Race Over Glens takes place at third attempt

The event, held in Glenariff Forest Park, had twice fallen victim to unseasonal weather conditions, firstly on its traditional New Year's Day slot and then again when the event was rescheduled for Easter Saturday.

Inevitably, given a hectic race schedule throughout the Province, the turnout was well short of the 200-odd who normally take part, while other would-be participants are concentrating on matahon preparations for Belfast or London.

From the off it was ffive time winner and defending champion Jarlath Falls (Ballymena and Antrim) in familiar territory at the head of the field with Galgorm's Jonny Steede matching him as they descended deep into the heart of the glen towards Manor Lodge and the bridge river crossing before the tough climb up 'heartbreak hill' and then on to the equally tough steps section.

As the race progressed, however, Falls began to edge away from Jonny and this was the way they were to finish with Jarlath - battling his way back from an Achilles injury - claiming his sixth title with a finishing time of 32 mins 44 secs for the approximate 5.5 mile long course.

Steede stuck to his task and finished in second spot just under a minute behind in 33 mins 38 secs with another Ballymena and Antrim man Matt Wray third in 35 mins 41 secs and first vet to finish.

In the ladies race there was a clear cut winner with Roberta Dornan of North Down AC taking top honours with a time of 40 mins 14 secs with fellow club mate Stephanie Hambling second in 43 mins 8 secs and Gemma Turley of Abbey third in 44 mins 8 secs.