One Meel Down
Race Report by the Terminator
After a dream run of dry conditions in the 2025 Hill & Dale Series, the spell was broken for Race 9 at Meels. With a yellow weather warning issued and steady rain soaking the Mournes, runners braced themselves for what looked like a repeat of last year’s flood-fest. Thankfully, while visibility was poor and the rain persistent, conditions remained manageable—if challenging.
Natalie Cotton 1st Female Junior (All photos by Richard Cowan)
Given the weather concerns, organisers made the call to shorten the route. Instead of the full three-summit circuit, the course took runners from Meelmore Lodge over Spellack and Meelmore, cutting out Meelbeg—a decision met with quiet relief from most of the field (though a few gluttons for punishment expressed disappointment!).
James Millar 2nd
All runners reached the summit of Spellack in good time. By the top of Meelmore, the lead pack featured Newcastle AC trio Ethan McMullan, Ashley Crutchley, and David Hicks. On the fast and slippery descent, James Millar (Mourne Runners) showed his skill by clawing back several places. But it was Ashley Crutchley who kept his composure and pace through Happy Valley and along the Mourne Way to claim victory. Millar followed in 2nd, with Hicks in 3rd.
Ethan McMullan 4th
In the women’s race, Esther Dickson delivered a dominant run to take 1st place, with Diane Wilson continuing her fine form in 2nd, and Sonia McIntyre securing 3rd.
The Race Directors Stevie and Sam give a massive thank you to the volunteers who made the night possible: Debbie, Frank, Paul, Grace, Deon, Ian, Mark, Robert, Zak, Jinxy, Pete, Gerry, Danny, Jerome, Joe, Francie, and Butcher. The weather made things tough for the runners—but even tougher for those standing for hours in the rain marshaling to course. Your time, effort, and commitment ensured everyone got off the mountain safely.
Esther Dickson 1st Female
A special mention goes to father-and-son duo Ricky and Richard, who went above and beyond to assist an injured runner at Happy Valley. Word reached Race HQ that Richard carried the runner 400m on his back—heroic stuff.
Thanks also to Meelmore Lodge for hosting us, and to the King’s Inn, Castlewellan, for the warm post-race welcome.
Next week marks the final race of the series—Drinnahilly, on Friday night, followed by the prize giving at O’Hare’s. We look forward to seeing you all there for a grand finale!
Results and photos:
Photos by Richard Cowan – If you want to use any of Richard’s photographs for your web site/profile pictures/Instagram etc. this link will give you a chance to say thanks by buying Richard a cup of tea: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/thekillinchyphotographer