Munster Senior XC Champions - November 14th, 2023
Munster Senior XC:
We had a very successful medal haul at the Munster Senior XC Championships this year held in Two Mile Borris. Oddly enough the race was held the weekend before the National Senior XC but this didn't deter 6 of our dedicated athletes.
Michael had another stormer of a race sitting on defending champion Jake O'Regan for the majority of the race making him feel very uncomfortable before releasing his inevitable trademark kick with a few hundred meters to go and taking a decisive win. This was Michaels second individual win last claiming the title in 2015. Michael lead the the team to golden glory with John Spelman, Ciaran McNamee and Donal Giltinan having their own individual battles against each other. John came out on top finishing 11th with Ciaran just behind in 12th and Donal completed the scoring 4 in 13th, his first race after Berlin marathon in September. Fergus Meade was 19th overall as well. Congrats to the team on winning another Munster title.
Michael, John, Ciaran and Donal also scored on the Cork team who finished 2nd behind Tipperary.
Eadaoin was our sole lady representative in the womens 6k race where she finished a strong 11th overall.
Road Running:
The Thomas Kent 10 was on Sunday in Castlelyons . Michael Furlong was 29th in 38.45 and Christine Kelly had a great run to finish 8th lady in 42.42.
John and Ciaran also raced in the University Road Relays in Maynooth on Friday. Both ran mile legs, John ran in the first leg for UCC in 5.27 with Ciaran on the anchor leg for MTU in 5.16.
Munster Championship XC History:
- Overall since the club first competed in the Munster Senior XC championship we have won an impressive 24 out of 38 runnings of the event.
- We have won the individual title 10 times by five men: Donnacha O'Mahoney (x4), Liam O'Brien (x2), Michael Harty (x2), James McCarthy (x1), and Tim O'Donoghue (x1).
- Donnacha on his own has won 4 times with an unprecedented 14 team titles along the way stretching over 20 years from 1987 to his final team title in 2010.
- Our longest streak was 9 wins from 2004 to 2012 until St Johns won in Limerick Racecourse in 2013.
- Of the 24 titles won 25 men have contributed directly to the team by scoring in the top four (see table below).
- As mentioned Donnacha tops this list with 14. Right on his tail is Sean now with 12 and James on 11, both are soley responsible for the consistent run of team results in the mid 00's.
- Note: Traditionally the Munster Senior XC was held in January which fitted naturally in the XC calander a number of weeks before the Interclub All Irelands. However with the merging of the intercounties and interclubs to one race in December the Munsters changed to a November date in 2015. Which is why there were two races in that year.
Up Next:
The National Senior XC is on in Gowran Park on Sunday the 19th. We have our Silver medal winning team from last year on the start line again looking to repeat their success so promises to be another great day of racing.
AGM:
The club AGM is on Tuesday November 21st in Ballintotis Hall at 8pm sharp. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate.
Christmas Night Out:
The Christmas night out is on in Rosies in Aghada on December 14th at 7pm . If you/your partner would like to attend please let Lorna or Kevin know asap so the booking can be finalised.
We had a very successful medal haul at the Munster Senior XC Championships this year held in Two Mile Borris. Oddly enough the race was held the weekend before the National Senior XC but this didn't deter 6 of our dedicated athletes.
Michael had another stormer of a race sitting on defending champion Jake O'Regan for the majority of the race making him feel very uncomfortable before releasing his inevitable trademark kick with a few hundred meters to go and taking a decisive win. This was Michaels second individual win last claiming the title in 2015. Michael lead the the team to golden glory with John Spelman, Ciaran McNamee and Donal Giltinan having their own individual battles against each other. John came out on top finishing 11th with Ciaran just behind in 12th and Donal completed the scoring 4 in 13th, his first race after Berlin marathon in September. Fergus Meade was 19th overall as well. Congrats to the team on winning another Munster title.
Michael, John, Ciaran and Donal also scored on the Cork team who finished 2nd behind Tipperary.
Eadaoin was our sole lady representative in the womens 6k race where she finished a strong 11th overall.
Road Running:
The Thomas Kent 10 was on Sunday in Castlelyons . Michael Furlong was 29th in 38.45 and Christine Kelly had a great run to finish 8th lady in 42.42.
John and Ciaran also raced in the University Road Relays in Maynooth on Friday. Both ran mile legs, John ran in the first leg for UCC in 5.27 with Ciaran on the anchor leg for MTU in 5.16.
Munster Championship XC History:
- Overall since the club first competed in the Munster Senior XC championship we have won an impressive 24 out of 38 runnings of the event.
- We have won the individual title 10 times by five men: Donnacha O'Mahoney (x4), Liam O'Brien (x2), Michael Harty (x2), James McCarthy (x1), and Tim O'Donoghue (x1).
- Donnacha on his own has won 4 times with an unprecedented 14 team titles along the way stretching over 20 years from 1987 to his final team title in 2010.
- Our longest streak was 9 wins from 2004 to 2012 until St Johns won in Limerick Racecourse in 2013.
- Of the 24 titles won 25 men have contributed directly to the team by scoring in the top four (see table below).
- As mentioned Donnacha tops this list with 14. Right on his tail is Sean now with 12 and James on 11, both are soley responsible for the consistent run of team results in the mid 00's.
- Note: Traditionally the Munster Senior XC was held in January which fitted naturally in the XC calander a number of weeks before the Interclub All Irelands. However with the merging of the intercounties and interclubs to one race in December the Munsters changed to a November date in 2015. Which is why there were two races in that year.
Up Next:
The National Senior XC is on in Gowran Park on Sunday the 19th. We have our Silver medal winning team from last year on the start line again looking to repeat their success so promises to be another great day of racing.
AGM:
The club AGM is on Tuesday November 21st in Ballintotis Hall at 8pm sharp. Everyone is welcome to attend and participate.
Christmas Night Out:
The Christmas night out is on in Rosies in Aghada on December 14th at 7pm . If you/your partner would like to attend please let Lorna or Kevin know asap so the booking can be finalised.
Cross Country Well and truly in Full Swing - November 6th, 2023
County Novice, Intermediate, Munster Novice and Autumn Open XC:
We had two individual medal winners in in the past few weeks. Tony is now the county intermediate XC champion after his win in Ballynoe at the weekend and John Spelman took the Munster U23 bronze in Cooraclare. Well done lads.
We were fourth in a few team events missing out by small margins but the Novice men did take Silver medals at the Munsters. Well done to John, Ciaran, Michael and Matt. Stephen supervised the proceedings in his capacity as club captain.
In the Autumn Open XC held in Abbotstown Michael Harty had a great race to finish a close second behind Eoin Everard, showing again he is in great shape for the upcoming Munster Seniors and Nationals. Paul Hartnett was 11th overall in the Senior race with Tony not far behind in 18th. Ciaran got some great big race exposure finishing 35th.
Dublin Marathon:
Tim had a tough day in the office in Dublin. Despite running 2:26.50 Tim had ran a race of two halves. After going through in just over 68 mins for the 13.1 miles and right on track for a strong PB, the wheels came off (similar to his support crew!) and it was a struggle home from there. On the positive side there were no injuries so hopefully he will be able to reload for the National Seniors in a few weeks on fresher legs.
Up Next:
Nov 12th: Munster Senior and Junior XC in Two Mile Borris
Nov 19th: National Senior XC in Gowran
We had two individual medal winners in in the past few weeks. Tony is now the county intermediate XC champion after his win in Ballynoe at the weekend and John Spelman took the Munster U23 bronze in Cooraclare. Well done lads.
We were fourth in a few team events missing out by small margins but the Novice men did take Silver medals at the Munsters. Well done to John, Ciaran, Michael and Matt. Stephen supervised the proceedings in his capacity as club captain.
In the Autumn Open XC held in Abbotstown Michael Harty had a great race to finish a close second behind Eoin Everard, showing again he is in great shape for the upcoming Munster Seniors and Nationals. Paul Hartnett was 11th overall in the Senior race with Tony not far behind in 18th. Ciaran got some great big race exposure finishing 35th.
Dublin Marathon:
Tim had a tough day in the office in Dublin. Despite running 2:26.50 Tim had ran a race of two halves. After going through in just over 68 mins for the 13.1 miles and right on track for a strong PB, the wheels came off (similar to his support crew!) and it was a struggle home from there. On the positive side there were no injuries so hopefully he will be able to reload for the National Seniors in a few weeks on fresher legs.
Up Next:
Nov 12th: Munster Senior and Junior XC in Two Mile Borris
Nov 19th: National Senior XC in Gowran
County Senior XC Success - October 5th, 2023
County Senior XC:
The 100th county senior XC was held in Carrigadrohid last Sunday and again the weather was glorious, warm and sunny in stark contrast to the rain from the day before. The course was in great condition and the organising committee had a different course set up again which keeps the venue interesting every time a XC race is held there.
High level it was a carbon copy of the 2022 race. Michael wins, Paul battles valiantly for 2nd, Tim settles for bronze and we win the team from Leevale. The 2023 race did have Tony Forristal stepping in for Frank to match his 5th from last year.
The race started slowly with a large pack together for the first two of six 1500m laps. This year notably the race was reduced to 9000m to be in line with new National and European XC distances. Tim felt the pace was too slack at 3k and went to the front to push things along. Michael, Paul and Gavin O'Rourke went with him and a large chasing pack formed. Tim grinded the pace along for the middle part of the race and dropped Gavin leaving the three main protagonists together again. Paul took a turn at the front but they lads stayed together until 7k, where Michael put a fierce burst on that sealed the race. He opened up a 20 second lead on Paul and cruised home to retain his title from 2022. Not bad for a recently turned 43 year old. Tim was about 15 seconds behind Paul for a comfortable 3rd place. Paul was also first U23 finisher.
Tony lead the chasing pack for a while before putting the foot down and putting a substantial gap on them in the middle of the race which he held right to the end for a very good 5th place and sealed the team title once again for East Cork. James was next home in 16th. John, the East Cork Novice champ, was 30th and 2nd U-23 with the great man Denis completing his 41st County Senior championship in 40th. Well done to all.
