L_R rear; Saintfield Striders Gillian Johnston, Geoff Bannetine, Noreen Cunningham, Ballynahinch Lions Club Vice President Kevin Poland, Lions Club President Alan Simms. Front row; Pheonix Gas Commercial Manager Geri Wright, Lenny Lion, Gordons Chemists Marketing Manager Ryan Gordon.

This year the 2017 Ballynahinch Lions Club 10k and 5k/Fun Run will take place on Saturday 22rd April, with the 10k at 1.30 pm. and the 5k at 2.30 pm. Saintfield Striders have joined the Lions as event partners. As usual the races will start at High Street in the town centre and move through Church Street, Church Road, Spa Road and the beautiful Montalto Estate to the finish at the Eagle Gates on the Dromore Road.

Competitors may enter online at www.athleticsni.org at Ulster Property Sales Main Street, Ballynahinch Community Centre or at Tim Martin, Main Street Saintfield. Earlybird 10k discount entry until Friday 7th April. Late entry is also available on the morning of the race at The Square from 11am. - 1pm.

The Lions appreciate the many businesses in and around the town who have sponsored this year’s event – details to follow in a few weeks. Prizemoney totals £1400 (10k - £900 and 5k value £500. Prizes for male and female 1st, 2nd and 3rd in both races plus veterans 40+, 50+ and 60+ in the 10k. This year all 10k competitors will receive medals. Everyone is welcome – if you are not a 10k runner please feel free to walk the 5k!

Once again there will be a 10k mixed TEAM COMPETITION – 5 gents and 5 ladies per. team with 3 of each to count. The course has been remeasured (exactly 10k with no steps) and the 10k will be chip timed.

After the race there will be refreshments in the Market House for all 10k competitors, with presentations to all winners at approx. 3.30 pm.

As in previous years various Lions charities and also Cancer Research will benefit.