Connolly and Cordner take part in Clontarf marathon

Seapark's Gary Connolly sprinting to the finish line at Clontarf Marathon. INLT 05-908-CON

Connolly and Cordner travelled to Clontarf, Dublin on Wednesday (January 22) to compete in an East of Ireland Marathon Series event which saw runners compete the 26.2-mile distance over two laps, along road, coastal paths and beach.

Despite a fierce headwind, both runners finished in respectable times with Cordner crossing the line in 3:52 and Connolly in 4:03.

Cordner then travelled to Longwood, Co. Meath on Saturday to compete in another East of Ireland Marathon.

Set over a 5k undulating course, runners faced eight laps with an additional smaller loop to complete the marathon distance. Weather conditions were difficult, facing strong winds, rain and hailstones. However, spirits remained high and Cordner fcame home in a strong time of 3:28, finishing third lady.

In other news, Seapark AC has just launched it’s third ‘Couch to 5 k’ running scheme. This is a free, 10-week programme, in which runners meet twice weekly and follow a training programme suitable for those new to running or those returning from an absence. It follows a walk / run training plan, progressing each week with the ultimate aim to complete a 5k run at the end of the programme. The group meets on Tuesday and Thursday at 6pm at various locations in Carrickfergus. For further information please check out www.seaparkac.com.

Seapark AC is also proud to be associated with the Carrickfergus parkrun and the club is looking forward to the inaugural event on Saturday.

‘Parkrun’ events are free, weekly, 5km timed runs, open to everyone and are safe and easy to take part in. Runners and walkers of every ability are encouraged to take part. The Carrickfergus event starts and finishes at the Ampitheatre at 9:30am. For further information check out www.parkrun.org.uk/carrickfergus.

Seapark AC is NI Athletics affiliated running group and meets Tuesday and Thursday at 7pm at Carrickfergus Cricket Club, Middle Road, Carrickfergus. Runners of all abilities are invited to come along and will be given a warm welcome. For further information check out the club’s pages on www.seaparkac.com and twitter.