History:
This was the clubs 22nd county Senior title since our first in 1985. We have had 26 different club member contribute to scoring teams in the 22 wins (Up till 1995 it was 6 to count on a team). Donnacha leading the way with an enormous haul of 15. On the other end of the spectrum Tony has now joined club heavyweights such as Kevin and Frank O'Brien and Paul Mulholland on 1! Michael retain his title to move ahead of Liam and Garreth Barry on individual wins. Tim is still ahead of him with 3 and Donnacha again is the class apart on 6. More detail in the chart below.
Radisson Blu BHAA:
Well done to Elaine, Niamh and Avril who all ran the BHAA 5k on Sunday morning. Elaine was 3rd overall in 19.32, Niamh just behind in 5th in 19.53 with Avril in 7th with 21.03.
Up Next:
Up on Sunday is the County Novice XC in Bandon. We have teams entered in both the mens and womens so best of luck to all.
The 100th county senior XC was held in Carrigadrohid last Sunday and again the weather was glorious, warm and sunny in stark contrast to the rain from the day before. The course was in great condition and the organising committee had a different course set up again which keeps the venue interesting every time a XC race is held there.
High level it was a carbon copy of the 2022 race. Michael wins, Paul battles valiantly for 2nd, Tim settles for bronze and we win the team from Leevale. The 2023 race did have Tony Forristal stepping in for Frank to match his 5th from last year.
The race started slowly with a large pack together for the first two of six 1500m laps. This year notably the race was reduced to 9000m to be in line with new National and European XC distances. Tim felt the pace was too slack at 3k and went to the front to push things along. Michael, Paul and Gavin O'Rourke went with him and a large chasing pack formed. Tim grinded the pace along for the middle part of the race and dropped Gavin leaving the three main protagonists together again. Paul took a turn at the front but they lads stayed together until 7k, where Michael put a fierce burst on that sealed the race. He opened up a 20 second lead on Paul and cruised home to retain his title from 2022. Not bad for a recently turned 43 year old. Tim was about 15 seconds behind Paul for a comfortable 3rd place. Paul was also first U23 finisher.
Tony lead the chasing pack for a while before putting the foot down and putting a substantial gap on them in the middle of the race which he held right to the end for a very good 5th place and sealed the team title once again for East Cork. James was next home in 16th. John, the East Cork Novice champ, was 30th and 2nd U-23 with the great man Denis completing his 41st County Senior championship in 40th. Well done to all.
History:
This was the clubs 22nd county Senior title since our first in 1985. We have had 26 different club member contribute to scoring teams in the 22 wins (Up till 1995 it was 6 to count on a team). Donnacha leading the way with an enormous haul of 15. On the other end of the spectrum Tony has now joined club heavyweights such as Kevin and Frank O'Brien and Paul Mulholland on 1! Michael retain his title to move ahead of Liam and Garreth Barry on individual wins. Tim is still ahead of him with 3 and Donnacha again is the class apart on 6. More detail in the chart below.
Radisson Blu BHAA:
Well done to Elaine, Niamh and Avril who all ran the BHAA 5k on Sunday morning. Elaine was 3rd overall in 19.32, Niamh just behind in 5th in 19.53 with Avril in 7th with 21.03.
Up Next:
Up on Sunday is the County Novice XC in Bandon. We have teams entered in both the mens and womens so best of luck to all.
Weekly Roundup - September 30th, 2023
Rathfarnham 5k:
Michael continued his hot streak in Rathfarnham last Sunday morning, winning in 14:32 against a strong field. This is another superb win and time by Michael and surely puts him as favourite for next weeks County Senior Cross Country where Michael will look to defend his title won back in 2022.
Berlin Marathon:
Graham, Donal and Lavinia all travelled to Berlin looking for fast times last week in the Berlin marathon and found them! In perfect balmy marathon running conditions Graham and Donal took full advantage both running great PB's. Locked together for most of the race Graham pushed on to open a small gap at the 18 mile mark which he help to the finish. Graham crossed the line in 2:36.11 and Donal not far behind in 2:37.19. Lavinia had a checkered training schedule leading into the race with pesky injuries so was a bit off her PB but did finish to add another major marathon to her collection. Well done all.
East Cork Senior and Masters XC:
The East Cork Senior and Master Championships were held in very very wet and windy conditions in Whites Cross last week. Despite the weather the underfoot conditions were actually somewhat reasonable for decent running on.
Niamh had a superb race to finish 2nd overall and first F35. Christine had another good run finishing 7th overall and 3rd F35. Well done both.
Paul retained his East Cork Senior title with ease. He kept his powder dry (somehow) for the first 5k sitting in the pack, then moved into 3rd gear for the final kilometer to win comfortably. Paul also might have something to say about Michael being favourite next Sunday! Tony was the only person to go with Paul when the move was made and finished 2nd. Kevin was next home in 5th overall and 1st M35, pipping John Spelman on the last lap. John was 7th with Stephen 8th overall and 3rd M35. Matt was next in 11th with Ollie not far behind in 14th and 2nd M45. Denis was 29th.
We won the Senior Mens team (Paul, Tony, Kevin and John) ahead of Carrig na bhFear and Ballymore Cobh. We also won the M35 team (Kevin, Stephen, Matt and Ollie) ahead of Ballymore Cobh and St Catherines.
Up Next:
Up on Sunday is the 100th County Senior XC. After winning the title last year for the first time in a few year we will be looking to follow it up again this year. It looks like we have a strong team on paper. Last years 1st, 2nd and 3rd (Michael, Paul and Tim) are all ready to do battle and should be backed up well by rookie Tony, veterans James and Denis and U-23 John to complete the 4 for our team. Denis will be running his 41st county senior race in an astonishing record of consistency. Best of luck to all on the day!
Michael continued his hot streak in Rathfarnham last Sunday morning, winning in 14:32 against a strong field. This is another superb win and time by Michael and surely puts him as favourite for next weeks County Senior Cross Country where Michael will look to defend his title won back in 2022.
Berlin Marathon:
Graham, Donal and Lavinia all travelled to Berlin looking for fast times last week in the Berlin marathon and found them! In perfect balmy marathon running conditions Graham and Donal took full advantage both running great PB's. Locked together for most of the race Graham pushed on to open a small gap at the 18 mile mark which he help to the finish. Graham crossed the line in 2:36.11 and Donal not far behind in 2:37.19. Lavinia had a checkered training schedule leading into the race with pesky injuries so was a bit off her PB but did finish to add another major marathon to her collection. Well done all.
East Cork Senior and Masters XC:
The East Cork Senior and Master Championships were held in very very wet and windy conditions in Whites Cross last week. Despite the weather the underfoot conditions were actually somewhat reasonable for decent running on.
Niamh had a superb race to finish 2nd overall and first F35. Christine had another good run finishing 7th overall and 3rd F35. Well done both.
Paul retained his East Cork Senior title with ease. He kept his powder dry (somehow) for the first 5k sitting in the pack, then moved into 3rd gear for the final kilometer to win comfortably. Paul also might have something to say about Michael being favourite next Sunday! Tony was the only person to go with Paul when the move was made and finished 2nd. Kevin was next home in 5th overall and 1st M35, pipping John Spelman on the last lap. John was 7th with Stephen 8th overall and 3rd M35. Matt was next in 11th with Ollie not far behind in 14th and 2nd M45. Denis was 29th.
We won the Senior Mens team (Paul, Tony, Kevin and John) ahead of Carrig na bhFear and Ballymore Cobh. We also won the M35 team (Kevin, Stephen, Matt and Ollie) ahead of Ballymore Cobh and St Catherines.
Up Next:
Up on Sunday is the 100th County Senior XC. After winning the title last year for the first time in a few year we will be looking to follow it up again this year. It looks like we have a strong team on paper. Last years 1st, 2nd and 3rd (Michael, Paul and Tim) are all ready to do battle and should be backed up well by rookie Tony, veterans James and Denis and U-23 John to complete the 4 for our team. Denis will be running his 41st county senior race in an astonishing record of consistency. Best of luck to all on the day!
Cross Country is back and Nice Half Marathon Victory from Michael - September 24th, 2023
Charleville Half Marathon:
Michael and Kenneth travelled to nearby Charleville to compete in their great half marathon. Michael held off a strong field to take the win in his first race at this distance in 67.03. Well done Michael. Kenneth continues his marathon build up with a strong 75.07 for 17th.
East Cork Novice XC:
The opening cross country race of the season was on last weekend in Ballynoe, hosted by St Catherines. John Spelman won the mens race finally! He won it 2 years ago but was too young to qualify for the title so has had a bone to pick ever since. He lead the mens race from start to finish and held off fast finishing David Barrett in the final 400m. Stephen finished in 3rd place to round off the podium, hopefully he received his medal this time. Chris Kelly was next in 4th. Ciaran McNamee was running as an individual as his transfer is going through, he finished 7th. Ollie Smiddy was right behind in 8th. John, Stephen, Chris and Ollie won the mens team
Annelise lead the women team home with a 4th place finish. Eadaoin was hot on her tail in 5th with Christine on her 2nd year of cross country looking very strong in 7th. Norah made her long anticipated racing comeback with a great run in 11th with Claire not too far behind in 14th. Annelise, Eadaoin, Christine and Norah also won the womens team title.
Next Up:
- East Cork Senior and Masters: Sep 24th - Carrignafear
- County Senior XC: Oct 1st
- County Novice XC: Oct 8th
Michael and Kenneth travelled to nearby Charleville to compete in their great half marathon. Michael held off a strong field to take the win in his first race at this distance in 67.03. Well done Michael. Kenneth continues his marathon build up with a strong 75.07 for 17th.
East Cork Novice XC:
The opening cross country race of the season was on last weekend in Ballynoe, hosted by St Catherines. John Spelman won the mens race finally! He won it 2 years ago but was too young to qualify for the title so has had a bone to pick ever since. He lead the mens race from start to finish and held off fast finishing David Barrett in the final 400m. Stephen finished in 3rd place to round off the podium, hopefully he received his medal this time. Chris Kelly was next in 4th. Ciaran McNamee was running as an individual as his transfer is going through, he finished 7th. Ollie Smiddy was right behind in 8th. John, Stephen, Chris and Ollie won the mens team
Annelise lead the women team home with a 4th place finish. Eadaoin was hot on her tail in 5th with Christine on her 2nd year of cross country looking very strong in 7th. Norah made her long anticipated racing comeback with a great run in 11th with Claire not too far behind in 14th. Annelise, Eadaoin, Christine and Norah also won the womens team title.
