Notice: Dungarvan Winter League - Nov 2024 to Jan 2025

West Waterford AC are organising their popular Winter League again this year in Dungarvan and here are the key points...

1) You register online for the full league and then you collect your number on Wed 6th Nov 2024.

2) There is a choice of two distances... 2.4 miles (3.9kms) OR 5.2 miles (8.4kms)

3) The runs are on the following dates at 6:30pm...

Wed 13th Nov 2024

Wed 20th Nov 2024

Wed 27th Nov 2024

Wed 4th Dec 2024

Wed 11th Dec 2024

Wed 18th Dec 2024

Thurs 2nd Jan 2025

Wed 8th Jan 2025

Wed 15th Jan 2025

Wed 22nd Jan 2025

Wed 29th Jan 2025

Entry link... https://eventmaster.ie/event/PQrquJDhLe

From West Waterford AC...  "30TH ANNUAL FORDES DAYBREAK WINTER LEAGUE

Event Description: The Fordes Daybreak Winter League will once again take place from the Sports Centre, Quanns Dungarvan for 11 Wednesday nights commencing on Wed 13th November.  We will continue for 6 nights before Christmas bringing  us up to Wednesday 18th December.

After Christmas we will return  on THURSDAY the 2nd January and revert back to Wednesday from Wed. 8th for  4 nights with our final night on the 29th January.

Number pick up will take place at the Sports Centre Dungarvan on Wednesday 6th November at 6.30pm or on first night of the league ON THE 13TH NOVEMBER from 6.15pm.

e hope you will join us again for this annual event and if you haven't been with us before we guarantee you won't be disappointed.  It's an 11 week challenge that can maintain your fitness over the winter and start 2025 on a high note.

As usual there are 2 options to chose from.  The first is the "long" route which is 5.2 miles while the second choice is the "short" route and the distance here is approx 2.5 miles.  Both routes start and finish at the Sports Centre, Quanns.  There are a few very important rules and they are not optional.

No High Vis, No Run.  We will not allow any runner take part who doesnt wear a high vis.  No exceptions.  It has to be a high vis not a lumionous tshirt.

No watches allowed or No Headphones.  This is a very strict rule of this event. We will publish your time asap after the run. Your aim each week will be to run the time you ran the week before or if possible a little faster.  IF YOU WEAR A WATCH YOUR TIME WILL NOT BE RECORDED.

Stewards must be obeyed at all times.  Your participation in this event is an indicator of your compliance with this rule.

Rules of the road apply. You must run on the footpath at all times when available and only cross the road at designated points where stewards will direct you.

YOUR PARTICIPATION IN THE LEAGUE INDICATES THAT YOU AGREE TO ABIDE BY THE ABOVE RULES

Our mission is to introduce as many people as possible to running/jogging.  We don't care how fast or slow you are we just want you to enjoy the league and see the benefits of running for yourself.  

ENTRY LINK- https://eventmaster.ie/event/PQrquJDhLe

Notice: IMRA Top of the Coom Trail race - Sun 8th Sept 2024

This trail race is coming up on the Cork-Kerry border on Sunday 8th Sept 2024. It's reasonably tough so it might be one for the more experienced trail runners.

Description: Top Of Coom
County: Kerry
Date: Sunday 8th September, 2024 // Time: 12:00
Climb (m): 350
Distance (km): 11.00
Race Marking: Route fully marked - Route fully marked // GPS Allowed: No
Mandatory Kit: Level B - Standard. Waterproof jacket, Hat or buff, Gloves, Whistle, Charged mobile phone with emergency number stored, Foil blanket, bivvy bag or equivalent
Entry Closes: Saturday 7th September 2024, 18:00
Entry cost: €7 for seniors, €5 for over 65s and under 18s
Route Description: Nice fast course, Forrest trail, Bog road, and open Mountain. Long race will be approx 11km. Short race will be approx 5km. Both routes will be fully marked.Getting There:Top of Coom Ireland's Highest Pub Coolnolhill, Kilgarvan, Co. Kerry, V93 EW90. From Cork, N22 through Macroom and Baile Mhuirne (Ballyvourney), turn left at the Mills Inn, take minor road through Cúil Aodha (Coolea), and continue uphill on this minor road as far as Top of Coom Pub.

