Annual town centre five-mile race proves huge success

Fun walkers and runner take to the streets of Ballymena last week for the annual 5 mile race. INBT 24-817H

The event was sponsored by local businesses including Fairhill Shopping Centre and Tesco Express, Church Street, who without their kind generosity, the event would not have been such a success.

Organisers have also thanked newly appointed Deputy Mayor Cllr Hubert Nicholl, on participating during the evening, which was greatly appreciated.

Some 400 competitors lined up to compete in both the 5 mile Road Race and 2.5 mile Fun Run and walk, with runners taking part from across the Province including some of the top names in Road Racing in Northern Ireland.

Runners get set under way in last week's Ballymena Runners 5 mile town race by Ballymena's Deputy Mayor Hubert Nicholl. INBT 24-814H

Natalie Jackson, Marketing & Commercial Manager at Fairhill said “Fairhill Traders are very proud to have supported the Ballymena 5 Mile Road Race, Fun Run and walk. It’s been a great event for the Town, raising the profile across the Province and encouraging people to get active and take part in this community event.”

Terry Robb, Chairman of BTCD added “I am delighted with the success of this Road Race and Fun Run, which has given traders in the town the opportunity to come together.

“I look forward to next year’s event, when we can work with Ballymena Runners and Sponsors to continue to build on our Events Calendar. It’s been a great week for Ballymena with lots of opportunities to celebrate the sense of Community that makes this town great.”

James Turtle, Race Director, said: “This event has now become a significant fixture on the Road Racing calendar, attracting quality runners which this year included distance runners Paddy Hamilton and Breege Connolly.

“The massive turnout of local runners of all ages and abilities is testimony to the growing popularity of the event, and we anticipate that numbers will grow year on year.”