Next Up:
- East Cork Senior and Masters: Sep 24th - Carrignafear
- County Senior XC: Oct 1st
- County Novice XC: Oct 8th
August Update - August 27th 2023
Track and Field:
National Masters T&F: Congrats to both James and Stephen who travelled to Tullamore for the National Masters during the month. James took home a bronze medal in the M35 5k in 16.05 and was 5th in the M35 1500m. Stephen was third in the M40 1500m in 4.32 but due to a logistical error his medal was not available on the day. Unfortunately because of this nobody in the car park believed him when he was telling them he really was third! Now you can refer them to the East Cork AC website for clarification at least!
National League: Well done to Paul and Frank who competed in the National League for the East Cork Division also in Tullamore during the month. Paul won the 5000m in 15.03 to take full points and Frank running injured was 5th in the 1500m in 4.16.
Roads: Top performance of the month goes to Michael Harty in the Cork City 10 miler. Michael gapped the field by a large margin early on and powered home to a big PB of 49:39. His first time sub 50 after being so tantalisingly close in the Ballycotton 10 in 2016! Congrats Mike. Tony was 4th in 53.46.
Tim ran in the International Antrim Half marathon and was 27th in a world class field in 66:53 (winner was 58 mins..)
Tony won the St Catherines 5k in 15.38 with James 3rd not far behind. Nicky travelled to Kinsale and was 2nd in a PB of 36.13.
Many more great runs in the past month. All should be listed below.
Other Events: Well done to Tony on winning the Galtee mountain race as well following up his Carrantuohil victory in July. And congrats to Chris Kelly for completing the Ironman in Youghal in 9 hours 35 mins and was 37th overall. Hopefully both them performances will set you up nicely for the cross country season!
National Masters T&F: Congrats to both James and Stephen who travelled to Tullamore for the National Masters during the month. James took home a bronze medal in the M35 5k in 16.05 and was 5th in the M35 1500m. Stephen was third in the M40 1500m in 4.32 but due to a logistical error his medal was not available on the day. Unfortunately because of this nobody in the car park believed him when he was telling them he really was third! Now you can refer them to the East Cork AC website for clarification at least!
National League: Well done to Paul and Frank who competed in the National League for the East Cork Division also in Tullamore during the month. Paul won the 5000m in 15.03 to take full points and Frank running injured was 5th in the 1500m in 4.16.
Roads: Top performance of the month goes to Michael Harty in the Cork City 10 miler. Michael gapped the field by a large margin early on and powered home to a big PB of 49:39. His first time sub 50 after being so tantalisingly close in the Ballycotton 10 in 2016! Congrats Mike. Tony was 4th in 53.46.
Tim ran in the International Antrim Half marathon and was 27th in a world class field in 66:53 (winner was 58 mins..)
Tony won the St Catherines 5k in 15.38 with James 3rd not far behind. Nicky travelled to Kinsale and was 2nd in a PB of 36.13.
Many more great runs in the past month. All should be listed below.
Other Events: Well done to Tony on winning the Galtee mountain race as well following up his Carrantuohil victory in July. And congrats to Chris Kelly for completing the Ironman in Youghal in 9 hours 35 mins and was 37th overall. Hopefully both them performances will set you up nicely for the cross country season!
Club 800m record drops twice in past 2 weeks! - July 31st 2023
Track and Field:
The national U23 individual medalist takes the headlines again this week. Having chipped off 1/10th from his own club 800m record on July 19th in the Eltham BMC Frank let rip a week later in Tooting to crack the 1.50 barrier for the first time in the clubs history. Frank clocked 1.49:71 and was 2nd in the race.
National Senior T&F - Frank was also our only entry in the National T&F championships this year. He was third in his heat in 1.56 and just missed out in qualification for the final by one spot.
East Cork T&F - The other track championship race was the East Cork 5000m championship. James won the mens race in 16.21 and Eadaoin won the ladies in 20.44. John Spelman was 5th in 18.12 and Denis was 26.19. It was held in the Maradyke while the MTU track is still being upgraded.
Road Racing:
National 10 Mile - Tim ran the national 10 mile in the Phoenix Park as well and was 5th in 51.06. It is a hilly course and Tim is in the middle of a block of training for Dublin marathon so hopefully some good things to come in the coming months.
Local Races - Locally we had the long running Corkbeg 4 and the brand new Churchtown South 4 mile. We had large numbers from the club racing in both and also helping out as stewards and behind the scenes. a lot of work goes into organising these races so thanks to all involved. James won Corkbeg in 20.36 and Tony won Churchtown in 20.51.
Many many other results and great times and PB's being set. All (I hope) are listed below.
Special Mention:
Well done to Tony too for winning the Carrantoohil Classisic Mountain race. Starting and finishing in Cronins Yard and going via the zig zags route Tony clocked 93.30 for the victory.
The national U23 individual medalist takes the headlines again this week. Having chipped off 1/10th from his own club 800m record on July 19th in the Eltham BMC Frank let rip a week later in Tooting to crack the 1.50 barrier for the first time in the clubs history. Frank clocked 1.49:71 and was 2nd in the race.
National Senior T&F - Frank was also our only entry in the National T&F championships this year. He was third in his heat in 1.56 and just missed out in qualification for the final by one spot.
East Cork T&F - The other track championship race was the East Cork 5000m championship. James won the mens race in 16.21 and Eadaoin won the ladies in 20.44. John Spelman was 5th in 18.12 and Denis was 26.19. It was held in the Maradyke while the MTU track is still being upgraded.
Road Racing:
National 10 Mile - Tim ran the national 10 mile in the Phoenix Park as well and was 5th in 51.06. It is a hilly course and Tim is in the middle of a block of training for Dublin marathon so hopefully some good things to come in the coming months.
Local Races - Locally we had the long running Corkbeg 4 and the brand new Churchtown South 4 mile. We had large numbers from the club racing in both and also helping out as stewards and behind the scenes. a lot of work goes into organising these races so thanks to all involved. James won Corkbeg in 20.36 and Tony won Churchtown in 20.51.
Many many other results and great times and PB's being set. All (I hope) are listed below.
Special Mention:
Well done to Tony too for winning the Carrantoohil Classisic Mountain race. Starting and finishing in Cronins Yard and going via the zig zags route Tony clocked 93.30 for the victory.
Frank wins National U23 Bronze Medal - July 3rd, 2023
National U-23 Championships:
Frank continued his excellent track season on home soil over the weekend with a terrific bronze individual 1500m medal in the National U-23 T&F in Tullamore. In a very exciting race the bunch sat behind Dean Casey of Ennis for the first kilometer as the pressure built on the leading contenders to get their tactics right. Frank was hovering in about 5th place in lane 2 watching the pack. With about 450m to go Frank moved around the outside to briefly take to lead at the bell. Mark Hanrahan of Ennis pushed with Frank and settled just ahead of him as the top 4 broke away from the rest of the group. All was up for grabs at 200m to go when eventual race winner Callum Morgan kicked hard. Frank showed his 800m speed as they closed in on the finish line to hold off a fast finish by Matteo Mary and claim a individual national medal. The top 4 were separated by only .9 of a second. Congrats Frank.
East Cork T&F:
The East Cork T&F was on last week in Carrignabhfear. We took home 6 gold medals, 2 silver medals and 3 bronze on the night with everyone who ran taking a medal home. So well done to gold medalists James (x2), Tony(x2), Ollie and Annelise. Silvers and bronzes were won by Stephen (x2), Nicky, Denis and Jonathon.
National League:
The National League was on as well and well done to Tony and Frank for representing the East Cork DIvision team on the day. Tony was 2nd in the 5000m in 15.45 and Frank got full points in the 1500m in 4.01. Frank also contributed to the 4*400m team that finished 2nd.
Road Racing:
Lots of road races on the past couple of week as well. The list is below (please let me know if any are missed). Well done to James and Michael for their wins. James one the Depuy BHAA 4 mile race in 21.09 and Michael won the local Cloyne 5k in 14.53. Thanks to everyone in the club as well that helped out on the night in Cloyne to ensure another well organised smooth event.
Up Next:
We have the Robbie Steele Corkbeg 4 mile race on Thursday night at 8pm. Anybody who is not running can help out on the night. You can let Liam know if you are free to lend 30 - 60 mins.
Frank continued his excellent track season on home soil over the weekend with a terrific bronze individual 1500m medal in the National U-23 T&F in Tullamore. In a very exciting race the bunch sat behind Dean Casey of Ennis for the first kilometer as the pressure built on the leading contenders to get their tactics right. Frank was hovering in about 5th place in lane 2 watching the pack. With about 450m to go Frank moved around the outside to briefly take to lead at the bell. Mark Hanrahan of Ennis pushed with Frank and settled just ahead of him as the top 4 broke away from the rest of the group. All was up for grabs at 200m to go when eventual race winner Callum Morgan kicked hard. Frank showed his 800m speed as they closed in on the finish line to hold off a fast finish by Matteo Mary and claim a individual national medal. The top 4 were separated by only .9 of a second. Congrats Frank.
East Cork T&F:
The East Cork T&F was on last week in Carrignabhfear. We took home 6 gold medals, 2 silver medals and 3 bronze on the night with everyone who ran taking a medal home. So well done to gold medalists James (x2), Tony(x2), Ollie and Annelise. Silvers and bronzes were won by Stephen (x2), Nicky, Denis and Jonathon.
National League:
The National League was on as well and well done to Tony and Frank for representing the East Cork DIvision team on the day. Tony was 2nd in the 5000m in 15.45 and Frank got full points in the 1500m in 4.01. Frank also contributed to the 4*400m team that finished 2nd.
Road Racing:
Lots of road races on the past couple of week as well. The list is below (please let me know if any are missed). Well done to James and Michael for their wins. James one the Depuy BHAA 4 mile race in 21.09 and Michael won the local Cloyne 5k in 14.53. Thanks to everyone in the club as well that helped out on the night in Cloyne to ensure another well organised smooth event.
Up Next:
We have the Robbie Steele Corkbeg 4 mile race on Thursday night at 8pm. Anybody who is not running can help out on the night. You can let Liam know if you are free to lend 30 - 60 mins.