Info... https://imra.ie/events/view/id/2452

Results & Photos of the Waterford Greenway Half-Marathon - Sat 31st Aug 2024

Lead group at 2kms

The big race in Munster this weekend was the Waterford Greenway Half-Marathon on Saturday 31st August organised by West Waterford AC.

The entries for this race opened on the 4th of July and all 750 places sold out in just 4 days.

On race day itself, the weather conditions couldn't have been nicer with blue skies, sunshine and a light easterly tailwind. Maybe a little warm for racing but it really showed off the scenic route.

Top 5 men & women...

1 Conor O'BRIEN 01:11:00 890 M MS Dooneen A.C.
2 Pat FITZGERALD 01:11:10 666 M MS Waterford A.C.
3 Aidan CONNELL 01:11:36 594 M M40 West Waterford A.C.
4 Vivian FOLEY 01:11:54 759 M M50 Eagle A.C.
5 Donal COAKLEY 01:12:22 967 M MS Leevale A.C.
1 Katie WILSON 01:22:25 232 F FS D.M.P. A.C.
2 Kate VEALE 01:27:02 373 F FS West Waterford A.C.
3 Keely O'REILLY 01:28:34 74 F FS
4 Angela TOBIN 01:29:48 313 F FS West Waterford A.C.
5 Yasmin CANNING 01:30:53 51 F F50 Drogheda and District A.C.

Full results HERE

Photos...

1) There are about 80 photos around the 2km mark on the Running in Munster Facebook page.

2) West Waterford AC have two galleries at McGrath Cross... Album 1  & Album 2

They also have the following finish line photos... Album 1 ... Album 2 ... Album 3... Album 4... Album 5... Album 6... Album 7... Album 8... Album 9... Album 10... Album 11... Album 12... Album 13... Album 14... Album 15... Album 16... 

3) John Troy has some pre-race and race photos HERE

Top 5 women (L-R)... 5th Yasmin Canning, Kate Veale 2nd, Katie Wilson 1st, Angela Tobin 4th & Keely O'Reilly 3rd

Top 5 men in the Waterford Greenway Half-Marathon (L-R)... 3rd Aidan Connell, Vivian Foley 4th, Donal Coakley 5th, Conor O'Brien 1st & Pat Fitzgerald 2nd

Edel Curry on behalf of the Rapid Response Vehicle Group receives a cheque for €2,500 euro from the proceeds of the Eurofins Waterford Greenway half marathon

Kerry: Results of the Kilgobnet 4-mile road race - Fri 16th Aug 2024

 KILGOBNET 4 MILE

The Kilgobnet 4-mile road race was held on Friday 16th August 2024.

