Council’s cross-country event brings together schools from across the district

Pupils from 23 schools across the district came together at Kilbroney Forest Park, Rostrevor, on Tuesday 13 October for Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s annual Be Active P7 school’s cross-country event. 

Set against the scenic backdrop of the forest park, the event provided an exciting opportunity for 285 Primary 7 pupils to represent their schools and enjoy a friendly day of competition and sporting achievement.

The day began with an energetic musical warm up, building excitement among pupils, teachers and supporters ahead of the races. Competitors then took to the cross country course through the park's lower meadow where they demonstrated determination and excellent sporting spirit throughout the girls’ and boys’ races.

Despite a breezy day with an occasional light shower, conditions remained largely dry. The ground was soft under foot adding an extra challenge to the course, but the pupils rose to the occasion and showed great determination throughout the event.

With individual and team honours up for grabs, pupils gave their best efforts whilst cheering on their fellow competitors from across the district.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Glyn Hanna, congratulated all pupils on their efforts and achievements.

“The annual cross-country event continues to be a highlight of the school sporting calendar and it was wonderful to see so many pupils enjoying the opportunity to compete, socialise and be active. The effort and commitment shown by every child is to be commended. Whether they crossed the finish line first or challenged themselves to complete the course, every young person should be proud of their achievement.”

Cllr Hanna added: “I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Athletics NI for its valuable support in helping deliver this year's event. Thanks also to the participating schools, staff, parents and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council officers whose dedication to this event make it such a success.”

Medals and trophies were presented to the top individuals and teams, recognising their outstanding performances and in celebration of their achievements.

Winners: Individual Girls - 1 Emily McGreevy, Glasswater Primary School, Crossgar; 2 Sophia Murtagh, Ballyholland PS; 3 Meabh Murtagh, Carrick Primary School, Burren.

Girls Team Winners – 1 Carrick Primary School, Burren; 2 St Patrick’s Primary School, Crossmaglen; 3 St Bridgid’s PS Glassdrummond.

Individual Boys – 1 Manus Bellew, St Patrick’s PS, Crossmaglen; 2 Eoin Veldrick, St Clare’s Abbey PS, Newry; 3 Aidan Mc Cullagh, St Micheal’s PS, Finnis.

Boys Team Winners – 1 St Patrick’s Primary School, Crossmaglen; 2 St Brigid’s PS, Glassdrummond, joint third, Dromintee Primary School and Carrick PS, Burren.