Wicklow Way Relay Winners - June 2023
Wicklow Way Relay:
Also on was the annual Wicklow Way Relay where finally on the 4th time of trying over a 10 year span we managed to get the win! We have endured a painful 2nd (in 2022), lost runners (Frank Hayes, Frank O'Carroll, Fiona Santry!), missing starts (Frank Hayes...again) but finally in 2023 everything went well with a strong clean run by the whole team. We had a solid start and worked our way through the field to give Fiona a clear run to the finish line completing the 104km route in 7:28.36. Rookies Diarmaid Collins and Matt Horrigan put in storming performances on the day with Eadaoin proving a very able replacement for Annelise on short notice. Donal and Graham didn't have marathons in their legs this year and their times reflected it, each gaining valuable time. Nicky didn't stray onto Military road this year. Tim ran 3 minutes slower than last year so he will have to focus a bit more next year to get back on the team for 2024. And Fiona followed the signposted roads to Shillelagh village with no issues! Matt has written a great report below summing up the race. Well done to all who helped out as well - Lavinia, Hugo, Ava, Zack, Eibhlin, Ger, Briana, Una, Ben, Holly. Ye are the unsung heros!
Matt Horrigan - Guest Article:
On a picturesque day in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, the Wicklow Way Relay 2023 unfolded with teams from all over the country eagerly competing for the coveted title. Amidst a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains, East Cork AC emerged as the winners of this thrilling race by just 2 minutes.
Graham Swords kicked off the relay on Leg 1, ascending from Kilmashogue Car Park to Curtlestown Wood, covering a distance of 13.6 km and conquering an elevation gain of 556m. Graham's performance set the tone for East Cork AC's victory, handing over to Donal in an impressive time of 61 minutes and 37 seconds.
Donal Giltinan, on Leg 2, displayed remarkable agility as he dashed from Curtlestown to Lough Tay, tackling a challenging route of 15.1 km with an elevation gain of 680m. Donal's determination was evident as he completed the leg in a commendable time of 73 minutes and 39 seconds, over two minutes faster than last year.
Eadaoin Giltinan, Donal's wife and boss, as the team playfully acknowledged, embarked on Leg 3, gracefully maneuvering from Lough Tay to Oldbridge, an 8.3 km stretch with a gentle elevation gain of 126m, in an excellent time of 39 minutes and 52 seconds handing over to Diarmuid.
Diarmuid Collins, a former Inter Schools 1500m champion, took charge of Leg 4, conquering the 10 km stretch from Oldbridge to Glendalough. With a challenging elevation gain of 363m, Diarmuid's speed and endurance shone through, clocking in at 43 minutes and 36 seconds.
Matt Horrigan, on Leg 5, traversed the scenic route from Glendalough to Glenmalure, covering a distance of 13 km and surmounting an elevation gain of 560m. Matt's steady pace resulted in a solid time of 57 minutes and 56 seconds.
Nick O'Donoghue, famously known for his love of coffee, fearlessly tackled Leg 6, traversing the demanding path from Glenmalure to Iron Bridge. Covering a distance of 12.7 km and battling a formidable elevation gain of 533m, Nick's impressive time of 57 minutes and 5 seconds enabled East Cork to claw back approx. a minute on both TT racers and Rathfarnham AC.
Leg 7 saw Tim O'Donoghue, embarked on a gruelling 20.4 km journey from Iron Bridge to Tinahely. With an elevation gain of 610m, Tim's experience and determination were evident as he completed the leg in a commendable time of 75 minutes and 23 seconds, propelling East Cork to a 1 minute and 53 second lead for final leg ahead of TT racers.
Leg 8 Fiona Santry, National Masters XC champion, fittingly took charge of the final leg, racing from Tinahely to Shillelagh, a 10 km course with a modest elevation gain of 147m. Fiona completed the final leg in an impressive time of 39 minutes and 28 seconds, ultimately securing East Cork AC's victory.
Tim O'Donoghue, the team captain, offered sage advice during a dinner at Lynhams of Laragh the night before. The advice basically consisted of don’t get lost, sage words none the less. The team's support crew, consisting of Eibhlin, Ger, and baby Briana, provided invaluable logistical support, in-race position updates, water bottles along the route and ferrying of finished runners. All of which ensured smooth transitions and boosted morale.
It is important to recognise the exceptional efforts of other teams who participated in the race. The TT Racers and Rathfarnham AC pushed East Cork AC to their limits, with all teams having their own battles and should be commended for their efforts. As the dust settled and the celebrations commenced, East Cork AC were delighted to secure a hard-fought victory at the 4th time of trying in 7 hours and 28 minutes.
Also on was the annual Wicklow Way Relay where finally on the 4th time of trying over a 10 year span we managed to get the win! We have endured a painful 2nd (in 2022), lost runners (Frank Hayes, Frank O'Carroll, Fiona Santry!), missing starts (Frank Hayes...again) but finally in 2023 everything went well with a strong clean run by the whole team. We had a solid start and worked our way through the field to give Fiona a clear run to the finish line completing the 104km route in 7:28.36. Rookies Diarmaid Collins and Matt Horrigan put in storming performances on the day with Eadaoin proving a very able replacement for Annelise on short notice. Donal and Graham didn't have marathons in their legs this year and their times reflected it, each gaining valuable time. Nicky didn't stray onto Military road this year. Tim ran 3 minutes slower than last year so he will have to focus a bit more next year to get back on the team for 2024. And Fiona followed the signposted roads to Shillelagh village with no issues! Matt has written a great report below summing up the race. Well done to all who helped out as well - Lavinia, Hugo, Ava, Zack, Eibhlin, Ger, Briana, Una, Ben, Holly. Ye are the unsung heros!
Matt Horrigan - Guest Article:
On a picturesque day in the heart of the Wicklow Mountains, the Wicklow Way Relay 2023 unfolded with teams from all over the country eagerly competing for the coveted title. Amidst a backdrop of breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrains, East Cork AC emerged as the winners of this thrilling race by just 2 minutes.
Graham Swords kicked off the relay on Leg 1, ascending from Kilmashogue Car Park to Curtlestown Wood, covering a distance of 13.6 km and conquering an elevation gain of 556m. Graham's performance set the tone for East Cork AC's victory, handing over to Donal in an impressive time of 61 minutes and 37 seconds.
Donal Giltinan, on Leg 2, displayed remarkable agility as he dashed from Curtlestown to Lough Tay, tackling a challenging route of 15.1 km with an elevation gain of 680m. Donal's determination was evident as he completed the leg in a commendable time of 73 minutes and 39 seconds, over two minutes faster than last year.
Eadaoin Giltinan, Donal's wife and boss, as the team playfully acknowledged, embarked on Leg 3, gracefully maneuvering from Lough Tay to Oldbridge, an 8.3 km stretch with a gentle elevation gain of 126m, in an excellent time of 39 minutes and 52 seconds handing over to Diarmuid.
Diarmuid Collins, a former Inter Schools 1500m champion, took charge of Leg 4, conquering the 10 km stretch from Oldbridge to Glendalough. With a challenging elevation gain of 363m, Diarmuid's speed and endurance shone through, clocking in at 43 minutes and 36 seconds.
Matt Horrigan, on Leg 5, traversed the scenic route from Glendalough to Glenmalure, covering a distance of 13 km and surmounting an elevation gain of 560m. Matt's steady pace resulted in a solid time of 57 minutes and 56 seconds.
Nick O'Donoghue, famously known for his love of coffee, fearlessly tackled Leg 6, traversing the demanding path from Glenmalure to Iron Bridge. Covering a distance of 12.7 km and battling a formidable elevation gain of 533m, Nick's impressive time of 57 minutes and 5 seconds enabled East Cork to claw back approx. a minute on both TT racers and Rathfarnham AC.
Leg 7 saw Tim O'Donoghue, embarked on a gruelling 20.4 km journey from Iron Bridge to Tinahely. With an elevation gain of 610m, Tim's experience and determination were evident as he completed the leg in a commendable time of 75 minutes and 23 seconds, propelling East Cork to a 1 minute and 53 second lead for final leg ahead of TT racers.
Leg 8 Fiona Santry, National Masters XC champion, fittingly took charge of the final leg, racing from Tinahely to Shillelagh, a 10 km course with a modest elevation gain of 147m. Fiona completed the final leg in an impressive time of 39 minutes and 28 seconds, ultimately securing East Cork AC's victory.
Tim O'Donoghue, the team captain, offered sage advice during a dinner at Lynhams of Laragh the night before. The advice basically consisted of don’t get lost, sage words none the less. The team's support crew, consisting of Eibhlin, Ger, and baby Briana, provided invaluable logistical support, in-race position updates, water bottles along the route and ferrying of finished runners. All of which ensured smooth transitions and boosted morale.
It is important to recognise the exceptional efforts of other teams who participated in the race. The TT Racers and Rathfarnham AC pushed East Cork AC to their limits, with all teams having their own battles and should be commended for their efforts. As the dust settled and the celebrations commenced, East Cork AC were delighted to secure a hard-fought victory at the 4th time of trying in 7 hours and 28 minutes.
Racing Roundup - June 20th, 2023
Track and Field:
Frank ran a strong 3k in the past few weeks clocking a nice PB of 8.31 in the Wimbledon 3k. He backed it up a week later with another strong 800m in 1.53 for 4th in the British League Premiership.
Road Racing:
The Cork city marathon was on the bank holiday weekend. Brian Harty didn't get the race he wanted but he'll be back for more and will have learned a lot from the experience, running 3.09. Chris McGrath jumped in last minute and ran 3.41 in his 22nd marathon.
Chris Kelly and Annelise tackled the half and ran 81.41 and 95.36. Chris is in the middle of a lot of ironman training and Annelise was battling a bit of a niggle for a few weeks so great to see both out there.
The 10k replaced the relay this year and seems to have been a great success. Tony was 3rd overall in 32.43, Nicky 8th in 33:41, club captain and city local Stephen 28th in 36.20 and Jonathon Finn making a comeback in 83rd with 39:24..
Other road races on were Carrig na bhFear 5k which Martin ran and finished 14th in 19.21. Grant Thornton 5k with Michael Furlong 4th in 17.32. Musgraves 5k with Stephen 12th in 16.58, Niamh O'Connor ran 20.14 and Avril 20.55.
