Flahavans Porridge fuels young runners over the finish-line of Cross Country League!

After months of training and two qualifying rounds, Isa McCarron from St Joseph’s Primary Carryduff and Finlay Mayne from Londonderry Primary were crowned winners of the Flahavan’s Porridge Athletics NI Primary School Cross County League after securing first place in the Girls’ and Boy’s races respectively at the final.

Faughanvale Primary was recognised as the overall best-performing Boys school and Stranmillis Primary was recognised as the overall best-performing Girls school.

The league, which is committed to encouraging children to lead a healthy and active lifestyle, was launched by Olympian and 2018 European Championships athlete, Kerry O’Flaherty. In the biggest year-to-date, over 3,800 runners aged between 9 and 11 years old from across Northern Ireland took part in two qualifying rounds ahead of the final.

Demonstrating her commitment to encouraging young athletes, Kerry presented the successful competitors with their medals at the final round. Speaking at the event, she said:

“It’s so encouraging to see how dedicated the runners in the league are – both in their preparation ahead of, and attendance at the races. All of the competitors should be very proud of their efforts as they are not only laying the foundations of a potential athletics careers, but more importantly forming the habits required for a healthy and active lifestyle.” 

Aoife O’Shea, Brand Marketing Manager for Flahavan’s Porridge, added:

“Over the past eight years of sponsoring the league, we have witnessed thousands of young athletes come through the competition – with many going on to have successful athletic careers.

“With a healthy diet an essential part of any runner’s training, we are keen to showcase the role our oats can play in this preparation to pupils, parents and teachers competing in the league. Whether it’s starting the day with a bowl of porridge, or enjoying our products post-training, Flahavan’s is the perfect fuel for aspiring athletes.

“Well done to all the runners who took part in the league from everyone at Flahavan’s – you should be very proud of your efforts!”

Following the final, the top 20 girls and top 20 boys are invited to join the Flahavan’s Porridge ANI Junior Endurance Squad to support their development as athletes in the year ahead.