Kerry...Preview of the Beaufort 10km Road Race - Thurs 1st Jan 2009 (2pm)

This 10 km road race take place in the small village of Beaufort which is just a few kms to the West of Killarney. The numbers are usually pretty small yet by all accounts, it is supposed to be a really nice race. The route is along nice quiet country roads with the mighty MacGillcuddys Reeks providing a backdrop to the south.

How to get there........if you are coming from the Cork direction, take the relief road around Killarney and take the N for Killorglin. After Fossa, pass the turn off left for Gap of Dunloe and take the next left.

See this link for a map.

A race flyer can be seen HERE.

Race results over Christmas in Munster...

The last few days have been very busy with no shortage of races in the province. There was something there for everyone...from fun runs in Waterford to a 10 mile road race in Limerick.

Results......

Fri 26th Dec 2008......

Cork....Belgooly AC held their annual 4 mile road and the numbers this year exceeded 600 entries. Race results are on the Running in Cork website as they become available.

Limerick.......Limerick AC had their annual 10 mile road race in Caherdavin and this year, they got 149 runners taking part. The full results are available at this LINK.

Tipperary.......Clonmel AC were holding the Tony O'Connell 4 mile road race. When the results become available, I'll put them here.

Tony O’Connell 4-Mile Road Race, Clonmel
Senior Men1 S Bralitis, West Waterford, 18.542,

S Ciobance, Clonliffe Harriers, 19.013,

B Maher, Kilkenny Ch, 19.364,

R Zakis, West Waterford, 19.575,

W Hughes, Thurles, 20.33

O40: M Traynor, Raheny, 20.12

O45: S Murphy, Kilkenny, 22,07

O50: P O Dwyer,St Senan’s, 23.41

O55: T Cahill, Clonmel, 24.28

O60: W O Gorman, St Catherine’s, 27.50

O65: M McHugh, Clonmel, 29.11

Junior: K Maher, Thurles, 21.06;

Senior Ladies1, S O Doherty, Borrisokane, 22.562,

A McCann, Clonmel 23.223,

D Behan,West Waterford, 24.254,

M Doolin, St Joseph’s, 26.135,

A Roche, Clonmel, 25.30

O35: M O Leary, Germany, 24.42

O40: M Moloney, Thurles, 26.11

Junior: E Neumerzhilskily, Clonmel, 31.06

Waterford.......There was a charity fun run in Dungarvan which raised almost €3000. Some details HERE.

Sun 28th Dec 2008.....

Cork....Bandon AC had their annual 5 mile road race. Full results HERE.

Road Races in Munster over Christmas...Thurs 25th to Sun 28th of December

In addition to the GOAL charity mile on Christmas Day, there are a number of other events on in Munster over the next few days.

Thurs 25th Dec....

Limerick.........As well as the GOAL mile at the University of Limerick campus, there is the Hunt Museum to Daughters of Charity (Lisnagry) 4 mile charity run. This event is starting at the Hunt Museum at approx 10.30am and going out to the Daughters of Charity in Lisnagry.

Fri 26th Dec...

Cork......There is the Belgooly 4 mile road race near Kinsale. This race starts at 12 noon and always attracts a big crowd. Details on the course HERE.

Limerick.......There is the Caherdavin 10 mile road race to the North-West of Limerick city. It is organised by Limerick AC and their description is as follows...."It starts from the community center in Caherdavin just down the road from the local Church. The route goes out from limerick along the Old Cratloe road and over the border into Clare and then it turns back towards Limerick at Setrights cross and onto the main N18 Limerick - Shannon dual carriageway. Start time is 11:30. The first 5 miles are on mainly country roads then there is about 4 miles on the dual carriageway, with the final mile coming into Limerick through the Coonagh roundabout and finishing just off the Ennis road close to Ivans shop. There are about 2 long slow climbs on the first 5 miles,.. nothing too bad. Tea and sandwiches and prizes at Caherdavin Community Centre after races ."

The course can be seen at this LINK.

Tipperary....The Tony O’Connell 4 Miler takes place on St Stephens Day in Clonmel at 12 noon.
Entries and changing facilities will be located in the Vocation School, The Mall, Clonmel.
Entry is €8, with lots of individual and team prizes on the day. Race flyer HERE.

Waterford....There is a charity run at Dungarvan GAA club. "A 2 mile or 5 mile fun run in aid of Chernobyl Ireland. No entry fee.
Donations towards Chernobyl Ireland welcome.Entries taken at the Dungarvan G.A.A.club house at Clougherane. Run begins at 11 a.m. Changing rooms and shower facilities available.
Refreshments afterwards at the club house. "

Sun 28th Dec.......

Cork....There is the annual Bandon 5 mile road race to the South-West of Cork City. Start time is 2pm. This will be previewed on the Running in Cork website on the 27th.

GOAL charity mile - Thurs 25th Dec 2008

The traditional GOAL mile takes place on Christmas Day, the 25th of December at various locations throughout the province. Most of them are during the morning time. You just turn up, make a donation to GOAL and run your mile.

Clare...
Ennis...Fairgreen (St Joseph's Hospital Side), Ennis 25 Dec - 11-12pm

Cork...
Ballydesmond...Meet in Church Grounds, 25 Dec - 11.30am
Bantry...The Square, 25 Dec - 1.45pm
Cork City...Cork IT, Bishopstown, 25 Dec - 10-12.30pm
Mallow...Doneraile Park, 25 Dec - 10-12pm
Ballynoe, Fermoy...Ballynoe, St Catherine's GAA, 25 Dec - 11-12.30pm
Youghal...Tower Park, 25 Dec - 11-12pm

Kerry...
Castleisland...Castleisland Athletic Club, 25 Dec - 10-12pm
Cahersiveen...South Kerry Sports Centre, 25th Dec 10-11am
Killarney...River Walk, Knockreer (Deeniagh Lodge), 25 Dec - 10:30-11.30am
Killorglin...The Dragon's Den, Intermediate School, 25 Dec - 11-12.30pm
Tralee...Town Park (Denny Street Entrance) , 25 Dec - 10-11am

Limerick...