Placing Bib No Name Time Club
1 190 Brian Murphy 20.56 Iveragh
2 130 Brendan Sheehan 21.30 Gneeveguilla A.C.
3 212 Martin Dineen 21.45 An Ríocht A.C.
4 174 Stephen Moore 22.47 An Ríocht A.C.
5 155 Tommy Arthur 23.09 Lagan Valley AC
6 195 Daniel O Connor 23.33
7 165 Lily Riordan 23.57 Star of the Laune A.C.
8 173 Seamus Murphy 24.06 Gneeveguilla A.C.
9 121 Darren ‘Sullivan 24.14
10 179 Brendan Lynch 24.24 Farranfore Maine Valley
11 117 Chris Grayson 24.35 Star of the Laune A.C.
12 156 Kevin Griffin 25.15 An Ríocht A.C.
13 167 John Kissane 25.42 Star of the Laune A.C.
14 196 John Cahil 26.12
15 219 Joe Reynolds 26.19
16 157 Flor Rahilly 26.25 Duhallow A.C.
17 171 Frank O Connor 27.12 An Riocht A.C.
18 162 Louise Riordan 27.24 Star of the Laune A.C.
19 106 Stephen Griffin 27.26 Star of the Laune A.C.
20 217 Mary Reynolds 27.48 An Ríocht A.C.
21 218 Siobhan Daly 27.50 An Riocht
22 197 Tim Long 27.58 An Ríocht A.C.
23 214 James Doran 27.58 An Ríocht A.C.
24 176 ENDA KIERAN 28.20 ST.FINBARR AC
25 154 Gillian Murphy 28.24 Mount Hillary A.C.
26 107 Donal O Donoghue 28.32 Watergrasshill A.C.
27 187 ESTER MURPHY 28.47
28 131 James Clifford 28.56 Star of the Laune A.C.
29 175 Doreen Moore 28.59 An Ríocht A.C.
30 186 Gerard Culhane 29.10 Star of the Laune A.C.
31 159 Michael Mangan 29.10 Star of the Laune A.C.
32 118 Laurence Rigney 29.23
33 182 Roland Rogers 29.33
34 139 Chloe Jones 29.36
35 192 Cheryl Carmody 29.50 Gneeveguilla A.C.
36 222 Alan Burton 29.58 Millstreet AC
37 110 Vivian Juffs 30.15 Star of the Laune A.C.
38 142 Ciarán Ómuircheartaigh 30.32 Star of the Laune A.C.
39 229 Aoife McCann 30.48
40 120 Anthony Dennehy 30.53 Star of the Laune A.C.
41 199 Patricia Corbett 31.03 Star of the Laune A.C.
42 158 Anna Foley 31.03 Star of the Laune A.C.
43 113 Jim O Meara 31.17 St. Brendan's A.C.
44 172 Darren Kenny 31.32 St. Brendan's A.C.
45 149 Garry O Sullivan 31.35
46 188 Majella Diskin 32.00 An Ríocht A.C.
47 169 Niamh Hogan 32.09 Star of the Laune A.C.
48 227 Sean Sheehan 33.01
49 141 John Melia 33.47
50 193 Emma Cahillane 34.04 Star of the Laune A.C.
51 191 Mary Murphy 34.36 Mallow AC
52 200 Emma Cahillane 35.49 Star of the Laune A.C.
53 144 Aisling Lehane 35.52
54 168 Mary Carey 36.04 Star of the Laune A.C.
55 231 John Kelliher 37.11 Star of the Laune A.C.
56 226 Shauna Moroney 37.18 Tri lakes Tri Club
57 234 Gemma Robins 38.01
58 114 Pauline O Connor-O Meara 38.17
59 152 Jonathan Leniston 38.49 West Limerick A.C.
60 109 Claire Mc Carthy Cahillane 38.57 Star of the Laune A.C.
61 126 Teresa O Shes 39.55
64 143 Shane O Flynn 46.00
62 178 MICHAEL COAKLEY 43.38 WEST WATERFORD AC
63 235 Jen LYNCH 44.00 Star of the Laune A.C.

Record numbers take part in Waterford Viking Marathon event - 23rd June 2024

The 2024 edition of the Waterford Viking Marathon event was held on Sunday 23rd of June and as can be seen from the chart above, there were a record number of finishers this year. The 2756 finishers this year is about 3% up on the previous highest mark back in 2017.

The event is made up of three separate races... a) A full 42.2km marathon b) A 21.1km half-marathon and c) A 10.5km quarter marathon.

The early editions of this marathon had a relay event which never really took off. The Quarter event was introduced in 2014 and that proved to be much more popular.

Let's look at a breakdown and history of each event...

Marathon... The high water mark for the full marathon was back in the inaugural year of 2012. There was no doubt quite a buzz at the time as it was a new marathon and many people in Waterford and surrounding areas probably wanted to do a marathon in their home town.

After the first year, the novelty wore off and it settled at a figure of about 400 finishers per year. At this time, the full marathon took in large parts of the city as well as traveling south to the seaside town of Tramore and back again.

In 2018, the full marathon was cancelled due to a heatwave. It took a drop in 2019 and after 2022, the numbers have been recovering since the pandemic. In 2024, it's back up to about the 400 mark again although it's hard to see much growth for the full as June is a bad time of year to be running a full marathon due to the heat.

Greenway... One of the changes to the full course over the years is that the full marathon is now mostly on the Greenway instead of going around the city.

The map above shows the route for 2024 and roughly 80% of the full marathon route is out and back on the Greenway.

Is this a good or bad thing? On one hand, it's flat, safe and free from traffic. From an organisers point of view, there are no problems with traffic and road junctions. On the other hand, some runners might find it quite boring to just run out a path, turn around a cone and back the same path again. 

2024 Marathon turning point

I think visitors to a city marathon might expect a route to go around the city rather than out and back on a Greenway. I recently had a look at the route for the Edinburgh marathon and it seemed to be much the same i.e. Start in the city centre and then get the runners onto an out and back section of Greenway. 

