* Sunday 24 March 2013 will see Castlewellan GAC’s second Annual Spring Lake Challenge. When you start on an outdoor venture the one thing which is always critical to its success is the weather. Last year’s event was bathed in sunshine which made it very warm for the runners not that anyone complained about it. It made it a great day for spectators and runners alike. You only have to visit the gallery on this website and you will see the photographs from last year’s 10K event.

You can register on-line for the race at www.athleticsni.org or on the day of the event. The run will commence at 1.00pm. Registration will take place at the Club and will end 15 minutes before the start of the race. The cost of entry to the 10K will be £9.00.

Last year’s winner was Newcastle AC runner David O’Flaherty who deservedly crossed the line in first place in a time of 36 minutes and 20 seconds, 4 seconds ahead of second place Brian Young followed by Brendan Quail from Newcastle AC. Newcastle AC filled 7 out of the top 10 places with our own club member Audie McVeigh finishing in 7th place. The winner of last year’s Women’s Race was Virginia Ervine from Mourne Runners in a time of 45 minutes and 15 seconds with the runner up Elizabeth Sandford from Lagan Valley finishing 19 seconds behind.

There will be a keen local interest again. The race was well supported by runners and spectators alike. It is a great way to help with your preparations for the new football season which will get underway next month. Last year’s finish line was in front of the Lake and Castle prompted a visiting spectator to comment that it was perhaps one of the finest spots to finish a race she had seen and she had seen a few. We will be delighted if we get the same weather and support. So come along to the event.