Kilcornan...Curraghchase Forest Park, 26 Dec - 11-12.30pm
Limerick City...University of Limerick Athletics Track, 25 Dec - 11-1pm

Tipperary...
Carrick-on-Suir...Ormonde Castle , 25 Dec - 11am
Clonmel...Pat O'Callaghan Sports Ground, Cashel Road, 26 Dec - 12pm
Fethard...Town Hall, 25 Dec - 12pm
Thurles...Outside Sarsfield Sports Centre , 21 Dec - 11am

For other locations outside of Munster or to get more information, see the GOAL website.

Road Races in Munster this weekend...Sat 20th to Sun 21st Dec

This weekend, there is a choice of 3 road races in Munster.

Sat 20th...Cork...The Shanagarry Christmas 5k road race take place in East Cork at 2:30pm.

Sun 21st...Cork...The Newmarket to Kanturk 5 mile road race at 1:30pm in North West Cork.

More details on the Cork races in the Running in Cork blog.

Sun 21st...Limerick...This is a charity 7 km run here from the University of Limerick campus at 10:30am. Here is some additional info.....

Sunday December 21 - 7km(4.3 miles) This race uses the same route as the Limerick Leader Limerick Women’s Marathon around the University campus. Starting at 10.30am from the UL Arena. Sponsorship cards are available from the Limerick Leader Office. Spot prizes galore after the race. All funds raised go to the Daughters of Charity.

The route for the Limerick race can be seen on the MapMyRun website.

Waterford - Results of the 'Old Parish Turkey Trot' - Sun 14th Dec 2008

56 Hardy souls turned out for the first running of this race starting from the Marine Bar on the Youghal to Dungarvan road in West Waterford.

The full results can be found HERE.

Clare...Results of the 'Bernie Meaney' Memorial 5k Road Race - Sun 14th Dec 2008

This race in the South of County Clare attracted 132 entrants with some fine times been recorded. As we as attracting local runners, some came from as far as Cork, Kerry and Galway for this event. The full results are now available HERE.

Tipperary...Results of the Tipperary AAI Masters & U23 Cross Country Championships - Sun 14th Dec 2008

The results of the Tipperary AAI Cross Country Championships for Masters and Under 23's is now available at this website.

Races in Munster this weekend....Sat 13th-Sun14th Dec 08

There are no shortage of races this weekend in the Munster area.

Sat 13th.....Cork.......In the suburb of Mahon in the South East of Cork City, the Cork BHAA are holding their annual 'Cork Simon' 5km charity run. For this race, you have to estimate what your time will be and the person that is closest to their estimated time wins. More details on the Running in Cork Blog.

Sun 14th.....Cork......The Cork AAI are holding their Senior Cross Country Championshionships in Watergrasshill just to the North of Cork City. More details HERE.

Sun 14th.....Tipperary......The Tipperary AAI are holding their own Masters and Under 23 Cross Country championships in the East of the Country. Location HERE. Tipperary athletes should contact their club officials for details.

Sun 14th.....Clare.......In the South-West of the county near Kilrush, there is the annual Bernie Meaney memorial 5K road-race. This race is in Kilmurry McMahon which is about 15kms to the East of Kilrush. This race is not far from the Tarbert Car Ferry so it might of special interest to any runners from North of the Kingdom.
Start-time: 1:30pmEntry-Fee: €10 - payable on the dayPrizes:
First 6 men and ladies
First 3 masters men (V40/V45/V50/V60)
First 2 masters ladies (V35/V40/V45/V50)
First 3 junior men and ladies
First 4 mens teams (4 to score)
First 3 ladies teams (4 to score)
First 6 novices confined for the James Hanrahan Shield

Sun 14th.......Waterford.......West Waterford AC are holding their inaugaral Old Parish Turkey Trot over 5 miles. This charity run is starting at 11 AM. Regristration at The Marine Bar, Pulla. Entry Fee is 8 Euro.
All proceeeds donated to South east Cancer Foundation.

See the link above for the location. This race is within easy reach of Cork and Waterford cities.

So that's it. Overall, there is no shortage of races this weekend in Munster.

Kerry...Results of the 'Puck Warriors' 10k Fun Run - Sat 29th Nov 2008

It looks like a reasonable crowd turned out for this 10km Fun Run in the West of the Kingdom. As well as the results, there are 2 races reports with a gallery of photos as well.

1st Race Report by John Dunphy of Midleton AC...

"November 29th saw the first of the Jingle run's get under way with a 10k road race held in Kilorglin Co,Kerry. What a lovely setting for a road race with the Kerry mountains overlooking Kilorglin with plenty of white snow at the summit of these mountains. Ideal conditions for a road race with no rain and little wind but very cold for the athletes begining their warm ups. The race itself did not attract many of the familiar elite athletes that I have witnessed in other races held in the county all except one or two familiar face's. But it was billed as a 'fun run' and to be fair, it was. Donal o'Callaghan once again continued his good form by taking 1st place in just over 33 minutes and you could see from the start this was going to be his day as he pulled away early on from the rest of the field. After 2 kms, he was a fair distance ahead and running well and this continued for the rest of the race. For Donal, it was all about getting a good run under his belt for future races to come in the county and that he did, well done Donal. The course was very good, pretty flat in the majority of places but there was a killer climb around the 6km mark that lasted about 1 km. I have never run a hill like that in the Cork races....it was very tough going!! As for the race organisation.....first class, well organised with great facilities, plenty of stewards and a few water stations along the way as well. To finish it off, we had a nice hot cuppa afterwards with fruit and snack bars and some biscuit's....what more could we ask for! Well done to Aine and the team at A Fit Body gym........... take a bow, ye deserve it. ...............John DunphyMidleton AC".

Photos...........John Dunphy very kindly took a set of 42 photos. These can be seen HERE.

2nd Race Report by Irene Hartigan of UCC AC...