Annelise and Denis travelled to the 40th running of Donoughmore 7 mile. Annelise ran 50.11 and Denis ran 60.48. Well done both.
Michael Harty travelled to Dublin for the Docklands 5k and finished second in another superb sub 15 - 14.53.
Frank ran a strong 3k in the past few weeks clocking a nice PB of 8.31 in the Wimbledon 3k. He backed it up a week later with another strong 800m in 1.53 for 4th in the British League Premiership.
Road Racing:
The Cork city marathon was on the bank holiday weekend. Brian Harty didn't get the race he wanted but he'll be back for more and will have learned a lot from the experience, running 3.09. Chris McGrath jumped in last minute and ran 3.41 in his 22nd marathon.
Chris Kelly and Annelise tackled the half and ran 81.41 and 95.36. Chris is in the middle of a lot of ironman training and Annelise was battling a bit of a niggle for a few weeks so great to see both out there.
The 10k replaced the relay this year and seems to have been a great success. Tony was 3rd overall in 32.43, Nicky 8th in 33:41, club captain and city local Stephen 28th in 36.20 and Jonathon Finn making a comeback in 83rd with 39:24..
Other road races on were Carrig na bhFear 5k which Martin ran and finished 14th in 19.21. Grant Thornton 5k with Michael Furlong 4th in 17.32. Musgraves 5k with Stephen 12th in 16.58, Niamh O'Connor ran 20.14 and Avril 20.55.
Annelise and Denis travelled to the 40th running of Donoughmore 7 mile. Annelise ran 50.11 and Denis ran 60.48. Well done both.
Michael Harty travelled to Dublin for the Docklands 5k and finished second in another superb sub 15 - 14.53.
Racing Roundup - May 29th, 2023
Track and Field:
Frank ran in the Watford BMC last week. After a swift 54 first lap gunning for a big pb the wheels, spikes and singlet came off and ended up with a 2.01. Good to see the ambition though!
St Finbarrs Track Night - No results online for this but we had a few taike to the track for the St Finbarrs track night a few weeks ago. Tony ran 9.00 for 3k, Fiona ran 10.03. John Spelman ran 4.26 for 1500m and Tim Mahony must have lost a bet or something ran a decent 2.18 for the 800m.
Road Racing:
Youghal 5k - Bit behind in the updates. Youghal was 2 weeks ago. We had a big turnout, conditions were good and it really turned into a race rather than a time trial at the front with a big pack. Tony was first East Cork man home with an agonising 3rd, pipped by rival Mark Walsh. Surely he'll get him next time they race... Nicky was 5th and looked in good form pushing the pace throughout the race and finished in 16.01. Fiona won the ladies race in 17.14. Tim Mahony was next in 17.44. Ollie ran a big PB with 18.07 with Martin lurking just behind in 18.16. Niamh O'Connor had a suberb run for 19.49 and 3rd lady with Eadaoin also sub 20 in 19.59 for 5th. Avril ran another strong race while in 20.46 waving to the crowd on the streets of Youghal throughout. Lorna is continuing her return to form with another good 21.17. Denis ran 24 flat.
John Buckley BHAA 5k - The John Buckley 5k in the Marina is traditionally well attended and usually a fast race and this year proved that again. Paul Hartnett was 2nd overall in 15:04. Tony was next with a big PB of 15:15 (bitter sweet when you see who was 1 second ahead of him....again). John Spelman had the race of his life knocking 82 seconds off his PB (and also overtaking Donal and Stephen in the club rankings) with a splendidly brave 16.02. Matt Horrigan watched on proudly just behind in 16:09. Fiona had another consistent 17.10 for 4th, she is just waiting for the right race for everything to click now for that elusive sub 17! Avril ran a few seconds faster than Youghal in 20:39 with Lorna closing the gap in 21 flat.
Marathons - Frank O'Carroll ran in Copenhagen and beat his Garmin watch preticted time comfortably. Frank ran 2:44.46, well done Frank. Also the Munster Marathon results were finalised (finally) and Christine was gold in the F35 category!
Up Next:
East Cork Senior and Masters T&F is on June 20th in Carraig na Bhfear. Starting at 7pm there are 300m, 1500m and 3000m along with the Mixed relays of 4*300m. See full time table below.
Frank ran in the Watford BMC last week. After a swift 54 first lap gunning for a big pb the wheels, spikes and singlet came off and ended up with a 2.01. Good to see the ambition though!
St Finbarrs Track Night - No results online for this but we had a few taike to the track for the St Finbarrs track night a few weeks ago. Tony ran 9.00 for 3k, Fiona ran 10.03. John Spelman ran 4.26 for 1500m and Tim Mahony must have lost a bet or something ran a decent 2.18 for the 800m.
Road Racing:
Youghal 5k - Bit behind in the updates. Youghal was 2 weeks ago. We had a big turnout, conditions were good and it really turned into a race rather than a time trial at the front with a big pack. Tony was first East Cork man home with an agonising 3rd, pipped by rival Mark Walsh. Surely he'll get him next time they race... Nicky was 5th and looked in good form pushing the pace throughout the race and finished in 16.01. Fiona won the ladies race in 17.14. Tim Mahony was next in 17.44. Ollie ran a big PB with 18.07 with Martin lurking just behind in 18.16. Niamh O'Connor had a suberb run for 19.49 and 3rd lady with Eadaoin also sub 20 in 19.59 for 5th. Avril ran another strong race while in 20.46 waving to the crowd on the streets of Youghal throughout. Lorna is continuing her return to form with another good 21.17. Denis ran 24 flat.
John Buckley BHAA 5k - The John Buckley 5k in the Marina is traditionally well attended and usually a fast race and this year proved that again. Paul Hartnett was 2nd overall in 15:04. Tony was next with a big PB of 15:15 (bitter sweet when you see who was 1 second ahead of him....again). John Spelman had the race of his life knocking 82 seconds off his PB (and also overtaking Donal and Stephen in the club rankings) with a splendidly brave 16.02. Matt Horrigan watched on proudly just behind in 16:09. Fiona had another consistent 17.10 for 4th, she is just waiting for the right race for everything to click now for that elusive sub 17! Avril ran a few seconds faster than Youghal in 20:39 with Lorna closing the gap in 21 flat.
Marathons - Frank O'Carroll ran in Copenhagen and beat his Garmin watch preticted time comfortably. Frank ran 2:44.46, well done Frank. Also the Munster Marathon results were finalised (finally) and Christine was gold in the F35 category!
Up Next:
East Cork Senior and Masters T&F is on June 20th in Carraig na Bhfear. Starting at 7pm there are 300m, 1500m and 3000m along with the Mixed relays of 4*300m. See full time table below.
Racing Roundup - May 11th, 2023
Track:
Frank ran in a highly competitive semi final in the British University track championships and was 7th in 1:58. After qualifying for the semi in 1:53 he will be hoping for a big summer of racing ahead.
Road Racing:
Christine ran a very strong marathon in Limerick over the bank holiday. With a great block of training and a cross county season in her legs she ran a suberb 8 minute PB in 3:21.12 for 11th. Well done Christine. There was also a half marathon and 6 mile race on. Frank O'Caroll ran 90:03 in the half and Martin ran 39.43 in the 6 mile.
The Midleton 5 mile was on as well last week and we had a good turnout from the club. Tony Forristal running his first race officially with East Cork came 2nd overall and was in contention for the win the whole way just getting pipped by Mark Walsh in the closing stages. Kenneth ran a solid 26:57 for 8th with Brian deep in a marathon training block running an excellent 27:18 for 9th. Chris Kelly was back on the roads and still has plenty of speed with 28.41 for 12th. Martin ran 30.42, Chris McGrath who seems to have recovered very well from Manchester marathon ran 33.04 with Conor Tierney just behind 33.14. Avril had another great run for 34:02 with Claire next in 39.25. Denis rounded up our numbers on the night in 42.43.
In other road races Claire ran the fast Bweeng 5k in 24.10 and Avril ran in the BHAA 6 mile in Ringaskiddy in 41.43.
Up Next:
Youghal 5k is on Thursday 11th at 8pm. Also we have been invited to run a 3k v St Finbarrs and Cork Track Club Friday May 19th if anybody wants to get a feel for racing a track race.
Frank ran in a highly competitive semi final in the British University track championships and was 7th in 1:58. After qualifying for the semi in 1:53 he will be hoping for a big summer of racing ahead.
Road Racing:
Christine ran a very strong marathon in Limerick over the bank holiday. With a great block of training and a cross county season in her legs she ran a suberb 8 minute PB in 3:21.12 for 11th. Well done Christine. There was also a half marathon and 6 mile race on. Frank O'Caroll ran 90:03 in the half and Martin ran 39.43 in the 6 mile.
The Midleton 5 mile was on as well last week and we had a good turnout from the club. Tony Forristal running his first race officially with East Cork came 2nd overall and was in contention for the win the whole way just getting pipped by Mark Walsh in the closing stages. Kenneth ran a solid 26:57 for 8th with Brian deep in a marathon training block running an excellent 27:18 for 9th. Chris Kelly was back on the roads and still has plenty of speed with 28.41 for 12th. Martin ran 30.42, Chris McGrath who seems to have recovered very well from Manchester marathon ran 33.04 with Conor Tierney just behind 33.14. Avril had another great run for 34:02 with Claire next in 39.25. Denis rounded up our numbers on the night in 42.43.
In other road races Claire ran the fast Bweeng 5k in 24.10 and Avril ran in the BHAA 6 mile in Ringaskiddy in 41.43.
Up Next:
Youghal 5k is on Thursday 11th at 8pm. Also we have been invited to run a 3k v St Finbarrs and Cork Track Club Friday May 19th if anybody wants to get a feel for racing a track race.
Road Racing and a sprinkle of track - April 29th, 2023
Road Relays:
The National Road Relays were held in Raheny as usual on April 23th. OUr M35 team were looking to defend their title they won for the first time ever last year. We gave a valiant effort but came up just a few seconds short against a strong Brothers Pearse outfit. Stephen improved on his time from last year by 2 seconds to run 4.50 with James running another strong 2 mile leg in 9.42. Donal was in for Kevin and ran well for 4.52. Giving a total time of 19.23 and silver medals in back pockets. Hopefully next year Athletics Ireland invest in slightly larger podiums!
Norah also took a cool video of the race, even including some not to be missed behind the scene footage. It should be viewable below.
