A total of 418 athletes from 28 primary schools in the SELB area recently took part in the Southern Sports Partnership Cross Country Championships at Palace Demesne in Armagh - and the competition was intense!

Taking place on Thursday 24th March 2011 the Championships feature two races - one for girls and one for boys with prizes for individuals and teams.

Up first was the Girls race and a total of 210 athletes were in place for the SELB Chief Executive, Mr Tony Murphy to start the race which was over a distance of 1300m in the park area of the Demesne. The race was keenly contested with Emma McCreary - Edenderry PS (Banbridge) improving on her 3rd place last year by coming home in first place. Emma was closely followed by 2nd Ellie Robinson - Edenderry PS (Banbridge) and 3rd Jordan Carr - St Marys PS (Granemore). With all competitors home the team positions were as follows: 1st Ballydown PS (Banbridge), 2nd St Dallans PS (Warrenpoint), 3rd St Marys PS (Granemore) and 4th St Patricks PS (Newry).

In the Boys race a total of 208 athletes competed with the race started by the Mayor of Armagh, Councillor Jim Speers. Niall Loney from St Anthonys in Craigavon emerged as the eventual winner and claimed the boy's title. He was closely followed by 2nd Malachai McAvey - Ballyhollnad PS (Newry) and 3rd Stephen Grant - Ballyholland PS (Newry). Following the race, Ballyholland PS (Newry) were named as the overall team winners and they were followed by 2nd St Dallans PS (Warrenpoint), 3rd St Anthonys PS (Craigavon) and 4th Our Ladys and St Mochas PS (Derrynoose).

The top four teams and top four individuals now move onto the National Primary Schools Cross Country Championships which will be held in Armagh on Thursday 19th May 2011.

A great day was had by all and the Southern Sports Partnership would like to thank both Armagh City & District Council and Loaded Smoothies for their assistance in putting on a fantastic event.