U18 International Mountain Running Cup
Report by Nikki Graham (NIMRA Juniors Team Manager)
Four outstanding athletes from LVAC travelled to Northern Spain to participate in the U18 International Mountain Running Cup. Representing half of the NI & Ulster team, Aoife, Katie, Niall, and Olivia showcased their exceptional talents and brought immense pride to their club.
On a 5km in course with 224 meters of ascent, the athletes faced challenging technical conditions, navigating through difficult terrain that tested their skills and endurance. Despite this, the LVAC athletes demonstrated remarkable determination, bravery, and camaraderie.
These brilliant athletes were also the life and soul of the event. They made many new friends and created lasting memories along the way, embodying the spirit of international sportsmanship.
Aoife, in her international mountain running debut came a brilliant 54th, and proved to also have exceptional kit swopping abilities with the other athletes. Watch out for a USA athlete turning up to MPT this week.
Katie came back from a tough season of injury and illness and came a super 49th, and most importantly she made sure that the new athletes to the team were well inducted, especially in all things social. She was the gel of the NI & Ulster team, and also created a bigger friendship circle between all of the Irish athletes. It’s good to get the priorities right.
Niall, another debutant came a credible 48th; however, his other great achievements were getting his hair braided by the Irish girls on the bus, and also almost being denied his bus journey home due to the fact that he was in a Mexican kit.
Olivia, new to mountain running, never mind international mountain running, came a fantastic 39th, and also showed exceptional dancing skills at the after party. Watch out for a conga at training this week.
Well done to each and every one of you. You were a pleasure to travel with and each of you are great role models for any young person interested in taking part in any sport, not to mention mountain running. I was very proud of you all!
