Friday night, The 8th of August. Five miles. One beast of a hill. The Mallusk Harriers 5 Mile is back for its 11th edition and it’s got everything you want from a club race, a tough course, a noisy crowd, a junior fun run, and a post-race spread that’s become the stuff of local legend. Entries are now open and you can sign up here to secure your spot.
A Proper Club Race with a Bite
Starting on Sealstown Road, this one isn’t for the faint of hamstring. The climb hits early, peaking around mile two before the route eases into a sweeping downhill along Boghill Road and finishes strong on Hydepark Road. It’s a course that rewards determination, with just enough speed on the back half to make up for the suffering on the front.
And don’t worry, you won’t be doing it alone. “The race is renowned for having a very tough climb up Sealstown Road,” says race director Nuala Muldoon, “but it’s also known for having so much support from Mallusk Harriers and locals en route and the best post-race spread ever.”
Prizes, Rivalries and the Road to Glory
There’s something for everyone on the podium. Cash prizes will go to the top three male and female finishers, with extra rewards for juniors (15–18) and masters (35+). Club runners can also get stuck into the Barista Team Prize and the annual Newtownabbey Cup clash between Mallusk Harriers and Monkstown Spartans.
A First for the Juniors
New for 2025 is the 1 Mile Junior Fun Run, perfect for younger runners who want a piece of the action. All finishers will get a medal, goody bag, and a chance to make the mini podium.
The Craic After the Climb
Once the medals are earned, the party begins. With prize-giving, food, and plenty of stories flying around, Mallusk’s post-race hospitality is worth the entry alone.
Event Essentials
📍 Start Line: Sealstown Road
🏁 Finish: Hydepark Road
🕢 Date & Time: Friday 8 August 2025 – 5 Mile at 7:30pm
📏 Distances:
– 5 Mile Road Race
– 1 Mile Junior Fun Run (ages 14 and under only) – starts shortly after main race
💷 Entry: via SIS entries here
🎖️ Prizes:
– Top 3 male & female overall
– Age category winners (35+), junior (15–18)
– Team awards incl. Barista Team Prize & Newtownabbey Cup
🏅 Medals: Bespoke medal for all finishers
🍪 Extras: Post-race spread, junior medals & goodie bags
📩 Contact: [email protected]
And there you have it! A leg-burning climb, roaring support, big prizes, and the kind of post-race spread that makes the pain worth it, the Mallusk 5 Mile is a full-on summer celebration. Sign up, show up, and see if you’ve got what it takes to conquer Sealstown.
Image: Dermot Boyd