International Selection Time for Northern Ireland Masters
16 September 2025
The start of autumn also signifies the beginning of the cross-country season.
Once again athletes aged over 35 will have the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland in the British and Irish Masters Cross Country International, taking place this year in Leeds, Yorkshire on 15th November. This prestigious event, which took place in Belfast last year, offers athletes the chance to compete against some of the world’s best runners in their respective age groups.
The Northern Ireland Masters Athletic Association Cross Country Championship is on 4th October at the Dub playing fields, Queen’s University. This will also incorporate the trial for the international team.
There are two races. At 1130 the Women and Men 65+ will run three laps (6km). Then at 1215 it is four laps (8km) for the Men M35-64.
To be considered for the NI team, you must be a current NIMAA member. The selection procedure is as follows:
Women and Men aged 35 up to 50: There are 5 on a team. The first 3 registered NIMAA athletes in each age group are chosen plus 2 at the discretion of the committee.
Women and Men aged 55 up to 70: There are 4 on a team. The first 2 registered NIMAA athletes in each age group are chosen plus 2 at the discretion of the committee.
Women 75+ category offers individual medals but no team scoring - There are 4 on a team. The first 2 registered NIMAA athletes in the age group are chosen plus 2 at the discretion of the committee.
Men 75-79: There are 4 on a team. The first 2 registered NIMAA athletes in the age group are chosen plus 2 at the discretion of the committee.
Men 80+ category offers individual medals with no team scoring - There are 4 on a team. The first 2 registered NIMAA athletes in the age group are chosen plus 2 at the discretion of the committee.
There will also be two reserves selected for each age group. These will have the opportunity to run in their respective reserves race in England.
You can enter online via: NI Masters XC Championships and Trials 2025 | Athletics Fixtures in Northern Ireland | Athletics Northern Ireland (entries close 26th September).
Volunteers: The NIMAA are also looking for help on race day with marshalling, course preparation etc. If you can assist, please email Anne Maguire at nimaa.memsec@gmail.com