Unknown

28 November, 2009

It was an almost perfect evening for a hill run, if just a little cold. As runners started to fill the parking areas of the Three Rock, some arriving by bicycle and some on foot, the tape was cut and registration was ceremoniously opened. The crowd swelled and people started to speculate that once again we may have broken all records for numbers at a race. With over 250 competitors, this was confirmed by Jane at the prizing giving.
The route had a few detours this year to avoid the recently tarmaced section of the track so few people knew exactly what course we were going to take. Some were trying to take advantage of this by offering to sell second hand maps to anyone who would listen. Few did. The race got under way at it's usual fast pace from the barrier at Ticknock car park up through the woods where we took the first of our detours by turning left at the top car park. The race continued through the forest here until it emerged onto a rough rocky section which brought everyone up to the masts and back to familiar territory. From here we took the same looping route as last year to the top at Fairy Castle. On the way down there was another detour left onto the Kilmashogue track and then quickly right through some bike tracks and past the old barn down to the finish. All this increased the distance of the race but made it more varied and very enjoyable.
Kevin Keane lead the field to the top, but the fast descending Paul Nolan took him on the decent to win by over half a minute. Leg extensions have been ordered. They were followed into third place by Richard O'Donnell. In the ladies field, Tarja Owens and Vanessa Lawrenson once again proved the strength of the mountain bikers, taking first and second place, with Laura McGinley in 3rd.
Afterwards it was back to the Step Inn for some post race analysis, a beer or 2 and the prize giving, where there are prizes for all, if only you could remember your race number. A special prize was given to Gearoid Towey to welcome the Irish Olympic rower to hill-running. Many were wondering why Kevin Keane was holding ice to his knee when he had finished the race unscathed. Something to do with a tow bar while he was changing (??!?).


The committee would like to thank the multitudes for their help that allowed us to break the IMRA record entry by almost 40. Without the continuing help of everyone it would be difficult to get the races going.

If anyone knows Ken McAndrew(625) we did not get a result for him. Also if there are any problems with the result contact me (bruce.shenker) at my @imra.ie address.