Council’s Cross Country Event Continues to Flourish

On Tuesday 15 October 2024, over 500 children from 37 schools across the district gathered at Kilbroney Forest Park in Rostrevor for the highly anticipated annual Be Active P7 School’s Cross Country event. This scenic venue was brought to life with an energetic musical warm-up, creating an electric atmosphere alongside a giant inflatable finish line.

Despite the damp and windy weather conditions, spirits were high as the children ran 1,100m within the lower meadow of the forest park.

The event kicked off with the girls' race, where 256 participants started at a swift pace, undeterred by the weather. Next, 266 boys took to the course, competing fiercely in their race, eagerly awaiting the team and individual results.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne attended on the day and was on hand to present the medals and trophies to the top finishers.

Councillor Pete Byrne said, "I am absolutely delighted to see over 500 children from across the district take part in this year’s annual Be Active P.7 Cross Country event. The level of enthusiasm and determination displayed by these young athletes is truly inspiring. Events like this not only promote physical activity and healthy competition, but they also bring our community together. It’s a fantastic achievement for everyone involved, and great to see this event go from strength to strength.”

Girls' Individual Results:

• First place: Teagan Moxham from St. Patrick’s PS, Ballynahinch

• Second place: Meabh Conlon from St. Patrick’s PS, Crossmaglen

• Third place: Elena Doran from Carrick PS, Burren

Girls' Team Results:

• First place: St. Patrick’s PS, Crossmaglen

• Second place: Carrick PS, Burren

• Third place: St. Colman’s PS, Saval

Boys' Individual Results:

• First Place: Harry McVeigh from Bunscoil na Bheanna Boirche, Castlewellan

• Second Place: Rossa McAleenan from Bunscoil na Bheanna Boirche, Castlewellan

• Third Place: Mark Canavan from Holy Family PS, Teconnaught