"It was a nice frosty morning for a run. There was a good turn out of 135 runners and a good contingent from Cork crossed the county bounds. The facilities at Laune Rangers GAA club were excellent, lots of toilets, showers, drinks etc. Plenty of Santa's about to help and Christmas music to get everyone in the festive spirit. The run was a challenge and every second kilometer was marked with markers hanging from the trees on the right hand side of the road. Once off the N70, the road surface on the country roads of Killorglin was excellent with some nice sea views. There were stewards at every road junction with red flags to direct runners and plenty of water stops along the way. The climb began just after the 5th kilometre.....a good climb of 220m to clear the lungs!! From 7 to 8k, it seemed as if the end was never going to be in sight. The descent on Sunhill was not fully appreciated as it was short and steep but it gave a great kick to the finish line. The crew at A Fit Body gym did a fantastic job with prizes, refreshments and dressing up!! ......Irene Hartigan, UCC AC"

Results........The results of the Fun Run are now available at this LINK. (....Thanks Irene for the link)

Results of the Munster Cross Country Championships - Sun 30th Nov 2008

The Munster Cross Country Championships took place near Killeagh in East Cork on what was a cold but sunny November afternoon. There were entrants from all over Munster taking place with several from Kerry and Clare making the long trip.

The full results of the Mens and Womens races are now up on the Cork AAI website.

A selection of 102 photos can be found HERE.

Kerry...Preview of the Puck Warriors 10k Fun Run, Killorglin - Sat 29th Nov

This 10km fun run takes place in the town of Killorglin in West Kerry. Originally, the organisers had the closing date for entries down as last weekend. Now there is no mention of a closing date? The start time is 11am. Registration starts at 9:30am.

Anyway, here is the link to the original entry form

.........and here is the link to the organisers website.

News of Cross Country events...

Just a reminder that the Munster Masters Cross Country race will take place in Killeagh in East Cork next Sunday, the 30th of November at 12 noon. It had been advertised as Carrignavar earlier. On the Cork AAI website, it is down as a 1:30pm start time.

Munster Intermediate Cross Country....9th of Nov 2008

By all accounts, this was a pretty mucky affair! There is an interesting piece written by Dave Muldowney of Eagle AC on this website.

Waterford...Results of the AAI Inter National Cross Country Championships

The Woodie’s DIY Inter County cross country championships took place yesterday, Sunday the 23rd of November 2008 at the Tramore racecourse in Waterford. A short race report with links to the various mens and womens races is available at this LINK.

A selection of 15 photos can be seen HERE.

Waterford...Press release for the Dungarvan 10 mile road race (Feb 09)

"Pictured at the launch at Dungarvan Sports Centre of the 18th Annual "Quantum Life" Dungarvan 10 mile road race hosted by West Waterford Athletic Club the race takes place on Sunday February 1st at 1 PM and entries are now open at www.westwaterfortdathletics.org

l-r Ann Dunford West Waterford Athletic Club,Tony Ryan West Waterford Athletic Club Chairman,Cllr Billy Kyne Dungarvan deputy mayor,Mel Shanley Quantum Life Ireland race sponsors,Gerry Cantwell West Waterford Athletic Club road racing coordinator.

Build-Up Begins For 18th Annual Quantum Life Dungarvan 10.
West Waterford Athletic Club is encouraging athletes fun runners alike to start their build up for the 18th Annual Quantum Life Dungarvan 10 mile road race. The Race, formerly known as Dunphy Vivas Health Dungarvan 10, has become an annual fixture in Ireland’s athletics calendar attracting elite and club competitors as well as local participants ranging from beginners to experienced runners.The Quantum Life Dungarvan 10 will take place on Sunday 1st February 2009, beginning at 1.00pm.The race headquarters has now moved from the traditional Dungarvan Crystal sports centre to the town’s community Sports Centre located at Quanns, which gives the race much need extra space as the numbers have increased significantly over recent years. The initial race had in the region of 70 athletes, last year’s race witnessed a record entry of over 700 and this year it is expected to exceed well beyond 1,000 runners.

The 2009 race was launched in the presence of Mr. Mel Shanley Quantum Life Ireland and Mr Billy Kyne, Dungarvan Deputy town mayor along with members of the race committee from the host club, West Waterford A.C.The key sponsors of the race are Quantum Life and for the first time this year, Dungarvan Town Council are welcome associate sponsors which the race committee and main sponsor are delighted with. Teas, sandwiches, showers and changing facilities plus the presentation of prizes will all take place at Dungarvan Sports Centre. Mr Mel Shanley of Quantum Life spoke at the launch saying that Quantum Life are delighted to be sponsoring the Dungarvan 10 where participants will have the opportunity to run in one of the best organised 10 mile road races in the country with all levels of runners catered for as is the West Waterford Athletic Club’s policy.

The 2008 event brought together the ideal race combination of fun runners, joggers, club athletes and top class internationals who competed over a fast flat 10 mile course around the historic town of Dungarvan. Mr Shanley who heads up Quantum Life in Ireland spoke of his companies business strategy which is based on the following philosophy: We believe in focusing on our core competence of using actuarial techniques to deliver innovative and customised life assurance products for selected distribution partners. We deliberately outsource everything else. Quantum Life only undertakes bespoke product assignments. We do not develop products for general distribution. We will only develop a product idea when we have a committed source of distribution. It is this approach that allows us to customise each product to the specific requirements of each target group of our distribution partner. Quantum Life has an enviable record for bringing innovative product ideas to the market. We believe that innovation is the lifeblood of our business.
The race on February 1st has a new starting line at the Youghal Road, the very flat and fast course remains relatively unchanged from previous years with just the start and finish in new locations. There will be a total prize fund of €3000. The first man and woman will receive €400 each with an additional €250 bonus for breaking the course record. Cash will be on offer to all category winners and everyone who takes part in the event receives a long sleeved running shirt and a substantial goodie bag as well as of course the personal satisfaction of completing the event.

Last year’s event attracted a top class field and was won by Sergiu Turea of Clonliffe Harriers who finished the race in 50.18. North Belfast harriers Mary Margaret Meade 58.59 was the first female finisher.

The entry fee to this prestigious race is €15. Entry forms can be obtained from the West Waterford club website by logging onto www.westwaterfordathletics.org or alternatively you can register online via the same website. While participants are encouraged if at all possible to enter early, entries will also be taken on the day at a charge of €20. The closing date for online and postal entries will be Friday January 23rd. All race numbers and race chip will be posted out. Entries on race day will close at 12.15 p.m. sharp.

