run at Portrush). He was 11th overall (yea) but was beat by a kid (ha ha).
Photographic evidence that Robert was beat by a kid
He was followed by Allan Grant (course PB of 25:33), Trevor Lamb (1st run at Portrush), Karen Waring (1st run at Portrush and beat by Trevor), Derek Kane (1st run at Portrush), Alan Poag (1st run at Portrush) and Glenda Murray (1st run at Portrush).
Alan Grant at PortrushTrevor Lamb and Karen Waring at PortrushDerek Kane at PortrushAlan Poag at Portrush
Everyone (except Karen) went for ice cream after, and just like the parkrun Glenda finished last.
Queens had Gary Craig (course PB of 25:11), Philip Poag (1st run at Queens), Karen Poag and Ross Gilmore (1st run at Queens).
The Poags at Queens
While Richard Craig (with a course PB of 18:30) and Ronald Simms (1st run at this course) attended Valley.
Richard Craig and Ronald Simms at Valley
Elsewhere Ann McCracken completed another timed run at Victoria plus Michael Kane and Geraldine Kane attended their 1st run each at Waterworks.
11th June.
Richard Craig (with a parkrun PB of 18:03) was first over the line at Carrickfergus on 11th. He was followed by William Jenkins, Clive Weatherhead, Charlie McCormick, Ryan Weatherhead, Jonathon Bell, Janet McCullough (with a parkrun PB of 24:04), Thomas Dunlop (parkrun PB of 26:21), Catherine Steele, Julie Lyness (parkrun PB of 27:15), Julie-Ann Mitchell, Jenny Robinson and Nicola Dunlop (parkrun PB of 32:12).
Some idiot thought that if people had to go to Enniskillen for a parkrun (for the 22 parkrun challenge) they might as well do it on the day of the Enniskillen 10K and do that as well. So on 11th June 16 Seapark members woke at the craic of dawn and travelled to the Enniskillen parkrun for the first time each. Some, but not all completed the 10K after. Seapark is now the 4th largest club to appear on the Enniskillen parkrun results. Ronald Simms has the 35th fastest time overall for the Enniskillen parkrun and for 11th June four Seapark members came in the top ten. Ronald Simms (2nd & with a parkrun PB of 18:37), Bobbie Irvine (3rd & with a parkrun PB of 19:00), Robert Murray (4th) and Mark Welsh (8th).
The Enniskillen group (with fleg)
Though Ronald Simms took a wrong turn in the end and came in short at just over 3 miles. If that wasn’t bad enough Bobbie Irvine just followed him and he too completed just over 3 miles. Technically Robert Murray was the first Seaparker home and the jury is out on whether Bobbie’s run counts as part of the 22 challenge.
1. Should Bobbie be penalised for following Simmsy? Yes/No.
2. Should Bobbie Irvine have to do the Enniskillen parkrun again as part of the 22 challenge? Yes/No.
3. Should Bobbie Irvine be stripped of his 19:00 PB and revert back to his old PB of 19:02 at Antrim? If it doesn’t seem important I will point out that Charlie McCormick’s PB is 19:01 (at Victoria) so it’ll be the difference between being first or last between Bobbie and Charlie.
Others in attendance included Neill Harper, Nicola Irvine, Karen Waring, Derek Kane, Trevor Lamb, Julie Kelly, Alison Welsh, Glenda Murray, Michael Kane, Rebecca Tester, Geraldine Kane and Susan Kane.
First official Seaparker Robert MurrayDerek Kane at EnniskillenTrevor Lamb at EnniskillenSomeone with sunglasses at EnniskillenIt’s Glenda ‘I’ll run, jog, walk or crawl if I have to’ Murray
Other parkruns attended included Gary Craig at Ormeau (with a parkrun PB of 23:56), Karen McMaster at Stormont (with a course PB of 29:21) while Philip Poag & Karen Poag (on her 1st run here) attended Valley.
18th June.
10 different parkruns where attended by Seapark on 18th (9 in NI and 1 in England).
William Jenkins took the podium spot at Carrickfergus. He was followed by Clive Weatherhead, Brendan Rice, Jonathan Beattie, Paul Daniels, Andrew Smyth (with a parkrun PB of 23:44), Janet McCullough (with a parkrun PB of 24:02), Julie Kelly (who achieved a course PB of 27:59), Karen McMaster, Julie-Ann Mitchell and Susan Kane (with a course PB of 30:55).
I do need to point out that Julie Kelly’s course PB of 27:59 was achieved with a broken toe. She mustn’t have been trying hard enough before now if she can get a PB with a broken toe. Just saying.
Karen Waring and Rebecca Tester partook in their first run each at Citypark, Craigavon.
Karen Waring and Rebecca Tester at Citypark, Craigavon
While Derek Kane attended Cookstown for the first time. He nearly didn’t make it due to roadworks (but some might say Glenda Murray threw a spanner in the works, but not me) but he got there just in time.
Derek Kane at Cookstown.
It was Bobbie Irvine’s 150th parkrun (or 149th if you’ve voted to make Enniskillen void). He attended Falls with Mark Welsh (1st run at Falls), Nicola Irvine (1st run at Falls) and Alison Welsh.
Mark, Alison and Nicola at Bobbie’s 149th/150th parkrun
Five Seaparkers went to Limavady for the 1st time each. It was top 40 places for everyone involved. Robert Murray was 5th overall with a parkrun PB of 19:43. He was followed by Trevor Lamb (35th), Geraldine Kane (38th), Michael Kane (39th) and Glenda Murray (40th).
Top 40 places for the gang at Limavady
Geraldine Kane achieved her first sub 30 min parkrun with 29:59.
Geraldine Kane with a sub 30 PB
Colin McCrum was at Ormeau on his own. If he checked Facebook once in a while he could have went to one of the other parkruns with actually people instead of going to Ormeau on his own.
