Author: Peter Graham

The weekend saw County Antrim Harriers’ ultra distance enthusiast, and Irish 24-hour international, Louise Smart, running to retain her women’s title, in the Last One Standing endurance race.  The unique event, hosted by Atlas Running, is not for the faint hearted!  Starting at 12 noon on Saturday, runners have one hour to complete a 4.2 mile loop around the trails of Castle Ward, before starting the next.  Ninety-eight runners from all over Northern Ireland and further afield competed in this extreme race.  Louise’s meticulous preparation, determination, mental fortitude, and superb pacing (in day light and by head torch; and despite rain, rough and muddy terrain, and low temperatures) allowed her to complete an amazing 25 laps (105 miles) – one of only 6 competitors and the only woman to do so – and be crowned Last Woman Standing.  Another impressive result from Louise.

Congratulations to Jana Ross who achieved a well-deserved PB and reset the Clubs Ladies ParkRun record at Antrim ParkRun (19.40). Not only was Jana the First Lady at Antrim ParkRun; her impressive time placed her in the Top 10 fastest ParkRun women in Ireland of the week!