With the recent surge of interest in running for health, fun and fitness in the county presently, a big turn-out on the day is guaranteed. With the success of West Waterford’s 'Fit4Life' running leagues and groups along with the country’s longest running winter league which aims to introduce newcomers to the sport and to the fun of running, the race organisers are particularly keen to see as many of these Fit4Life group members as possible take part in the race on Sunday February 1st.Along with all the above and the elite field expected, it should be a really great day for athletics in our town and there will definitely be a place in this race for everyone.We're really looking forward to seeing runners of all standards and our promise is that everyone will be made welcome. "See you Déise side on Feb 1st.”

Waterford...Results of the Brickey 3 & 5 Mile race - Sun 16th Nov 2008

A total of 153 runners turned out for these races near Dungarvan in West Waterford. 30 runners took part in the 3 mile race and 123 in the 5 mile race in what were ideal conditions.

A full race report is available on the West Waterford AC website.

Results...The results of the 3 mile race are HERE and the 5 mile race are HERE.

Tipperary...Results of the Novice B Cross Country - Sun 16th Nov 2008

The Tipperary County Novice B Cross Country race took place in Ballynonty on Sunday, the 16th of November. The mens race was over 5 kms and the ladies race was 3 kms.

The results are available HERE.

Waterford...Preview of the Brickey 3 and 5 Mile Road Race - Sun 16th Nov (11am)

Coming up next Sunday the 16th of November, there is a road race near Dungarvan in West Waterford at 11am. It's a little unusual in that you have a choice of two distances, 3 miles OR 5 miles. It's even more unusual in that they have prizes based on a persons weight!! All good fun ;o)

Directions.....The event centre for this race is at the Brickey GAA grounds which is just to the West of Dungarvan. Directions to the GAA Grounds (Bushy Park) are as follows:
1: On entering Dungarvan from the Cork Side, you proceed on the N25 through the first roundabout. At the second roundabout "Spring Roundabout" you should take the 2nd exit (Aglish Road)(Follow Blue line on Map below) Proceed on that road for approx 3 miles and Bushy Park is on your right.
2: On entering Dungarvan from the Waterford side, proceed to the sixth roundabout "Spring Roundabout" Take the 4th exit (Aglish Road)(Follow Blue line on Map below) Proceed on that road for approx 3 miles and Bushy Park is on your right.

Here is some additional information on the race kindly supplied by James Veale of West Waterford AC.........

15TH ANNUAL MC GRATHS NEWSAGENTS BRICKEY RUN IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE BRICKEY’S COMOGIE CLUB IS ON THIS SUNDAY.

All roads lead to Bushy Park Sunday next November 16th at 11am, where a big turn out is expected for the 15th Annual Brickey run. With the winter league now in full flow we urge as many participants of the league to come along Sunday and if the 5 mile seems a bit too far why not give the 3 mile a go, its all on a good flat course All proceeds from the race thanks to our kind sponsor will be presented to the local Brickey Comogie club on this occasion. There will be a 5-mile and 3 mile Run and entries will be taken at Bushy Park from 10am. By kind permission of Brickey GAA club. Entry fee is €7 Euro per person. The Martin Curran Perpetual Cup will be presented to the first man to finish the 5 miler, and over the same distance the Jim Lyons Memorial Shield will be presented to the first woman to finish. There will be individual and weight categories for men and Individual prizes for Women. There will also be prizes in the 3-mile event. The weight categories are as follows: Under 40kg, 50kg, 60kg, 70kg, 80kg, 90kg, and 100kg and over 100kg. Presentation of prizes will take place immediately after the race at the Brickey clubhouse. This years race is once again kindly sponsored By McGrath’s Newsagents Mitchell St, We thank Albert and Patricia for their kind sponsorship of this event once again this year.

Runing news from East Munster...

1) The evening race series has started in Dungarvan and already, they have around 340 runners registered after just 2 weeks. This surely must be one of the biggest if not the biggest evening race series in the country? For more news on how the West Waterford series is going, check out the West Waterford AC website.

2) A little further East in Waterford City, their own series has just started. Results of the 1st event can be seen on the Waterford AC website.

3) Staying in East Munster, the local paper, the Munster Express has a number of running news items this week....

a) The National Cross Country Championships will be held in Tramore on the 23rd of November.

b) A short report of how some of the Carrick-on-Suir runners did in the recent Marathons and a bit about the evening race series in Pilltown, near Carrick on Suir.

c) A short race report on that 10 mile 'Run for Life' charity fun run which took place back in October.

d) ...and finally, a piece about what is happening with St.Senans AC in South Kilkenny.

Winter Evening Leagues in Munster

There are now a number of Winter Evening races underway in Munster. These are mainly concentrated around East Cork, Waterford and South Tipperary. Most are over short distances and are ideal for beginners, especially during the long Winter months when the days are short and it may not always be that safe running on the roads at night.

One of the oldest Winter leagues in operation is the one in Dungarvan, West Waterford. It attracts a lot of runners and has even featured on the Nationwide programme on RTE television. Just to emphasise the value of these races, it is worth quoting the following from the West Waterford AC website......"At a recent survey of the club’s runners, it was noted that an overwhelming majority of our runners took up running after they started the winter league. Over 80% had no previous running experience before they started the league and now many of them are regulars at all our races and have even represented the club at provincial and national level. "

So, here are a selection of the evening races now underway in Munster. If you are a seasoned runner or just a beginner, why not try them and see why they are so popular. In most cases, you just need a reflective vest or bib to run.

Cork

Midleton in East Cork at 7:30pm. 3 km race. Every 3rd Tuesday. Started in Oct and runs until Feb 2009.

More details HERE.

Tipperary

Carrick on Suir in South Tipp. Races are in nearly Pilltown. Every Tuesday at 7pm. Selection of 2.5 km and 5 km races. Started in October and runs until December.

More details HERE.

Clonmel in South Tipp. Every Wednesday at 7pm. Selection of 2 km and 4 km races. Started in October and runs until the 26th of November.

More details HERE.

Waterford

Dungarvan in West Waterford. Every Wednesday at 7:20pm. Choice of 2.7 and 5.7 miles. Started in October and runs until the 17th of December.

More details HERE. Just scroll down that page a bit.

Waterford City. Choice of 2.4 miles and 5.2 miles. Every Thurday evening from the 6th of November to the 11th of December and from the 8th of January to the 12th of February. Starts at 7pm.

More details HERE.

Limerick...Results of the Limerick County Senior Cross Country Championships...Sun 2nd Nov, 2008

The Limerick Cross Country Championships took place in Newcastlewest in West Limerick on Sunday, the 2nd of November.

