Lisburn in the medals at All-Ireland even XC champs

Wed 30 November 2011--admin

Sligo Racecourse was the venue on Sunday past for the All-Ireland juvenile cross-country championships. The going was heavy but it was no barrier to four very good performances by the City of Lisburn AC squad who had all qualified via the recent Ulster Championships in Donegal. Athletes were after individual medals (top 12) as well as chasing inter-county team prizes as part of Co. Antrim squads.

Under 12 girls (2000 m) – Kate Gourley had a good run to finish in 12th place from the field of 143 athletes. This was a strong showing at this level and it was great to see her clinch an individual medal.

Under 14 girls (3000 m) – Madison Bowyer had her best run of the cross-country season by far, finishing 6th overall from the field of over 130 runners. This was a great performance, especially after only qualifying in 7th from Killybegs although she did of course have the handicap of one arm in a cast there.

Under 16 girls (4000m) – Zoe Carruthers had possibly the best performance of her career so far, finishing a fine 5th in this race – a superb performance at All-Ireland level. On top of this Zoe had the honour of leading home the County Antrim team which took gold in the Inter- County team competition.

Under 16 boys (4000m) – Jonathan Whan finished as 17th individual in this race out of 113 runners, another good show at this level. His run also saw him score in the County Antrim team which won team gold to cap a good day for Jonny and the rest of the Lisburn squad.

So massive congratulations to the squad, who all came home with at least one medal, making it one of the most successful cross-country outings by the junior squad in recent seasons.