The Donaghadee Blowout: BRC’s Latest Coastal Adventure
In what can only be described as a windy spectacle, the Donaghadee 5k took place under conditions that would have given Mary Poppins a run for her money. With gusts strong enough to challenge an umbrella’s integrity, our brave BRC runners took on the two-lap coastal course with the kind of determination one usually reserves for trying to keep their hats on.
Leading the charge and cutting through the wind like a knife was David Hynes, who was first across the line. Rumour has it, he was tempted to sprint straight into the ocean for a cool down, but wisely opted for a post-race snack instead.
Hot on his heels, or at least trying to be, was Aidan McPeake. Aidan might have been slightly delayed by the need to retrieve his cap, which decided to explore the North Channel solo at the halfway mark.
Davy Hanna came in next, despite the challenging weather, maintaining his usual cheerful disposition, perhaps propelled forward by the thought of a well-deserved pint after the race.
Tommy Cheng and Mark Rocks followed suit. Mark seemed to be testing out the “Rocks” part of his surname by trying to run like one—solid and steady, though not the most aerodynamic strategy in such blustery conditions.
Colin McMahon slipped in just under the next milestone, possibly wind-assisted on the final stretch. Jill Mellon followed closely, proving that strong winds are no match for strong willpower.
Amanda Mogey, Donna Healey, and Rowena Fair rounded out the middle pack. Amanda and Donna were spotted drafting behind other competitors.
Further back, Paul McCorry seemingly took the time to engage in light philosophical debates with fellow runners about the merits of coastal running versus indoor treadmills. Des Reid came through with a broad grin that suggested he was just happy to avoid being swept away.
Lastly, but certainly not least, was Aaron Hill, who demonstrated true grit and determination, particularly in the face of the particularly uncooperative headwind on the final leg.
All in all, the Donaghadee 5k was an exhilarating and blustery affair. While the wind may have been fierce, it couldn’t blow away the spirits of our intrepid BRC runners. Until the next adventure, when we hope for slightly less airborne conditions!
MR