Race Report by Verena Tarpey...

The Demesne in Newcastlewest was the venue once more for the County Senior Cross Country Championships held yesterday, 2nd November 2008. It turned out to be a crisp, cool autumnal day for the event. West Limerick A.C. won both mens and ladies titles in a reversal of fortune this year.There was a big turnout of men and ladies for the event - this was despite a sizeable number of competitors having run Dublin City Marathon the Monday beforehand – Martin Doody, Seamus Cawley, Mick Carroll, Bernie Barron and Verena Tarpey to name but a few. There were also a number of walking wounded - Ger Guinea is still recovering from a bout of shingles, Pat McCartan is only coming back to fitness and Dan Collopy was looking fairly pale around the course having suffered from a severe stomach bug that day!!!. It was a testament to the participants that they chose to compete for their team despite suffering with various forms of fatigue and illness. It also demonstrates the importance of this event to all club runners.

The women’s event had one clear winner being Rosemary Ryan of Bilboa A.C. Our own Lisa Horgan was second and was followed home by Verena Tarpey in third spot. The men’s event was hotly contested and Tom Carey, despite losing his way and his left shoe took gold for Limerick A.C.. A fine display of running was shown by Martin Doody, also of Limerick A.C. – despite having completed the Dublin City Marathon 6 days earlier, he ran home in second place followed closely by our own West Limerick A.C.’s Pat McCartan. Despite the fine display of Tom and Martin, Limerick A.C. lacked strength in numbers in comparison to West Limerick A.C who fielded 15 runners or more.

West Limerick A.C came home to win the County Title this year, Limerick A.C were in second spot and West Limerick’s B team took bronze.

The teams were as follows........

Team Gold...........Patrick McCartan, Brian Jenkins, Aogan MacDomhnaill, Eamonn Horgan, Dermot Kearns, Gerard Guinea

Team Bronze.......Michael O'Brien, Joe Chawke, Niall Collins, Dan Collopy, Mike MacDomhnaill, Gary Madden
West Limerick Ladies Team......Lisa Horgan, Verena Tarpey, Juliette Frost, Carmel MacDomhaill, Bernie BarronAlison, Ledger

Once again, West Limerick A.C. have shown to be great hosts of the event with very welcome soup, sandwiches and teas provided downtown afterwards.........Verena Tarpey

.............................

The results for Limerick AC can be found HERE.

Clare...Results of the County Senior Cross Country Championships - Sun 2nd Nov 2008

The Clare Senior Cross Country Championships took place in Kilnaboy on Sunday, the 2nd of November 2008. The results of the Mens 10k and Ladies 5k can be found at the following LINK.

Tipperary...Results of the County Senior Cross Country Championships - Sun 2nd Nov 2008

The Tipperary Senior Cross Country Championships took place in Ballingarry on Sunday, the 2nd of November 2008. The results of the Mens 10k and Ladies 5k can be found at the following LINK.

Kerry...Results of the 'Kerry Autism Action' 4 Mile Road Race, Castleisland - Sun 2nd Nov 2008

A total of 123 runners and walkers took part in this 4 mile road race on Sunday, the 2nd of November in aid of Kerry Autism Action. The following race report, results and photos were submitted by John Dunphy of Midleton AC.

Race Report...

Donal o'Callaghan of An Riocht went one step further this year and took first spot in an impressive time of 20.58 for this four mile road race held in Castleisland Co,Kerry. After a steady start to this race, it was not long before the first six athlete's started to break away from the rest of the field with Tim o'Connor running well in second place followed by Arthur Fitzgerald not to far behind in third place. Coming to the last mile, it was clear that there was a good race on here with the first 6 runners not too far away from each other but Donal held on to win with 24 seconds to spare over the impressive Tim o'Connor in second place. It was a great occasion for all runners and walker's. The charity Kerry Autism Action should benefit from this event as last year, this race pulled in over 10,000 Euro. A big well done to all those who ran,walked and raised funds for this worthy cause and well done to all at An Riocht AC.....John Dunphy, Midleton AC.

Photos...

A set of 21 photos can be seen at this LINK.

