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

Results of the Adare 10k - Sun 25th Feb 2024

On a pretty wet day, a total of 799 runners took part in this years Adare 10k road race in Co Limerick.

Top 3 men & women...

 1 Niall SHANAHAN 31:34 5 M M40
2 Declan MOORE 31:42 1019 M MS

3 Karl FITZMAURICE 31:54 3 M MS
1 Carolyn HAYES 39:28 2 F FS
2 Pamela KIRBY 40:26 256 F F40
3 Clare COLEMAN 40:30 79 F FS

Full results HERE 

Notice: IMRA Clonmel Trail Half-Marathon - Sat 24th Feb 2024

IMRA are holding a trail half-marathon on the hills to the south of Clonmel on Saturday 24th Feb 2024. Note that this one has a total ascent of 826m and would be suitable for someone who is comfortable doing 15-20 mile (25-32km) runs on the road.

Entry link... https://imra.ie/events/view/id/2422

DESCRIPTION: Clonmel Trail HM
COUNTY: Tipperary
DATE: Saturday 24th February, 2024
TIME:11:00
CLIMB (M):826
DISTANCE (KM):21.10
RACE MARKING: Only major junctions marked - Only major junctions marked
GPS ALLOWED: No
LEAGUES: Munster Half-Marathon League 
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. 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 17th February 2024, 23:59
ENTRY COST:€25
ENTRY LIMIT:200

Results of the IMRA Bansha Woods 8.5km trail race - Sun 4th Feb 2024

Carol Finn in second place

While the main focus on Sunday was on the Dungarvan 10-mile in Waterford, IMRA were holding an 8.5km trail race in Bansha Woods near Tipperary Town.

First 3 men & women...

1 Barry Twohig 893 M45 1 30:55 St. Finbar's AC Cork
2 Barry Hartnett 580 M40 1 32:47 Tipperary
3 Seán Quirke 968 M45 2 33:45 Bilboa AC Limerick
1 Kealey Tideswell 435 F40 1 35:46 Clonmel AC Tipperary
2 Carol Finn 899 F35 1 36:09 Cork
3 Catherine Fogarty 1825 F45 1 40:12 Tipperary

Full results HERE

Notice: IMRA Bansha Woods 8.5km Trail Race - Sun 4th Feb 2024

This IMRA trail race in Bansha Woods is a few kms to the south-east of Tipperary Town and is coming up on Sunday 4th February 2024. As with all IMRA events, annual membership of IMRA costing €10 is required for insurance reasons.

This one is 8kms long with 260m of ascent and would suit someone who can comfortable run 16k/10m on the roads.

DESCRIPTION: Bansha Woods
COUNTY: Tipperary
DATE: Sunday 4th February, 2024
TIME: 11:00
CLIMB (M): 260
DISTANCE (KM): 8.50
RACE MARKING: Route fully marked - Route fully marked
GPS ALLOWED: Yes
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 3rd February 2024, 18:00
ENTRY COST: €7 for seniors, €5 for over 65s and under 18s

Entries... https://www.imra.ie/events/view/id/2421

Munster Results Roundup - Jan 2024

  Kerry ... Mon 1st Jan 2024 (12noon)... Charles O'Shea Memorial Cup 5k & 10k ...https://www.myrunresults.com/events/beaufort_10k_road_race_2024/5024/results

 Kerry ... Sun 14th Jan 2024 (9:30am)... Tom Kelly 8k... €20... 148 finishers... https://stbrendansac.blogspot.com/2024/01/tom-kelly-8k-2024-results.html

 Waterford ... Sun 14th Jan 2024.. (12noon)... Kiely Monumental / WWAC Colligan Cup 5-mile... 96 finishers... https://www.westwaterfordathletics.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/ColliganCup_2024_Results.pdf

 Clare ... Sat 27th Jan 2024 (11am)... Spanish Point 5k ... €?... Race 1 of 4 in the Run Clare Series... 442 finishers... https://results.sporthive.com/events/7156990445285818368/races/488309

 Kerry ... Sun 28th Jan 2024 (11am)...  Kerins O'Rahillys GAA 5k & 10k ...260 finishers... https://www.myrunresults.com/events/kerins_o_rahillys_gaa_club_annual_10km__5km/5020/results

 Carlow ...Sun 28th Jan 2024 (11am)... Charlie Curran Memorial Run 5-mile... 509 finishers... https://www.popupraces.ie/race/charlie-curran-memorial-run-2024/

 Tipperary ... Sun 28th Jan 2024 (12noon)... Newcastle 5k... 177 finishers... https://www.premiertimingsystems.ie/2024-results/Newcastle-School-5K-Results

Results & Photos of the IMRA Glengarra Woods 7.3km trail race - Sun 21st Jan 2024

The big trail race last weekend in Munster was the IMRA 7.3km event in Glengarra Woods in Co Tipperary with a total of 84 runners taking part. 

