Summer has officially begun - May 1st, 2026

Ballintotis 4 Mile & County Roads

As the traditional curtain-raiser for the summer evening road racing season, the Ballintotis 4-miler is always one to attract a crowd and this year proved no different. Aside from a stiff easterly breeze, conditions were perfect for racing as around 1,200 athletes lined up, under blue skies and a setting sun, to tackle the 4 mile loop around Loughaderra and its hinterland.

The course itself was immaculately presented with all verges trimmed and plenty of support, signs and mascots around and about to offer encouragement to the observant athlete. The observant spectator may have noticed a lack of East Cork singlets at the sharp end when compared to previous years but all our representatives ran to the best of their abilities on the night. Many of those unable to take part assisted in stewarding and administration so thank you to them.

Leading our contingent home was Michael Furlong. Back on form, after some decent solo graft over the past few weeks, and sporting a fresh pair of Puma Super Turbo Boost shoes, the Cork/Kerryman started strongly. In a break from tradition, he then kept it going through to the end, finishing in 27th place with a huge PB of 22m 07s. Sub 22 is surely not far away. Being the top East Cork finisher in Ballintotis is a notable honour. As he stands on the shoulders of club giants, we can be sure sure that Michael will carry this achievement with humility and grace over the coming year.

Somewhat chastened after a bit of early argy-bargy with his leading clubmate, Stephen O'Brien followed Michael home in 29th spot (22m 20s) with Grange-Fermoy's Kieran McKeown separating the two. Kieran Beausang, making his debut for the club, finished 39th while Chris Kelly was 48th having got the better of his Ballynoe nemesis, Jim Harty.

Martin Hennessy led the more experienced contingent home in 72nd place ahead of Ollie Smiddy.

Annelise Hutch was our top female finisher as she continues her return to racing. Also running were Dave O'Dwyer, Lorna O'Brien, Olwyn Reidy, Denis McCarthy and Eiblin Cleary. Special mention should go to Eadaoin Gilmartin and Sarah Forristal who made their returns to the racing scene.

As has been the case since 2024, the race also doubled up as the County Road Championships. The club secured the silver men's novice medal (Michael, Stephen, Kieran & Chris) and bronze M35 (Stephen, Kieran, Chris & Martin). Congratulations to all.

We should commend all those who made light work of organising such a huge race in the East Cork area and for making it an enjoyabale evening for participants and spectators alike. Long may it continue.

Other notes
- Michael Furlong prepared for his Ballintotis heroics by spending some time locked up in Spike Island. And during his time there he tackled the 5k race, finishing in 2nd place (17m 44s). His prize? A voucher for a free visit to Spike Island....
- Paul Hartnett wrapped up his UCC career in the Intervarsities Track & Field Championships at MTU. He finished 5th in his 1500m heat (4m 04s), qualifying for the final, however a niggle prevented him from taking his place in the race the following day.
- Meanwhile our other Michael - Michael Harty - took a comfortable victory at the Curley 4 miler in Galbally, clocking in at a very impressive 19m 24s in his season opener.
- Also Kevin won the uphill only 3k IMRA race on Claragh Mountain in Millsteet in April.