Ballygalget Athletic Club - Runners

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟐𝟑 𝐀𝐮𝐠 𝟐𝟔:

It was another busy week for Ballygalget AC members, with club athletes representing the club at events across Northern Ireland while continuing preparations for the busy autumn racing season.

At Castlewellan Parkrun, Ruth Torney and Ryan Kelly were in action, enjoying the scenic course and adding another successful Saturday morning run to their growing list of achievements.

Meanwhile, Gary Addis travelled to Limavady Parkrun, proudly representing Ballygalget AC and continuing his consistent run of performances at events across the province.

Gary was also in action at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon, where he was joined by clubmate Niamh Magee. Congratulations go to Niamh on completing her first half marathon in a fantastic time of 2:06. Completing the 13.1-mile distance is a significant achievement, and Niamh should be immensely proud of her performance.

At the Storm the Castle 10k in Carrickfergus, Ann and Kieran Taggart took part in the event's 10th anniversary race. Kieran produced an excellent run to finish 3rd Male in his age category, adding to an enjoyable afternoon of racing. Participants were treated to refreshments afterwards and had the chance to relax in the sunshine following their efforts.

Away from race events, many Ballygalget AC members continue to put in the hard work as marathon and half marathon training builds towards a busy autumn season. The dedication being shown on training runs is a testament to the commitment of club members as they prepare for upcoming challenges.

𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

🏃Monday – Monday Social Run on 31 August @ 6.45pm (suitable for all abilities and everyone welcome including non-members) - The Chapel Car Park, Portaferry

🏃Wednesday – Interval/Tempo Training, 7pm on 3 September - venue TBC

New members and visiting runners are always welcome and encouraged to join in—whether you're chasing a PB or simply enjoying the social side of running, there’s a place for you at Ballygalget AC. Please check the Ballygalget AC page for weekly venue updates.

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟏𝟔 𝐀𝐮𝐠 𝟐𝟔:

Ballygalget AC members were once again out in force over the past week, taking part in a range of events both at home and abroad.

The week got off to a great start on Monday 10th August when club members joined the Peninsula Social Run in Portavogie. With warm sunshine and calm conditions providing the perfect backdrop, runners enjoyed a relaxed 5K around the village before gathering afterwards for refreshments and a chance to catch up socially.

Further afield, the Roddy family took Ballygalget colours to Australia. On Saturday, Gemma Roddy, Paula Roddy and Donna Roddy took part in the Shepparton Parkrun, enjoying the welcoming atmosphere and adding another international event to their running journeys.

Closer to home, Gary Addis and Jay Fitzsimmons lined up at Victoria Parkrun, where both produced impressive performances. Jay had particular reason to celebrate, recording a new 5K Personal Best of 17 minutes and 37 seconds, a fantastic achievement and reward for his hard work and dedication in training.

Meanwhile, Ann-Marie Smyth made the journey to Dublin's famous Phoenix Park to compete in the prestigious Frank Duffy 10 Mile Road Race. Ann-Marie completed the challenging event in fine style, adding another strong performance to her growing list of race accomplishments.

Rounding off a busy and successful weekend, the Roddy sisters returned to action at the Shepparton Running Festival in Australia. Donna Roddy and Paula Roddy both successfully completed the half marathon, while Gemma Roddy once again demonstrated her remarkable endurance by completing her 190th marathon, an incredible milestone that reflects years of commitment to the sport.

Congratulations to all our members on their achievements and for representing Ballygalget AC so well both locally and internationally.

𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

🏃Monday – Monday Social Run on 24 August @ 6.45pm (suitable for all abilities and everyone welcome including non-members) - Ballyhalbert Harbour Car Park

🏃Wednesday – Interval/Tempo Training, 7pm on 26 August - venue TBC

New members and visiting runners are always encouraged to join in—whether you're chasing a PB or simply enjoying the social side of running, there’s a place for you at Ballygalget AC. Please check the Ballygalget AC page for weekly venue updates. See less

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟗 𝐀𝐮𝐠 𝟐𝟔:

