Ballymena's Fairhill 5 Mile Road Race returns with a bang!

Fairhill 5 Race Director Eugene Reid presents a race T-shirt to Valerie McLernon, Centre Manager at Fairhill.

After a three-year hiatus, the Fairhill 5 Mile Road Race is set to make a grand return on Thursday, 13th June 2024, at 7pm sharp in the bustling town of Ballymena.

Organised by the Ballymena Runners AC in collaboration with the Fairhill Shopping Centre and several local businesses, the event has already seen over 350 eager participants sign up, with entries closing on the midnight of 9th June.

The race, which is open to all, promises not only a thrilling run but also a generous spread of prizes and post-race entertainment. Participants will be treated to a bespoke commemorative medal upon finishing, and winners will be awarded at a ceremony held in the Fairhill Centre. For those who have already registered, race number collection will be available on Tuesday, 11th June, from 1pm until 5pm at the Fairhill Centre.

For any last-minute runners, numbers and chips can be collected from 5 PM on the race night.

The challenging yet scenic course will take runners through the heart of Ballymena, starting at the Broughshane Street entrance to the Fairhill Shopping Centre and winding through iconic locations such as the Ballymena Showgrounds and the newly built FE College. A detailed map of the route is available online, promising a mix of urban and natural landscapes.

The event organisers have taken great care to ensure that the race is accessible to all, with free parking available at the Fairhill Centre from 6pm until 9pm. For those traveling by car, the M2 Ballymena By-pass is the recommended route, with signs clearly marking the way to the event.

In addition to the race, participants and spectators alike can look forward to a post-race celebration featuring the legendary hospitality of the Ballymena Runners. Refreshments and entertainment will be provided, including face painting and other activities for children courtesy of Ballymena Bid.

For more information and to register, visit the Ballymena Runners clubforce page at https://ballymenarunners.clubforce.com/products/membership. Hurry, as entries are filling up fast!

So lace up your running shoes, don your lucky socks, and join us for a night of camaraderie, competition, and community spirit at the Fairhill 5 Mile Road Race in Ballymena!