ATHLETICS: Aaron and Jessica are Ulster champions

Aaron Doherty and Jessica Craig produced impressive performances to strike gold at the Northern Ireland and Ulster Senior Cross Country Championships in Lurgan Park.

By The Newsroom

Published 5th Mar 2017, 20:01 BST

Updated 24th Mar 2017, 11:02 BST

Defending Champion Doherty was always prominent in a leading group containing 2015 Champion Declan Reed, David O’Flahery, Seamus Lynch, Conor Duffy and Mark McKinstry.

Doherty struck on the last lap to win by five seconds from McKinstry who came through to take silver for the third year in succession. Duffy came in third.

City of Derry Spartans took the team title from North Belfast and Newcastle. The Derry side dedicated the win to mentor Gerry Lynch who is just out of hospital.

Jessica Craig led North Down to a clean sweep in the ladies’ race. She went straight into the lead from team-mates Rachel Gibson and Jodi Smith.

Jessica held out for a popular win Rachel second ahead of Jodi, who had a toe injury.

North Down won the team from Beechmount and Lagan Valley.