🇧​​🇦​​🇱​​🇱​​🇾​​🇬​​🇦​​🇱​​🇬​​🇪​​🇹​ ​🇦​​🇨​ ​🇲​​🇪​​🇲​​🇧​​🇪​​🇷​​🇸​ ​🇧​​🇺​​🇸​​🇾​ ​🇴​​🇳​ ​🇷​​🇴​​🇦​​🇩​​🇸​, ​🇵​​🇦​​🇷​​🇰​​🇷​​🇺​​🇳​​🇸​ ​🇦​​🇳​​🇩​ ​🇭​​🇴​​🇱​​🇮​​🇩​​🇦​​🇾​ ​🇪​​🇻​​🇪​​🇳​​🇹​​🇸​

Members of Ballygalget AC were in action over the past week, representing the club both at home and further afield. Congratulations to Ryan Kelly, Gemma, Donna and Paula Roddy, who all took part in the popular Crossgar 10K, enjoying the challenging course and excellent atmosphere on the day.

Meanwhile, Joan Gilmore, while enjoying a holiday in North Wales, pulled on her running shoes to participate in the Teddy Bear Run in Conwy on Sunday, 9th August. The family fun run was held at the Conwy Cob and raised funds for Hope House & Tŷ Gobaith Children's Hospices. Well done to Joan for keeping up her running while away from home and supporting such a worthy cause.

Closer to home, Andrew Garrett completed the Christie Parkrun on Saturday, 8th August, continuing his excellent commitment to weekly parkrun events.

Looking ahead, Ballygalget AC's next Social Run will take place on Monday 17th August, meeting at Kircubbin Green Car Park at 6.45pm. As always, runners and walkers of all abilities are welcome to come along.

Club training will take place at 7.00pm on Wednesday, with the location to be confirmed and announced in advance on the club's page.

Ballygalget AC continues to welcome new members, and anyone interested in getting involved can keep up to date with activities and events through the club's page.

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟐 𝐀𝐮𝐠𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝟐𝟔:

𝘽𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮𝙜𝙖𝙡𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝘼𝘾 𝙍𝙪𝙣𝙣𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙀𝙭𝙘𝙚𝙡 𝙤𝙣 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙣𝙜𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝘾𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙏𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙒𝙚𝙚𝙠

Ballygalget AC athletes were out in force this past week, taking on some of the toughest local routes and delivering a string of impressive performances that showcased determination, resilience, and club spirit.

On Wednesday 29th, Joan Gilmore tackled the Ardglass 10K, a course well known for its challenging hills and coastal climbs. Joan delivered a solid run, pushing strongly throughout.

In the 5K event, David Conlon produced a standout performance, finishing 5th overall with a superb chip time of 17:41. A brilliant result on a demanding route.

Saturday, August 1st saw club members head to the stunning grounds of Mount Stewart for the Run The Trails 2026 event, organised by Scrabo Striders Running Club. The course may have been beautiful, but it was also unforgiving—steep climbs, forest paths, and technical sections throughout.

In the 10K race, Jay Fitzsimmons stormed home in 9th place overall, an excellent achievement on such a tough route. Letitia Fitzsimmons followed with an equally impressive run, finishing 12th female and claiming 2nd place in her age category.

The 5K route welcomed two more Ballygalget runners: Ann‑Marie Smyth and Ryan Kelly. For Ann‑Marie, this marked her first race back after injury, and she made a remarkable return, finishing 6th female—a confident comeback performance. Ryan also ran strongly, adding another solid race to his busy schedule.

Not content with just one race at the weekend, Ryan Kelly was back out again on Sunday for the Feile 10K. Despite recent races and long‑mile training, Ryan delivered an exceptional run, clocking a chip time of 45:24. A testament to his consistency and endurance.

Our Monday social runs at 6:45pm and structured interval / tempo Wednesday sessions at 7pm continue weekly. Venues are announced in advance on our page.

New members are always very welcome—whether you’re returning to running, building fitness, looking a social run or chasing PBs, there’s a place for you at Ballygalget AC.

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟐𝟔 𝐉𝐮𝐥𝐲 𝟐𝟔:

Ballygalget AC Impresses at Portaferry Gala 10-Mile Race

Ballygalget Athletic Club was proudly represented by 15 members at this year's Portaferry Gala 10-Mile Race, with the club enjoying a fantastic evening of racing, personal achievements and community spirit.

Leading the Ballygalget AC contingent home was David Conlon, who produced an excellent run to finish in 59:32. He was followed by Jay Fitzsimmons in 1:02:34, Gary Addis in 1:05:44, Kieran Taggart in 1:08:41, and Ryan Kelly in 1:12:29.