The reality is that the numbers at many city marathons don't justify all the road closures and as more Greenways are developed, I can see more marathon routes getting pushed onto them. Is it only a matter of time before the Cork or Dublin marathon is like this?

Half-Marathon... Back to the numbers. After the inaugural year, the half-marathon has proved to be the most popular event. The number of finishers for the half in 2024 just barely exceeded the number back in 2017.

As half-marathons in Ireland go, just over 1200 finishers in the half is pretty good.

Quarter-Marathon... The Quarter event was introduced in 2014 and the number of finishers has been roughly a few hundred below the numbers for the half over the years. In 2023 and 2024 however, the numbers for the Quarter have been getting close to the numbers for the half.

In 2024, there were a record 1134 finishers in the Quarter Marathon, a jump of 17% on the previous record set in 2017. Considering that more people can run a Quarter marathon than a Half marathon, it wouldn't be any great surprise if the Quarter eventually becomes the most popular race in the future.

In conclusion... The 2024 edition of the Waterford Viking Marathon seems to have gone off well as the finisher numbers suggest. I was around the start line on Parnell Street where runners were gathering on what is a nice wide road. The finishing line by contrast was on a narrow road as shown above closer to the Greenway.

It probably shows how a lot of other marathons and races are likely to go in the future i.e. start in the city centre early on a Sunday morning on a wide road when things are quiet and finish somewhere else in the city so it causes as least disruption as possible. 

Looking forward, I suspect that the numbers for the full marathon will struggle to grow beyond 400 but there seems to be plenty of growth potential for the Half and the Quarter. It seems likely that the Greenway will remain a feature of the courses for for good and it will then depend on individual runners if this type of course appeals to them or not.

2024 results... https://my.raceresult.com/294110/results

Results of the Dromcollogher 4-mile road race - Mon 24th June 2024

The annual Dromcollogher 4-mile road race in Co Limerick was held on Monday 24th June 2024 with 128 finishers.

All Ladies  
1 0:24:18 CAROL FINN,  Leevale A.C F 55 13
2 0:27:54 TANYA COX,  Dooneen A.C F 16 28
3 0:30:35 LORRAINE KIRBY,  West Limerick A. C. F 6 38
4 0:30:40 DELIA CUSACK,  West Limerick A. C. F O/55 65 39
5 0:30:58 VERA NAGLE,  Mallow A.C. F O/40 66 42
6 0:31:13 CHERYL CARMODY,  Gneeveguilla A.C F O/40 59 43

All Men  
1 0:21:08 AARON LYNCH,  West Limerick A. C. M 8 1
2 0:21:11 KARL LENIHAN,  West Limerick A. C. M 14 2
3 0:21:20 NIALL O CALLAGHAN,  West Limerick A. C. M 12 3
4 0:21:30 KILLIAN LYNCH,  West Limerick A. C. M 34 4
5 0:21:54 MORRIS FEEHAN,  Duhallow A.C. M 57 5
6 0:22:16 MARTIN DINEEN,  Riocht A.C M 44 6

Photos...

1) Dermot Hever has a gallery HERE

Full results below...

 Dromcolligher Co Limerick - 4 mile Monday 24 June 2024. 7:30 
Results for All Competitors in finish order.
1 0:21:08 AARON LYNCH, West Limerick A. C. M 8 1
2 0:21:11 KARL LENIHAN, West Limerick A. C. M 14 2
3 0:21:20 NIALL O CALLAGHAN, West Limerick A. C. M 12 3
4 0:21:30 KILLIAN LYNCH, West Limerick A. C. M 34 4
5 0:21:54 MORRIS FEEHAN, Duhallow A.C. M 57 5
6 0:22:16 MARTIN DINEEN, Riocht A.C M 44 6
7 0:22:27 TIM O CONNOR, Riocht A.C M O/45 22 7
8 0:22:42 NIALL O RIORDAN, An Bru A.C M O/45 45 8
9 0:23:02 MIKE O CONNOR, West Limerick A. C. M 51 9
10 0:23:55 DECLAN MULLANE, Limerick AC M 38 10

Training programme for the 2024 Dublin Marathon

The 2023 Dublin Marathon is coming up on Sunday the 27th of October 2024. If anyone would like to optimise their training then I will be starting individualised training programmes soon. 

The marathon programme is 18-weeks and it starts on the 24th of June. The cost is €135.

The length of programme really depends on where you are as a runner and what your initial endurance fitness is like.

