Causeway Coast pupils gear up for landmark 20th year of Flahavan’s Cross Country League
The 20th anniversary league will consist of three rounds across six regions
The Athletics NI Primary School Cross Country League has returned for 2026, celebrating two decades of the competition, with Flahavan’s marking its 16th consecutive year as title sponsor.
More than 5,000 runners aged between 9 and 12 years old from over 150 schools across Northern Ireland are expected to take part in the 2026-27 season.
The league was officially launched at the Mary Peters Track in Belfast, which was attended by local athlete and last year’s winner Jackson Nellins from DH Christie Memorial Primary School, Coleraine.
The athletes were joined by this year’s league ambassador, Kirsti Foster, whose own journey through the sport reflects the impact the league continues to have on aspiring young athletes from across Northern Ireland.
Kirsti is the eldest of five siblings who have competed in the Flahavan’s Athletics NI Cross Country League, with her brother Jay competing this year.
Now aged 21 and racing at an elite level, she represented Ireland internationally, including at the 2022 European U18 Championships in the 1500m race.
The 20th anniversary league will consist of three rounds across six regions in Northern Ireland with the young runners competing for a place in the final, which is set to take place in early 2027 and will determine the overall winners.
As Flahavan’s ambassador, Kirsti will inspire and encourage the next generation of athletes competing in this year’s competition, drawing on her own experience to highlight the important role the league can play in supporting young athletes as they progress on their sporting journeys. Kirsti said:
“The Flahavan’s league played a massive role in my early development as a young athlete, giving me the opportunity to compete regularly, challenge myself and grow in confidence.
“Having seen all four of my siblings also take part over the years, including my youngest brother Jay who won two years in a row from 2023, I know just how important the league is for young runners and families across the country.
“I’m excited to work alongside Flahavan’s to teach the participating young athletes about consistent training, staying motivated and fuelling your body with the right nutrition.
“A key part of the league is building habits that support wellbeing and performance in the long run.
“I’m delighted to support this year’s competition and hopefully inspire more young people to get involved and pursue their own athletic careers.”
Speaking about the continued sponsorship, Evelyn McLoughlin, Marketing Manager at Flahavan’s added:
“We’re delighted to celebrate 16 years of partnership with Athletics NI, particularly as the Schools League marks its 20th season. As a family business Flahavan’s has been milling oats in Co. Waterford for over 240 years, and we have always believed in the importance of good nutrition and encouraging healthy, active lifestyles.
“Our oats are naturally versatile, providing a great source of energy, whether the young athletes are preparing for competition or enjoying the day-to-day benefits of being more active.
“Through our continued sponsorship of the league, we look forward to supporting communities across Northern Ireland and celebrating the dedication and achievements of the young athletes taking part. We wish all the competitors the best of luck for the season ahead.”