Five-year boost for Ballymena Runners as Galgorm Collection backs 370-member club and popular Belles race
Galgorm Collection has announced a five-year partnership with Ballymena Runners. Pictured alongside Georgie Briota, centre, Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection are, Raymond Ruck, Chair of Ballymena Runners and Teresa Mark, Committee Member.
Sunday 11 October 2026
Ballymena Runners have secured a new five-year partnership with Galgorm Collection, providing long-term sponsorship for the 370-member club and its popular all-female Ballymena Belles 5 Mile race.
The agreement will see the local hospitality group become the main sponsor of the Belles race in April 2027, while its branding will also appear on quarter-zip tops worn by club members.
The partnership represents a significant commitment to one of Ballymena’s established running clubs, supporting an organisation that encourages people of all abilities to get active while contributing to community and charitable initiatives.
Supporting 35 years of local running
Based at Seven Towers Leisure Centre, Ballymena Runners was established around 35 years ago and has grown into a club with 370 members.
With a commitment to the belief that running is for everyone, the club welcomes runners of different abilities and regularly takes part in community outreach and charity events.
Its Ballymena Belles 5 Mile race is a flagship event for the club, providing an opportunity for female runners to participate in an organised local race.
The new sponsorship will support the event in April 2027 and establish a five-year relationship between the club and one of the area's major hospitality employers.
A partnership with strong local connections
Georgie Briota, Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection, said the partnership reflects the company's commitment to community wellbeing and its existing connections with Ballymena Runners.
“At Galgorm Collection, we are passionate about supporting health, wellbeing and community initiatives that make a real difference to the people around us,” said Georgie Briota, Business Development Manager at Galgorm Collection.
"Partnering with Ballymena Runners for the next five years, and supporting The Ballymena Belles 5 Mile race, is a natural fit as a number of the Collection’s employees are also members of the Club.
“Sport develops so many skills that are equally valuable in the workplace: from teamwork and perseverance to dedication, resilience and problem-solving. As a Collection employing more than 1,400 people across Northern Ireland, we see the value of these qualities every day in our teams.
“We recognise that Ballymena Runners plays an important role beyond running, bringing people together, encouraging participation and giving back to the local community. Everyone in Galgorm Collection is delighted to be supporting the Club and its positive impact on the people and communities around us.
“We are looking forward to cheering on the Ballymena Belle participants and all club members proudly displaying our logo on their kit.”
Club welcomes five-year commitment
Raymond Ruck, Chair of Ballymena Runners, welcomed the agreement as an opportunity to strengthen the club and encourage further participation in running locally.
"We are thrilled to welcome Galgorm Collection as our main partner for the next five years. Their backing is a huge vote of confidence in our club, our members, and the Belles race. To have such a respected local brand on our kit and supporting one of our flagship events is fantastic for Ballymena Runners. We can’t wait to work together to grow running in our community."
Investing in community participation
Galgorm Collection operates a portfolio of hotels, restaurants and golf experiences and employs more than 1,400 people across Northern Ireland.
The agreement with Ballymena Runners forms part of its wider community engagement programme, which includes charitable initiatives, educational partnerships and support for local schools, sports clubs and organisations.
For Ballymena Runners, the five-year commitment provides a continuing sponsorship relationship as the club builds towards the April 2027 Belles race and works to encourage more people to experience the physical and social benefits of running.
