Gruelling island race for CAH runners

Eleven members of County Antrim Harriers travelled to Rathlin Island recently for the Rathlin Challenge 2014.
Eileen Stewart, County Antrim Harriers, winner of a category prize at Rathlin. INLT 36-901-CONEileen Stewart, County Antrim Harriers, winner of a category prize at Rathlin. INLT 36-901-CON
Eileen Stewart, County Antrim Harriers, winner of a category prize at Rathlin. INLT 36-901-CON

It soon became clear why this race is called a ‘challenge’ as the 10-mile route was extremely hilly and covered various terrains from tarmac roads to very uneven, stony paths with just a few cattle grids thrown in for good measure.

John Purse had to drop out after a couple of miles when a niggling injury prevented him from continuing.

First home for the club was Colin Gilmore in 1:27:47, quickly followed by Lyn Hardie and Lisa Barrett crossing the line together in 1:29:14, then Jane Kinnear 1:38:08, Christine

Neeson 1:40:08, Carol Annesley 1:42:55, Kim Gleave 1:52:41, Marion Morrow 1:53:18, Grace Startin 1:53:54 and Eileen Stewart 2:08:39 winning her the female vet 60 medal.

Jennifer Hardie, meanwhile, tackled the equally strenuous 5k course and recorded a PB - all very credible times on what everyone agreed was a more than challenging course. The lovely weather showed the island off to it’s full advantage and although exhausted, a good time was had by all.

Hills were on the agenda again as a record 26 club members attended the invitational East Antrim Interclub race, hosted by Larne Athletic Club.

This is a notorious hill run and all CAH members showed their grit and determination in completing the route, with some even smiling at the end!

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