Completing the challenging course were Flo Mada (1:17:31), Emma Healey (1:18:51), Vincent Toner (1:18:58), Letitia Fitzsimmons (1:21:52), Ruth Torney (1:30:25), Vincent Morrow (1:30:31), Joan Gilmore (1:31:02), David Taylor (1:32:55), Ann Taggart (1:50:51) and Julie Allen (1:53:57).

There was special success for Emma Healey, who claimed the accolade of First Local Female Finisher, a superb achievement in a highly competitive field. Congratulations also go to David Conlon, Jay Fitzsimmons, Gary Addis, Emma Healey, Ryan Kelly and Vincent Morrow, who all recorded impressive personal best times, highlighting the rewards of their hard work and dedication in training.

The club would like to extend sincere thanks to the Portaferry Gala Committee for organising another excellent event, which once again attracted strong support from runners and spectators alike and showcased the very best of local athletics.

The racing action did not stop there for Ballygalget AC. Less than 24 hours later, Gary Addis was back in action at the Donaghadee 5K, producing an outstanding performance to finish in 19:01. The achievement was made all the more remarkable given that Gary had completed the demanding 10-mile race the previous evening.

Meanwhile, several Ballygalget AC members swapped their running shoes for high-vis vests and volunteered as marshals at the Donaghadee event. Joan Gilmore, Dolores Mullan, Letitia Fitzsimmons, Kieran Taggart and Ann Taggart all gave their time to help ensure the race ran safely and smoothly. Their efforts were greatly appreciated and demonstrated the strong volunteering ethos that exists within the club.

With strong performances on the road and excellent support off it, Ballygalget AC continues to go from strength to strength, and the club can be proud of the commitment and community spirit shown by all those involved over a busy and successful weekend of racing.

Social Runs are on Mondays at 6.45pm and Structured training on Wednesdays at 7pm

It is with great sadness that we share the news that the father of our fellow members Gemma, Paula & Donna, and uncle of Kieran has passed away.
On behalf of everyone at the club, we extend our deepest sympathies and heartfelt condolences to them and their family during this incredibly difficult time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all as you grieve the loss of your beloved father & uncle.

*As a mark of respect training tonight will be cancelled*

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟏𝟐 𝐉𝐮𝐥 𝟐𝟔:

Ballygalget AC athletes produced another strong week of performances, with members competing both locally and further afield.

Seven runners took part in the Kilclief Ben Dearg Coastal Run across the 5k and 10k distances, delivering an impressive set of results. In the 5k, Letitia Fitzsimmons claimed 1st Female with a superb run, while Gary Addis secured 3rd Male after a determined effort along the coastal route. Kieran Taggart also impressed, finishing 5th overall in a competitive field. Over the 10k distance, Jay Fitzsimmons continued his fine form to place 5th overall, and Emma Healy ran strongly to take 4th Female. There were also great performances by Ann Taggart in the 5K and Joan Gilmore in the 10K.

Away from the coast, Ballygalget AC was also represented at the Run Armagh event. Gemma Roddy completed the full marathon with great resilience, while Donna Roddy and Paula Roddy both took on the half marathon, adding to a strong family showing for the club.

Looking ahead, the Clubs Monday social run on 20th July will leave from the Exploris car park in Portaferry at 6.45pm, welcoming runners of all abilities for an easy-paced outing. Structured training continues every Wednesday at 7pm, with the weekly venue announced in advance on the club’s page.

Another excellent week for Ballygalget AC, with podium finishes, top‑five results and marathon achievements reflecting the club’s growing strength and spirit.

The club extends a warm invitation to all adults aged 18+ who would like to get active, meet new people, and enjoy the benefits of running in a friendly, supportive environment.

𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

🏃Monday – Monday Social Run on 20 July @ 6.45pm (suitable for all abilities and everyone welcome including non-members) - Exploris Car Park

🏃Wednesday – Interval/Tempo Training, 7pm on 8 July - venue TBC

New members and visiting runners are always encouraged to join in—whether you're chasing a PB or simply enjoying the social side of running, there’s a place for you at Ballygalget AC. Please check the Ballygalget AC page for weekly venue updates.

