Barrie shines for East Down

Barrie shines for East Down

16 July 2025

SUNDAY morning saw local runners head to the small, picturesque village of Kilclief for the 5 and 10K Coastal Run.

These races are some of the most scenic in Northern Ireland, with the route taking in the coast road and the back lanes of the local area.

After a six-year break, Kilclief Ben Dearg GAC got this great event back on the road, and with sunny conditions on offer, it received a great turnout. 

The 5K was the first race off and amongst the 110 athletes on the start line, East Down AC had one runner at this distance. 

Adam Morgan always runs a determined 5K, and this local race suited him. Even with the sun beating down, he ran a great time of 22 min 06 secs and crossed the finish line in third place.

As the 10K got underway, the heat was starting to build, with seven East Down runners joining the field of 143 at the start. 

The first red and yellow vest across the line was Barrie Atkinson, who finished sixth, in a solid time of 40 mins 37 secs. 

Next to finish, in 10th place, was Matthew Taylor, who is keen to take on any discipline and will be happy with his time of 42 min 51 secs. 

Colin Shields normally enjoys the longer distance, but he will be happy to have finished one second behind young Matthew. 

The first lady home was Sharon Madine, finishing in 37th position with a time of 49 mIn 58 sec. 

Stephen Lloyd, who is new to this racing game, put in a great run of 50 min 07 sec, finishing a couple of places in front of club captain John Taylor (50 min 43 secs). 

Nuala Taylor brought the team home with a strong run, crossing the line in 54 min 22 secs.

Well done to all for completing this great race in very testing conditions.