28/05/2026
Marconi’s 5 Mile Race 2026
Return of the Hill
After last year’s event was reduced to a 5K route due to subsidence issues on the Carrickmore Road, Ballycastle Runners AC were delighted to welcome the return of the full Marconi’s 5 Mile course including the infamous Corrymeela Hill and for the first time the introduction of a race t-shirt to go along with the finishers medal.
More than 300 runners from across the country descended on Ballycastle on the morning of the 24th of May for the popular annual race. Starting at the town’s tennis courts, the scenic route follows the coast road out towards Marconi’s Cottage before turning for home, with the challenging climb at Corrymeela providing a stern final test for competitors.
Conditions were close to ideal, with dry weather and mild cloud cover making for excellent racing conditions, a relief after the previous two years being wet.
Pre-race entertainment was provided by local musician Peter Brogan, whose energetic set helped build the atmosphere ahead of the start, while post-race entertainment came courtesy of Baile An Chaistil CCE.
Jack Sinclair from Roadrunners AC produced a commanding performance from start to finish to take victory in an impressive time of 28:42. Finishing second was Christopher McNickle of Springwell Running Club in 29:22, while Cathair McGuigan completed the male podium places in 29:45.
Grace McAlinden from Leeds City Athletics Club delivered a superb run to finish ninth overall and claim first female in 32:30. Marie Kerr of Glens Runners was second female home in a strong 34:29, while third place went to Ailis McKavanagh of Carryduff Running Club in 35:00.
Age Category wins were:
F35 Nuala McAleese
F40 Louise Gunn
F45 Veronica Nellins - Ballymena and Antrim AC
F50 Lucy O’Dell - Glens Runners
F55 Ruth McCausland
F60 Janet Patrick - Springwell RC
F65 Patricia Craig – Springwell RC
F70 Helene Graham
M35 John McCreight - Pace Running Club
M40 Shane McCann
M45 Keith Dawson - Lagan Valley AC
M50 Stephen Mezza
M55 Maurice Walker – Springwell RC
M60 George Ferguson - Beechmount Harriers
M65 Stephen Cowan
M70 Sam Jackson - Ballymena Runners AC
A great turn out from clubs local and further afield, particular mention goes to neighbouring club Springwell RC for sending 33 members to have fun on the hill!
Runners and supporters were also treated to an excellent spread of post-race food and refreshments, adding to the warm and welcoming atmosphere that has become a trademark of the event and much needed after the challenge of a certain hill!
Ballycastle Runners AC would like to extend sincere thanks to all of the event sponsors, whose generous support made this year’s race possible. McAuley Freight, E&L Construction, Ballycastle Credit Union, Morton’s Traditional Fish & Chips, tyre specialists McFadden’s The Garage, Anzac Off Sales, Limitless Gymnasium and Sandy’s Cafe. Also Championchip Ireland, all the volunteers, Ambutran and musicians who also made it possible! Photos by Seamus McGill, Joe Brogan and Michael Stuart.
Thank you everyone and see you all next year!
