U18 International Mountain Running Cup 2026 Report

by · June 23, 2026

The Northern Ireland and Ulster U18 team travelled to southern Italy for the 19th edition of the U18 International Mountain Running Cup. Set in Gagliano del Capo, perched between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, the course offered a very different style of race for world’s best young mountain runners.

Athletes took on a 4.6 km course with 191 meters of ascent, racing along rugged Mediterranean paths with panoramic sea views. This was all the more challenging due to the blistering 30 degree temperatures, not to mention the cruel twist of a last minute climb up and then down a steep canyon AFTER the athletes got sight of the finish line.

Thankfully athletes were able to avail of a quick dip in the sea after their races, which gave them a much welcome respite from the searing mid-day heat.

All of our athletes raced amazingly and did their team, NIMRA, clubs, and families proud. A special mention must go to Abby Smith who achieved a spectacular top 10 finish.

Well done everyone!

Girls

Abby Smith 7th

Upe Spelskaite 47th

Maia Johnston 51st

Katie Napier 52nd

Team 12th

Boys

Luc Le Blanc 36th

Conan O’Doherty 56th

Caleb Lewis 62nd

Aaron Agnew 63rd

Team 15th

Team Managers

Jared Martin

Nikki Graham

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