Rachel ‘inspired’ after London mini marathon

The Martinstown schoolgirl was the only Year 8 girl selected as part of the NI team and finished in 51st overall out of a field of 297 runners in a time of 19 min 29 sec for the race which takes place over the last three miles of the marathon course.

Rachel was the second NI under 13 girl home only one second and one place behind her team mate. She will be eligible to run in the Under 13 category again next year.

Rachel described the event as “an amazing experience”.

“There are many things which stand out from this trip, but believe me I can’t fully describe the feeling of being part of such an amazing event, you really have to be there to absorb the atmosphere - it is truly inspiring.

“It was a very steep learning curve for me and I can understand why Mo Farah wanted to sample the experience of the Marathon before he entered it as a serious competitor.

“The greatest part was making friends with everyone in the team, sport is so much more than competing or winning - it’s about friendship and being part of a team. I am determined to train hard next year in the hope I will be part of this trip in 2014.

“I would like to thank my school Ballymena Academy who gave me the opportunity to compete in the schools competitions and who aided my trip.

“Thanks also to Ulster Secondary Schools Athletic Association and especially Isobel Mc Nulty who was a great chaperone and to the other teachers involved,” added Rachel.