Downpatrick Gets Set for a Rollercoaster Race

Downpatrick Race 2

East Down Athletic Club and Phoenix Energy today announced the return of the Rollercoaster Races, which this year will take place at Downpatrick Race Course on Saturday 2nd March.

The event, which this year is exclusively for junior runners, will see over 200 children participating in races determined by their age group, around the scenic racecourse, with Team Shields for P7 Girls and Boys. Phoenix Energy will once again be on hand to provide a ‘Fuelling Station’ with water and giveaways to help fuel the runners on the day. Entrants will also receive a special Phoenix Energy medal.

Speaking about the continued partnership, East Down Athletics Club race organiser, Joe Quinn, said, “This event is unique in that it is focused on the younger athletes, giving them centre stage for the day. The course is challenging with the rolling hills but the surface is good and allows the athletes to pit themselves against each other in an atmospheric location with prime viewing for the spectators. Having the backing of Phoenix Energy has given new energy to the event if you pardon the pun!”

Phoenix Energy Communications Manager, Geri Wright, said, “Last year, we lent our support to East Down Athletic Club to revive the Rollercoaster Races and reinstate this in the local racing calendar as the flagship running event for juniors. Over 200 children took part in the event last year, which was a resounding success.

“As a company actively involved in supporting its community, we are delighted to launch the Rollercoaster Races here at Downpatrick Race Course. Phoenix Energy has been working in the Downpatrick area for the past year now to bring the benefits of natural gas to local residents and we are delighted to continue our partnership with the event for a second year and give back to the local community.

“Phoenix Energy will be on the ground to hand out sweet treats, boost energy levels and distribute well-deserved prizes to all participants. I would encourage families to come to Downpatrick Racecourse, soak up the atmosphere and enjoy a great family day out.”

For more information on the East Down Athletic Club Rollercoaster Races, in association with Phoenix Energy, please visit www.eastdownac.co.uk/?page_id=... or contact Joe Quinn at jaykwin69@gmail.com or Alison Carroll on 07825 314079

For more information on Phoenix Energy visit www.phoenixnaturalgas.com

Follow East Down Athletic Club on Twitter @eastdownac or Facebook search East Down Athletic Club.  

About the Rollercoaster Races

Registration: Entries for all races will be taken on the day from 9.30am – 10.30am in the Caughoo Lounge.

Racing Schedule:

  • 11:00 - P3 Fillies (400 metres)
  • 11:10 – P3 Colts (400 metres)
  • 11:20 – P4 Fillies – 2 Furlongs (500 metres)
  • 11:30 – P4 Colts – 2 Furlongs (500 metres)
  • 11:40 – P5 Fillies – 2 Furlongs (500 metres)
  • 11:50 – P5 Colts – 2 Furlongs (500 metres)
  • 12:00 – P6/7 Fillies – 4 Furlongs (1K)

East Down Shield – 4 to count

  • 12:15 -  P6/7 Colts – 4 Furlongs (1K)

John McKeag Shield – 4 to count

  • 12:30 – Colts/ Fillies (aged 13 and under) – 7 Furlongs (1.5K)
  • 12:50 – Colts/Fillies (aged 15 and under) – 10 Furlongs (2.5K)