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

 

Slieve Gullion Preview

Thu 26 February 2004 - Simon Taylor

The 2004 Mountain Running calendar gets under way on the 6th of March, with the traditional season opener at Sl Gullion. Gullion also counts as the opening round in the 9 race Northern Ireland Mountain Running Championship. Full details of the races in this years series can be found in the Calendar section. Reigning champion Deon McNeilly (Newcastle) & Sharon McBurney (Ballymena Runners) will both start as favourites to retain their titles. McNeillys main contenders will include Brian Ervine (Ballydrain Harriers) who will be looking to put an injury plagued 2003 behind him, Neil Carty (North Belfast), who is also just returning to full strength after a foot injury. Newcastle?s Alan McKibben could also cause problems after a strong cross-country season. Or perhaps this year will see some younger blood coming through to challenge.

McBrurney?s main challengers will come from her World Trophy team mate, Alwynne Shannon (Newcaslte). Newcastle AC will be strong favourites in the team race although with three to count Ballydrain could cause an upset.

The race starts at 12noon, and is 3miles long with approximately 1000ft of climb. The records are held by Deon McNeilly 28:00 ? 1999 and Shileen O?Kane 39:41 ? 2001. The race is superbly organised by Armagh Ac, with refreshments provided at the prizegiving.


Route Details & How to Find the Start

Previous Results

2004 NIMRA Championship Races