Morgan claims PB of the day as East Down toe line at Queen’s

Morgan claims PB of the day as East Down toe line at Queen’s

9 April 2025

LAST Wednesday evening saw over 1,000 athletes from across the UK and Ireland toe the start line for this year’s running of the Deep Riverock Queen’s 3 and 5k. 

This popular event has multiple options, with an Elite 5K, an Open 5K and a 3K race on offer. 

These races take in a number of laps of the Stranmillis and Annedale embankments and with a fast course and good weather conditions in hand, there were some great times put on the board.

First up was the 3K race, and East Down AC had three juniors up for the challenge.

The juniors have had a great cross country season and have now turned their attention to the tarmac. 

First home was Cara Napeir, in a time of 11 min 45 sec, followed by Dillion Hynds, who had a strong run in 12 min 02 sec. 

Sarah Gilchrist brought the junior team home, crossing the line in a great time of 13 min 22 sec.

The next race was the Elite 5K and the club had a field of four runners setting off.

Adam Withers, who prefers the shorter distance on the roads and track, produced a very strong performance to complete the course in 16 min 10 sec. 

After her win at Jimmy’s 10K, Catherine O’Connor ran another strong 5K, running home in 16 min 57 sec. 

Next over the line was Matt Bezzant, clocking a time of 17 min 27 sec, while Joe Napier followed in 17 min 48 sec.

The Open 5K race saw a mix of youth and experience, with four more EDAC runners on the start line. 

Thomas Magee was first home, finishing 18th position and recording a strong time for a junior (18 min 30 sec). 

Coach Paul Burns was not too far behind and he will be happy with his run of 18 min 37 sec. 

PB of the day went to Adam Morgan, who is an old hand at this event and broke the tap in 19 min 23 sec. 

Seamus Savage is used to the longer distance, but gave the 5K a good go and finished in 20 min 33 sec. 

Great effort from all members at this popular and well run event.