Liverpool’s Rock ‘n’ Roll race a runaway smash hit for Seapark

Seapark athletes attend Liverpool's Rock 'n' Roll races. INLT 25-918-CON

First up, the ever-popular East Antrim Harriers ‘Forest Run’ series at Ballyboley forest. Club members’ times: Iain Hunter: 26.44; Bobbie Irvine 26.55; John Baron 27.05; Richard Hetherington 28.16; Mark Welsh 29.49; Robert Murray 29.59; Colin McCrum 30.25; Gareth Hamill 32.15; Karen Poag 36.03; Trevor Lamb 38.40; Alison Welsh 38.52; David Stratt 38.56; Glenda Murray 40.03; Michael Kane 45.23; Geraldine Kane 45.25; Carol Downey 47.17.

Saturday saw a large Seapark team head across to Liverpool for the latest in the ‘Rock ‘n Roll’ series, including 5k, half marathon and marathon races over the weekend.

This popular event has live music every mile along the half marathon and marathon routes, and is a firm favourite amongst runners from far and wide.

Bobbie Irvine (left), Seapark AC's senior coach, is congratulated on completing his 50th marathon. INLT 25-916-CON

In the 5k race, Gillian Cordner achieved a podium place taking 3rd lady overall (1st in her class, 20.13), while Gary Connolly ran 21.43, Karen Poag 25.26 and Phil Poag 25.26.

While the times are still unofficial, there were half-marathon personal bests from Phil Poag (1:52) and Alison Kelly Welsh (2.05).

Other times: Marathon - Gillian Cordner: 3.25; Gary Connolly 4.10; Mark Welsh 4.18; Vivien Davidson 4.28. Half Marathon: Angela and Charlie McCormick 1.53; Karen Poag 1.54; Neill Harper 2.03; Andy Smyth 2.09; Ann McCracken 2.10.

It was also a weekend of celebration for Seapark’s highly respected senior coach, Bobbie Irvine, who achieved his landmark 50th marathon on Friday as part of the East Antrim Marathon Series.

Hot on his heels, Karen McMaster completed her 50th parkrun at Belfast Waterworks. Glenda Murray achieved a parkrun personal best at the same race (28.43).