Top 3 men & women...
1 Marcus Bishop 1630 M 28:32 Kildare
2 Nick Hogan 838 M40 28:38 Cork
3 Barry Quinn 1124 M35 31:43 Tipperary
1 Faye O'Riordan 921 FJ 34:33 Carraig na bhFear AC Cork
2 Barbara Gill 1443 F40 37:37 Clare
3 Helen O'Callaghan 350 F50 38:47 Cork

Full results HERE

Photos HERE

Notice: IMRA Glengarra Woods 8km trail race - Sun 21st Jan 2024

IMRA are holding an 8km trail race in Glengarra Woods in Co Tipperary on Sunday 21st January 2024 at 11am.

Glengarra Woods is on the southern slopes of the Galtee Mountains and is just off the old Mitchelstown to Cahir road. This is one of the easier IMRA events and would be suitable for anyone used to running 10k on a result basis.

Annual membership of IMRA costing €10 is required for insurance purposes. 

Info & entries... https://www.imra.ie/events/view/id/2418

DESCRIPTION: Glengarra Woods
COUNTY: Tipperary 
DATE: Sunday 21st January, 2024
TIME: 11:00CLIMB (M):187
DISTANCE (KM): 8.00
RACE MARKING: Only major junctions marked - Only major junctions marked
GPS ALLOWED: Yes
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 20th January 2024, 18:00
ENTRY COST: €7 for seniors, €5 for over 65s and under 18s
ROUTE DESCRIPTION: Forest trail and fire road.

Notice: Colligan Woods 5-mile nr Dungarvan - Sun 14th Jan 2024

West Waterford AC are organising a 5-mile race in Colligan Woods to the NW of Dungarvan on Sunday 14th January 2023 starting at 12 noon.

Enter HERE

https://eventmaster.ie/event/e05yUrKF8x

From West Waterford AC... ALL ROADS THIS SUNDAY LEAD TO COLLIGAN WOOD FOR THE 35th ANNUAL KIELY MONUMENTAL COLLIGAN CUP.

This coming Sunday the 14th January 2024, we will host the 35th Annual Kiely Monumental Colligan Cup. The Juvenile race starts at 11 am. The senior race has a 12 noon start and is over the usual 5 miles Colligan wood circuit and Juveniles will have a single 1-mile circuit to run. 

The Colligan cup is a unique event in that it is run on a handicap basis where you simply predict your finishing time over a 5 mile run, with the winner being the person who is nearest to that predicted time.

This makes the race open to all no matter what your standard is, everyone has the same chance of taking the title. Now in its 35th year we would like to thank sincerely our sponsor for all of those 35 years David and Margaret Kiely of Kiely Monumental for their on-going support for the local running club West Waterford AC. So for a great fun event on the yearly running calendar Colligan is where you need to be come next Sunday 14th January.

HOW COLLIGAN CUP TIMING SYSTEM WORKS.

The race timing system itself will remain the same as the one Victor Mullins devised 35 years ago. The following is how the handicap timing system works, the run begins when the clock starts with the time of the slowest predicted runner’s time, say 60 minutes. As the clock counts backwards down to zero every runner begins when his or her predicted time shows up on the clock. 

The runner with the fastest predicted time will be the last runner to start the race. The winner of the Colligan Cup is the runner who is the first person to cross the finish line after the clock reaches zero-it is that simple. All you have to do is get your prediction right. Remember, no watches allowed or music head phones. So if you would like to become part of local athletics history and have your name inscribed on the now famous Colligan plaque which was erected in the wood some years ago by the race sponsor David Kiely of Kiely Monumental come along next Sunday. 

We must also mention and thank Coillte for their permission and help in letting us hold the race. We urge all going to Colligan on Sunday to please allow plenty of time as parking will be restricted on the road to one side. Please do not park where your car might obstruct the flow of traffic or interfere with the runners. This is a great family event with something for everyone. The Colligan Cup itself will be awarded to the winner of the senior race, while the Shield will be awarded to the first lady finisher. The Victor Mullins cup will be awarded to the 1st runner on the right side of the clock who is running the event for the very first time. The Juvenile Shield will be presented to the Juvenile winner. 