Tonight's Peninsula Run was in Cloughey. Fab turn out from Ballygalget AC, Ballyhalbert Harriers & Portavogie and of course refreshments afterwards was needed 🥰


Afterwards our club met up with Colin & Eithne Bell founders of The Kevin Bell Trust to present them with a donation of £500.

Next Peninsula Run will be in Portaferry 10th August (tbc). All abilities welcomed.

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟐𝟖 𝐉𝐮𝐧 𝟐𝟔:

Ballygalget AC was well represented at last week’s Ards Half Marathon, with 11 runners taking on the challenge on what proved to be a hot and humid evening. Despite the demanding conditions, there were some outstanding performances across the field.

Jay Fitzsimmons led the club home as the first Ballygalget runner across the finish line, closely followed by Gary Addis and David Conlon, all producing strong runs in tough weather.

There was further success in the women’s field, where Letitia Fitzsimmons delivered an excellent performance to secure 3rd place in her age category, while also finishing a remarkable 33rd overall female.

Special mention must go to Joan Gilmore and Ruth Torney, both of whom recorded significant improvements on their course times compared to last year—an indication of the dedication and progress being made within the club.

The event itself was extremely well organised, and Ballygalget AC would like to extend thanks to Scrabo Striders for hosting a superb race.

Looking ahead, the club’s social runs continue every Monday evening at 6.45pm, while structured training sessions take place on Wednesdays at 7.00pm. Venues for both will be announced in advance on the club’s page.

The club extends a warm invitation to all adults aged 18+ who would like to get active, meet new people, and enjoy the benefits of running in a friendly, supportive environment.

𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

🏃Monday – Monthly Peninsula Social Run on 6 July @ 6.45pm (suitable for all abilities and everyone welcome including non-members) - Cloughey Car Park

🏃Wednesday – Interval/Tempo Training, 7pm on 8 July - venue Portaferry Chapel Car Park

New members and visiting runners are always encouraged to join in—whether you're chasing a PB or simply enjoying the social side of running, there’s a place for you at Ballygalget AC. Please check the Ballygalget AC page for weekly venue updates.

𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐲𝐠𝐚𝐥𝐠𝐞𝐭 𝐀𝐂 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐁𝐮𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐢𝐧 𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝟐𝟏 𝐉𝐮𝐧 𝟐𝟔:

Ballygalget AC was well represented at the popular Comber 10K, with an impressive turnout of 11 club members taking to the start line. The event proved particularly successful for the club, with standout performances across several categories.

Leading the way was Jay Fitzsimmons securing 1st place in the Male U20 category. Emma Healy also delivered an excellent performance, claiming 1st place in the Female 40+ category, continuing her fine run of form.

There were plenty of personal bests to celebrate on the day. Congratulations go to David Conlon (35:52) Jay Fitzsimmons (37:36), Gary Addis (38:09), and Ryan Kelly (43:01), all of whom achieved new PBs—an indication of the strong progress being made across the club.

Not content with their Friday evening efforts, Ryan Kelly, Jay Fitzsimmons, and Gary Addis were back in action the following morning, completing the Comber Parkrun—a testament to their dedication and enthusiasm.

Elsewhere, Julie Allen took on a different but equally inspiring challenge on Saturday, participating in the Mighty Hike Giants Causeway Marathon. This demanding event showcased great endurance and determination, and the club extends its congratulations on a fantastic achievement.

Looking ahead, the club’s social run will take place on Monday 29th June, starting at 6:45pm from Ballyhalbert Harbour. Meanwhile, structured training sessions continue on Wednesday evenings at 7pm, with venues confirmed regularly via the club’s page.

The club extends a warm invitation to all adults aged 18+ who would like to get active, meet new people, and enjoy the benefits of running in a friendly, supportive environment.

𝐖𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐥𝐲 𝐒𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬

🏃Monday – Monthly Peninsula Social Run on 29 June @ 6.45pm (suitable for all abilities and everyone welcome including non-members) - Ballyhalbert Harbour Car Park

🏃Wednesday – Interval/Tempo Training, 7pm on 1 July - venue TBC

New members and visiting runners are always encouraged to join in—whether you're chasing a PB or simply enjoying the social side of running, there’s a place for you at Ballygalget AC. Please check the Ballygalget AC page for weekly venue updates.