Ballintotis 4:
First up was the big local race last week Ballintotis 4 mile. This is the 12th running of the race in Ballintotis but it does stretch back to 1989 when it first started in Castlemaytr. Since it has moved to Ballintotis the overall race race has been won by East Cork men: James (8), Michael (2) and Kevin (1). That streak has been broken now in 2023 and to rub salt in the wounds it was by a Leevale man in a course record! Congrats to Ryan Creech on a fine race.
First home for us was Tim in 4th with 19.41. Fiona was the only person to make the podium with a great run for 2nd in a PB of 22.31. The race was so well supported over half our registered runners raced on the night so you can see places and times below.
The organisers added a team competition this year as well. The top 6 individuals are not included in hte scoring and when the dust settled we won both the mens and womens! Congrats to the mens of James, Nicky, Kenneth and Matt. And the ladies Annelise, Niamh, Eadaoin and Avril. Well done as well to the organising committee for hosting another fabulous race and all those from the club who helped out in many ways.
East Cork Road Championships:
The next big local race was held this week in Ballynoe. James won the race for his 7th East Cork Roads title ahead of Tony Forristal who pushed him all the way to the final hill of death. 2022 champion Nicky had to settle for 3rd on the night. John Spelman put in a strong injection of speed with one lap to go to break free from a large group of chasers to claim 4th and be the firdt scorer on our mens team. Donal was next in 6th with Ollie racing the course for the first time in 22nd. Conor Tierney thought he was Tiger Woods teeing it up in Augusta National on a Sunday as he sported a fetching red singlet instead of the maroon of East Cork. All was forgiven though as he finished strongly to help the team win bronze medals. Denis completed his 40th ever East Cork Roads in 57th place.
The womens race was dominated by Fiona who broke the course record by 19 seconds to win comfortably in 11:03. Eadaoin had a great run to overturn the result from Ballintotis and stay ahead of a fast finishing Niamh. They were 5th and 6th. Avril was not far behind them in 8th and that cemented the team titles for the ladies. Lorna had a great run improving vastly from last year to finish 17th.
Chris McGrath also ran in the Karen Fenton Memorial Run in Waterfall in his first race since Manchester. He was 23rd in 19.59.
Track and Field:
Paul was 5th in the IUAA T&F champs last week in the new blue track at DSD. With a strong field entered Paul lead things out for the first couple of k before fading a little. He rallied nicely to finish 5th overall in 14:52.
Frank is racing in the British Universities this weekend. He qualified from his heat in a swift 1:53.98 today to set him up for a competitive semi final tomorrow morning at 11.25am. This is streamed on "BUCS" Youtube channel.
The National Road Relays were held in Raheny as usual on April 23th. OUr M35 team were looking to defend their title they won for the first time ever last year. We gave a valiant effort but came up just a few seconds short against a strong Brothers Pearse outfit. Stephen improved on his time from last year by 2 seconds to run 4.50 with James running another strong 2 mile leg in 9.42. Donal was in for Kevin and ran well for 4.52. Giving a total time of 19.23 and silver medals in back pockets. Hopefully next year Athletics Ireland invest in slightly larger podiums!
Norah also took a cool video of the race, even including some not to be missed behind the scene footage. It should be viewable below.
Ballintotis 4:
First up was the big local race last week Ballintotis 4 mile. This is the 12th running of the race in Ballintotis but it does stretch back to 1989 when it first started in Castlemaytr. Since it has moved to Ballintotis the overall race race has been won by East Cork men: James (8), Michael (2) and Kevin (1). That streak has been broken now in 2023 and to rub salt in the wounds it was by a Leevale man in a course record! Congrats to Ryan Creech on a fine race.
First home for us was Tim in 4th with 19.41. Fiona was the only person to make the podium with a great run for 2nd in a PB of 22.31. The race was so well supported over half our registered runners raced on the night so you can see places and times below.
The organisers added a team competition this year as well. The top 6 individuals are not included in hte scoring and when the dust settled we won both the mens and womens! Congrats to the mens of James, Nicky, Kenneth and Matt. And the ladies Annelise, Niamh, Eadaoin and Avril. Well done as well to the organising committee for hosting another fabulous race and all those from the club who helped out in many ways.
East Cork Road Championships:
The next big local race was held this week in Ballynoe. James won the race for his 7th East Cork Roads title ahead of Tony Forristal who pushed him all the way to the final hill of death. 2022 champion Nicky had to settle for 3rd on the night. John Spelman put in a strong injection of speed with one lap to go to break free from a large group of chasers to claim 4th and be the firdt scorer on our mens team. Donal was next in 6th with Ollie racing the course for the first time in 22nd. Conor Tierney thought he was Tiger Woods teeing it up in Augusta National on a Sunday as he sported a fetching red singlet instead of the maroon of East Cork. All was forgiven though as he finished strongly to help the team win bronze medals. Denis completed his 40th ever East Cork Roads in 57th place.
The womens race was dominated by Fiona who broke the course record by 19 seconds to win comfortably in 11:03. Eadaoin had a great run to overturn the result from Ballintotis and stay ahead of a fast finishing Niamh. They were 5th and 6th. Avril was not far behind them in 8th and that cemented the team titles for the ladies. Lorna had a great run improving vastly from last year to finish 17th.
Chris McGrath also ran in the Karen Fenton Memorial Run in Waterfall in his first race since Manchester. He was 23rd in 19.59.
Track and Field:
Paul was 5th in the IUAA T&F champs last week in the new blue track at DSD. With a strong field entered Paul lead things out for the first couple of k before fading a little. He rallied nicely to finish 5th overall in 14:52.
Frank is racing in the British Universities this weekend. He qualified from his heat in a swift 1:53.98 today to set him up for a competitive semi final tomorrow morning at 11.25am. This is streamed on "BUCS" Youtube channel.
Road Racing and Mile Trials - April 20th, 2023
Road Racing:
We have had a lot of racing the past few weeks. From 42.2k to 1.6k.
First up the long men. Chris McGrath ran a fine 8 minute PB in Manchester at the weekend to finish in 3:20. Great reward for one of the most consistent trainers that past year. Well done Chris. Michael Furlong hopped on a flight to Boston to take on the infamous Heartbreak Hill. He had a super run and PB's by 11 mins to finish in 2:47. In the lead up Michael ran the Cobh 10 miler as a training run too.
The Kia Series races have been well supported with quality fields the past few years and the Streets of Kilkenny was no exception. Michael had a superb race to finish 3rd overall in 14:23. Tony Forristal having just transferred into the club ran a great 15:36 and smashed his previous PB. Donal had a decent run for 16:15 and Fiona ran a PB and is knocking on the door of a sub 17 with 17.07
The more local 5k recently was the PWC BHAA race. James retained his title (and beat Tonys Kilkenny time) with a great 15:35. Nicky returned from the shadows and ran a great 16:06 to kick start his summer campaign. Stephen in his local course ran a strong 16:55. Fiona was 2nd overall in another great 17:09. Niamh ran well for 20:22 and Avril was first F50 home in 20:26. Rooskagh Coffee have taken on some part time workers it seems as they managed to come 2nd team overall.
Mile Trial:
There were memories and stories of days long gone last week. The club held it's first trial for the road relay teams since 1997. We had a good turn out and the goal was to be in the top 3 master positions. Frank and Paul led the charge finishing the slightly short course in 4:24 and 4:26. Tony had a strong run to be 3rd in 4:45 with Kevin just behind and first master in 4:46. James was next home in 4:48 with Donal completed the master team with a 4:53. Stephen was just behind him with 4:59 out sprinting Diarmaid (former schools 1500m champ no less).
Annalise was first lady home, and also potentially the first lady to ever finish a club mile trial, Conor ran a strong 6:07 with Lorna also running well in 6:17.
Up Next:
Tonight is the 12th running of Ballintotis. Other communications were sent out for this but if you can help out in anyway please do and you can let Nicky know.
Next Thursday the 27th is the East Cork Road Championships in Ballynoe. Anyone who wants to be entered please let Eadaoin know. The women's race is 3k and the men's is 5 miles with team events in both.
We have had a lot of racing the past few weeks. From 42.2k to 1.6k.
First up the long men. Chris McGrath ran a fine 8 minute PB in Manchester at the weekend to finish in 3:20. Great reward for one of the most consistent trainers that past year. Well done Chris. Michael Furlong hopped on a flight to Boston to take on the infamous Heartbreak Hill. He had a super run and PB's by 11 mins to finish in 2:47. In the lead up Michael ran the Cobh 10 miler as a training run too.
The Kia Series races have been well supported with quality fields the past few years and the Streets of Kilkenny was no exception. Michael had a superb race to finish 3rd overall in 14:23. Tony Forristal having just transferred into the club ran a great 15:36 and smashed his previous PB. Donal had a decent run for 16:15 and Fiona ran a PB and is knocking on the door of a sub 17 with 17.07
The more local 5k recently was the PWC BHAA race. James retained his title (and beat Tonys Kilkenny time) with a great 15:35. Nicky returned from the shadows and ran a great 16:06 to kick start his summer campaign. Stephen in his local course ran a strong 16:55. Fiona was 2nd overall in another great 17:09. Niamh ran well for 20:22 and Avril was first F50 home in 20:26. Rooskagh Coffee have taken on some part time workers it seems as they managed to come 2nd team overall.
Mile Trial:
There were memories and stories of days long gone last week. The club held it's first trial for the road relay teams since 1997. We had a good turn out and the goal was to be in the top 3 master positions. Frank and Paul led the charge finishing the slightly short course in 4:24 and 4:26. Tony had a strong run to be 3rd in 4:45 with Kevin just behind and first master in 4:46. James was next home in 4:48 with Donal completed the master team with a 4:53. Stephen was just behind him with 4:59 out sprinting Diarmaid (former schools 1500m champ no less).
Annalise was first lady home, and also potentially the first lady to ever finish a club mile trial, Conor ran a strong 6:07 with Lorna also running well in 6:17.
Up Next:
Tonight is the 12th running of Ballintotis. Other communications were sent out for this but if you can help out in anyway please do and you can let Nicky know.
Next Thursday the 27th is the East Cork Road Championships in Ballynoe. Anyone who wants to be entered please let Eadaoin know. The women's race is 3k and the men's is 5 miles with team events in both.