After an initial consultation and we agree on what days you can train, a programme is sent out every week by email and weekly feedback is required. That will determine what the programme is like for the following week.

If interested, send an email to johndesmondrunning AT gmail DOT com

If you have another event in mind then send an e-mail to the above address.

Notice: Coillte 10k road race, Dundrum, Tipperary - Wed 3rd July 2024

This popular 10k race in coming up in the village of Dundrum, Co.Tipperary on Wednesday the 3rd of July 2024. In terms of fast 10k courses, this must surely be one of the fastest in Munster if not the country.

ENTRIES - You can enter online HERE

From Dundrum AC... "Our 38th Annual 10k Road Race returns on Wednesday, 3rd July at 8pm. Quality Embroidered Souvenir Hand Towel for all Online Entries. €20 online entry: https://eventmaster.ie/event/JlVmfpvHRk "

***

Dundrum is a small village just 9 miles / 15kms or so west of Cashel in the south of Tipperary...

Organised by Dundrum Athletic Club, this race is noted for being a flat fast course. As well of there being no hills, the course consists of multiple long straight sections rather than the more usual twists and turns. I've previewed many courses on this site but this one is really fast.

The map below shows where everything is. For spectators...note the points A, B and C. If you move between these points which are just over 100m apart you can see the athletes at approx. 0.25miles , 2.4miles, 3.2miles and again at 5.4miles.

Course Preview......The 10k course is essentially two laps of a 5k loop. A full preview of the course with maps, description, photos, etc can be seen HERE

Many races have different traditions. Some give out t-shirts, some mugs. In the case of the Coillte 10k, they give out a quality embroidered hand towel given to every finisher. and they have been doing this for over 20 years. Even on years where they had run out of towels on the night, they hand delivered them to these people in the following weeks.

The Tim Crowe Trophy is presented on the night to the first Tipperary Athlete in honour of his 24 national titles won in the early 1900s, who was from the village of Dundrum.

There is also a large spread of refreshments after race.

Useful links...
Updates on club Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/DundrumAthleticClub

and on the club Twitter page https://twitter.com/DundrumAC

Course Record Holders

Senior Men Daniel Gidumbanda Tanzania 1997 29:45

O/40 Men Michael Harty East Cork 2022  30:13

O/45 Men Kieran McKeown Watergrasshill 2021 33:39

O/50 Men Vivian Foley Eagle AC 2023 32:58

O/55 Men Michael Hassett St Catherines 2015 35:51

O/60 Men John Collins Leevale 2019 39:38

O/65 Men  Joe Gough West Waterford 2022 39:12

O/70 Men  Joe Gough West Waterford AC 2023 41:40

Wheelchair  Cillian Dunne Borrisokane 2019 28:20

Junior Men 5k Darren Dunne Nenagh Olympic 2016 15:12

Senior Women Lizzie Lee Leevale 2021 33:45

O/40 Women Lizzie Lee Leevale 2021 33:45 National R

O/45 Women Rosaleen Mackeown Leevale 2021 38:56

O/50 Women Angela McCann Clonmel 2021 37:21 National R

O/55 Women Dorothy Ryan Country Club 2016 45:01

O/60 Women Kathleen Cronin Mallow 2022 47:06

O/65 Women  Sally Jeyes Ivanhoe 2018 56:47

Junior Women 5k Niamh Cunneen Nenagh Olympic 2022 18:28

5 Fastest Times

Male

29:45 Daniel Gidumbanda  Tanzania 1997

30:13 Michael Harty East Cork AC 2022

30:19 Sergiu Ciobanu Clonliffe Harriers AC 2021

30:26 Evan Fitzgerald Clonmel AC 2022

30:33 Evan Fitzgerald Clonmel AC 2021

Female
33:45 Lizzie Lee Leevale AC 2021

33:47 Sinead O'Connor Leevale AC 2022

34:05 Mary Mulhare Portlaoise AC 2023

34:28 Rosemary Ryan Bilboa 2003
34:43 Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane 2010

