Bishopscourt gets ready for Jimmy’s Ten runners

Bishopscourt gets ready for Jimmy’s Ten runners

9 June 2021

LOCAL runners will be lining up at a new start line to mark the return of Jimmy’s Ten on Sunday, June 20. 

In a historic move, this year’s race will change locations from central Downpatrick to Bishopscourt racing circuit to allow for staggered starts and social distancing.

The change in venue sees the much-loved race moving full circle as the first Jimmy’s Ten race in 1999 was held at Bishopscourt racing circuit.

Organised by East Down Athletics Club and supported by M B McGrady and Co, Chartered Accountants, the race will see runners take to the new ten-kilometre route setting off in two separate waves. 

Prizes will be awarded to the first, second and third placed male and female participants as well as age group winners.

“We are delighted that Jimmy’s Ten is returning for 2021 as it is such an important event for the community,” said East Down AC chairman Paul Burns.

“The Ten is a fantastic opportunity to get on your trainers and get out there, and I hope people of all ages and abilities will be inspired to take on the challenge and race with us all in a safe running environment.”

Mal McGrady, partner at M B McGrady and Co, said: “The change in location for this year, due to Covid-19 restrictions, offers runners the unique opportunity to experience running on a racing circuit in a fun, safe environment.”

He continued: “Jimmy’s Ten has a deserved reputation as one of the flagship events on the region’s running calendar and has always been a hugely successful event for the local community, so we are proud to support its return later this month.”

While many have taken up exercise and been enjoying the great outdoors throughout the pandemic, it is hoped the event, will see runners, old and new as the deferred entrants mix with the recent sign ups.

The winner of the first Jimmy’s Ten, Robert Wilson, is still an active member of Willowfield Harriers and is looking forward to seeing how the times this year compare to his result back then.

Entrants who had previously entered the event last year have been sent an email to advise them of the new date and to confirm their entry has automatically been transferred. 

Deferred runners are also being offered a virtual version to allow those who may not want to run that route to take part also. 

A limited number of new entries are on sale and can be booked via https://athleticsni.org/Fixtures/Jimmys-Ten.

For further information on Jimmy’s 10k, please see www.EastDownAC.co.uk.