Race Results...
An Ríocht Road Race Results
Pos...Name....Club....Category....Time
1) Donal O'Callaghan...An Ríocht...Senior Men...20.57
2) Tim O'Connor...An Ríocht...Senior Men...21.21
3) Arthur Fitzgerald...Farranfore Maine Valley...Senior Men...21.32
4) Owen Mc Kenna...An Ríocht...Senior Men...22.13
5) Billy O'Brien...An Ríocht...Senior Men...22.44
6) Patrick O'Shea...Iveragh...Over 50...22.53
7) John Barrett...Gneevguilla...Over 40...23.12
8) Willie Reidy...An Ríocht...Senior Men...23.24
9) Ronan O'Callaghan...An Riocht...Senior Men...23.39
10) Humphery Murphy...An Ríocht...Over 40...23.42
11) Cian Hogan...Tralee...Senior Men...24.15
12) Tomas Bradley...An Riocht...Junior Men...24.36
13) Jim Breen...Ardfert...Senior Men...24.42
14) John Dunphy...Midleton...Senior Men...24.58
15) Maureen Harrington...An Ríocht...Senior Women...25.16
16) Mansur Fouad...Tralee...Senior Men...25.19
17) Ann Marie Costello...Gneevguilla...Senior Women...25.42
18) Pat Murphy...Castleisland...Fun Runner...25.47
19) David McBride...Castleisland...Senior Men...26.08
20) Laura Crowe...An Ríocht...Senior Women...26.22
21) Brendan Joy...Killarney...Junior Men...26.36
22) PJ Fitzgerald...An Ríocht...Over 40...26.43
23) Paul Tanna...Kenmare...Fun Runner...27.12
24) Mary O'Connor...An Ríocht...Over 35...27.25
25) Mattie Angland...Gneevguilla...Over 50...27.37
26) Pat Cuffe...Gneevguilla...Over 40...27.40
27) Lisa Horgan...An Ríocht...Senior Women...27.45
28) Robert White...Kenmare...Fun Runner...27.51
29) Sean Curtin...Gneevguilla...Junior Men...28.04
30) Thomas Foley...Kenmare...Fun Runner...28.12
31) Breda Barrett...Gneeveguilla...Over 35...28.42
32) Ann Mangan...Star of the Laune...Over 45...28.55
33) Mary O'Connell...Gneevguilla...Senior Women...29.17
34) Liam Lynch...New market...Fun Runner...29.49
35) Michael Dineen...Gneevguilla...Over 40...30.10
36) Jim Langan...Tullamore Harriers...Over 60...30.24
37) Pius Fleming...An Riocht...Over 40...30.28
38) Deirdre Halloran...Tralee...Senior Women...30.46
39) David Haslip...Tralee...Fun Runner...30.46
40) Margaret O'Leary...Gneevguilla...Over 35...31.05
41) Suzanne O'Sullivan...An Ríocht...Over 35...31.09
42) Noleen O'Conner...Killarney...Fun Runner...31.33
43) Aodhan Byrne...Spa Muckross...Junior...31.40
44) Jane Halloran...Tralee...Fun Runner...31.46
45) Marie Walsh...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...32.18
46) Gerry Sullivan...Tralee Harriers...Over 60...32.50
47) Emer Tangney...Spa/Muckross...Junior Women...32.54
48) Niamh Joy...Gneevguilla...Junior Women...33.06
49) Aisling O'Sullivan...An Ríocht...Junior Women...33.22
50) Olivia Fitzgerald...Beaufort...Fun Runner...33.22
51) Emer Foley...Gneevguilla...Fun Runner...33.23
52) Nora Flynn...Gneevguilla...Over 35...33.26
53) Grainne Dineen...Gneevguilla...Junior Women...33.50
54) Mike Lynch...Fahaduff...Fun Runner...34.39
55) Laura Keane...An Riocht...Over 35...34.57
56) Eileen Cullinane...An Ríocht...Over 45...35.04
57) Emer Nelligan...An Ríocht...Senior Women...35.11
58) Jessica Breen...Ardfert...Junior...37.03
59) Tina Brennan...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...37.35
60) Tara Walmsley...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...37.44
61) Joan Browne...Scart...Fun Runner...37.45
62) Niamh O'Sullivan...An Ríocht...Junior Women...39.12
63) Margaret Walsh...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...39.17
64) Sile Kerely...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...39.18
65) Ross Gallagher...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...39.57
66) Eoin McSweeney...An Riocht...Over 40...40.28
67) Nora Buckley...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...40.28
68) Liz Reidy...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...41.18
69) David Enright...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...41.18
70) John Kerely...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...48.18
71) Sabrena Yearzle...Annascaul...Fun Runner...48.18
72) Gary Kavanagh...Curaheen...Fun Runner...48.48
73) Annette O'Connor...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...49.09
74) Joseph Walsh...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...49.10
75) Deirdre Walsh...Castleisland...Fun Runner...49.11
76) Susan Harman...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...49.12
77) Bernard Harman...An Ríocht...Fun Runner...49.12
78) Joe Browne...Scart...Fun Runner...49.50
79) Catriona Murphy...Ballydesmond...Fun Runner
80) Alice Dillane...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
81) JP Barrett...Fun Runner..
82) Anne Boyle...Scartaglen...Fun Runner
83) Josh Martin...?...Fun Runner
84) Rita Mc Carthy...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
85) Bridget Mannix...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
86) Rachel 'O Connor...Castleisland...Fun Runner
87) Jean Mc Carty...Cordal...Fun Runner
88) Joan Keane...Currow...Fun Runner
89) Catherine O'Brien...Castleisland...Fun Runner
90) Nonie...Tralee...Fun Runner
91) Noreen Daly...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
92) Sarah Fahy...Lyre...Junior Women
93) Anna Fahy...Lyre...Junior Women
94) Amanda Fahy...Lyre...Fun Runner
95) Lesley Clarke...Cordal...Over 60
96) Clodagh McHugh...ffmv...Fun Runner
97) Nicola McHugh...ffmv...Fun Runner
98) Ted Mayhem...St Brendans...Fun Runner
99) Mairead Mahoney...Knocknagoshel...Fun Runner
100) Ger Mahoney...Knocknagoshel...Fun Runner
101) Paddy Mahoney...Knocknagoshel...Fun Runner
102) Gerard Mahoney...Knocknagoshel...Fun Runner
103) Alison Mc Galey...Castleisland...Fun Runner
104) Ciaran Mc Galey...Castleisland...Fun Runner
105) John Fitzgerald...Castleisland...Fun Runner
106) Marie Fitzgerald...Castleisland...Fun Runner
107) Jack Allen...Fun Runner
108) Tomas Molyneyux...Fun Runner
109) Shane Crean...Fun Runner
110) Catriona O'Connor...Castleisland...Fun Runner
111) Patricaia Falvey...Abbeydorney...Fun Runner
112) Aidan Falvey...Abbeydorney...Fun Runner
113) Aine Falvey...Abbeydorney...Fun Runner
114) M Falvey...Abbeydorney...Fun Runner
115) Patricia Crowe...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
116) Breda Joy...Gneevguilla...Fun Runner
117) Katheleen Reidy...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
118) Ellen Cronin...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
119) Tim Mc Carthy...An Ríocht...Fun Runner
120) Maura Kerins...Cordal...Fun Runner
121) Humphery Kerins...Cordal...Fun Runner
122) Colin Kerins...Cordal...Fun Runner
123) Aoife Kerins...Cordal...Fun Runner

Kerry...'Kerry Autism Action' 4 Mile Road Race - Sun 2nd Nov (1pm)

The 'Kerry Autism Action' 4 mile road race in conuction with Kerry Autism Action. The race will take place on Sunday the 2nd November in Castleisland, Co.Kerry. All are welcome to enter and participants can walk, run or jog the course. A very attractive prize fund,fancy dress, novelty prizes and souvenir for all finishers, entry fee is €10 for adults and €5 for juniors. All proceeds go to Kerry Autism Action. For more details contact Mike Crean 087-2390200 (Kerry Autism Action) or Denny McSweeney (An Riocht A.C) 087-7995647. Sponsorship cards available form An Riocht Clubhouse 066-7142199 or members of Kerry Autism Action.

Race starts at 1pm.

