Northern Ireland Mountain Running Association
www.nimra.org.uk

 

Annalong Horseshoe preview

Sat 8 May 2004 - Ian Taylor

Tomorrow, Saturday 8 May is the fourth round of the NIMRA Championship over the Annalong Horseshoe Race route, with the race starting at 11 am (Note time).

This classic fell race, the oldest in our calendar after Donard, is a serious test of fitness and endurancce. With over 12 miles and 5040 feet of climb it has very varied running, from the slow climb up Chinney Rock, the steep ascent of Cove, fast flat along the Brandy Pad and fast rougher descents of Lamagan and Binian and a final fast downhill road section to test if you have any carbohydrate stores left.
Since it is a long category race, you are required to carry whole body cover, map (or copy), compass, whistle and emergency food. The race is organised by BARF, with manned checkpoints and punches.
The mens record of 1:56:58, set by Robbie Bryson in 1996 has not been approached in recent years, with only Brian Ervine just over 2 hours last year and everyone else over 2:15. However in the Championship positions Neil Carty leads with maximum points of 90 with Brian behind on 85. Will Brians preference for this type of course tell over Neils race fitness? If Brian is going to regain the Championship in 2004 this is the race he has to win! Nipping at their heels are Mark Alexander and Andy Gregg with 70+ points but we should not forget those with about 50 points from only two events - David McNeilly, Deon McNeilly (recovering well from injury) and Gary Bailey (second last year).
The Ladies record is held by Joan Flannagan in 2:43:31 with the nearest recent NI time is by Shileen OKane (2:45:44). Last year the first lady was Barbara Brown in 3:22:50 - while Barbara, to judge from her fast Hill & Dale times, is capable of much closer to 3 hours, there are others who could get closer to the record if they appear.
Jonathan McCloy had an excellent time in 2003 as a junior of 2:23:54 and sixth place overall.
The start is at Dunnywater, with checkpoints and race route description elsewhere on this site.
See you there!