County Roads, Portlaois and Mallow - March 30th 2023
County Roads:
The County Roads were held in Castlelyons on March 19th last. For the first time in a few years the Senior category was back so added to the competition up front. In total we had 14 athletes running and came home with a bag full of medals.
Overall Fiona had the most success on the day. She won the ladies race overall and thus her F35 category as well. She lead the ladies teams to silver medals in the Senior and Gold in the F35 team. Bravo. James finished 3rd overall in the mens race for bronze senior and also picked up first in the M35 category. He lead the mens team to 3rd place in the Senior and 1st in the M35.
The other individual winners were Matt Horigan who got silver in the M35, Eric Meade bronze in the M50 and his sister the up and coming Avril bossed the F50 category winning the gold medal.
Team winners Men: Senior Bronze and M35 Gold (James, Matt, Donal and Graham), Novice Bronze (Matt, Donal, Graham and John).
Team winners Ladies: Senior Silver (Fiona, Annelise, Niamh and Avril), Novice Bronze (Annelise, Niamh, Avril and Lorna), F35 Gold (Fiona, Niamh, Avril and Lorna).
Road Racing:
In other races Michael spun up to Portlaois for the Streets of Portlaois 5k and was 11th in 14:59.
In the Mallow 10 Stephen ran 61:03 PB just ahead of Michael in 61:26. Michael was using it as a training run before Boston next month and both did Welchtown hills on Saturday. Annelise had a solid run as well with 68:31.
The County Roads were held in Castlelyons on March 19th last. For the first time in a few years the Senior category was back so added to the competition up front. In total we had 14 athletes running and came home with a bag full of medals.
Overall Fiona had the most success on the day. She won the ladies race overall and thus her F35 category as well. She lead the ladies teams to silver medals in the Senior and Gold in the F35 team. Bravo. James finished 3rd overall in the mens race for bronze senior and also picked up first in the M35 category. He lead the mens team to 3rd place in the Senior and 1st in the M35.
The other individual winners were Matt Horigan who got silver in the M35, Eric Meade bronze in the M50 and his sister the up and coming Avril bossed the F50 category winning the gold medal.
Team winners Men: Senior Bronze and M35 Gold (James, Matt, Donal and Graham), Novice Bronze (Matt, Donal, Graham and John).
Team winners Ladies: Senior Silver (Fiona, Annelise, Niamh and Avril), Novice Bronze (Annelise, Niamh, Avril and Lorna), F35 Gold (Fiona, Niamh, Avril and Lorna).
Road Racing:
In other races Michael spun up to Portlaois for the Streets of Portlaois 5k and was 11th in 14:59.
In the Mallow 10 Stephen ran 61:03 PB just ahead of Michael in 61:26. Michael was using it as a training run before Boston next month and both did Welchtown hills on Saturday. Annelise had a solid run as well with 68:31.
Cloyne 4k Race 5 and Overall Series - March 13th 2023
Cloyne 4k:
The popular Cloyne 4k race series for the 2022/2023 season finished up on Sunday. 135 completed the full series with a minimum of 4 out of 5 races. Overall series winners were Aidan Noone (Leevale) and Vicky Spiteri (Midleton AC).
Donal Giltinan was our only overall prizewinner coming 2nd with a total time of 52.14. Congrats to the organising committee in Cloyne for keeping this very enjoyable 4k series going. It is a great asset to the winter racing season. Complete the series you and receive a good technical t-shirt, fast accurate results and a guaranteed PB on the even faster race loop. All this for only €5 per race.
On the day Michael Harty won race 5 with a sizzling 11.34 to take back his course record from young gun Paul. The marker has been reset, we will have to wait and see if it will be challenged again next winter! Next home in a solid time was James in 12.28. Kenneth and Donal also broke the 13 minute mark for 5th and 6th. Michael Furlong got revenge on Stephen from MTU last week finishing 8th in 13.25 with Stephen in 10th in 13.34. Eric Meade was next home in 15.23 just ahead of Martin Hennessy in 15.33.
Eadaoin was 2nd lady overall in a great 15.56 with Avril running a PB for 6th in 16.17. Conor broke the 17 min mark for the first time in 16.59. Lorna also had a seasons best despite only just recovering from illness with 17.32. Zach showed he is now really on the up and coming list with a fantastic 17.40 being paced by Dad Graham in 17.41. Denis and Tom had a battle for Wednesday night bragging rights with Denis using all his experience to come out on top with 18.06 and Tom in 18.28.
Up Next:
County Senior, Novice and Masters is on next Sunday in Castlelyons. It is one race for all and starts at 11am sharp.
The popular Cloyne 4k race series for the 2022/2023 season finished up on Sunday. 135 completed the full series with a minimum of 4 out of 5 races. Overall series winners were Aidan Noone (Leevale) and Vicky Spiteri (Midleton AC).
Donal Giltinan was our only overall prizewinner coming 2nd with a total time of 52.14. Congrats to the organising committee in Cloyne for keeping this very enjoyable 4k series going. It is a great asset to the winter racing season. Complete the series you and receive a good technical t-shirt, fast accurate results and a guaranteed PB on the even faster race loop. All this for only €5 per race.
On the day Michael Harty won race 5 with a sizzling 11.34 to take back his course record from young gun Paul. The marker has been reset, we will have to wait and see if it will be challenged again next winter! Next home in a solid time was James in 12.28. Kenneth and Donal also broke the 13 minute mark for 5th and 6th. Michael Furlong got revenge on Stephen from MTU last week finishing 8th in 13.25 with Stephen in 10th in 13.34. Eric Meade was next home in 15.23 just ahead of Martin Hennessy in 15.33.
Eadaoin was 2nd lady overall in a great 15.56 with Avril running a PB for 6th in 16.17. Conor broke the 17 min mark for the first time in 16.59. Lorna also had a seasons best despite only just recovering from illness with 17.32. Zach showed he is now really on the up and coming list with a fantastic 17.40 being paced by Dad Graham in 17.41. Denis and Tom had a battle for Wednesday night bragging rights with Denis using all his experience to come out on top with 18.06 and Tom in 18.28.
Up Next:
County Senior, Novice and Masters is on next Sunday in Castlelyons. It is one race for all and starts at 11am sharp.
Road Racing Roundup and IUAA XC - March 10th 2023
Road Racing:
Lots of road races the past few weeks. The picks of the bunch were Michael winning Killeagh 4 mile and Tim winning Kinsale 10 mile.
Cross Country:
The IUAA XC was held in UL as well with Paul finishing in a strong 6th overall.
Up Next:
The final race of the popular Cloyne 4k series is on this Sunday (March 12th). Best of luck to all those still in the hunt for overall glory. Also Sunday week is the County Road Senior, Novice and Masters in Castlelyons. Please let Eadaoin know if you are racing.
Lots of road races the past few weeks. The picks of the bunch were Michael winning Killeagh 4 mile and Tim winning Kinsale 10 mile.
Cross Country:
The IUAA XC was held in UL as well with Paul finishing in a strong 6th overall.
Up Next:
The final race of the popular Cloyne 4k series is on this Sunday (March 12th). Best of luck to all those still in the hunt for overall glory. Also Sunday week is the County Road Senior, Novice and Masters in Castlelyons. Please let Eadaoin know if you are racing.
National Masters XC - February 14th 2023
National Masters XC:
The National Masters Cross Country was held in Gowran Demesne at the weekend. In a wonderfully rare result we had the individual winners in both the masters mens and womens races! Fiona took the honours in the 4k womens races and was followed straight away by Tim winning the mens 7k. The mens team also got the bronze team finishing behind Leevale and Rathfarnham.
Fiona took the lead early in the womens race and showed she was the class athlete of the field by pushing the pace out front on her own for the full 4k. There was still pressure being put on her from Fiona Gettings and Edel Gaffney but as they got to the top of the hill by the castle on the final lap Fiona made her final move, showing her track speed, down the hill to the finish and win with a margin of 8 seconds in the end. Eadaoin running her first master race was second scorer on the Cork county team and 42nd overall.
Tim regained his title that he won in 2022 in Castlelyons. Mick Clohisey pushed the pace early on but at about 2k Tim turned the screw and left him and the rest of the field for dead. Tim opened up an insurmountable gap at the 5k mark and held that all the way to the finish winning by 20 seconds. Tim also lead the Cork team to Gold and the East Cork team to bronze. Kevin had a good race coming through well to finish 11th. James ran his fist cross country race in 12 months and was brave in the top 5 for the first few laps. He slid back a little in the end for a 16th place finish to match his result from 2022. Donal was next home in a good positive run for 30th improving on his 47th from last year. Stephen was next home in 72nd and Kenneth, who had shoe problems, finished 78th. Tim and Kevin also scored in the Gold winning Cork M35 team.
So overall a great day for the club with both individual master wins and great support up in Gowran as well.
Cloyne 4k:
The 4th race of the Cloyne series was on Sunday as well. John Spellman was 2nd overall in a time of 13.37. Sean was 5th in 13.48. Ollie was just outside the top 10 in 11th in 14.29 with Martin Hennessy in 22nd in 15:58.
Avril was our first lady home in a great time of 16:23 with her shadow Christine ghosting in behind her in 16.24, they were 5th and 6th. Conor ran a great PB of17.05 so will be looking for his first sub 17 at the final race in the series. Lorna was 11th lady in 17.34.
Performance of the day goes to young Zach Swords who broke 18 minutes for the first time with an excellent 17.51. This got him 3rd Junior Man. Zach is only 10 and has another 9 years at this grade so what out for him in the next few years! Dad Graham kept a close watch in 17.51 with Denis keeping a close eye on Graham in 17.54. Frank Cashman ran a solid 18.25 with Lavinia also on the way back with a 21.38.
The National Masters Cross Country was held in Gowran Demesne at the weekend. In a wonderfully rare result we had the individual winners in both the masters mens and womens races! Fiona took the honours in the 4k womens races and was followed straight away by Tim winning the mens 7k. The mens team also got the bronze team finishing behind Leevale and Rathfarnham.
Fiona took the lead early in the womens race and showed she was the class athlete of the field by pushing the pace out front on her own for the full 4k. There was still pressure being put on her from Fiona Gettings and Edel Gaffney but as they got to the top of the hill by the castle on the final lap Fiona made her final move, showing her track speed, down the hill to the finish and win with a margin of 8 seconds in the end. Eadaoin running her first master race was second scorer on the Cork county team and 42nd overall.