Results of the Munster Novice & U23 Cross Country - Sun 19th Oct 2008

Munster Novice/U23 Cross Country Cross Country...Turnpike, Two Mile Borris....Sunday 19th October 2008. The results of these races are now available at http://www.tipperaryathletics.com/results/2008/munster_novice_u23_cc_2008.htm

Tipperary...Intermediate Cross Country - Sun 12th Oct 2008

Tipperary Intermediate Cross Country race...Turnpike, Two Mile Borris
Sunday 12th October 2008. The results of this race are now available at http://www.tipperaryathletics.com/results/2008/intermediate_cross_country_2008.htm

Tipperary...Nenagh 4 Mile Fun Run - Sun 26th Oct 2008

This 4 mile fun run attracted a very small field of 31 runners. No doubt, holding it on the day before the biggest Marathon in the country probably didn't help. By all accounts, it was a fast flat course with prizes for the first 2 men and lady runners. Hopefully, they will pick a different date next year and the numbers will increase. New races like this are always welcome as they help to increase participation in the sport in that part of the country.

Tipperary...Clonmel 4k Fun Run Series - Wed 22nd Oct (7pm)

Clonmel Athletic Club are holding a series of 4km and 2km fun runs at night in Clonmel. This 4k Fun Run Series started back on Wednesday 8th of October and it is on every Wednesday evening. The 3rd event is on Wednesday, the 22nd of October in Clonmel with the following events coming up on October 29th and on November 5th, 12th, 19th and 26th. The cost is 4 Euros per night. There will be an organised “Warm Up” session starting at 6.45pm each night. All participants must wear a reflective Bib. The route is – St Patrick’s Road onto the Bypass – down to Moangarriff Roundabout – up along the Waterford and back onto SilverSprings and back to St Patrick’s road. The race will consist of 1 lap (2K) and 2 laps (4K).

Tipperary/Kilkenny...Carrick-on-Suir AC Winter League begins Tuesday 21st October.

Carrick-on-Suir AC have announced the start of their third Super-Valu Winter League. The club has decided to stick with a similar formula as the past two years but there will be one or two changes to the format. As with last year there will be 2 distances choose from-the 2.5k and the 5k however only the 5k will count for the league. The 2.5k will be a Fit 4 Life style training run and will really act as stepping stone for those who wish to compete over the 5k distance.
The league will now take place over 12 weeks as opposed to 14. Once again the winners will be those who show the greatest improvement over the course of the league, not necessarily the fastest.

The registration night for this year’s Winter League took place at the Kildalton Agricultural College in Pilltown on Tuesday last, however runners can come along and register at any stage throughout the series. Entry fee is €3 for Athletics Ireland members and €5 for non Athletics Ireland members. This is another change from last year and it is hoped it will encourage runners to join the club and make a saving in the process. There is also a €5 number deposit which can be paid on each runner’s first night.
The league proper will start next Tuesday 21st October with registration from 6:30-6:50 p.m. and all runners off at 7 p.m. sharp.

As with last year the number one rule is ‘no bib-no run’ so please wear your reflective vest while running as it will be dark and the road is not closed.

Kerry...Results of the 'Lapping of the Lakes' 10k race, Killarney - Sat 18th Oct 2008

It looks like they got a nice turnout for this race in the Killarney National Park with around 150 runners taking part. What a stunning location for a race. On a sunny clear, it must be one of the most scenic courses anywhere in the country. Anyway, on to the category results...

Senior Men
1 Raivis Zakis, West Waterford 31:57
2 Cian Murphy, Iveragh 32:00
3 Michael Herlihy, North Cork 32:15
4 Donal O'Callaghan, Riocht 33:06
5 Donal Coffey,Millstreet 34:53
6 George Murray, East Cork 35:39

Senior Women
1 Jessica Hoskey, North Cork 38:10
2 Karin Teehan, Gneeveguilla 39:40
3 Ann Marie Costello, Gneeveguilla 40:38
4 Maureen Harrington, Riocht 42:56
5 Angie O'Sullivan, Riocht 43:17
6 Ellen Vitting, Kenmare 43:22

Junior Men - Kieran Mosi, Tralee Harriers
O/40 Men - John Barrett, Gneeveguilla
0/45 Men - Mike O'Shea, Iveragh
0/50 Men - Tim Horgan, Killarney
0/55 Men - Patrick O'Shea, Iveragh

Junior Lady - Simone McCarthy, Killarney
0/35 Women - Mary O'Connor, Riocht
0/40 Women - Caroline Murphy, Gneeveguilla

Race Report......

Irene Hartigan of UCC AC has very kindly submitted a race report on this event. Thanks Irene!!

A race in the Kingdom of Kerry

It all began on Saturday with registration in the old monastery building. Serious decisions had to made at registration as to whether you categorized yourself as a competitive runner, non-competetive runner or student. There were 50 runners in the competitive category in a 150 strong field. When crossing the county bounds to the Kingdom, the heavens opened but thankfully by the time the starting whistle was blown, the sun was shining leaving perfect running conditions.

From the start, the race was well organized with water provided at the start, 6k mark and at the finish. There were kilometer markers along the way and volunteers at every junction steering the competitors in the right direction. Slight confusion at one point was sorted when a fellow competitor roared from behind, 'tis straight on! It was a relatively flat and fast course, run mainly in the Killarney National Park taking in great scenery of the mountains, lakes and Ross Castle with an onshore breeze at the 4k mark. Runners were met with a long hill around the 8k mark. The race was pretty spread out by this stage with these gaps further widened by this long climb. The race finished back on the main road with a long straight finish with spectators encouraging runners to the line.

No traffic disruptions were caused except for a few of the pedigree herd of Kerry cows here and there on the course in the park! Although Kerry may have lost the All-Ireland final, the Kerry Stars certainly won today in organising a race enjoyed by one and all. There was a strong male contingent present from Cork however it was a West Wateford man who took the victory. Cork regained face in the ladies event with the winner coming from North Cork albeit, via Australia! Since the infancy of this 10k race there has been a shield for the male winner and this year for the first time, the female winner equally took home a shield! Overall, this was a good run so if ever in Killarney make sure to step it out in the National Park.........Irene Hartigan, UCC AC.

Comments...