The junior race is organized by the club’s juvenile section over one lap of the Colligan circuit and it gets under way at 11AM sharp and this too is a guess your time handicap event. The senior race will start at 12 noon. All are welcome to participate.

Entry online at link... https://eventmaster.ie/event/e05yUrKF8x

David Kiely/West Waterford AC 'Colligan Cup 2024 - Permit has been approved, cert.no: 23/520 

Contact: http://www.westwaterfordathletics.org

35TH ANNUAL KIELY MONUMENTAL COLLIGAN CUP.

ROLL OF HONOUR

COLLIGAN CUP WINNERS (1989-2023).
1989 Willie Henry
1990 Nicky Sheehan
1991 Richie Moore
1992 Martin Geoghegan
1993 Liam Rossiter
1994 Gerry Cantwell
1995 John Lyons
1996 Tom Meehan
1997 Colin Lyons
1998 Kathleen O’Connell
1999 Tom Fitzgerald
2000 John Whelan
2001 Ray Dwyer
2002 Ann Cronin
2003 Tony Shalloe
2004 Michael Dwyer
2005 Mark Langford
2006 Brian Collins
2007 Maurice Boland
2008 Michael Tutty
2009 Ger Wyley
2010 Kelly Cantwell
2011 Liam Sandford
2012 Conor Blackwell
2013 Michael Dwyer
2014 Ray Hahesy
2015 Dermot Dwyer
2016 J.P Curtin
2017 Patrycja Daly
2018 Brigid Coffey
2019 Martin Hayes
2020 Paula Collins (RIP)
2021 ( postponed covid)
2022 Anthony Dwyer
2023 James Ryan

LADIES SHIELD WINNERS (1994-2023).
1994-Monica Power
1995 Paula Keohan
1996 Paula Keohan
1997 Frankie Devlin (RIP)
1998 Kathleen O’ Connell
1999 June Twomey
2000 Ann Cronin
2001 Martina Budds
2002 Ann Cronin
2003 Kathleen O Connell
2004 Helene Hayes
2005 Annette Long
2006 Josie Uí Chuirrin
2007 Catriona Mulcahy
2008 Diane Behan
2009 Brigid Coffey
2010 Kelly Cantwell
2011 Aine Lombard
2012 Anne Whelan
2013 Karen Ryan
2014 Diane Behan
2015 Mary Harney
2016 Mary Harney
2017 Patrycja Daly
2018 Brigid Coffey
2019 Nicola Cunniffe
2020 Paula Collins (RIP)
2021 (posponed)
2022 Edel Curry
2023 Grainne Dwyer

Mc GRATH NEWSAGENTS JUVENILE SHIELD WINNERS (1993-2023).
1993 Alan Moore
1994 Darren Harty
1995 Ronan Dennehy
1996 Rosemarie Curran
1997 Dervla O’ Connor
1998 Rosemarie Curran
1999 Brian Kelleher
2000 David Buckley
2001 Natasha Behan
2002 Mary Ryan
2003 Lorraine McCarthy
2004 Sarah Flavin
2005 Michelle Norris
2006 Lughaidh 0’Mahony
2007 Rachel French
2008 Aaron Whelan
2009 Bobby Landers
2010 Sean Patmore
2011 Eoin Dwyer
2012 Gillian Whelan
2013 Tony Dwyer
2014 Mary Kate Prendergast
2015 Ronan Mansfield
2016 David Butler
2017 Aimee Ryan
2018 Kevin Butler 
2019 Natalie Barry
2020 Kyla Flavin
2021 (posponed)
2022 Sebastian Byrne
2023 Eoin Tobin

THE VICTOR MULLINS CUP WINNERS (2009-2023)
2009 Michael Moloney
2010 Mark Cliffe
2011 Aine Lombard
2012 Tony Ferncombe
2013 Brendan Foran
2014 Keith O'Driscoll
2015 Claire Fitzpatrick
2016 Paddy Gilhooley
2017 Colm Ryan
2018 David Traynor
2019 Alan Hogan
2020 Tom Nyhan
2021 (posponed)
2022 Thomas Finn
2023 Jamie Hynes