Meet the oldest and youngest participants of the Moy Park Belfast City Half Marathon

-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)
-Credit: (Image: Reach Publishing Services Limited)


Completing a half marathon at any age is a huge achievement but we thought there was something quite special about getting some advice from the youngest and oldest participants, Emily and Brigid, in this year's Moy Park Belfast City Half Marathon.

So we asked them some questions ahead of race day.

Have a look at what they had to say about the race and advice for anyone thinking about taking part in next year's event:

BRIGID - 80

Do you have any advice to other runners wanting to get started?

My biggest piece of advice is to take it slow and enjoy the journey. You don’t have to start by running far or fast. Even walking can be a great way to build up your strength. The key is consistency, so just get out there regularly, and over time, you'll see progress. The couch to 5k is a great introductory programme to running.

Are you running for a particular cause?

I’ve always loved running for the joy it brings me, but lately, I’ve also been dedicating my races to raising awareness for healthy aging and encouraging people of all ages to stay active. It’s so important to keep moving as we get older!

How has training been going?

Training has been wonderful! I feel so lucky that at 80, I’m still able to get out there and run. I’ve been running with my children and grandchildren, which makes it even more special. My mileage has increased over the summer, along with the Belfast half marathon I will be running the Berlin Marathon at the end of September. There are some tough days, but the joy of being out on the road keeps me going.

What are you looking forward to most after the run?

Honestly, I'm looking forward to celebrating with my family! Running with my grandchildren, Ciara and Conor, and my children, Tony, Geraldine, Eileen, and Pauline, makes every finish line a celebration. And I’ll definitely indulge in a little extra dessert afterwards!

What is your one tip for training?

Listen to your body. Over the years, I’ve learned that rest is just as important as running. If you push too hard, you might end up sidelined. So, take care of yourself and enjoy the process.

What got you into running?

I started running 40 years ago just to get outside and stay active. It wasn’t common to see someone my age running back then, but I loved it right from the start. It’s been such a wonderful way to stay healthy and spend time with my family.

Is this your first half marathon?

Oh no, this isn’t my first! I’ve lost count of how many half marathons I’ve done over the years 200 +, but each one is special in its own way. I’m especially excited for this one because I’m the oldest runner, which is a fun little milestone.

EMILY - 17

Do you have any advice to other young runners wanting to get started?

For young runners getting started, I’d say definitely don’t up the miles too quickly. Even if you feel like you can do more, find a balance between pushing yourself and being realistic with what you can do. And also, getting to a level where you can run long distances takes time, so don’t be disheartened if it doesn’t happen overnight, trust the process.

Are you running for a particular cause?

I’m running more for myself rather than a particular cause. The reason I’m running is because I turn 18 on the 25th of September. I think it would be pretty cool to say I’ve did a half marathon at any age, but especially when I’m technically not even an adult yet.

How has training been going?

Training has been good but really tough at times. There are days where all you want to do is run and others where you couldn’t think of anything worse. I recently took part in the Feile 10k and the Laganside 10k, to try and get a feel of what it would be like on race day. It’s exhilarating and the atmosphere is so motivating.

What are you looking forward to most after the run?

As soon as I cross that finish line I’ll be on my way to Boojum, post run burritos are hard to beat. If you don’t know, get to know. I just hope my legs will still be moving.

What’s your one tip for training?

Taylor swift makes everything easier. I always run listening to her, she makes the miles fly by. She’s the coolest. On a serious note though, don’t run on roads with loads of traffic, the constant stopping and starting at traffic lights completely disrupts any rhythm I have.

What got you into running?

My mum has always been a big runner, she’s ran a few half marathons before. She’d consistently tell me how running at 5am made her feel so much better throughout the whole day. I don’t quite get up that early but running still really helps with my mood and my focus during the day.

Is this your first half marathon?

This is my first half marathon! I’m not putting too much expectation on myself, especially with time, because it’s an achievement in itself to be doing such a long distance. I just hope the adrenaline on the day will be what I need to get over the finish line.

The Moy Park Belfast City Half Marathon is kicking off on Sunday 23 at 9am in Ormeau Park. It is set to be a fantastic day in the city so come along to show your support for everyone, young or old, taking part!

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