On Saturday Newcastle AC’s Pearse Brogan and Sam McNeilly made the trip to the North Coast for the Binevenagh Mountain Race, hosted by Springwell Running Club. The race, part of the NIMRA League (Round 3) and the Ulster Championship (Round 2), offered a classic test of mountain running on the impressive slopes of Binevenagh (385m), with sweeping views across the Magilligan Peninsula.
All ready for the start!
Conditions were challenging but largely favourable, with strong winds, bright sunshine, and a brief shower that thankfully passed within minutes. Springwell delivered an excellent event, with a well-marked course and plenty of friendly marshals supporting runners throughout.
93 runners lined up ready to take on the 10k route. The route featured steep and muddy single-track climbs through forest trails, opening out onto the plateau before reaching the summit. From there, runners tackled a steep and fast descent back to the finish.
At the front of the race, Timothy Johnston (Annadale Striders) took a decisive win in 47:09, followed by Niall McCartan (BARF) in 47:39 and Jonny Steede (Glens Runners) in 48:34.
The women’s race saw Karen Wilton (Unattached) take the win in 59:26, with Naomi McCurry (Glens Runners) second in 1:00:45, and Sam McNeilly (Newcastle AC) securing third place in 1:02:58.
Newcastle AC results:
- Sam McNeilly – 25th overall, 1:02:58
- Pearse Brogan – 34th overall, 1:05:45
A strong performance from both athletes on a demanding course, and another successful outing in the NIMRA League series.