Ballymena Today are delighted to see one of the Ballymena Runners selected to be in a very important Northern Ireland team. Paula McAllister has been selected for the Northern Ireland Mountain Running Team. The Team will be competing for the Inter-Counties Championships in Moel Eilio, Llanberis, Wales on 14th May. The event is a 12.8k race with 915m climb with both men and women competing over the same course.
Well done to Paula, we cant wait to hear the results.
Northern Ireland Mountain Running
Photo via: NIMRA.org.uk
We had never heard about the work of NIMRA (Northern Ireland Mountain Running Association) before but we know that lots of runners in Ballymena night want to know more about this running group. Click here to visit the NIMRA website for more information and if you are interested in getting involved here is some advice offered from the group:
Mountain races can take place over exposed and rough terrain and the following should be taken into consideration:
Experience. NIMRA strongly recommend runners to gain experience in shorter events before attempting medium and long races. Familiarisation with the terrain is advisable and navigation can be necessary, particularly in poor weather conditions.
Safety And Essential EquipmentIn medium and long races competitors will be required to carry some or all of the following, depending on conditions:
- Waterproofs or full body cover
- Emergency Food
- Map (including details of the course and checkpoints)
- Whistle
- Compass
It is essential that runners come to races properly equipped and with a selection of clothing as weather conditions often change quickly. In the interests of safety, the Race Organiser may not allow those without adequate equipment or experience to start.
Remember the golden rule –“you must always report to the finish, whether you complete the course or not” (Source)
If you are already a keen runner in Ballymena and are up for a challenge then maybe Mountain Running is for you. If you would rather give it a miss then don’t forget to support Ballymena Runner Paula as she competes with the Northern Ireland Mountain Running Team.