Nicola Dunlop achieved a parkrun PB of 31:13 on her first run at Queens.
The 2nd podium spot of the week went to Ian Cleland at Valley.
Ian and Sara at Valley
7 Seaparkers attended. Ian was followed by Charlie McCormick (1st run at Valley), Phillp Poag (with a course PB of 26:01), Angela McCormick (1st run at Valley), Sara Johnston (1st run at Valley), Karen Poag (course PB of 27:50) and Neill Harper (course PB of 28:31).
The Poags are on tour againSome very photogenic Seaparkers and Neill HarperOska just doesn’t want to stop
At Waterworks we had Ronald Simms (1st run at Waterworks), Heather Haggan (1st run at Waterworks with a parkrun PB of 24:33), Gary Craig and Ross Gilmore.
And over on the mainland Elise Park and Gavin Irvine ran at Hull.
25th June.
Ryan Weatherhead was the first Seaparker home at Carrickfergus on 25th. He was followed by Brendan Rice (with a course PB of 20:19), Richard Hetherington, Paul Daniels, Gillian Strudwick (with a parkrun PB of 23:05), Catherine Steele, Julie Lyness, Julie-Ann Mitchell and Marie Nicholson.
Karen McMaster maintained her race to 100 lead by attending Antrim (with a course PB of 28:57).
Four went to Armagh for the 1st time each for the 22 challenge. Derek Kane and Glenda Murray are now on 21 (out of 22, doh!) thanks to this little trip. They were accompanied by Robert Murray and Susan Kane.
All’s fair at parkrun number 21 AKA Kane vs Murray
Pressure’s on for both Derek and Glenda to finish the challenge next week. It’s like the referendum all over again. Derek or Glenda, who’s getting your vote?
Since Trevor Lamb knew he wasn’t going to finish first in the 22 challenge he decided to go were the cake was instead and attend the Ormeau 3rd annual cakerun. He was accompanied by Michael Kane (1st run at Ormeau) and Geraldine Kane (1st run at Ormeau). This now means that Michael isn’t in last place for Team Blue (more on that later) in the race to complete the 22 parkrun challenge & now Mark Welsh is the weak link. Shame on you Mark!
Trevor Lamb at OrmeauMichael Kane wondering if the cake is worth itMichael, Geraldine and Trevor at Ormeau cakerun
Elsewhere Bobbie Irvine used the Victoria parkrun as a warm-up for the Energia 24 hour race at Victoria Park. You would think his misses would have been there to support him, but no, Nicole Irvine went to Waterworks (with a course PB of 26:20) to add another notch to her 22 parkrun challenge. Gary Craig (with a course PB of 24:12) also attended Waterworks.
While two further podium spots were achieved by Seapark on 25th. Richard Craig at Valley and Ronald Simms at Stormont. Ronald was only using Stormont parkrun as a warm-up for the Stormont 10K later that same day. He came third in that race.
1st place at Stormont for Simmsy
And finally over on the mainland Colin McCrum attended the Gunpowder parkrun for the 1st time. I see he’s sticking to his doctor’s advice about not running at the moment.
Race to 100
Karen McMaster (AKA Team Chair) is at 87 parkruns as off 25/06/16.
Glenda Murray (AKA Team Devious) is at 84 parkruns as off 25/06/16.
Trevor Lamb (AKA Team Wolf) is at 83 parkruns as off 25/06/16.
Allan Grant (AKA Team Barcode) is at 79 parkruns as off 25/06/16.
Official hashtag #Raceto100.
Seapark charity parkrun challenge
As of 25/06/16 there are 28 parkruns left to the end of the year (if you count Christmas Day).
Derek Kane (21)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Comber, Cookstown, Craigavon, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Ormeau, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Glenda Murray (21)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Comber, Craigavon, Derry, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Ormeau, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Karen Waring (17)
Antrim, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Comber, Craigavon, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Ormeau, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Robert Murray (17)
Antrim, Armagh, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Craigavon, Derry, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Limavady, Portrush, Queens, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Alan Poag (15)
Antrim, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Craigavon, Ecos, Falls, Larne, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Allan Grant (14)
Antrim, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Comber, Cookstown, Larne, Ormeau, Portrush, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Alison Welsh (13)
Bangor, Carrickfergus, Comber, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Limavady, Ormeau, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria & Waterworks.
Rebecca Tester (12)
Antrim, Armagh, Bangor, Carrickfergus, Colin Glen, Craigavon, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Larne, Ormeau & Victoria.
Michael Kane (10)
Bangor, Carrickfergus, Comber, Ecos, Enniskillen, Limavady,Ormeau, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Julie Kelly (10)
Bangor, Carrickergus, Comber, Ecos, Enniskillen, Queens, Stormont, Valley, Victoria & Waterworks.
Geraldine Kane (9)
Ecos, Enniskillen, Limavady,Ormeau, Queens, Valley, Victoria, Wallace & Waterworks.
Mark Welsh (9)
Bangor, Comber, Ecos, Enniskillen, Falls, Limavady, Ormeau, Valley & Victoria.
For those that don’t know there’s been a new development in the 22 parkrun challenge.
There’s a 2nd part to the challenge.
There’s 15 people (leaving Colin off the list as he wasn’t sure if will finish) so everyone’s been put into one or two groups.
The boys vs the girls (wanting to pit couples against each other).
The winning group will be the one in which every member has completed all 22 parkruns first.
The winners will get a prize while the losers will do a forfeit (decided by the winners, within reason of course).
Team Blue
Derek 1, Bobbie 3, Trevor 5, Robert 5, Alan 7, Allan 8, Michael 12, Mark 13 = 54 parkruns to do.
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 (and wear a hi viz vest) 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.