List of Previous Winners
1986 John O'Halloran Tipp Town // Kathleen Maher Ballytrasna,
1987 John Fitzgerald Clonmel // Mary Lonergan Reenavana,
1988 Toddy Finn Raheny Shamrocks // Kay O'Sullivan Upperchurch,
1989 Bernard Feery Clonmel // Martina Dorney Thurles Crokes,
1990 Robert Costello Limerick // Kay O'Sullivan Upperchurch,
1991 Michael Hassett Thurles Crokes // Mary Sheehan East Cork,
1992 Robert Costello Limerick // Mary Sheehan East Cork,
1993 Michael Hassett St. Catherines // Mary Sheehan East Cork,
1994 Michael Hassett St. Catherines // Gaile Culleton Thurles Crokes,
1995 Michael Hassett St. Catherines // Marcella Moloney Tullamore Harriers,
1996 Michael Hassett St. Catherines // Siobhan McCormack Emerald A.C.,
1997 Daniel Gidumbanda Tanzania // Mary Sheehan Grange Fermoy,
1998 Michae1 Hassett St. Catherines // Mary Sheehan East Cork,
1999 Colm Burke St. Abbans // Mary Sheehan Grange Fermoy,
2000 William Harty K.C.K // Mary Sheehan Grange Fermoy,
2001 Robert Wade Waterford A.C // Mary Sheehan Grange Fermoy,
2002 Pat Byrne Tinryland // Mary Sheehan Grange Fermoy,
2003 Tom Carey Limerick A.C // Rosemary Ryan Bilboa,
2004 Mick Kelly Gowran A.C // Siobhan O'Doherty Borrisokane,
2005 Sandis Bralitis Ballynonty A.C // Siobhan O'Doherty Borrisokane,
2006 Tom Carey Limerick A.C // Rosemary Ryan Bilboa,
2007 Dermot Kearns West Limerick // Madeline Dorney Thurles Crokes,
2008 Jason Fahey Olympic Harriers // Rosemary Ryan Bilboa,
2009 Tommy Evans Gowran // Siobhan O'Doherty Borrisokane,
2010 Seamus Power Kilmurray Ibrickane // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane,
2011 Kenneth Rogers St John’s // Rosemary Ryan Bilboa,
2012 Michael Shannon Kilnaboy // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane,
2013 Chris Bracken Thurles Crokes // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane.
2014 Kevin Moore Dundrum // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane.
2015 Stephen Hunter St. Michaels // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane.
2016 Declan Moore Bilboa AC // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane.
2017 David Mansfield Clonliffe Harriers // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane.
2018 Freddy Keron Sittuk Kenya // Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane.

2019 David Mansfield Clonmel AC // Siobhan O'Doherty Borrisokane AC

2020 Kevin Moore Dundrum AC // Dymphna Ryan Dundrum AC (Virtual)

2021 Sergiu Ciobanu Clonliffe Harriers AC  // Lizzie Lee Leevale AC

2022 Michael Harty East Cork AC // Sinead O'Connor Leevale AC

2023 Kevin Moore Dundrum AC // Mary Mulhare Portlaoise AC

Notice: Dromcollogher Carnival 4 mile road race, Co.Limerick - Mon 24th June 2024

The annual Dromcollogher Carnival 4 mile road race is coming up on Monday evening, the 24th of June 2024 at 8pm...

You can pre-enter online HERE

You can also enter on the night (€10 for runners and €5 for walkers).

As a race, it may not be as high profile as say those located closer to say Limerick or Cork City but it is an event with a lot of character and a long history. The race was originally started back in the time of the original running boom in the late 70's and early 80's by Christy Brosnan and Joe Quaid of North Cork AC. The original idea was for it to be part of the Dromcollogher Carnival which has been going since the 1940's and for the race to take place on Monday evening, a tradition that survives to this day.

In it's heyday, the race used to attract some of the top runners from all over Munster even though the prizes were always modest in comparison to other races at the time. On one occasion, Liam O'Brien from Cork won the race the day after winning the National 3000m steeplechase title! The triangle shaped course started and finished in the main square of the town much to the delight of the crowds. This did however mean that the race was in fact 'slightly' longer than the advertised 4 miles ;o)

One of the other unusual features of the race at the time was that the winner received a small porcelain figurine. One of the biggest employers at that time in the town was Irish Dresden, a German company which made high quality collectable porcelain items in the town which employed over 60 people, a huge number in what was and still is a rural area.

