Scotland in Antrim: solid runs in tough conditions for half marathon

Monday 26th August 2024

The Scotland teams at the Antrim Coast Half Marathon, the World Athletics event in Northern Ireland, were met by the tail end of Storm Lillian on Sunday.

So although the out-and-back course has spectacular scenery the last 8K was into a direct headwind, making PBs extremely unlikely for the field.

The Scotland teams battled well in the high class field to produce strong performances.

Ryan Thomson (Cambuslang Harriers) finished in 16th place in 65:15.

After a group sprint finish, Inverclyde AC’s John Bell was 23rd and Aberdeen AAC’s Michael Ferguson 26th.

Natasha Phillips (Dundee Hawkhill Harriers) finished an impressive eighth in the Women’s race in 72:31.

Metro Aberdeen athlete Virginie Barrand was 16th and Sara Green of Gala Harriers was 18th. There was a tenth place finish for Irish international, Fionnuala Ross (Shettleston Harriers).

Well done to these athletes on representing Scotland in Antrim and to their families, coaches and clubs on the selection.

With thanks to Mike Johnston