Tim regained his title that he won in 2022 in Castlelyons. Mick Clohisey pushed the pace early on but at about 2k Tim turned the screw and left him and the rest of the field for dead. Tim opened up an insurmountable gap at the 5k mark and held that all the way to the finish winning by 20 seconds. Tim also lead the Cork team to Gold and the East Cork team to bronze. Kevin had a good race coming through well to finish 11th. James ran his fist cross country race in 12 months and was brave in the top 5 for the first few laps. He slid back a little in the end for a 16th place finish to match his result from 2022. Donal was next home in a good positive run for 30th improving on his 47th from last year. Stephen was next home in 72nd and Kenneth, who had shoe problems, finished 78th. Tim and Kevin also scored in the Gold winning Cork M35 team.
So overall a great day for the club with both individual master wins and great support up in Gowran as well.
Cloyne 4k:
The 4th race of the Cloyne series was on Sunday as well. John Spellman was 2nd overall in a time of 13.37. Sean was 5th in 13.48. Ollie was just outside the top 10 in 11th in 14.29 with Martin Hennessy in 22nd in 15:58.
Avril was our first lady home in a great time of 16:23 with her shadow Christine ghosting in behind her in 16.24, they were 5th and 6th. Conor ran a great PB of17.05 so will be looking for his first sub 17 at the final race in the series. Lorna was 11th lady in 17.34.
Performance of the day goes to young Zach Swords who broke 18 minutes for the first time with an excellent 17.51. This got him 3rd Junior Man. Zach is only 10 and has another 9 years at this grade so what out for him in the next few years! Dad Graham kept a close watch in 17.51 with Denis keeping a close eye on Graham in 17.54. Frank Cashman ran a solid 18.25 with Lavinia also on the way back with a 21.38.
European Club Cross County and Dungarvan 10: February 8th, 2023
European Club Cross Country:
The European Club Cross Country was held in Oropesa del Mar, Spain at the weekend. We are the first male Cork senior club to ever qualify for this prestigious event that dates back to 1962. The course was very different to what we are used to however. Instead of cold, wet weather with long grass, hills and cow droppings it was warm, dry manicured course next to a beautiful beach with the sea lapping close by. Despite the scenic views the course itself was actually tricky enough. There were three soft sand sections, lots of winding twists and turns and three jumps to negotiate each lap.
The race started off fast and furious with Paul in the front group leading the charge. Tim, Frank and Kevin were bunched in the middle of the pack for most of the first 2k. After that Tim started his customary meandering up through the field, Frank stayed were he was and Kevin drifted back a little. The speed at the front of the race was relentless. Rodrigue Kwizera, 11th in the 2019 World XC Championships, and Oscar Chelimo, bronze in the 2022 5k at the World T&F Championships, were at the head of the race keep things honest! Paul wisley decided that maybe he should ease off the gas a bit and settled back into the main pack. The race was billed as an 8.7k distance but ended up being 8km exactly. By the end Tim had worked his way up to 42nd place and could have done with another 2k as he was really starting to make up ground as the going got tough. Paul was valiant for the first 5k and then dropped some places in the closing laps for 66th. Frank racing his 2nd cross country race in less than 24 hours (and 1,300kms away) was 72nd with Kevin just behind in 85th.
Overall it was a great novelty for East Cork AC to qualify for this race. With an active membership of approx 30 athletes male and female it is a testament to the dedication of all involved.
Our top four runners for the year of Frank, Paul, Tim and Michael were obviously the key to this success but interestingly we had 9 different scoring members through the Seniors races from East Corks all the way to the Europeans. Paul, Frank, Donal and Eric won gold in the East Corks. Michael, Paul, Tim and Frank won gold at the Counties. Kevin, Donal, Matt and Nicky won silver at the Munsters and of course Tim, Paul, Michael and Frank won silver in Rossapenna at the Nationals. Also Denis, Fergus and Chris also ran on the Senior team during the year
Link to the stream - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKNpJQOe84A
Senior Mens race starts at 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Dungarvan 10:
The other big race of the weekend was the Dungarvan 10. With Ballycotton long gone now this has turned into the big race post Christmas to target. We had a very successful outing on hte day with lots of PB's helped by the great running conditions and of course the hundreds of training miles in the legs. Donla and Brian had a ding dong battle for top East Cork spot. Donal got a small gap at thte 7 mile mark and held onto it for dear life, the fear of Brian got him to a massive PB of 55:01. Brian was just behind also in a massive PB with 55.12. That got the lads 24th and 27th places. Michael Furlong was next home in 58:30 with Chris Kelly taking it as a training run in 60:14. Our club captain Stephen ensured things went smoothly for everyone and had a birds eye view of proceedings running 61:19. Chris McGrath in the middle of a big block of marathon training showed his strength with a super 67:15. Annelise smashed her PB by well over 2 minutes with 67:35 and Christine and Avril both comfortably broke the 70 minute barrier for the first time with 69:00 and 69:54. Congrats to all on fast running!
Our top three men of Donal, Brian and Michael also got the bronze team
Up Next:
All roads lead to Gowran this weekend for the National Masters XC. We have the defneding champion Tim racing again and will hope to put a good team around him to challange for the team prize too. Also Fiona will have sights on the big prize after her great masters running earlier this season. Also on Sunday is the 4th Cloyne 4k event of the series, starting as usual at 9.30am sharp.
The European Club Cross Country was held in Oropesa del Mar, Spain at the weekend. We are the first male Cork senior club to ever qualify for this prestigious event that dates back to 1962. The course was very different to what we are used to however. Instead of cold, wet weather with long grass, hills and cow droppings it was warm, dry manicured course next to a beautiful beach with the sea lapping close by. Despite the scenic views the course itself was actually tricky enough. There were three soft sand sections, lots of winding twists and turns and three jumps to negotiate each lap.
The race started off fast and furious with Paul in the front group leading the charge. Tim, Frank and Kevin were bunched in the middle of the pack for most of the first 2k. After that Tim started his customary meandering up through the field, Frank stayed were he was and Kevin drifted back a little. The speed at the front of the race was relentless. Rodrigue Kwizera, 11th in the 2019 World XC Championships, and Oscar Chelimo, bronze in the 2022 5k at the World T&F Championships, were at the head of the race keep things honest! Paul wisley decided that maybe he should ease off the gas a bit and settled back into the main pack. The race was billed as an 8.7k distance but ended up being 8km exactly. By the end Tim had worked his way up to 42nd place and could have done with another 2k as he was really starting to make up ground as the going got tough. Paul was valiant for the first 5k and then dropped some places in the closing laps for 66th. Frank racing his 2nd cross country race in less than 24 hours (and 1,300kms away) was 72nd with Kevin just behind in 85th.
Overall it was a great novelty for East Cork AC to qualify for this race. With an active membership of approx 30 athletes male and female it is a testament to the dedication of all involved.
Our top four runners for the year of Frank, Paul, Tim and Michael were obviously the key to this success but interestingly we had 9 different scoring members through the Seniors races from East Corks all the way to the Europeans. Paul, Frank, Donal and Eric won gold in the East Corks. Michael, Paul, Tim and Frank won gold at the Counties. Kevin, Donal, Matt and Nicky won silver at the Munsters and of course Tim, Paul, Michael and Frank won silver in Rossapenna at the Nationals. Also Denis, Fergus and Chris also ran on the Senior team during the year
Link to the stream - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKNpJQOe84A
Senior Mens race starts at 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Dungarvan 10:
The other big race of the weekend was the Dungarvan 10. With Ballycotton long gone now this has turned into the big race post Christmas to target. We had a very successful outing on hte day with lots of PB's helped by the great running conditions and of course the hundreds of training miles in the legs. Donla and Brian had a ding dong battle for top East Cork spot. Donal got a small gap at thte 7 mile mark and held onto it for dear life, the fear of Brian got him to a massive PB of 55:01. Brian was just behind also in a massive PB with 55.12. That got the lads 24th and 27th places. Michael Furlong was next home in 58:30 with Chris Kelly taking it as a training run in 60:14. Our club captain Stephen ensured things went smoothly for everyone and had a birds eye view of proceedings running 61:19. Chris McGrath in the middle of a big block of marathon training showed his strength with a super 67:15. Annelise smashed her PB by well over 2 minutes with 67:35 and Christine and Avril both comfortably broke the 70 minute barrier for the first time with 69:00 and 69:54. Congrats to all on fast running!
Our top three men of Donal, Brian and Michael also got the bronze team
Up Next:
All roads lead to Gowran this weekend for the National Masters XC. We have the defneding champion Tim racing again and will hope to put a good team around him to challange for the team prize too. Also Fiona will have sights on the big prize after her great masters running earlier this season. Also on Sunday is the 4th Cloyne 4k event of the series, starting as usual at 9.30am sharp.
Munster and National Medals - A compilation by James McCarthy and Denis McCarthy
James and Denis have spent a lot of time and effort compiling results from Munster and National championships from the start of time (well 1986). It is very well put together and shows the success the club has had over the years. Thanks to both for this. It might be a trip down memory lane for some people or a source of inspiration to others!
There are one of two gaps that perhaps you might be able to help with. Mainly these are:
- 1989: National Road Relays 3rd team - Missing 3 members of the team.
- 1991: Intermediate Cross Country 2nd team - Missing one member of the scoring team.
- 1996: Munster Cross Country Junior Men 3rd team - All missing!
- 2000: Munster Cross Country Junior Men 3rd team - 2 missing
One wonders if we will have a junior mens or womens team compete again in the near future..
The file can be downloaded below and is also saved in the Club Records section.
There are one of two gaps that perhaps you might be able to help with. Mainly these are:
- 1989: National Road Relays 3rd team - Missing 3 members of the team.
- 1991: Intermediate Cross Country 2nd team - Missing one member of the scoring team.
- 1996: Munster Cross Country Junior Men 3rd team - All missing!
- 2000: Munster Cross Country Junior Men 3rd team - 2 missing
One wonders if we will have a junior mens or womens team compete again in the near future..
The file can be downloaded below and is also saved in the Club Records section.
| east_cork_medal_winners_1986-2018.docx |
