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28 November, 2009

Two runners stepped up to the starting line for today’s final race in the Irish Champions in the Glen of Aherlow with two wins and one second to their name. Both named John, all depended on this Galtee run to decide the Irish Open Champion. Seventy-six minutes later we had a new Irish Champion for the first time in many years as Scottish John prevailed.

This race, considered by most to be the toughest in the calendar attracted a field of 37 runners; three hardy souls chose it for their first hill run. For the first time in a while the whole race route could be see from the start which made navigation easy but could be quite daunting

The race to the summit is pretty much reflected in the final result with the exception of Kevin Keane (the hill running find of the summer) who was third to the summit but caught near the finish. His cycle to the race from Limerick Junction railway station (by the scenic route) could well have played a part.

It was pleasing to see James McIntyre back hill running after a short absence.
Our best wishes go out to several of today’s runners who are about to travel to international events shortly. John Lenihan and Niall Sheehan (World Trophy Race) and Mick Kellett (World’s Masters)