West Limerick AC are helping out with the organisation of the race and they are putting up a cup in memory of Christy Brosnan who unfortunately has now passed away. This replaces the old cup which was named after Marky O'Shea who used to run in the local races of the late 70's and early 80's barefoot, a long time before minimalist running and Vibram Five Fingers became all the rage ;o)

Getting there.....Dromcollogher is located to the west of Charleville near the Limerick - Cork border. If you are coming from say Limerick city then the easiest way is probably to head south towards Cork and turn off at Charleville and follow the directions for Newtownshandrum, Milford and Dromcollogher. If you are travelling north from Cork then turn off at Buttevant and go via Liscarroll.

As you enter the town from the east then you should see that the road forks into two where the central square is. Take the right here, drive a few hundred metres on what is a very straight road and you will pass the start line just opposite a service station. The GAA hall where the entries will be taken is just beyond this on the left.

Course Preview.......A full preview of the course with maps, directions, photos, etc can be seen HERE

Notice: West Waterford AC Summer Series - May to July 2024

There are six races in this years West Waterford AC Summer Series with most of them in or to the west of Dungarvan. Each race costs just €10 to enter online or €15 on the night.

From West Waterford AC... "We are delighted to announce our Summer Schedule of races 2024.

1. 10-May Friday Ballinroad 5k

2. 24-May Friday Ardmore 5ml - WWAC race page - Entry link HERE

3. 07-Jun Friday Dromana 5ml - WWAC race page - 

4. 28-Jun Friday Ballymacarbry 5ml - WWAC race page - 

5. 05-Jul Friday Deise College Dungarvan 10k - WWAC race page - 

6. 19-Jul Friday Ballinameela 5k - WWAC race page - 

You can enter 5 of the races individually for 10 euro per race online. Individual race entries will open two weeks before each race. If you come along on the night of any race it will be 15 euro so get your online entry in is the answer here.

The Dromana 5 mile this year is celebrating its 30th edition, so thanks to our sponsors of 30 years Dungarvan Leader we will be distributing a very nice Nike yes Nike running Tee Shirt to all participant’s who complete the run on the night. The fee for this race will be covered if you have enter all the series for 60 euro and if not it will be 15 online entry and 20 euro on race night.

Eurofins Greenway Half Marathon will have a separate entry nearer the date.

Notice: IMRA Purple Mtn 13km trail race in Co Kerry - Sun 12th May 2024

Tomies / Purple Mountain Race is now open for entry until Saturday 11th of May at 6pm.

Entries & info... https://www.imra.ie/events/view/id/2432

Notice: Ballinroad 5k road race in Dungarvan - Fri 10th May 2024

From West Waterford AC... "Our first race in our summer road race programme for 2024 will get underway with the AHS Tuning Ireland sponsored Ballinroad 5k on Friday May 10th at 7.30 pm.  

Firstly our sincere thanks to John Coleman of AHS Tuning for his continued sponsorship of this race which he has sponsored for the past 9 years.

This year once again we are delighted to be able to help and support the local community in Ballinroad as the local soccer club Ballinroad A.F.C. will be benefactors of the race , with monies donated towards their Pitch fund. 

The race will incorporate a fun run/walk with proceeds from them going towards the clubs fund for this project.

 This is a very fast flat course and will start the summer of racing off with a bang!  Number collection will be at Ballinroad Hall (X35KT53) up until 7pm.

Please note: Each race of the Series can be entered online separately prior to the event for €10 but entry on the night to each race will be €15.  Entry to Dromana will be €15 online and €20 on the night as there will  be a dri fit tshirt for all runners."

ENTRY LINK HERE: https://eventmaster.ie/event/ZvYySMWcZY

Results of the BK5K in Dundrum, Tipperary - Wed 1st May 2024

The annual BK5K road race in Dundrum, Co Tipperary was held on Wed 1st May 2024 with 253 runners taking part, up 3% on last year.

Top 3 men & women...
1 Daniel Ryan Ellis Nenagh Olympic AC     15:28 MS 417
2 Emmet Mc Namara Fethard AC     15:34 MS 343
3 Kevin Finn Nenagh Olympic AC     15:45 MJ 279
12 Dymphna Ryan Dundrum AC     17:04 F40 382
36 Louise Fogarty Moyne AC     18:36 FS 283
43 Breda Gaffney Mallow AC     18:55 F50 284

Full results HERE

Photos...
1) John Kenrich has a gallery HERE
2) Niall Moran has a gallery HERE

Notice: BK5K road race in Dundrum, Tipperary - Wed 1st May 2024

Dundrum Athletic Club in Co Tipperary are holding their annual BK5K road race on Wednesday the 1st of May 2024 at 8pm.

