Competitors have enjoyable day at BB cross-country races

In the bright crispness of a March afternoon the gathering crowd of Boys, Officers, parents and friends shared thoughts and talked about last year’s races, the hopes of this year’s and the older ones reminiscing of years that were gone when they competed.

The air buzzed with excitement and anticipation as last minute instructions and information were given.

First off were the ‘cannot wait’ crowd of the youngest boys, the Anchors.

A close race was run here with Theo Thompson of 1st Glenwherry being the victor.

Next was The Juniors, who ran a longer race with fitness and endurance being put to the test with Adam Neilly of 1st Ballymena reaching the finishing line first.

The Company Section Junior race was soon under way with much cheering and support from the crowd. Here Christopher Simpson of 6th Ballymena (Baptist Church) finished just ahead of Alexander Clarke of 1st Connor.

Then it was the much awaited race for the oldest Boys, The Company Section Seniors. Here a cracking pace was set by all with Steven Rankin of 9th Ballymena (Ballee) more or less leading from start to finish being chased home by Daniel Bestok of 6th Ballymena (Baptist) and fellow Company member Stephen Greer.

The Battalion President, Mr Matt Currie presented all the Trophies, medals being awarded to the top ten finishers in each race.

Results from the various races were:

Anchors: 1. Theo Thompson (1st Glenwherry); 2. Peter Stuart McBride (1st Glenwherry); 3. Niall Pogue (4th Ballymena - High Kirk). Team Shield - 1st Glenwherry.

Juniors: 1. Adam Neilly (1st Ballymena); 2. Michael Wilson (4th Ballymena - High Kirk); 3. Paul Wylie (1st Clough). Team Shield - 6th Ballymena (Baptist).

Company Section - Junior Race: 1. Christopher Simpson (6th Ballymena - Baptist); 2. Andrew Adams (1st Cullybackey); 3. Alexander Clarke (1st Connor). Team Shield - 6th Ballymena (Baptist).

Company Section - Senior Race: 1. Steven Rankin (9th Ballymena - Ballee); 2. Daniel Bestok (6th Ballymena - Baptist); 3. Stephen Greer (9th Ballymena - Ballee). Team Shield - 9th Ballymena (Ballee).

The much coveted Clough Shield which is awarded to the best average finishing teams in the Company Section Junior and Senior Races was a close result being won by 6th Ballymena (Baptist) with 9th Ballymena (Ballee) runners up.