East Down AC host annual Jimmy’s Ten race

19 February 2020

ENTRANTS are on their marks for Downpatrick’s largest sports event.

Around 800 runners are set to pound the pavements on March 15 for Jimmy’s Ten.

Organised by East Down AC, and supported for the 11th year by MB McGrady & Co Chartered Accountants, Jimmy’s Ten continues to attract runners from near and far.

To mark the ongoing support and sponsorship with the local accountants, East Down AC have launched the MB McGrady & Co team trophy – awarded to the fastest male and female club teams to cross the finish line.

With numbers capped at 800, well over half the places have already been allocated, but there’s still time to register.

Last year, Mark McKinstry, from North Belfast Harriers, was first past the post in a race that featured over 900 runners, including 42 relay teams. First lady home was Newcastle AC Olympian Kerry O’Flaherty.

Mal McGrady, director of MB McGrady & Co Chartered Accountants, said he was proud to be associated with one of the most popular dates on the local sporting calendar.

“Jimmy’s 10k is a hugely successful event for the local community and to be celebrating 22 years is a tremendous achievement.

“We’ve been on board as a sponsor for the last 10 years. Many of our staff and clients take part in the race, reflecting MB McGrady’s ongoing

commitment to the local community, and we’re proud to be associated with such an incredible event that supports the East Down Athletic Club and raises funds for local charities.”

East Down AC established the first Jimmy’s 10K in memory of Jimmy Murray, a Downpatrick schoolteacher and athletics enthusiast, who was one of the founding members of East Down AC in 1987.

Joe Quinn, Jimmy’s 10K race director, who is well known in the town for his services to EDAC, said: “Jimmy’s 10k is a highlight of the road racing calendar, attracting top runners as well as encouraging beginners to put on their trainers and take to the roads.

“Most people, even those from outside the running fraternity, know of this event and I believe that the primary aim, which was to keep Jimmy Murray’s name at the forefront of athletics in Northern Ireland, has been achieved,” he added.

“This has been made possible through the continued support from the local community, businesses and sponsors, including MB McGrady & Co Chartered Accountants.

Prizes will be awarded to first, second and third placed male and female runners and age group winners.

There are also team prizes for male, female and mixed relay teams.

10K registration costs £18 for affiliated runners and £20 for non-affiliated runners. Relay registration is £25 for a team of two.

For further information or to enter, visit www.eastdownac.co.uk or search East Down AC on Facebook.

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