Stormont Cross Country Races – 2026 Club Series Opener
The 2026 club race series got underway this morning at the Stormont Cross Country Races, providing the first competitive test of the new season. After weeks of torrential rain and significant flooding, expectations were modest heading into race day. Thankfully, conditions were much improved, with crisp winter air and mud that, while present, was manageable and made for honest cross-country racing.
Club athletes competed across two races: the combined Ladies and Men’s Over 60 event, followed by the Men’s Open Race.
Ladies & Men’s Over 60 Race
The opening race saw two club representatives in the Ladies category.
Lynne Mounstephen produced a strong performance to finish in 29:28, setting an encouraging early benchmark for the season. Vasiliki Carson followed with a determined run, crossing the line in 38:11 after working hard over the testing terrain.
In the Men’s Over 60 category, Mark Rocks led the way home in 24:52, with Shaun Henry close behind in 24:59. Both ran competitively on a demanding course and showed great consistency throughout.
Men’s Open Race
The Men’s Open Race saw four club athletes take on the full Stormont course.
Callum Robinson was first home for the club in 26:50, running strongly across the distance. David Hynes followed in 29:04 with a controlled and steady effort. Fabrice Scoupe completed the course in 32:02, battling well through the heavier sections of the course.
Stephen Buggy rounded out the club’s performances in the race, finishing in 50:53 and showing real perseverance on a challenging layout.
Overall, the Stormont Cross Country Races proved to be a positive and competitive start to the 2026 series. With solid performances across all categories, the season is now firmly underway and promises plenty more to come.
Well done to all the BRC runners you did great today and cheers to all the supporters 😀