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

 

British & Irish Junior Championship

Wed 13 October 2004 - Ian Taylor

The British & Irish Junior Championship took place in Keswick on 10 October. The race organisers arranged tough courses, with steep climbs and some fast running in cool weather conditions. With an Under 12 non-championship race alongside under 14, under 16 and under 18 events, there were over 200 competitors ensuring closely fought races.

Our best team result was in the under 18 male category when we gained a bronze medal with 38 points, only just ahead of Rep of Ireland on 39 points. Jamie Stewart was our leading finisher in 9th place, 6% behind the winner and followed by Owen Carleton (14th) and Jonathan McCloy (15th). In the under 18 female category Vicky Clegg had an excellent run to finish 5th, with Nicola McCaughey in 15th place.

In the under 16 girls, our team was 5th, led home by Aveen OReilly (17th), Kerry Iveston (22nd) and Kiristie Bell (24th). Brendan OBoyle was our only under 16 male competitor, finishing in 35th position.

In the under 14 category our surprise find was Ciaran Coney of Mid-Ulster, in 8th place, 10% behind the winner and selected at short notice after his excellent run at Slieve Gallion. Thomas Simpson of N Down also competed, finishing in 24th place.

A great weekend was had by all, with goodie bags for all competitors, and accommodation in Keswick and Langdale Hostels. Our supportors included Tricia Sloan who ensured that all our team - and at least one other she thought was NI - were not allowed to let up on the climbs. Shane Doherty provided moral support as did three parents including driver Eddie Bell and team managers Jim Hayes and Barbara Brown.