"Very good race and very good course - well done lads!!!......Anonymous"

"Really enjoyed the race. It was very well organised and the great route on largly traffic free roads provides some fantastic views of the lakes and mountains. I could not recommend this race highly enough. Absolutely brilliant......Don"

Amsterdam - Results of the Marathon and Half Marathon

It seems like that a large contingent of runners from Munster made the trip to Amsterdam to do the Half Marathon and Full Marathon on Sunday, the 19th of October.

Full Marathon Results...

Bib....Name.......Town........Distance.........Chip Time........Clock Time

7053, Laurance Kennedy, Waterford, Marathon, 2:53:19, 2:53:33
2044, Trevor Mason, Waterford, Marathon, 2:58:58, 2:59:14

274, Jonathan Leniston, Killarney Kerry, Marathon, 3:00:27, 3:00:43

5538, Brett Lynam, County Waterford, Marathon, 3:03:09, 3:03:34

272, Brian Byrne, Waterford, Marathon, 3:08:13, 3:08:39
334, Garret Byrne, Dungarvan, Waterford, Marathon, 3:08:57, 3:09:22
7054, Gerard Cantwell, Waterford, Marathon, 3:14:08, 3:14:35,
16400, Angela Mc Evoy, Co Cork, Marathon, 3:21:08, 3:21:19
278, Simon Mangan, Killarney Kerry,Marathon, 3:22:25, 3:22:41

2321, Patrick Walsh, Cork, Marathon, 3:23:22, 3:25:15

16090, Ann Dunford, Waterford, Marathon, 3:25:45, 3:26:11
3903, Pat Dunford, Waterford, Marathon, 3:25:46, 3:26:11

4056, Fintan O Connell, Killarney Kerry, Marathon, 3:36:40, 3:37:34
5612, Robert Tate, Kerry, Marathon, 3:36:42, 3:37:34

4000, Grellan McGrath, Ballincollig Cork, Marathon, 3:45:10, 3:46:44
386, Barry Gannon, Cork, Marathon, 3:47:16, 3:49:20

751, Dave Hayes, Cork, Marathon, 3:54:40, 3:58:49

693, Charlie Gannon, Cork, Marathon, 4:00:33, 4:02:36

2341, Nicky Power, Waterford, Marathon, 4:14:34, 4:19:30

706, Adrian Duggan, Ballincollig Cork, Marathon, 4:29:39, 4:33:25

16464, Mary Murphy, Cork, Marathon, 4:39:40, 4:47:21

15284, Niamh Callanan, Cork, Marathon, 4:56:05, 5:03:29
15287, Noirin McCarthy, Cork, Marathon, 4:56:16, 5:03:40
15288, Ciara Lee, Cork, Marathon, 4:56:17, 5:03:40

Half Marathon Results....

20150, Austin Browne, Cork, Halve marathon, 1:20:44, 1:21:13

20166, Michael Dwyer, Waterford, Halve marathon, 1:23:04, 1:23:23
20164, Rhona Lynch, Cork, Halve marathon, 1:25:33, 1:26:01
20196, Nollaigh Hunter, Co Cork, Halve marathon, 1:27:53, 1:28:01
20231, Kenneth O'Donnell, Waterford, Halve marathon, 1:32:33, 1:33:56
20291, Tadhg Og Lynch, Cork, Halve marathon, 1:33:00, 1:33:29

20405, Anthony Dwyer, Dungarvan, Waterford, Halve marathon, 1:40:08, 1:41:31

22711, Albert Diggin, Co Cork, Halve marathon, 1:43:42, 1:45:57
22519, Marie Dwyer, Waterford, Halve marathon, 1:44:18, 1:45:40

20267, Siobhan Murphy, Cork, Halve marathon, 1:47:12, 1:48:09

27647, Patrick Browne, Waterford, Halve marathon, 1:48:42, 1:56:00

22756, Stephen Twomey, Cork, Halve marathon, 1:51:43, 1:56:05

22725, Niall Bradley, Cork, Halve marathon, 1:57:30, 1:59:44

22127, Ann Hanily, Limerick, Halve marathon, 2:13:34, 2:26:26

For anyone interested, you can do a full search of the results at THIS LINK and they give a very good breakdown of each 5 kms with a graph if you click on the persons name.

Kerry...'Lapping of the Lakes' 10k race - Killarney (2pm)

This charity event takes place next Saturday, the 18th of October at 2pm in Killarney. If the weather co-operates, this should be a stunning location for a race as it goes through the National Park with the mountains of Kerry as a backdrop.

Note that the registration and the race is on the Western side of the town of Killarney. If you are coming from Cork, the quickest route is probably to take the Northern bypass as if you were heading for Killorglin but turn in towards the town at the last roundabout. Look for the church spire and you can't go wrong.

(Old Monastry)

Details..........Saturday 18th of October - 10k 'Lapping of the Lakes' - through the National Park - race/walk on in Killarney in aid of the Kerry Stars Special Olympic club. Registration starts at 12 o'clock at the Old Monastery School, Port Road, Killarney. Entry fee is €10.00 and sponsorship cards are also available. 1st male/female home get a training grant of €400, 2nd €250, 3rd €150. Grants also awarded in the vetern categories as well. (o/35 women, o/40 men/women and so on). Further details can be got from Tom Tobin at 0872338575.

Waterford...'WLRFM Run for Life' 10 Mile Road Race - Sun 19th Oct (12 noon)

From what I understand, this is more of a fun run & charity fund raising event rather than the usual type of road race. The run is in aid of a new cancer support centre for Waterford and the South East. The main sponsor is WLRFM, the local radio station. You have the option of running the full 10 miles or you can enter as a relay team and run 5 miles each.

Entries.......They have a sponsorship form up which contains some details. You have until next Saturday, the 18th of Oct to register. Click HERE for more info.

Race Route.......They have a rough map of the route up HERE.

You can find some additional info on the WLRFM website.

Munster Novice Cross Country, Thurles, Tipperary - Sun 19th Oct

The Munster Novice Cross Country race takes place next Sunday, the 19th of October. The venue is near Two Mile Borris which is just off the N8 Cork Dublin road and to the East of Thurles. If you are interested in doing this race, you should contact the relevant official in your club asap.

The race location can be seen HERE.

Elsewhere, there 2 other road races coming up next weekend, one in Waterford and one in Kerry. More details tomorrow.