This is one of the fastest 5k courses in Munster as it's pretty much dead flat with long straight sections.

The entry fee is €15. To register, click on this link: https://eventmaster.ie/event/MdBETbdiBz

The 5k race will be held in the small village of Dundrum which is located about 9 miles / 14kms to the NW of Cashel.

Course Preview.......You can find a full preview of the course with maps and photos HERE

Notice: Run Killarney Half-Marathon & 10k - Sat 8th June 2024

The annual Run Killarney Half-Marathon & 10k is coming up this year on Saturday the 8th of June 2024. This event is popular with a lot of runners as it's a scenic route and many use it as a weekend away in Killarney.

Entries and info on the event website... https://runkillarney.com/

UPDATE - 23rd April: The Half-Marathon has sold out. Fewer than 70 places left now for the 10k.

The Half-Marathon starts at 8am while the 10k starts at 9:30am.

Results & photos of the IMRA Torc Wood trail race - Sun 24th March 2024

First place finish for Carol Finn in Torc Woods trail race

The IMRA race last weekend was the 8k trail event in Torc Wood near Killarney last Sunday 24th March 2024. A total of 87 runners completed the course.

Top 3 men & women...
 1 Nick Hogan 838 M40 36:37 Cork
2 Conor McElroy 2077 M35 38:25 Killarney V... Kerry
3 Michael Furlong 2757 M 39:14 East Cork A... Cork
1 Carol Finn 899 F35 40:51 Cork
2 Michelle Kenny 742 F45 41:49 Leevale Cork
3 Faye O'Riordan 921 FJ 44:13 Carraig na ... Cork

Full results... https://imra.ie/events/results/id/2426/category/O/

Photos HERE

Notice: IMRA Torc Wood 8km trail race - Sun 24th March 2024

The IMRA Torc Woods 8km trail race in Co Kerry is coming up on Sunday 24th March 2024.

DESCRIPTION: Torc Wood
COUNTY: Kerry
DATE: Sunday 24th March, 2024
TIME: 11:00
CLIMB (M): 300
DISTANCE (KM): 8.00
RACE MARKING: Only major junctions marked - Only major junctions marked
GPS ALLOWED: No
LEAGUES: Coillte Winter/Spring Trail League, Munster 

MANDATORY KIT: Level A - Basic. Showerproof, windproof jacket. All runners must bring the above items to the race. The actual kit to be carried during the race will be finalised on the day, depending on conditions etc., and clearly advised at Registration. You should also have the means to carry all the kit in case required. Failure to have the required items may lead to you being denied entry to the race, or disqualification. Random checks may be carried out.

ENTRY CLOSES: Saturday 23rd March 2024, 18:00
ENTRY COST: €7 for seniors, €5 for over 65s and under 18s
ENTRY LIMIT: 130

Entries & info... https://www.imra.ie/events/view/id/2426

Results of the Croom 10k - Sun 17th Mar 2024

 Results HERE

Results & Photos of the IMRA Clonmel Trail Half-Marathon - Sat 24th Feb 2024

In contrast to Sunday 25th, Saturday the 24th of February 2024 was a lovely Spring day and ideal conditions for the IMRA Clonmel Trail Half-Marathon. The photo above captures it nicely... a runner is heading back to the town of Clonmel with Slievenamon in the background.

There were 125 finishers in this trail half-marathon and the top 3 men & women were...

1 Enda Cloake 231 M 1 1:40:24 Slaney Olympic AC Wexford
2 Barry Hartnett 580 M40 1 1:42:33 Tipperary
3 Henry Browne 616 M40 2 1:47:24 West Muskerry AC Cork
1 Kealey Tideswell 435 F40 1 1:49:19 Clonmel AC Tipperary
2 Carol Finn 899 F35 1 2:01:59 Cork
3 Sorcha Kearney 229 F45 1 2:03:18 St. Finbarr's AC Cork

Full results HERE

Photos...

1) IMRA have a large gallery of photos HERE

Results of the Nenagh Half-Marathon & 10k - Sun 25th Feb 2024

The results for this one are a bit of a mess as all of the half marathon and 10k runners are listed in one set of results and it's obvious from the times that some people are listed in the wrong event.

The results can be found HERE