County Antrim Harriers held their Annual General Meeting and Awards Evening at Ballyclare Golf Club on Friday, where an excellent turnout of club members was in attendance to hear reports on the club’s activities during the year and to make plans for the season ahead. Club Chairman Greg Hopkins welcomed all those present while apologies were received and recorded on behalf of those who through work, sickness or family commitments were unable to attend. The Secretary’s Report prepared by Christine Murray commented on the activities of the club and its members during the year, with the Chairman Greg Hopkins having run his 18th Larne Half Marathon, his 17th London Marathon and others over the preceding 12 months, Jonathan Turner very active in the ultra distance running scene, with Christine herself and Irene Downey the most prolific among the women. The secretary also reported on the influx of new members, and commented that even during the severe weather conditions over Christmas and the New Year periods with temperatures as low as minus 12 degrees, members were still keen enough and able to train. The Secretary’s Report, and the resultant Treasurer’s Report, which confirmed the club was in a good position financially, were both duly accepted by the members. The Election of Officers ensued with both Chairman Greg Hopkins and Secretary Christine Murray re-elected, and Irene Downey elected to post of Treasurer. The committee was reinforced with a couple of new faces. The Club Awards were duly announced and resulted in the following –
Male Athlete of the Year – Greg Hopkins for his Marathon achievements.
Female Athlete of the Year – Christine Murray for her continuous successes which included the Ballyclare based fire fighter winning a Gold Medal at the World Police & Fire Games in New York, winning the UK Fire Service Ladies 10k title again, and in her 16 races during the year winning 14 prizes. The Chairman commented that Christine had somehow overlooked her own achievements during the year and informed those present that during her membership of the club over four years Christine had won an amazing 45 prizes in total.
Veteran of the Year – Irene Downey who had successfully completed a couple of marathons, two half marathons, other races and a consistent runner on the Parkrun scene.
Female Newcomer of the Year – Ruth Morrison, who in her short spell at the club, had impressed the coaches with her ability and determination to do well.
Male Newcomer of the Year – Chris Barrett, with the Ballyrobert man showing up well in a number of half marathons and 10ks, and a regular at club training.
Most Improved Runners of the Year – Lisa Montgomery and Joanne Robinson who both had impressed the coaching staff with their continued and steady improvement over many months.
Performance of the Year – Jonathan Turner for his endeavours at the Lakeland Warrior 100k Race which he completed in 14hrs 11mins 2secs.
Club Person of the Year – Ross McCowan, with the well known Ballyclare butcher being rewarded for his commendable marathon and half marathon achievements in spite of being curtailed with his business commitments, and his supportive efforts to fellow runners on club training sessions.
Convery Perpetual Cup – Louise Smart, for winning the club’s 6 mile handicap Race.
Charlie Wright Memorial Shield – Suzanne Bradley, for winning the club’s 5k Handicap Race.
With the presentations completed, the members under Any Other Business discussed various options and made plans for the year ahead before the Chairman closed the meeting, with the members retiring to the adjoining restaurant for a scrumptious meal superbly prepared and served in the elegant environment therein.
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