Bobby Rea International Cross Country 2019

Athletics Northern Ireland has made the decision to enhance the already popular Bobby Rea Memorial Cross Country this year to facilitate cross country fixture clashes.

The Bobby Rea Memorial Cross Country is held annually in memory of the former Chairman of the Northern Ireland Athletic Federation, coach and founding member of Abbey AC, who passed away in November of 2006. The race is one of the fixtures that are part of the Athletics NI Cross Country League.

Athletics NI General Secretary, John Allen, said of this decision: “The Bobby Rea Memorial is a popular event that has been part of the Cross Country calendar and the Athletics NI Cross Country League for many years, so we look forward to inviting International Cross Country Stars to take part.”

Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council will be supporting the Bobby Rea International Cross Country.  Alderman James Tinsley, Chairman of the council’s Leisure & Community Development Committee said: “The council is delighted to have Athletics NI once again use Billy Neill for its cross country fixtures. We look forward to welcoming regional, national and international athletes of all ages to our facility; and we hope residents and visitors will come along to cheer them on. 

“The council has significantly invested in Billy Neill MBE Country Park to enhance the facilities on offer and we are very proud of the cross country course.  These two international events will have a positive impact on our local economy and tourism numbers.  I wish all the competitors well as they complete their training programme and we look forward to seeing you soon.”

The day’s events will begin with the NI & Ulster Uneven Age Group Cross Country Championships at 11.45pm, with the Bobby Rea International events starting with the Women’s & Male 60+ race at 2.50pm and the Men’s race at 3.15pm.

Find out more information here